A semantic-based evolution of EIB Konnex protocol standard

Domotics aims to improve features and capabilities of building systems and appliances. In spite of increasing self-management of electrical equipments, current solutions refer to static scenarios and require an explicit and elementary interaction with the user. Hence the real pervasiveness and context-awareness of enabled functions is still poor. The integration of knowledge representation and reasoning techniques (originally devised for the Semantic Web) in most common building automation Standard protocols can allow to reach higher levels of autonomicity and controllability, so improving user comfort and building efficiency. This paper proposes a semantic-based evolution of EIB Konnex (EIB/KNX) protocol able to interface users (whose needs are expressed via their annotated profiles) with an ontology-based home appliance infrastructure in a fully automated fashion. The proposed approach has been simulated in a prototype in order to test feasibility and prove benefits. Main outcomes are reported.