Every successful project starts with a framework. A vision statement. A blueprint. The staff of Engineered Systems are proud to present The Blueprint — a monthly Q&A interview with HVACR engineering’s leading voices. These one-on-one discussions will examine the trade’s history, current industry trends, the factors shaping the sector’s future, and more.
       In the most recent installment of The Blueprint, Dick Pope, segment head for connected devices and application center of competence at Siemens Smart Infrastructure USA, discussed connected devices, smart infrastructure, the future of American buildings, and more.

Engineered Systems: Indoor air quality continues to be a big focus for everyone. What kinds of measurements should HVAC engineers/facility managers pay particular attention to?

Pope: IAQ risks specific to HVAC systems can include under-heating, failure to cool, or inadequate ventilation. Improperly functioning HVAC systems not only impact operational costs but present several challenging issues including potential lawsuits for unhealthy work environments and employee well-being, impacting productivity and quality of work. Poor air conditions or lack of comfort can also lead to a poor image for the building manager/owner, loss of tenants and business, or high employee turnover rate. When HVAC systems are not functioning properly, conditions can diminish rapidly, such as mold (high humidity), lack of fresh air (poor ventilation and dirty filters), high levels of particulate matter (filters not being replaced), and the inability to meet temperature set points. It’s increasingly important to proactively monitor air quality attributes, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter, temperature, humidity, and air pressure. Sensors placed within critical areas of the building are key to monitor system performance.

Engineered Systems: What do you think will be the next big thing with HVAC systems/controls? Maybe this is something that’s still on the horizon or something that isn’t being used prevalently right now but might become more commonplace five, 10, or 20 years from now.

Pope: Equipment-based automation will continue to evolve for both new equipment and retrofit solutions; however, it will not just be a smart controller or individual end device. Engineered equipment systems will work in harmony to continually improve operation, efficiency, and healthy environments. Past learnings from occupant preferences and equipment operation are already being used to improve ways to remotely identify problems and pinpoint the part that needs to be replaced/repaired as well as continued improvement of operation. New technologies to tackle these challenges will see continued leaps in progress during the upcoming years.

Read the entire interview on Engineered Systems’ website.