Technology Vision
CAT Consulting's technology vision for building technology, i.e., automation and controls is secured, open and streamlined communication at all platform levels - from the field thermostat right up to the Cloud.
To meet the specific challenges associated with siloed, uncoordinated trade-specific designs, assured right up through project completion, CAT designs and specifies using the Master Division Format. CAT also employs open protocols and trade standards for the specific trade applications i.e., HVAC, lighting, solar shading, electrical distribution management (EDMS), etc. - NO proprietary protocols!
By standardizing on 'future-proof' platforms and/or protocols, your building is prepared for all impending technology changes.
Open-Standard Topology
Open automation & controls protocols like BACnet, KNX, Modbus, MQTT, SNMP, etc. are mandatory in order for data to be streamlined or 'interoperable' for both localized applications to advanced SCADA and up to cloud applications (Machine Learning (ML) and AI). This allows for innovative solutions 'across protocols' to break down the trade silos and embrace the future of digitalization and electrification. Once these basics are built into your design, the engineering and commissioning is streamlined leaving projects operating according to design and staying that way!
Streamlined Automation & Control Across Construction Trades
Break down the contracting trade silos!
​By using native protocols and integrating them into platforms using their native drivers (e.g., Eisbaer by Alexander Maier, Niagara by Tridium (Honeywell)). These building automation platforms use multiple cloud-based interface protocols as well as direct cloud services (AWS, Microsoft, etc.), depending upon client and market application. From future building or field application changes to providing sorely needed digitalized services to provide solutions in electrification and renewable technologies, these platforms enable eased system integration for overall building automation and controls.
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CAT Consulting recommends and partners with Alexander Maier GmbH with their Eisbaer platform -
CLIENTS
KNX Manufacturers and KNX International
KNX is not only a industry standard, it is also an international communication protocol that connects various field devices in a building (e.g., light switches, thermostats, presence sensors, room/zone HVAC, lighting panel (DIN-Rail) actuating devices) into a system that exchanges information and commands.
KNX is recognized as an international standard (ISO/IEC 14543-3) and is used in many countries, including the US as it is an approved standard by ASHRAE (Standard 135.1, chaired by a sub-committee), which paves the way for smart home and building solutions, enabling safety, comfort and efficiency, all applied in sustainably.
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The KNX Association link can be found below:
The core at KNX are its manufacturing members, who all contribute to a common marketing, research and development (e.g., Engineering Tool - ETS, KNX IoT - Thread) and its mission is to promote and deploy the standard on an international basis. The United States lighting controls market has been led by the incumbent US manufacturers who have yet to adopt the KNX standard and continue to promote their proprietary wired and wireless solutions; this is a siloed approach and one that KNX immediately alleviates through dedicated and experienced manufacturers at the foundation.
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Our KNX Manufacturing partners, who we work in partnership through their exclusive representation -
