Gateway-free integration of BACnet and KNX using multi-protocol devices

Today, building automation systems can be realized using a multitude of different standards. Since each of these standards has its benefits, the combination of different standards and consequently of their best features promises substantial synergies. However, an integration is far from being straight forward and thus demands research. Starting from an analysis of the benefits that integrated building automation networks can offer, this work reviews the different approaches to combine KNX and BACnet. A gateway-free solution based on multi-protocol devices is considered most promising and examined in detail. The required protocol adaptations are discussed and, finally, a prototype implementation of an integrated, gateway-free BACnet/KNX internetwork is presented.