NeoMesh Networking Boosts Smart Building Efficiency in Danfoss Radiator Valve Project

Smart heating systems have become increasingly popular due to their ability to save energy and improve overall efficiency. According to Danfoss, a leading company in automatic heating control technology, energy savings of up to 23% can be achieved by implementing smart heating solutions. The Danish Energy Agency also highlights that a mere 1°C temperature reduction can result in energy savings of over 5%. To address this challenge, Danfoss has introduced the Ally product range, a smart home eTRV controlled through a smartphone app, known for its simplicity and effectiveness.

While Zigbee technology currently underpins the networking capability of Danfoss' Ally range, it has limitations, such as a maximum network capacity of 32 eTRVs. This constraint makes Zigbee impractical for larger installations like multi-family buildings or commercial spaces where more eTRVs are required. Additionally, Zigbee relies on mains power for routing, posing further challenges in certain applications.

Various networking technologies offer similar benefits, but each has its drawbacks. For instance, LoRaWAN promises long-range connectivity but suffers from limitations like star-based configuration and increased power consumption for devices with poor connections. In contrast, NeoMesh technology stands out for its scalability and low power consumption, making it an ideal solution for large building applications.

In a NeoMesh network, all nodes act as routers, enabling data packets to be efficiently routed between devices without the need for a centralized gateway. This setup allows for seamless scalability, extended range, and ultra-low power consumption, crucial for battery-powered devices like eTRVs. Additionally, NeoMesh supports bi-directional data propagation, ensuring reliable communication and minimal data packet loss.

By leveraging NeoMesh technology, Danfoss has successfully modified its Ally eTRVs to demonstrate the feasibility of large-scale deployments in commercial and industrial buildings. The NeoMesh network proved to be robust, self-healing, and capable of dynamically reorganizing itself to accommodate changes in device positioning. With features like two-way communication and extended battery life, NeoMesh offers a reliable and efficient solution for smart heating systems.