25.08.2021
PREVENTING WATER DAMAGE IN PROPERTIES WITH IOT SENSORS
The future belongs to the "Internet of Things" (IoT). More and more places are using sensors that transmit measurement data to IoT platforms. There, the information is evaluated in real time. In this way, it is possible to react to a potential problem at an early stage. A principle that has enormous potential for loss prevention. A pilot project is now testing how IoT sensors can be used to predict and prevent water damage in shopping centers.
WHAT IS THE INTERNET OF THINGS?
The Internet of Things (IoT) enables objects to be networked with each other via the Internet. In the process, the objects are equipped with sensors, chips, data storage devices or software systems. These enable data exchange with one or more other objects. By automatically analyzing this data, corresponding predictions can then be made - in the case of the IoT sensor solution in real estate, for example, whether a dangerous situation is imminent.
One (digital) step ahead of the risk
For the prevention of damage, IoT solutions hold enormous future potential. The aim is to detect hazards at an early stage by automatically measuring and evaluating data supplied by sensors on water pipes or sprinkler systems, for example, in order to prevent damage in the best possible way. The digital sensors monitor in particular areas that are susceptible to faults, are difficult to access or cannot be seen and cannot be permanently observed by human intervention. They are in operation 24 hours a day, even outside business hours.
PILOT PROJECTS IN SHOPPING CENTERS IN MUNICH AND COLOGNE
Spacious buildings such as shopping centers are predestined for the use of IoT sensors. Here, they offer real added value for both the owners and users of the property as well as for the insurers. In pilot projects in Munich's Olympia-Einkaufszentrum (OEZ) and in Cologne's Rhein-Center, ECE is currently testing an IoT sensor solution against water damage in shopping centers together with Munich RE, the world's largest reinsurer, and Chubb, one of the world's largest building insurers. In the OEZ alone, 44 sensors were installed to monitor various parameters such as water or temperature levels. With the help of an alarm system that sends a warning message to the mobile phone via SMS as well as e-mail when a danger is detected, possible water damage can be detected and prevented in good time.
With these pilot projects in Munich and Cologne, the partners are testing another innovative solution to make buildings smarter and more intelligent. The aim in using digital tools such as IoT sensor technology is to further optimise building operation for users and owners and to increase efficiency. The two pilot projects are initially scheduled to run for two years.