Visiting a beautiful Italian theater that’s been around since the mid-1800s. It’s a stunning neoclassical building with an impressive main hall and fantastic acoustics. However, despite all the love and care it’s received over the years, the theater faced challenges in energy efficiency and managing the flow of guests. With the help of IoT solutions, this historic site was able to balance modern needs with its classic charm.
Challenges
The theater had several issues to tackle, including poor air quality, inefficient use of space, and difficulties in managing people flow.
Air Quality Issues
The theater struggled to maintain good air quality, affecting both audience comfort and safety.
Compliance and Preservation
GDPR compliance and preserving the building’s historical integrity were top priorities
People Flow Management
Managing guest movement in busy areas like the bar and entrance was difficult without real-time data.
Cabling Difficulties
Thick walls and lack of structured cabling made installing new systems challenging
Outdated Electrical Systems
The old electrical setup and limited power outlets added to the complexity of modernization.
Operational Constraints
All upgrades had to be done during non-performance hours to avoid interrupting rehearsals or shows.
Occupancy and Space Monitoring
There was no system to track how spaces like balconies and restrooms were used, limiting operational efficiency.
Solution
To solve these problems, Milesight and its partner, iComfort, stepped in with a comprehensive energy efficiency solution. By using Milesight’s advanced sensors and the iComfort platform, the theater was transformed into a modern, energy-efficient facility without losing its historical essence.
Air Quality Monitoring
Sensors like the AM107 and EM500-CO2 were installed to monitor air quality inside and outside the building. This data helped ensure a comfortable environment for guests.
Wireless, Battery-Powered Sensors
With the theater’s old electrical systems, running new wires was tough. Instead, wireless, battery-powered sensors were used, making installation easier without disturbing the historic structure.
Occupancy Monitoring and Smart Light Control
PIR & Light Sensors were placed in balconies and restrooms to monitor how these spaces were being used and adjust the lighting accordingly.
People Flow Management
GDPR-compliant people counting sensors were installed at critical spots like the entrance and bar, helping manage the flow of guests more efficiently.
Data Fusion for Enhanced Functionality
The iComfort platform combines data from multiple sensors to provide insights into energy systems, building monitoring, and workplace behavior, promoting savings and regulatory compliance.
Energy Management
The iComfort system monitors and manages energy usage across all theater areas, comparing it with wholesale prices for potential optimizations.
How iComfort Works
iComfort collects data from all the sensors and analyzes it in real-time. This helps theater staff monitor energy consumption, people flow, and overall guest experience through an easy-to-use platform. They can then make decisions based on this data to improve the theater’s operations.
Solution
The integration of IoT solutions not only improved energy efficiency but also enhanced the overall guest experience, ensuring the theater runs smoothly while maintaining its historical integrity.
Environmental Monitoring
Accurate tracking of air quality and energy use helped optimize operations.
Enhanced Guest Experience and Safety
With better air quality, lighting, and people flow management, guests enjoyed a safer and more comfortable environment.
Integrity Preservation of the Theatre
Despite the technological upgrades, the theater’s historic charm remained untouched, thanks to the non-intrusive solutions provided by the battery-powered sensors.
Energy Efficiency Improvement
The theater’s energy consumption was significantly reduced, saving costs and complying with regulations.
Conclusion
This case study shows how modern IoT solutions can breathe new life into historic buildings like the Italian theater, proving that it’s possible to improve energy efficiency and guest experience without compromising the cultural heritage of such landmarks. Through the power of technology, the theater has managed to stay relevant and functional in today’s world.