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1Scope and general architecture

The project includes the supply, configuration, and commissioning of an open, scalable lighting control system based on DALI-2, complemented by a central management and visualization layer.

The installation must operate as an autonomous field layer for lighting, with integration capabilities towards other building technologies within a BACS/BMS architecture.

The system must

  • Include decentralized intelligence so that basic functionality remains locally operational in the event of backbone failure.
  • Be modular and expandable without impact on existing addressing and configuration.
  • Support one-to-one replacement of individual luminaires or drivers without reprogramming.
  • Provide integration via open protocols (BACnet/IP, OPC-UA, Modbus TCP/IP).
  • Be suitable for long-term management and operation.

Additionally required

  • Designed as an open lighting layer within a BACS architecture.
  • Support energy-efficient automatic control (presence detection, daylight harvesting, schedules).
  • Make relevant measurement and status data available for monitoring and energy management.
  • Allow integration with other building technologies through open protocols.
    Provide logging and history for reporting and auditing purposes.
  • Be compatible with the principles of ISO 52120-1 regarding building automation.
  • The architecture must be suitable for buildings subject to EPBD-BACS requirements.

2DALI controllers (lighting control)

The lighting installation shall be controlled by DALI-2 compatible controllers with integrated logic.

Minimum requirements

  • Support for DALI-2 drivers, sensors, and input devices.
  • DALI controllers available in versions with 1 or 3 DALI lines, supporting at least 64 addresses per DALI line.
  • Local storage of scenes, groups, schedules, and automation logic.
  • Autonomous operation in the event of IP communication loss.
  • Programmable via specialized engineering software.
  • Expandable with multiple DALI lines within one system architecture.

The controllers form the primary control and automation layer for presence detection, daylight regulation, and scene control.

3Integration of wireless DALI segments

The DALI controllers must support the integration of wireless DALI segments without modification of the overall system architecture.

Technical requirements

  • Wireless segments transparently transport the original DALI-2 protocol (IEC 62386).
  • Works on 2,4 GHz self-healing mesh network utilizing automated frequency hopping to prevent interference from local Wi-Fi or Bluetooth traffic.
  • Encrypted, bidirectional communication between wireless nodes.
  • Wireless DALI segments are connected to the DALI controller via a gateway/bridge.
  • Full compatibility with DALI-2 drivers (DT6), emergency lighting (DT1),
  • Tunable White (DT8), and input devices.
  • Transparency for DALI-2 commands; wireless endpoints must appear as standard DALI devices during bus scans.
  • Security: AES-128 bit encryption for all wireless transmissions to ensure network integrity.

Functional requirements

  • The wireless segment functions as a fully-fledged DALI line within the controller architecture.
  • Scenes, groups, schedules, and automation logic remain identical to wired lines.
  • Central management software must not distinguish between wired or wireless DALI lines.

4Cabling principles and infrastructure

The installation must be executed with a clear separation between field cabling (DALI) and backbone/control cabling.

Ceiling cabling (DALI bus)

  • The DALI bus shall be installed using a standard installation cable type 5G or 2G/3G (1.5 mm²).
  • The DALI bus does not require shielded cable and may be freely combined with power cables, in accordance with applicable installation standards.
  • Free topology selection (line, star, or combination), without requiring a loop structure.
  • Suitable for connecting luminaires, sensors, and DALI input devices.

Wall cabling (control panels and touchscreens)

  • Control panels, touchscreens, and IP-based components shall be connected using UTP cabling, minimum Cat 5e or higher.
  • This cabling enables communication over greater distances and supports additional data flows (visualization, integration, monitoring).
  • UTP cabling for IP-based components (such as touchscreens and gateways) shall be executed in star topology towards network or control points.
  • DyNet communication (RS-485 fieldbus) shall be executed in a linear bus structure (daisy chain), in accordance with system guidelines.

General

  • Separation between the DALI bus (field layer) and IP network (backbone) must be maintained.
  • The cabling choice must provide flexibility for future extensions or functional modifications without structural adaptations.

5Secure IP integration gateway (PDEG-S type)

A secure IP gateway shall be provided for coupling between fieldbus and backbone.

Requirements

  • Ethernet/IP communication.
  • Support for BACnet/IP, OPC-UA, and Modbus TCP/IP.
  • Encrypted communication between field layer and IP network.
  • Support for network segmentation and secure access.
  • Logging and event registration for audit and diagnostics.

The gateway enables secure integration with higher-level BACS, visualization, and reporting platforms without affecting the autonomous operation of the field layer.

6Presence and daylight sensors (ceiling mounted)

Combined DALI-2 sensors with presence and lux measurement shall be provided.

Functional requirements

  • Detection of presence/movement for automatic switching or dimming control.
  • Integrated light measurement for constant light control.
  • Individually addressable.
  • Parameterizable detection zone, delay, and lux setpoints.
  • Suitable for standard ceiling heights in office and utility environments.

7Multifunctional control panels with climate measurement

User control shall be provided via architecturally finished push buttons with integrated sensors.

Requirements

  • Programmable functions (scenes, dimming, zones).
  • Direct communication with the lighting control bus.
  • Measurement of temperature and relative humidity.
  • Availability of measured values for integration into BACS/HVAC strategy.
  • Suitable for intensive use in utility buildings.

8Central management software and visualization platform

A central software platform shall be provided for monitoring, control, and reporting of the installation.

Functional objective

  • Central cockpit for management of lighting and related measurement values.
  • User-friendly interface for facility management.
  • Possibility for multi-site management.

Minimum technical requirements

  • Installation on local server, VM, or industrial PC.
  • Communication with field layer through the IP gateway.
  • Support for open integration protocols.
  • Graphical visualization per building, floor, and zone.
  • Real-time status display of luminaires, sensors, and control points.
  • Adjustment of schedules, scenes, and parameters at user level.
  • Logging, trending, and reporting.

9Emergency lighting (if present with DALI DT1 drivers)

The system must:

  • Centrally monitor emergency lighting fixtures.
  • Support automatic function tests and battery tests.
  • Register test results and generate reports in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Display faults and status information per luminaire and zone.

Configuration of test cycles and reporting shall be performed through the central management platform.

10Commissioning, configuration, and handover

Pre-commissioning (off-site)

  • Analysis of plans and functional requirements.
  • Creation of DALI structure, addresses, groups, and scenes.
  • Preconfiguration of logic and test strategies (including emergency lighting if applicable).
  • Preparation of cabling plans.

Commissioning (on-site)

  • Addressing and commissioning of all DALI devices.
  • Calibration of daylight control with calibrated lux measurement.
  • Configuration and verification of emergency lighting tests.
  • Functional verification of all automations.
  • Handover and technical transfer.

11Documentation (mandatory part of handover)

Upon handover, a complete dossier shall be delivered including:

  • As-built drawings with indicated luminaires (including emergency lighting), sensors, control points, and cabling.
  • Overview of DALI addresses, groups, and logic.
  • Network and architecture diagrams.
  • Backup of configurations.
  • Manual for daily management and maintenance.