Making HVAC Mobile With Greystone Energy Systems

Research Area: Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing  | Status:  Completed | Led By: Researcher-led

The Challenge

Greystone Energy Systems has manufactured HVAC sensors and transmitters for over 30 years for building and energy management systems. As the demand for internet-enabled smart technology has risen steadily in recent years, energy efficiency has become a top driver of purchase decisions for electronics and equipment. Greystone recognized a need to develop a mobile application for their HVAC devices, but lacked the skillset in-house and did not know where to start.

The Solution

Staff at the NBCC Centre for Applied Research in Mobile & Ubiquitous Computing are developing a mobile app to allow users to connect to Greystone HVAC devices using Bluetooth technology. This technology will increase efficiency and convenience for those responsible for monitoring units and ensuring air quality and flow, making the company’s HVAC products more user-friendly and accessible. The current version of the application was developed for Greystone’s line of humidity products but can easily be duplicated for other product lines in the future.

About the Collaboration

This is the first applied research and development project Greystone has undertaken with NBCC, but it likely won’t be the last time they engage college researchers and students to help them innovate and take advantage of opportunities. Greystone has established a worldwide position as an industry leader thanks to its cutting-edge technology. Innovations like these help to maintain and grow the reputation of this New Brunswick-based business.

This project was made possible thanks to funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Industrial Research Chair for Colleges program, company investment, and Mitacs. In addition, NBCC received funding support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), which enabled Greystone to access research and innovation support from NBCC related to this project.

Companies should know that there are a lot of talented young engineers and tech-savvy students out there that have skills that can augment the work you’re doing. So keep an open mind and give these young individuals a chance, and you’ll be impressed by what they can deliver.

Steve Wheeler, Director, Product Engineering, Greystone Energy Systems

Project Partners/Funders

Partner

Greystone Energy

Funders

NSERC
 
Mitacs
 

Collaborate with us!

Email appliedresearch@nbcc.ca to learn more about how NBCC students can help you reach your business goals.

About Applied Research and Innovation
NBCC’s Applied Research and Innovation office helps businesses and communities find solutions to their challenges. Through its expertise, equipment, and facilities, NBCC helps its partners to solve problems, take advantage of market opportunities, and develop new, innovative processes that will enhance how New Brunswickers live, work and do business.