The Evolution of Hotel Automation: Enhancing Guest Experience and Efficiency

 In recent months, luxury hotels such as Four Seasons, The Oberois, and Grand Hyatt have experienced a significant increase in guest visits. Seeking to uncover the reasons behind this surge in sales, they have focused on providing unparalleled convenience to guests, especially after their long and tiring journeys. Through automation, these hotels aim to offer a seamless experience from the moment guests arrive. Gone are the days of standing in lengthy queues for check-in or struggling to adjust room settings. Upon check-in, lights and air conditioning are automatically activated, welcoming guests with a refreshing ambiance. Guests can personalize their room environment, adjusting lighting to suit their mood, whether it's for reading or relaxation, creating a truly bespoke experience.

Let us delve into the concept of Hotel Automation -

Hotel automation encompasses a spectrum of technologies and systems designed to automate and optimize various aspects of hotel operations. This includes smart room features, keyless entry systems, IoT devices, and advanced data analytics. The primary objectives are to streamline processes, enhance guest satisfaction, and improve overall efficiency.

Smart Room Technology

One of the most visible aspects of hotel automation is the implementation of smart room technology. Modern hotel rooms are equipped with automated lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy and natural light levels. Climate control systems are intelligently managed to ensure guest comfort while optimizing energy usage. Entertainment systems are seamlessly integrated with personal devices, allowing guests to access their favorite content effortlessly.

Keyless Entry Systems

Gone are the days of physical keys and cumbersome check-in processes. Keyless entry systems utilizing smartphone apps or RFID cards have revolutionized guest access management. Guests can check-in remotely, receive a digital key, and proceed directly to their rooms upon arrival. This not only enhances convenience but also improves security by eliminating the risk of lost keys.

Automated Check-in and Check-out Processes

Self-service kiosks and mobile apps have simplified the check-in and check-out procedures. Guests can complete these tasks independently, reducing waiting times and allowing hotel staff to focus on more personalized guest interactions. This automation streamlines operations and enhances the overall guest experience.

IoT and Connected Devices in Hotels

The Internet of Things (IoT) has found myriad applications in the hospitality industry. Hotels utilize connected devices such as smart thermostats, voice-controlled assistants, and in-room tablets to provide personalized services and gather valuable guest data. For instance, IoT sensors can automatically adjust room conditions based on guest preferences and behavior.

Energy Management and Sustainability

Hotel automation plays a crucial role in energy management and sustainability efforts. Automated systems optimize energy usage by controlling lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy levels and environmental conditions. This not only reduces operational costs but also minimizes the hotel's carbon footprint.

Guest Experience Personalization

Automation enables hotels to deliver highly personalized guest experiences. Data analytics and AI-driven technologies analyze guest preferences and behavior to offer tailored recommendations, amenities, and services. From personalized greetings to customized room settings, automation enhances guest satisfaction and fosters loyalty.


Security and Surveillance Systems

Advanced security and surveillance systems leverage automation for enhanced safety and security. Facial recognition technology, CCTV integration, and automated alerts help hotels monitor and respond to security threats effectively while safeguarding guest privacy.

Integration Challenges and Solutions

While the benefits of hotel automation are evident, integration can be complex. Hotels must navigate interoperability issues, data security concerns, and staff training requirements to fully leverage automation technologies. However, with careful planning and investment, these challenges can be overcome.

Future Trends in Hotel Automation

The future of hotel automation holds exciting possibilities. AI-driven customer service, virtual reality experiences, and blockchain-based management systems are poised to revolutionize the industry further. These innovations will continue to redefine guest expectations and reshape the landscape of hospitality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hotel automation represents a paradigm shift in the hospitality industry, offering unprecedented opportunities to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. From smart rooms to robotic assistants, the integration of automation technologies is transforming hotels into intelligent, responsive environments. As hotels embrace these innovations, they are poised to deliver unparalleled levels of service and sustainability while staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Hotel automation is not just a trend but a strategic imperative for those seeking to thrive in the digital age of hospitality.

Smarten Your Den : Top 7 Home Automation Companies in India

 India's innovative home businesses will be important in 2023 as the nation continues to grow technologically. Numerous Indian businesses are leading the way in this revolution as demand for 44 intelligent home automation solutions grows.

 

Here are seven well-known homeautomation firms in India, that you can go through:

 

1. Anusha Technovision: Hotels, residences, corporate offices, retail stores, studios, and multiplexes can all benefit from Anusha Technovision Pvt. Ltd. 's (ATPL) comprehensive, all-in-one lighting controls and complete automation systems. A single point of control for the end-user in homes, offices, and hotels across the nation is made possible by ATPL, which has offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. As a system integrator, ATPL choses its automation products from many of the reputed OEMs for various projects.

 

2. Crestron: Crestron is a well-known manufacturer of cutting-edge automation and control technologies. They provide solutions for home automation features like lighting, climate control, audio/video distribution, and security.

 

3. Honeywell: A reputable global business that provides home automation solutions is Honeywell. They offer goods including voice-activated control systems, security systems, and smart thermostats.

 

4. Siemens: A leading provider of home automation services, Siemens is a multinational technology corporation. They provide energy management systems, lighting control, and climate control.

 

5. Lutron: Lutron is a well-known business that specialises in solutions for lighting management and window coverings. They provide a comprehensive selection of home automation items, such as motorised window treatments and wireless lighting controls.

 

6. Leading supplier of smart home automation solutions is Control4. They provide a wide variety of goods and services for managing security, audio/video equipment, lighting, and other systems.

 

7. ABB: ABB is a global company that provides electrical and automation solutions, including home automation. They offer goods for managing energy use, integrating smart homes, and controlling lighting.

 

Please note that the home automationindustry is continuously evolving, and new companies may have emerged or gained prominence since my knowledge cutoff. It's always a good idea to research and compare different companies and their offerings before making any decisions.

Smart Switch: Intelligent Lighting Systems for Sustainability

Lighting is a significant contributor to a building's overall energy consumption. However, smart lighting, which combines intelligence based on IoT, sensors, and energy-efficient sources, can actually lower the amount of energy consumed by lighting. Smart lighting has long been popular in commercial and industrial settings over the years, focussing on energy conservation. 

More pocket-friendly solutions are now catching up with users in residential environments beyond the apparent benefit of significant energy savings, such as creating a comfortable environment and preserving user wellness and convenience, thanks to technological advancements.

Have you ever wondered what type of lighting is the most environmentally friendly? Let us dive into the comprehensive ways smart lighting systems can cut down on electricity usage and are good for your pocket:

Daylight Sensors and Dimmers

Smart lighting solutions can alter lighting based on available daylight in addition to user occupancy. These photo-sensors prevent lights from turning on when there's ample natural light. As a result, you won't have to worry about turning off your lights constantly. Plus, this also means higher energy savings. Additionally, daylight controls can be integrated with dimmers, usually used to increase a room's visual appeal. However, it can provide multi-faceted benefits like helping you save money on your power bill and reducing electricity consumption. In addition, dimmers are proven to extend the life of your lights because they reduce the flow of electricity to the bulb and allow lights to operate with lower power outputs.

To improve energy savings, consumers can combine light dimmers with other controls such as motorised blinds and other window coverings. These lighting systems adjust light intensity according to space conditions and are a promising solution in an age where sustainable solutions are becoming more important.

Smart Occupancy Sensors

Sensors that detect indoor activity in a specific area are called occupancy sensors. They save energy by turning lights off or limiting light output when unoccupied space. Additionally, they enhance your experience by turning the lights on automatically when someone enters a room. Smart Sensors that respond to occupancy have contributed towards making automation solutions more intuitive and sophisticated. As a result, much of the smart home experience revolves around these sensors. 

Furthermore, increasing the performance of smart homes and eliminating clutter by simplifying various functions, occupancy sensors help streamline lighting solutions and the corresponding energy consumption. 

Timers and Automation

Lights can be turned on and off at precise times using timers. One can automate indoor and outdoor lights with programmable digital timers, which resemble digital thermostats. They can be used in conjunction with other controls to a great effect. For example, a daylight sensor that turns lights on in the evening and a timer that shuts the lights off at a specific hour of the night may be the finest combination for aesthetic, smart lighting. Homeowners can also save energy by using timers to switch lights on and off when not at home.

Motion Sensors

Motion sensors for lighting control evolved from the initial function in home security against intruders. There is now a range of sensors that are specifically developed to control lighting for various applications. They provide an inexpensive and effective way to save energy by shutting off lights as per occupancy. 

Smart Window Treatments

Connecting motorised blinds to a smart home hub can help save energy by allowing the blinds to react independently to readings from temperature and sunlight sensors that are also linked to the smart hub. As a result, the blinds will know when to close during the hottest portion of the day to save energy and when to open during a sunny winter day to enable the sun to heat a room naturally.

Up to 50% of your home's heating and cooling energy go waste if you don't use energy-efficient window treatments. Thus, smart window treatments bring down lighting costs and significantly optimise the heating/cooling requirements of a space.

Personalisation and Flexibility

To get the most of your smart lighting systems it is best to have them tailor-made to your needs. Integrate various smart home components to get efficient results. All of the above components can be brought together to optimise consumption. These include light dimmers, timers, sensors, in combination with other automation controls such as motorised blinds and other window treatments, help to reduce carbon emissions by maximising the use of natural light and surrounding conditions to meet the energy demands as needed. 

We need to consume resources more efficiently to meet the needs of a growing population. Switching to intelligent lighting solutions would drastically minimise energy use. Smart lighting systems that change light intensity based on the given environment are suitable for satisfying the growing need for ecologically friendly solutions. With advancements in IoT and the growing interest in energy efficiency, a smart lighting system is a game-changer.

How to use AI to automate your commercial offices with smart devices.

 Implementing home automation and lighting control systems in commercial settings can provide numerous benefits, including improved energy efficiency, enhanced comfort and productivity for occupants, streamlined operations, and reduced maintenance costs. Here are some key considerations for deploying these systems in commercial environments:

          Energy Efficiency: Utilize smart lighting systems with occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting, and scheduling capabilities to optimize energy usage. These systems can automatically adjust lighting levels based on occupancy and natural light availability, minimizing energy waste.

                     Centralized Control: Implement centralized control systems that allow facility managers to monitor and manage lighting across the entire commercial space from a single interface. This enables convenient adjustment of lighting settings, scheduling, and troubleshooting.

                     Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS): Integrate lighting control with the building's BMS for seamless coordination with other building systems such as HVAC, security, and access control. This integration enables comprehensive building automation and optimization of energy usage.

                     Occupant Comfort and Productivity: Tailor lighting settings to enhance occupant comfort and productivity. Consider implementing circadian lighting solutions that mimic natural daylight patterns to promote well-being and maintain optimal alertness levels throughout the day.

                     Personalization: Offer customizable lighting settings for individual workspaces or areas within the commercial building. Employees may have preferences for different lighting levels or color temperatures based on their tasks or personal preferences.

                     Task Lighting: Implement task-specific lighting solutions in areas where precision tasks are performed, such as offices, laboratories, or manufacturing facilities. Task lighting  can improve visibility and reduce eye strain, enhancing productivity and accuracy.

                     Maintenance Monitoring and Alerts: Deploy smart sensors and monitoring systems to track the health and performance of lighting fixtures. Proactive maintenance alerts can help identify issues early, minimize downtime, and extend the lifespan of lighting equipment.

                     Integration with Occupancy Tracking Systems: Integrate lighting control with occupancy tracking systems to gather data on space utilization patterns. This Information can inform space planning decisions, optimize resource allocation, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.

                     Scalability and Flexibility: Choose scalable and flexible lighting control solutions that can accommodate future expansion or changes in the layout of the commercial space. Modular systems and wireless technologies can facilitate easy scalability and reconfiguration as needed.

                     Compliance and Sustainability: Ensure that lighting control systems comply with relevant building codes and sustainability standards. Look for energy-efficient lighting fixtures, controls, and automation strategies that support the organization's sustainability goals and initiatives.

By implementing home automation and lighting control solutions tailored to commercial environments, businesses can create more comfortable, efficient, and productive workspaces while also reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

 

Automation Forecast 2022: What's In, What's Out

As we enter 2022, there is plenty to unpack from the previous year in terms of smart homes, especially 

automation systems. In this post-pandemic world, traditional lighting methods are fast becoming mundane 

thanks to consumer awareness and easier availability of automation products – not to forget the added 

advantage of affordable prices. What are the automation trends that will drive the coming year and how 

feasible would these changes be for Indian homes?

Let's take a quick look at some of the most anticipated smart home automation systems trends for 2022:

Energy Efficiency

Smart Homes are designed for optimal performance by using internet-connected devices to enable remote 

monitoring and improve user experience. In 2022, we expect to see more homes getting smarter and 

energy efficient. The technological boom enables power savings, reduced usage and provides plenty of 

smart home appliances that are compatible with clean energy sources like solar energy.

Automated lighting solutions adjust lighting based on occupancy and available daylight. Light dimmers 

integrated with other controls like motorized shades and window treatments reduce carbon footprint by 

making the most of natural light and keeping the indoors cooler or warmer as per occupant requirements. 

These lighting systems alter light intensity based on room conditions and cater immensely to the 

increasing need for sustainable solutions.

Smart Sensors

Smart Sensors contribute towards making automation solutions more intuitive and sophisticated. Much of 

the smart home experience revolves around these sensors.

In addition, they increase the performance of smart homes and eliminate clutter by simplifying various 

functions. For instance, occupancy sensors switch on or switch off devices based on sensors, which 

prevents electricity wastage. An added bonus is one doesn't have to constantly worry about leaving the air 

conditioner or lights on. One can integrate these with motion sensors to activate security cameras and send 

notifications to smart phones. Similarly, smoke and carbon dioxide detectors can minimise potential fire or 

smoke hazards.

Home Theatre Systems

With homes becoming refuges and restricted access to movie theaters, customers have a newfound interest 

in owning a home theatre system. Integration of various smart home products can create the ultimate smart 

home viewing experience. 

These include a projector, screen, and surround sound, as well as lighting, motorised blinds, and other 

accessories. All home theatre components can be accessed and managed using a single device, such as a

smartphone, tablet, or remote, using automation. Reclining in the comfort of your couch or chair, one can 

simply use the smartphone to turn on the sound system and screen, browse content, adjust the volume, 

turn out the lights, and push play. Not only can automation make the functioning of the home-theatre 

system simpler, but it can enhance the cinematic experience.

Smart Home Security

Security and access control systems that combine lighting, alarm, and closed-circuit video management 

into a single interface will become more popular in the coming year. Motion sensors are projected to 

become standard features of alarm systems as they become more advanced. Integrating security provisions 

like Intrusion Detection System and IP based Video Door Phone on remote smartphone devices to 

monitor, record visitor entry and have control of electronic locks will also gain popularity.

Automation is an excellent tool for making our lives more convenient, comfortable and hassle-free. 

Saving time and increasing efficiency, these smart homes are not only for the tech-savvy but also for those 

looking for cost savings, energy efficiency, and increased security. With automation on the rise, 

improvements in IoT and innovations like the 'meta-verse', smart homes will be the new normal soon.

3 Ways Automation Trends That Redefine Home Comfort

 2021 has been challenging due to remote work and lifestyle changes. With the new normal, the necessity for automation has increased. Automation solutions simplify everyday tasks and bring in comfort and convenience. In addition, it also improves your efficiency by eliminating mundane and repetitive chores, thus providing ease with everything that you do. 

At Anusha Technovision, we observed that current automation trends enhance lifestyle comforts, improve home security, and provide entertainment. This blog focuses on trend-setting automation products, which provide the same.

Lifestyle

Just like too many cooks spoil the broth, too many remotes or controllers complicate gadgets. Now, you can achieve a hassle-free automated lifestyle without worrying about controlling all the automated devices separately with the HomeWorks QS. This device seamlessly integrates various controls like lights, motorised blinds, temperature, etc. Moreover, it provides quick access to multiple electronic systems and energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort. 

With automation, you can transform every aspect of your lifestyle. For example, you can preset a timer to turn the lights on before reaching home with automated lighting control. You can also customise the ambience per se your mood. Sync the background music or playlist with the HomeWorks QS voice feature to turn a dull day into a happy one. Available in a variety of colours with attractive keypads, the HomeWorks QS enhances home efficiency.

With the Lutron Sivoia QS shading technology, you can control the amount of natural light entering your home depending on your requirement. Get complete shading control for your window treatments like roller shades, traditional drapery tracks etc.

To tie everything together and support any automation system, you require a strong and efficient processor. With a powerful 4-Series control engine, the Crestron automation processor provides high-speed gigabit ethernet control ports. In addition, the rack-mountable processor can help integrate technology into your modern house or commercial building with ease.

Security

Biometric security options effectively eliminate the need to touch surfaces and ensure hygiene. Of course, an added benefit is no more bulky keys! The Ekey biometric access control is one such suitable option for private and commercial spaces. It is a smart fingerprint scanner that connects to the server and has advanced features like timer settings.

Moreover, you can integrate it into regular locks, store fingerprints and operate the lock remotely with Ekey's app. Ekey biometric is available in various options like wall-mounted scanner, outlet mounted scanner and keypad. It is a perfect modern solution to address your security concerns.

Entertainment

Elevate and simplify entertainment with the latest automated technology systems with personalised features. Take the example of the Sonance Visual Performance Series speakers that enliven social gatherings with stunning sound quality. The speaker drivers are made from very rigid and lightweight materials, which provide excellent sound quality. It features a low-profile paintable grille blending into the wall or ceiling and is available in various shapes, sizes, performance levels etc.

Automation can help you save time and energy. These trending automation products come with hassle-free installation and upgrade benefits. The above are just a few trending examples of how automation can transform homes. Of course, the first step is to think through your needs and then make an informed decision to integrate technologies that make every day a little happier for you. 

Reopening: What Automation-Enabled Offices Will Look Like Post The Pandemic

 

The Covid-19 pandemic led to a massive disruption in the way the world functions. Back in the year 2020, people faced challenges while setting up home offices and working online. Offices are reopening while adhering to Covid norms. Employee health and safety are top priorities for organisations. Office automation is no longer just a 'luxury' but a necessity. Enabling modern solutions like digital automation, motion sensors, and voice detectors will effectively help deal with the pandemic. 

Digital Automation

With the world moving towards digitisation, various IoT (Internet of things) devices are gaining popularity. These devices help reduce employees' contact with the surfaces. For example, the automation with a Lutron Processor system enables scenes to be activated based upon the time of the day on an Astronomic time clock. Wireless wall-mounted keypads, allow for easy retrofit applications. This system replicates the controls on devices like smartphones, tablets, etc. 

Smart LEDs can adjust the light temperature of the room varying from a warm white (3000k)to cool white (5000k) and daylight levels of a particular space. For instance, the Lutron Digital Addressable lighting interface (DALI) modules provide different ambient lighting experiences to meet the occupants' needs. All these measures can help improve employee productivity and overall office experience.

Occupancy Sensors

Today, building automation and control tools are available to process and analyse occupancy patterns. These are called occupancy sensors that help to detect when a space is unoccupied and thus turn the lights off. As a result, one can save more energy and reduce carbon footprint. For example, the Lutron ceiling mount sensors feature high-end in ceiling sensors with minor motion detection ability. The dual technology version provides optimal energy saving and occupancy detection. This self-adaptive technology helps to eliminate the need for manual adjustments. Data from the sensors can also be fed to the Building Management Systems to manage the HVAC loads as well, thus maximizing energy savings.

Voice Technology

With voice-enabled devices, one can request services and enable contactless operations. Moreover, employees can use appliances without touching handles and buttons, making work simpler and ensuring social distancing. In addition, most voice-enabled devices understand commands like managing meetings, controlling conference room devices, and setting room temperature, simplifying work nitty-gritty.

HVAC System 

Smart building automation helps in creating a healthier and pleasant environment for employees. For example, ventilation systems with air cleaning and filtration technology can help reduce airborne contaminants creating a safer and more hygienic workplace. For instance, the Coolmaster System by Anusha Technovision facilitates seamless integration of the HVAC systems. The system provides services like maintaining the thermostat, touch keypad/dynamic keypad for control, occupancy/vacancy sensor, Lutron Connect App, etc.

The office spatiality is changing. Post the pandemic as the staff re-acclimate to the new normal, building improvisations and automation will increase office efficiency with employee well-being as the mainstay. Automated office engagement and innovation, embracing a hybrid work model will help deal with the pandemic effectively.

 

One of the new trends in international and multinational companies is to now focus on the Wellness factor in addition to focusing on minimizing the energy consumption in the building. As such now “wellness ratings” in addition to the LEEDS Energy ratings are being sought from international rating agencies. The realization dawns that the cost of energy in the building is nothing compared to the cost of employees and as such savings should be focused on increasing the productivity of the employees in proportion to the increased  “wellness”  -now being the new Mantra.