| abstract |
A network of wireless radios automatically conserves energy, directs the operation of equipment, and locates assets and personnel. The network may identify changes in the occupancy of a building area and automatically alter the building environment according to predetermined settings, personal preferences, or unexpected conditions. Each wireless radio may be powered by a dedicated energy generator. The dedicated energy generator may harvest or scavenge energy from the building, building equipment, or building environment. The energy generator may be vibration driven and generate electrical energy from the vibration of energy generator components. The energy generator may be a micro-electro-mechanical device and/or include one or more layers of piezoelectric material. The energy generator may generate electrical energy from light, thermal, kinetic, radio frequency, or other forms of energy associated with the building, building equipment, or building environment. The energy generator also may generate electrical energy from the movement of individuals. |