In the bustling metropolis of São Paulo, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we think about smart buildings and the energy sector. Led by Mauro Chiozzotto, a professor at the Department of Electronic Systems Engineering at the University of São Paulo, this research delves into the intricate world of Fog Computing, Edge Computing, and intelligent IoT devices, offering a roadmap for the future of smart buildings and cities.
Chiozzotto’s work, published in the journal Applied Sciences, focuses on transforming ordinary buildings into smart, efficient hubs that can communicate seamlessly with each other and with the broader smart city infrastructure. The study, conducted in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, identifies key challenges and proposes innovative solutions to enhance security, communication, and operational efficiency in smart buildings.
One of the most compelling aspects of Chiozzotto’s research is its practical approach. By conducting field research in real-world settings, the study addresses the specific needs and constraints of smart buildings in early stages of development. “The goal is to provide a general guideline to address the problems of choosing between Edge or Fog Computing and the specific category of IoT devices,” Chiozzotto explains. This hands-on methodology ensures that the solutions proposed are not just theoretical but are grounded in the realities of the construction and energy sectors.
The research highlights four main problems observed in smart buildings: impairments in voice over IP and video communication using IoT devices, latency and delays in communication between smart buildings and the cloud center, access security issues, and the quality of experience of video over IP communication. To tackle these challenges, Chiozzotto and his team propose a comprehensive solution that integrates advanced multimedia technical services, enhancing security and communication within smart buildings through centralized control.
One of the key contributions of the study is its comparative analysis of Fog and Edge Computing architectures, as well as different categories of IoT devices. This analysis provides a clear framework for decision-makers in the energy sector, helping them choose the best technological solutions for their specific needs. For instance, the study recommends using Fog Computing with a mix of IoT devices for federations of smart buildings, while standalone buildings with a limited number of properties might benefit more from Edge Computing solutions.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are significant. By optimizing communication and operational efficiency in smart buildings, the study paves the way for more sustainable and cost-effective energy management. This is particularly relevant in the context of smart cities, where the integration of buildings with transportation and energy distribution networks is crucial.
Moreover, the study’s findings have the potential to shape future developments in the field. As Chiozzotto notes, “The future challenge will be to balance investments in innovative technologies associated with Fog and Edge Computing.” This balance will be essential for achieving effective service availability for enterprises, medium businesses, and end-users, ultimately leading to lower-cost solutions.
The research also underscores the importance of adopting open network and communication models, such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV). These technologies can optimize communication between smart buildings and the smart city control center, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced operational efficiency.
As the world continues to urbanize, the demand for smart buildings and cities will only grow. Chiozzotto’s research provides a valuable roadmap for navigating this complex landscape, offering practical solutions and insights that can drive innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. With its focus on real-world applications and comparative analysis, this study is set to influence the future of smart buildings and cities, making them more efficient, secure, and sustainable. The research was published in the journal Applied Sciences, known in English as Applied Sciences.