A retrofit smart solution
preserving historic and
aesthetic values
City Hall in Forlì.
Retrofitting traditional buildings like the historic City Hall in Forli is a challenge with a wide range of specific requirements. The optimization of the systems of the City Hall in Forli introduces automated HVAC and lighting control to create a better working environment and also reduce energy consumption. Traditional buildings are often trademarks of a whole region and need renovation approaches that are compatible with protecting historic and aesthetic values.
The solution created by Casadei & Pellizzaro, a LOYTEC Competence Partner in Italy, follows this guiding principle and relies on wireless communication with LOYTEC devices, significantly reducing cabling efforts
THE CHALLENGES
Balancing Modernization with Historic Preservation in Building Retrofits
Minimizing Cabling and Infrastructure Intrusion in Traditional Buildings
Integrating IoT and Wireless Networks in Heritage Renovations.
Location
Forlì - Italy
LOYTEC Partner
Casadei & Pellizzaro, Italy
Solution
HVAC: L-INX and L-IOB controllers
IoT Integration with Node.Js
LOYTEC Tools
L-STUDIO 3.0 Integrated Tool Platform LWEB-802 / LWEB-803 Visualization (via Web Browser)
The Solution.
Communication via wireless MESH network and EnOcean
In detail, the designed system consists of a network of LIOB-585 I/O Controllers that communicate with each other via a MESH wireless network. Each LIOB-585 I/O Controller has an EnOcean interface (LENO-800) to manage room panels and radiator actuators . Each LIOB-585 I/O Controller with L-IOT1 software license also manages light control via WIFI (Sonoff mini). All data retrieved from the controllers is managed by a LINX-215 Automation Server which displays the data via LWEB-802 / LWEB-803 interface, through BACnet IP.
IoT integration on the controller level
According to Mr. Gianni Toni of Casadei & Pellizzaro, our LOYTEC Competence Partner, the key reason for choosing LOYTEC controllers lies in their native IoT integration directly at the controller level. The availability of Node.js on the controller itself was a decisive factor, as it eliminates external gateways and additional software layers, significantly reducing installation effort and preconfiguration time. This approach allows IoT devices to be managed easily and efficiently using standard communication methods such as HTTP, APIs, or MQTT.
In the City Hall project in Forlì, HTTP was deliberately chosen, as it proved to be the simplest and most effective protocol for issuing commands to IoT devices.
Benefits.
A retrofit solution preserving historic and aesthetic values offers significant benefits, especially when upgrading traditional buildings that are cultural landmarks. Casadei & Pellizzaro, LOYTEC Competence Partner in Italy, developed an approach that integrates modern technology while protecting the architectural integrity of such structures. Their solution relies on wireless communication through a MESH network, significantly reducing cabling efforts and preserving the building’s original appearance. The use of EnOcean interfaces and IoT integration at the controller level further enhances efficiency, enabling seamless management of lighting and HVAC systems. This advanced solution, implemented with LOYTEC devices, ensures minimal disruption, reduces installation time, and simplifies ongoing maintenance, making it ideal for historic renovations where aesthetic preservation is paramount.
Conclusion.
By using LOYTEC products, it was possible to create an integrated system with a lean and easily expandable hardware infrastructure. The use of standard communication protocols allowed a multi-brand solution suitable for specific purposes.
The result is a modernised building that preserves historic and aesthetic values while increasing comfort and lowering energy bills.
Creating the smart buildings of tomorrow - together.
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