Following our exploration of the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI), a pertinent question arises: How will AI impact our daily lives and the building systems industry? To shed light on this topic, we spoke with two major manufacturers in the building systems and controls industry— Siemens and Trane. By sharing insights on how their companies are incorporating AI into their products, we can better gauge how professionals in the field can prepare for these advancements.
The Future Role of AI in HVAC
Kathleen Magee of Belimo Aircontrols, Inc. emphasizes three primary roles AI is set to fulfill in the HVAC industry. First, AI tools, such as conversational AI, enhance efficiency in job execution, a benefit that extends beyond our industry. Second, AI learning models have the potential to replace much of the control logic used in building HVAC equipment today, though these models must align with the existing framework that governs building design, construction, commissioning, documentation, and maintenance. And third, AI-powered predictive maintenance can facilitate repairs or replacements before equipment failures occur, ultimately reducing energy waste and comfort issues. This predictive capability may also replace some aspects of prescriptive maintenance, leading to lower overall labor costs.
Further highlighting the utility of AI in providing valuable insights regarding building assets and their conditions, Johnathan Bonner of Siemens PLC adds that AI can learn from user inputs, enhancing its effectiveness over time. Not to mention, current software developments are increasingly capable of integrating these learning capabilities.
Current Impact of AI on the Industry
While AI is still a nascent technology, its influence on the building industry is already evident. Magee observes that AI’s demand has surged, particularly in the cooling systems required for data centers. As AI usage increases, so does the need for solutions that the HVAC industry traditionally provides. For many AI solution providers, the focus is shifting from air to liquid cooling at the thermal control system (TCS), reflecting the growing demand for AI-related applications. This trend also pushes the industry toward improved data modeling and standardization.
Bonner notes that AI is increasingly utilized for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. Contrary to the common belief that predictive maintenance forecasts component failures months in advance, it actually serves as a strategy to determine when maintenance should be performed. By analyzing the right data rather than relying solely on large datasets, predictive maintenance can significantly reduce the amount of data collected while still delivering accurate insights. For instance, instead of monitoring a motor’s current in real-time, the program could analyze average, minimum, and maximum values over a minute, thereby streamlining data processing. This approach does not replace onsite skillsets, but rather enhances their efforts, enabling maintenance engineers to manage more assets efficiently.
Integrating AI into Future Products and Services
As companies navigate the integration of AI and machine learning into their products, both Belimo and Siemens are taking proactive steps. Magee notes that while Belimo has not yet developed AI-powered damper actuators or control valves, the company is focused on enriching the data generated by its devices. The goal is to make it easier to retrieve and apply algorithms for control, optimization, and analysis using AI and machine learning models.
Meanwhile, Siemens is advancing its efforts through the Maintenance Copilot Senseye program, a virtual maintenance assistant powered by generative AI. This program is designed to support data-driven decision-making by providing clear, accessible insights. Senseye not only retains knowledge from experienced workers but also translates this information into various languages, facilitating global collaboration. Users can interact with the program using natural language, making it easier to access manuals and maintenance information instantly.
Preparing for the Future
As the HVAC industry anticipates these changes, more and more companies are committing to equipping their employees for the future. Belimo has implemented comprehensive policies and training initiatives aimed at familiarizing employees with current AI applications, emphasizing data protection and compliance. Siemens, on the other hand, offers employees access to “My Learning World,” a resource offering a vast array of courses on AI and generative AI to ensure employees understand how to interact with these technologies effectively
Magee advises HVAC professionals to embrace AI as a tool to enhance their current roles, encouraging them to stay informed and proactive in their learning. Bonner adds that manufacturers and service providers must prepare their facilities and infrastructures to support data availability and compatibility with new technologies, ensuring customers can derive maximum value from their systems.
Looking Ahead
Overall, the future of AI in the building industry appears promising. Magee foresees significant growth and rapid advancements in cooling solutions, particularly for data centers. She draws parallels to how NASA innovations eventually influenced consumer products, suggesting that new cooling solutions for data centers will filter down into traditional HVAC applications. Similarly, AI tools will enhance efficiency, enabling the construction of more energy-efficient buildings with the same technical workforce.
Bonner points to Siemens’ initiative, “Building X,” which aims to leverage AI to monitor all aspects of a building, including HVAC systems. This project will utilize Senseye to provide real-time insights into asset conditions, energy monitoring, and more.
As NEBB continues to focus on cultivating qualified professionals in the face of evolving technologies, it is essential for industry participants to stay informed and adaptable. NEBB is actively exploring new initiatives to enhance training and certification for professionals, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that AI will bring to the building industry, as well as incorporate these advancements into its operations and support its members in navigating the future.