Model Predictive Control

The main energy strategy of the Desert Rose is to maximise the self-consumption of renewables, relying as little on grid energy as possible (if at all). This is achieved using optimal control of the solar resources and the on-site energy storage. The optimal control for the battery was developed by Team UOW. The technique we are employing is known as model predictive control (MPC). The MPC optimisation algorithm uses prediction models of both solar PV production and electrical load of the Desert Rose House for the next 24 hours. Based on this data, the algorithm determines the optimal charging and discharging schedule of the battery, ensuring as much solar energy is used as possible. This optimisation algorithm is updated every 15 minutes to ensure the battery is using the most up to date weather and load data (this is the advantage of MPC over regular control).

KNX + Internet of Things

The Desert Rose makes use of KNX as its primary building automation protocol. KNX was chosen due to its open source nature and compatibility between devices from multiple manufacturers. Another advantage of a KNX building management system is that it can be integrated with IoT technologies developed by UOW, such as RGB lighting controls.

In conjunction with KNX, the Desert Rose uses innovative, low cost IoT (Internet of Things) technologies which will all be interfaced with the Node Red IoT platform and Amazon Echo. Using Node Red allows the seamless integration of IoT and KNX, allowing Team UOW students to develop multiple graphical user interfaces that ensure ease of operability for both the technologically savvy and also those living with age related illnesses. These interfaces can be operated by your phone, tablet or any device you program from anywhere in the world.

Lighting

DALI lighting is an innovative lighting system where every light is assigned a unique address. Rather than having to wire every light to every switch, all of the lights are connected in a single house-wide circuit. Using DALI lighting decreases the total quantity of lighting cables required in the Desert Rose House by a factor of 10, adding to the overall sustainability of the home. The lights in the Desert Rose House can be controlled via wall switches, the household app and even using voice control with the Amazon Echo.

All lights in the Desert Rose are LED lights which consume less energy and give off less heat than common halogen light globes. LED lights also have a longer lifespan and are more flexible in terms of colour and brightness control.

LED strips are installed on cornices throughout the bedrooms and lounge room and are adjustable to provide ambient lighting. This lighting can also be used to reduce agitation experienced by people living with dementia throughout the day.