Intuitive Thermal Comfort Controller

Guaranteeing an optimal level of thermal comfort can increase productivity and quality of life. ‘THERCOM’ project will facilitate the development of a new paradigm in indoor climate control to ensure optimal thermal comfort. The control development will focus on three characteristics: improving user experience, increasing energy efficiency and consistency with the technological revolution.

‘THERCOM’ will offer an innovative user experience by implementing intuitive interaction between the occupant and the controller. The controller will apply thermal comfort theory and, based on the European and UK standards, bring an improvement to the user experience. ‘THERCOM’ will be the first controller to directly relate to the user experience and the environment, providing consumers with a unique control. The controller will optimize the expediency of most of the room users: no other controller in the marker is able to adjust the setpoints to optimize the general thermal comfort level of the room.

Increasing energy efficiency is one of the principal objectives of our society to decrease the negative impacts on the environment. ‘THERCOM’ will generate the opportunity to increase thermal comfort and optimise energy consumption. Internet of Things offers for the first time in human history the opportunity to provide ‘intelligence’ to objects. The new technologies try to improve the human quality of life, and thermal comfort is one area with immense potential to apply ‘smart’ controllers. Using the theoretical knowledge of thermal comfort, empirical data, international standards, and innovative hardware, ‘THERCOM’ project seeks to create a new paradigm in the indoor climate controller world, based on people, and adapting to personal prophecies, the human being has to be the focus of the advances that seek to reach net zero because it is the humans who consume the energy.

Motivated people are the most powerful force in the world. ‘THERCOM’ is able to motivate people to reduce their energy consumption through competition, rewards, feedback, and other gamification concepts, utilising all the power of motivated people. With this in mind, the possible positive impacts of this project are immense.

V-LAB’s Pioneering Path: A 2023 Odyssey of Innovation

As we bid adieu to 2023, let’s revisit the remarkable journey of V-LAB, a year etched with groundbreaking milestones, technological strides, and industry accolades. From the introduction of THERCOM, our revolutionary controller seamlessly blending user experience and environmental sustainability, to our strategic move symbolised by the opening of a new office at Redcar Beacon, serving as a hub for creativity and collaboration. This comprehensive recap unfolds the key achievements that have propelled our growth and success throughout the year.

Innovations that Redefined Technology:

· THERCOM Release: 2023 saw the dawn of THERCOM, a revolutionary controller dynamically adapting to user and environmental needs. This technological leap reflects our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation.

· SAREF-THERCOM: In 2023, V-LAB’s SAREF-THERCOM project marked a pivotal step by advancing to the development stage of the Interconnect Project Demonstrators. This innovation focuses on revolutionising energy management, offering the world’s first controller, THERCOM. Seamlessly blending user experience and environmental sustainability, THERCOM empowers users with valuable insights, reduces emissions, and optimises energy consumption. The project aligns with global sustainability goals, addressing challenges in energy consumption awareness and promoting efficient practices.

· SafeSite: Collaborating with Core Systems Software Ltd, V-LAB introduced SafeSite, an AI-driven health and safety training solution, revolutionising offshore construction safety. SafeSite combines AI and VR to create an immersive learning experience. Featuring an AI-powered model-making procedure and a scenario creator for tailored training content, SafeSite ensures accurate, relevant, and engaging training. Beyond its features, SafeSite aligns with the UK’s goal of amplifying offshore wind output, contributing to a safer and more sustainable future for the offshore construction industry by integrating cutting-edge solutions with green energy aspirations.

Awards and Recognitions:

· Innovation Triumph at Tees Tech Awards 2023: The pinnacle of our achievements was winning the ‘Innovator of the Year’ at the Tees Tech Awards, a testament to our dedication and impact within the dynamic tech industry.

· Vishak Dudhee’s Prestigious YEP Award: Our Technical Manager, Vishak Dudhee, was honored with the ‘Innovator of the Year’ award at the 2023 Young Energy Professionals Awards, reflecting our commitment to pioneering advancements in sustainable energy.

Events and Engagements:

· Digitalising Energy Innovators Workshop: V-LAB actively participated in this enlightening workshop, brainstorming innovative solutions to address the significant challenges facing the energy sector.

· TEMPO Project with Durham University Business School: Our collaboration with Durham University Business School on the TEMPO project focused on reevaluating THERCOM’s entry market and optimising promotion. This initiative underlined our dedication to redefining energy efficiency and contributing to a sustainable future.

· Inspiring Session at UNIZIK Business School: V-LAB’s Vishak Dudhee delivered a captivating virtual session at Unizik Business School, leaving an indelible impact with insights into urban-scale modeling. This event, part of the HEP SSA project’s second-year launch, showcased our commitment to enhancing the employability of graduate engineers and advancing energy access in Nigeria, reflecting our ongoing dedication to driving positive change in the energy sector.

· Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference (OEEC) 2023: Presented in collaboration with Core System Software, SafeSite, our AI-based health and safety training solution, stole the spotlight at the Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference in Amsterdam. Dr. Vladimir Vukovic’s compelling speech emphasised SafeSite’s transformative approach, utilising artificial intelligence for personalised learning experiences, real-time monitoring, interactive simulations, and adaptability to industry changes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5IG8udwVBA

Looking Forward to 2024:

As we reflect on a year filled with growth, innovation, and industry recognition, we extend gratitude to our team, partners, and the entire tech community for their unwavering support. The journey doesn’t end here; stay tuned for the exciting developments lined up for 2024 as V-LAB continues to push the boundaries of innovation, shaping the future of technology.


For media inquiries, please contact:

Ayesha Ikram
Communications Associate
ayesha@thercom.net

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