0
0-10V (Dimming Protocol)
A method of controlling the brightness of LED lights by varying the voltage between 0 and 10V. Commonly used in commercial buildings.
A
Access Point (AP)
A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network.
Actuator
A device that moves or controls a mechanism, often converting electrical signals into physical action.
Adaptive Lighting
Lighting that automatically adjusts based on environmental conditions or user needs.
AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things)
Integration of AI capabilities in IoT devices to enable intelligent decision-making.
Air Quality Index (AQI)
A numerical scale used to communicate how polluted the air currently is.
Ambient Light Sensor
A sensor that measures the amount of light in an environment to adjust devices like displays or lighting.
API (Application Programming Interface)
An API is a set of rules or protocols that enables software applications to communicate with each other to exchange data, features, and functionality. For example an API is used to get weather information on the Gateway. The Gateway will send a request to the weather API (for example, “what’s the weather like in New York”. Weather API will retrieve the data from its source and sends it back to the BubblyNet Gateway.
API Gateway
A management tool that acts as an entry point for APIs, handling tasks like routing and security.
Application Key
An application key is a code that is used to protect specific applications (security cameras, elevators, door locks) within a building control system.
Example: Cleaning Services could have access to lighting and door locks but not security cameras.
Asset Tracking
Monitoring the location and status of assets using technologies like Bluetooth Mesh or GPS.
Authentication
The process of verifying the identity of a user or device.
B
BACnet
The most common communication protocol for building automation systems to exchange information.
BAS/BMS (Building Automation System/Building Management System)
It refers to a centralized control system that monitors and manages a building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, including:
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
- Lighting
- Fire Safety Systems
- Security Systems
- Energy Management
Beacon
A small device that broadcasts a Bluetooth signal for location-based services.
Biodynamic Lighting
Lighting designed to mimic the natural changes in daylight to support circadian rhythms.
BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)
A low-power version of Bluetooth technology for IoT applications.
BlueBeam Revu
A software program that is used to create construction layouts. This software is used by the Sales Department.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard used for exchanging data between fixed and mobile devices.
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
A version of Bluetooth optimized for energy efficiency.
Bluetooth Mesh
A version of Bluetooth optimized for large projects such as hotels, office buildings and hospitals. Classic Bluetooth uses a point-to-point connection (like pairing your phone with wireless headphones). These connections work over short distances and typically between two devices at a time. Bluetooth Mesh allows many-to-many communication over much larger areas, supporting up to thousands of devices.
Bluetooth SIG
“Bluetooth Special Interest Group” is a non-profit organization that polices the standard/protocol. All Bluetooth companies must adhere to their set protocols.
BubblyNet
BubblyNet is an engineering firm that develops, designs and builds software and hardware for the wireless smart building space offering a wide and growing variety of technology aimed at improving sustainability and well-being.
Building Automation System/Building Management System (BAS/BMS)
A computer based control system installed in buildings that controls and monitors the building’s mechanical and electrical equipment such as ventilation, lighting, power systems, fire systems and security systems
C
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
Software used to create detailed technical drawings and 3D models. It’s widely used in industries like engineering, architecture, automotive design, and product development to design everything from buildings and cars to small components like screws and electronic parts.
Carbon Footprint
The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by an individual, organization, or product.
CCT
CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) is a term used to describe the white appearance of light. It helps to understand how "warm" or "cool" the light looks.
Centralized Controls System
Centralized networks allow a central device to talk with many peripheral devices. For example a computer hub or control panel which monitors everything. The hub sends out instructions to different parts (machines, devices or systems) that are connected to it.
Certificate Authority
An entity that issues digital certificates for securing communications.
Circadian Lighting
Lighting systems designed to align with human circadian rhythms.
Circadian Rhythm
The natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours.
Cloud
The Cloud refers to servers and data storage that are accessed over the internet rather than being stored locally into computers or devices. When people say something is "in the cloud," they mean it is hosted on remote servers.
Cloud Native
Software designed specifically to run in cloud environments.
CO2 Monitoring
Tracking carbon dioxide levels in an environment to assess air quality.
CO2 Sensor
A device that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air.
Commissioning
The configuration and programming of BubblyNet devices so as to function as intended by the customer. It includes two processes: Provisioning (creating a Bluetooth mesh network and adding devices to that network) Configuring (defining the specific functionalities such as schedules, dimming levels, light colors, etc.).
Containerization
A method of virtualizing software applications and their dependencies into containers. A container is a lightweight, standalone, and executable package that includes everything needed to run a software application. This includes the application code, libraries, dependencies, and configuration files. Containers are designed to be portable and consistent across different computing environments.
Controller
A device which allow to wirelessly control non-wireless devices such as luminaires, shades and thermostats. A BubblyNet Controller is a Bluetooth Mesh device with a wired output such as such as 0-10V, DMX or RS485 which allow to integrate into a wireless network, wired devices and networks.
Controls Layout
Also known as a takeoff or controls design. A Controls Layout is a document created from Blueprint plans that shows where the control devices should be installed in the space. It also shows the complete Bill of Materials for the project.
Controls Narrative
Is a detailed document or description that explains how a system or process operates, specifically focusing on how different control mechanisms work together to manage and automate a system. This is often used in engineering, manufacturing, building automation, or process control industries.
Current Sensor
A device used to measure electrical current in a circuit.
D
DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface)
It is a system used to control and manage lighting, primarily in commercial buildings, but also in homes. It allows you to control many lights individually or in groups, making lighting systems smarter and more efficient.
Daylight Harvesting
Using sensors to adjust lighting levels based on the amount of natural daylight.
Decentralized Controls System
In a decentralized network there is not only one main point (i.e terminals, panels, hubs) but several which are then connected together and communicate to the peripheral devices. For example, in a large office building, each area (like individual offices, conference rooms, and common areas) is equipped with smart lighting controls that operate independently based on local conditions, occupancy, and preferences.
Dimming Protocol
Dimming means reducing the output of a lamp or lighting fixture. There are several protocols that can be used. The 0-10V dimming protocol uses a control signal ranging from 0 to 10 volts to adjust the brightness of light fixtures. This simple and effective method allows for smooth dimming without flicker.
Distributed Controls System
A distributed network has no central or peripheral devices. All devices have similar authority and are autonomous in terms of resources and computing power with no main point of failure. BubblyNet is a distributed controls system. In a large commercial building, such as an office or retail space, a distributed lighting control system allows for independent control of different lighting zones while enabling communication and coordination among them.
DMX (Digital Multiplex) Protocol
DMX is a standard for digital communication networks that are commonly used to control lighting and effects. Originally intended for controlling stage and theatrical lighting. Commonly used for RGBW and Tunable White applications.
How It Works:
- A controller sends digital signals to multiple lights or effects devices over a single cable.
- Each light is assigned a channel that tells it what to do (like how bright to be or what color to show).
Dual Technology Sensor - Dual-Tech
A sensor that combines two detection methods, such as PIR and ultrasonic. By combining two technologies, dual tech sensors can reduce false triggers and enhance sensitivity.
E
Edge AI
Artificial intelligence processing done locally on IoT edge devices instead of in the cloud.
Edge Computing
Computing performed on devices at the network's edge, closer to the data source, rather than sending it to a centralized data center or cloud.
Edge Device
A device that processes data and performs specific tasks close to the source or destination of the information. For example, a BubblyNet sensor-contoller can detect occupancy, read light levels, trigger schedules and control luminaires in complete autonomy.
Edge Gateway
A device that connects IoT devices to external networks or systems.
Embedded
The word embedded means it is built into the system. Example: A scheduler is embedded in all BubblyNet devices; this means that all devices can be programmed to behave in a different way at a different hour of the day, or different day of the week, month or year.
EM Back up Battery
An EM (Emergency) backup battery refers to a backup battery used for emergency power. This type of battery is designed to provide power during a failure or outage of the main electrical supply. It ensures that critical systems continue to operate when the primary power source is unavailable.
Energy Code/Code Compliance
Refers to a set of regulations and standards designed to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. These codes are implemented by governments or regulatory bodies to ensure that new constructions, renovations, and existing buildings meet specific energy performance criteria.
End-to-End Encryption
A method of securing communication where only the communicating parties can access the data.
Energy Analytics
The process of analyzing energy consumption to optimize usage and reduce costs.
Energy Harvesting
Energy harvesting is the process by which energy is obtained from external sources captured and stored for small wireless devices. Example: the EnOcean wireless switch uses the energy of the button press to send a wireless signal and control luminaires.
Energy Management System (EMS)
A system designed to monitor and control energy usage in a building or facility.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a way of connecting computers together with cables in a local area network or LAN. It has been the most widely used method of linking computers together in LANs since the 1990’s. The basic idea of its design is that multiple computers have access to it and can send data at any time.
F
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable.
Firmware
Firmware is a software program or set of instructions programmed on a hardware device. It provides the necessary instructions for how the device communicates with the other computer hardware. Example: The firmware in a smart LED driver determines how the driver communicates with a lighting control system.
Fixture schedule
Detailed list or table in architectural and construction documentation that outlines the specifications, locations, and other relevant details for fixtures to be installed in a building. Fixtures are items that are fixed in place, such as lighting, plumbing, and HVAC components.
Flooding Protocol
A network communication protocol where messages are broadcast to all nodes.
FL Plans
FL (Floor Lighting) Plans are detailed diagrams of a building's layout from a top-down perspective. In lighting design, FL plans are used to show where lighting fixtures are to be installed, including overhead lights, sconces, and other types of fixtures. The plans include the placement of electrical outlets and wiring routes, which helps in planning the installation and maintenance of lighting systems.
Forward Phase Dimming
A dimming technique for reducing power to lighting systems by clipping the waveform.
Friend Node
A node in a Bluetooth Mesh network that stores messages for low-power nodes (LPN).
G
Gateway
A gateway is a device that acts as a "gate" between two networks that enables traffic to flow in and out of the network.
Example: The BubblyNet Gateway connects bluetooth mesh network with the internet.
GATT (Generic Attribute Profile)
A protocol for managing Bluetooth connections and data exchange.
Green Building
Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. Green building is also known as a sustainable or high performance building.
H
Hop
A hop occurs when a package of data is transmitted between 2 devices. “Hopping from device to device”.
Hub
A hub is a networking device which is used to connect multiple devices in a network. BubblyNet Networks do not utilize hubs. Hubs are used in decentralized controls systems.
I
IAQ (Indoor Air Quality)
A measure of the air quality inside a building, focusing on pollutants and comfort.
IEQ (Indoor Environmental Quality)
The overall quality of a building’s environment, including air, lighting, and acoustics.
Intensity
In lighting design, "intensity" refers to the brightness of a light source or the amount of light it emits. It's a key factor in determining how well a space is lit and how effective the lighting is in achieving its intended purpose.
Interface
An interface is a common point or boundary between two things. It means that two things interact smoothly and communicate with each other. A user interface is something that someone using a computer can view and interact with that makes the interaction with the computer easier and smoother. Example: If you had a computer that allowed you to view a listing of all the movies you had stored on the computer, the screen you used to view that listing would be an interface.
Internet
An interconnected network of many computers around the world, and a set of methods, or protocols, for transferring different types of data between those computers.
Internet of Things (IoT)
A network of interconnected devices that exchange data.
Interoperability
The ability of systems and devices to work together seamlessly.
IP Whitelisting
Restricting network access to only approved IP addresses.
IR (Infrared) Sensor
A sensor that detects infrared radiation, often used for motion detection.
IT (Information Technology)
The study and use of machines (especially computers) that store, send and receive data. IT is mainly used when talking about computers but technically other advanced machinery subjects, such as phones, fall under the category of IT too. IT has to do with machines that handle information.
K
Key
Another word for a password. The network “key” is the password for access to that network.
Key Exchange
A method for securely exchanging cryptographic keys between parties.
Key Management
Processes and systems for managing encryption keys securely.
L
LAN (Local Area Network)
A network that links together computers and peripheral equipment within a limited area, such as a building or a group of buildings. A LAN in an office connects multiple devices like computers and printers, allowing them to communicate and share resources quickly and efficiently within a localized area.
Latency
The delay between sending and receiving data in a network.
LED Driver
A device that regulates power to an LED light source.
LEED Certification
A certification for buildings meeting environmental and energy efficiency standards.
Linux OS (Operating System)
Linux is an operating system, like Windows or macOS, that helps your computer run software and manage hardware. It was created in the early 1990s by a programmer named Linus Torvalds. It is open source which means its source code is available for anyone to view, use, modify and share. This encourages a community of developers to contribute to its improvement.
Load
In lighting design, "load" refers to the amount of electrical power consumed by lighting fixtures and systems. It’s a critical factor in determining the overall power requirements of a lighting setup and ensuring that the electrical system can handle the demand.
Low Power Node (LPN)
(See “Node”) A battery powered node that uses the Low Power feature of being in “sleep mode” most of the time and participating to the network via a Friend node for minimal energy consumption. Example: battery powered switches and sensors are LPNs.
The following figure shows an example of network topology (Network topology refers to the arrangement or layout of different elements (nodes, links, etc.) in a computer network.) with LPNs and other mesh node types:
M
Mesh
The term “mesh network” refers to a type of wireless network topology, where each network Node participates in the distribution of data across the network, by relaying data to other Nodes which are in range.
MilliAmps (mA)
Unit of electrical current that measure the flow of electric charge. A milliamp is one-thousandth of an ampere. Small electronic devices, like LED lights or sensors, typically use currents in the range of milliamps. For instance, an LED might use about 20 mA.
Model
A feature in Bluetooth Mesh networks that defines device behavior or functionality.
Module
A module is a software component or part of a program that contains one or more routines. One or more independently developed modules make up a program.
Motion Sensor
A device that detects movement in its field of view.
MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport)
A lightweight, publish-subscribe messaging protocol widely used in IoT. Its efficiency and reliability made it a standard protocol for IoT and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
A security process requiring multiple forms of verification.
N
Networked Systems
In lighting design, "networked systems" refer to lighting setups that use digital communication networks to control and manage lighting fixtures and devices. These systems allow for centralized control, automation, and integration with other building systems.
Network
A network is two or more computers (or other electronic devices) that are connected together, usually by cables or Wi-Fi.
NFC (Near Field Communication)
A short-range wireless communication technology used for data exchange. Example: contactless payments, digital keycards.
Node
A Node is a Bluetooth device that is a member of a network.
O
Occupancy/Vacancy Sensors
Devices used in lighting systems to automatically control lighting based on the presence or absence of people in a space. They help in improving energy efficiency and convenience.
On/Off Relay
A relay is a switching device that uses a small signal to control a larger signal. Current travels from the circuit breaker, through the relay and on to the light source. When you open the relay it cuts off the flow of current and the light source turns off, if you close the relay it completes the circuit and the appliance turns on.
Open Source
Open source software is software that anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance.
Over-The-Air Updates (OTA)
Remote updates sent wirelessly to devices for software or firmware.
P
Packet
A block of data transmitted across a network.
Packet Sniffing
Monitoring and capturing data packets traveling over a network.
Pairing
Pairing, sometimes known as bonding, is a process used in computer networking that helps set up an initial linkage between computing devices to allow communications between them. The most common example is used in Bluetooth, where the pairing process is used to link devices like a Bluetooth headset with a mobile phone.
Phase Dimming
The phase-cut dimming system operates the dimming function by controlling the period of AC power that flows into the system, meaning that the power being input from the main electric within a wave cycle controls the brightness of a lamp. Commonly used for decorative lighting fixtures. There are several versions of Phase Dimming. MLV, ELV, TRIAC, etc.
Photocell
A photocell, also known as a light sensor or photo sensor, is a device used in lighting systems to automatically control lighting based on the level of natural light.
Platform
A computing platform or digital platform is the environment in which a piece of software is executed.
PIR (Passive Infrared)
It is a type of motion sensor commonly used in lighting systems and security applications. It detects changes in infrared radiation (heat) emitted by objects, including people and animals, within its field of view.
Power Plans
Detailed diagrams that show how electrical power is distributed and utilized within a building or space. These plans are crucial for ensuring that electrical systems are designed and installed correctly to handle the required loads and meet safety standards.
Power Meter
A device that measures electrical power usage.
Power Monitoring
Tracking energy usage to optimize consumption and identify inefficiencies.
Predictive Analytics
Using historical data and AI to predict future outcomes.
Predictive Maintenance
Using data analytics to predict and prevent equipment failures.
Proprietary
This refers to technology, systems, or components that are owned and controlled by a specific company or manufacturer. This means that the design, functionality, and sometimes even the software or hardware are unique to that company and are not openly available or compatible with other systems without specific permission or adaptation.
Protocol
In networking, a protocol is a set of rules for formatting and processing data. Network protocols are like a common language for computers.
Provision
Provisioning is the process of creating a bluetooth mesh network and adding devices to that network.
Proximity Sensor
A sensor that detects the presence of objects within a certain range without physical contact.
Proxy Node
A device that facilitates communication between Bluetooth Mesh devices and non-Bluetooth Mesh devices. It is a part of a network that acts as a middleman or intermediary between BLE user (or device) and a Bluetooth Mesh network.
Publish-Subscribe Mechanism
A messaging pattern where messages are sent to multiple subscribers based on topics.
R
Reflective Ceiling Plan (RCP)
In lighting design and architectural drawings, "RCP" stands for Reflected Ceiling Plan. This type of plan provides a top-down view of a space as if looking up at the ceiling, showing the layout of various ceiling elements and lighting fixtures.
Relay Node
A node that forwards messages to extend the range of a Bluetooth Mesh network.
RESTful API
An API that conforms to REST (Representational State Transfer) principles that define how web services should be designed to be scalable, stateless, and easy to use. REST is a widely used architectural style for building APIs that interact with distributed systems, particularly over HTTP.
Riser Diagram
A riser diagram is a type of drawing commonly used in building construction, electrical systems, plumbing, and other engineering projects to show how different components, such as cables, pipes, or conduits, rise vertically through a building.
S
SaaS (Software as a Service)
A cloud computing model delivering software over the internet.
Scalable
This refers to the ability of a system to accommodate growth or changes in its size, capacity, or functionality. Scalability ensures that as needs or requirements evolve, the system can adapt without requiring a complete overhaul. Scalable software typically refers to business applications that can adapt to support an increasing amount of data or a growing number of users.
Sequence of Operations
A sequence of operations is a document, added to the drawings, that specifies the functionality of the lighting control system.
Single Glass Pane
The term typically refers to a unified interface or dashboard that provides centralized access to monitor, manage, and control multiple connected devices, systems, applications or buildings.
Smart Building
A building equipped with IoT systems to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
Smart Lighting
Lighting systems that can be automated and controlled remotely.
Standalone Systems
In lighting design this refers to lighting setups that operate independently without requiring integration or connection to other systems. These systems are self-contained and manage their functions autonomously.
Subnet
A smaller network within a larger network, often used to improve efficiency and security.
Switch
A device for making and breaking the connection in an electric circuit.
Switch Leg
This refers to the wiring that connects a light switch to the lighting fixture or load it controls. It is a crucial component in the circuit that allows the switch to control the flow of electricity to the light fixture.
Switching - On/Off
Activates an electrical device or system, allowing current to flow and enabling the device to operate.
T
Time-to-Live (TTL)
A value that limits the lifespan or duration of data in a network. Time to live (TTL) or hop limit is a mechanism that limits the number of hops a message can have. Example: If TTL is 2, then device “A” transmits to device “B” (first hop); device “B” transmits to device “C” (second hop) and then the message gets discarded.
Tunable White
Lighting technology allowing adjustment of color temperature to mimic natural light.
TVOCs (Total Volatile Organic Compounds)
A measure of the concentration of harmful airborne chemicals.
U
Ultrasonic Sensor
A sensor that uses sound waves to detect objects or measure distance.
Unicast (Address)
A unicast address is used to send data to a single destination. A multicast address can be used to deliver a package to a group of destinations.
User Experience (UX)
The overall experience a user has when interacting with a system or product.
UUID (Universal Unique Identifier)
A standardized identifier used to uniquely identify objects or entities.
V
VOC Monitoring
The tracking of volatile organic compound levels to assess air quality.
Voltage (V)
Electric pressure - you can think of voltage as the pressure that pushes electric charge through a circuit. Just like water pressure pushes water through pipes, voltage pushes electricity through wires.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A secure network connection established over a public network.
W
Watts (W)
Watts tell us how much power a device uses or produces. Power (W) = Voltage (V) x Current (I = Amps)
WELL Building Standard
A performance-based system for measuring building features that impact health and well-being.
Wellness Metrics
Data points used to measure aspects of health and well-being.
WiFi (Wireless Fidelity)
A technology that allows devices to connect to a local area network (LAN) and the internet wirelessly using radio waves. It is based on the IEEE 802.11 standard and provides high-speed, short-range data communication between devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart home gadgets.
Z
Zigbee
A low-power wireless communication standard for IoT devices.
Zone/Zoning
Zoning is the mechanism through which lighting controls are assigned to lighting loads. A Zone is one or more light sources controlled simultaneously by a single control output. Also referred to as Groups/Grouping.