Building AI optimized lighting system based on akenza

LEDCity Ltd. is a Zurich-based, fast-growing cleantech start-up. The company specializes in the field of intelligent lighting solutions. Their core product is an intelligent LED Light Tube, which is made to be retrofitted into the standard tube socket, avoiding having to replace the entire light system.

The added intelligent features, such as for example motion sensors, recognize movement allowing the system to dim the light when there is no demand for it. The system is composed of LED tubes that are programmable, working completely autonomously by communicating with other tubes over Bluetooth.

This product is commonly used in public places, such as garages or underpasses. By using a Bluetooth gateway and cellular/MQTT connectivity, the system is able to project data, such as energy consumption or people flow, on a custom dashboard. Additionally, this allows for the system to be remotely controlled.

After calculating that in commercial buildings up to 40% of energy costs are incurred for lighting, LEDCity developed the innovative solution by collecting data and using AI-optimized algorithms that regulate the light autonomously and dynamically. The result: the system can reduce energy consumption by 90%.

LEDCity’s mission: To make buildings intelligent and sustainable.

Switch to smart, modular lighting

Contrary to the mainstream approach, LEDCity has opted for a modular approach with a manufacturer-spanning standard in order to be able to operate the lamps in existing sockets. Therefore, digital upgrading is usually simple and cost-effective. The smart-lighting system is ideal for renovations and refurbishments of existing buildings, as the uncomplicated conversion to the latest technology becomes sustainable and viable for everyone.

The regulation of the light occurs through a computer integrated in the lamp. The luminaires are individually configurable with accessories, catering to the exact needs of each customer. This provides additional advantages, offering the benefit of not having to exchange an entire non-functional luminaire but rather just replacing parts, reducing costs and expanding the lifetime of the infrastructure.

The integrated control system not only makes it possible to dispense with any external control components during construction, but also simultaneously records data such as people flow and energy consumption in real time.

Example of LEDCity's smart lights

How is akenza helping to accomplish those goals?

LEDCity was looking for a strong IoT partner regarding their Smart Lighting system development. With the akenza platform, they are able to connect their LED light tubes via MQTT into their solution and manage their smart devices in one place. The collected data from the lights is stored on the cloud and can be displayed on a dedicated dashboard. This allows for the utilization and optimization of the individual lights.

"The akenza platform provides the ideal opportunity for us to transfer data from and towards our devices, which is the foundation for the further potential of our products. Together, we can develop the ‘lighting of the future’ and offer our customers increasingly intelligent solutions."

- Florian Gärtner, CTO of LEDCity

Florian Gärtner, CTO LEDCity

Features supported by the akenza platform:

• MQTT connectivity and device management

• Remote control and data projection on a dashboard is possible

Results:

• 90% less energy consumption compared to traditional LED tubes

• Autonomous light system working based on light demand

• Fast and cost-effective upgrading through retrofitting, due to programmability and customization