EP191 From Building Automation to Smart Homes: The Lumen Cache Revolution with Derek Cowburn (October 2024)

EP191 From Building Automation to Smart Homes: The Lumen Cache Revolution with Derek Cowburn (October 2024)

Author: Bill Spohn November 8, 2024 Duration: 48:37

In this episode of the Building HVAC Science podcast, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Derek Cowburn, founder of Lumen Cache, to discuss his journey from building automation in pharmaceutical facilities to pioneering smart DC power systems for homes and offices. Derek shares how his background in building controls and automation influenced his development of Lumen Cache; a company focused on creating a smart infrastructure that integrates DC power to drive lighting, sensors, and automation. He explains the advantages of DC power, especially as modern buildings transition to solar panels, batteries, and increasingly DC-centric electronics.

Derek explores the challenges of mainstreaming smart building technologies, particularly overcoming builders' concerns with reliability, cost, and installation ease. Lumen Cache's innovative modular plug-and-play system simplifies integration for builders and offers adaptability for future technology upgrades, unlike traditional AC systems. Derek also highlights the potential of integrating indoor air quality and energy management sensors, envisioning homes and offices that are "smart from the start" without the need for complex retrofits.

Throughout the conversation, Derek discusses his experiences in Shenzhen, China, leveraging the city's manufacturing ecosystem to scale production while planning to expand globally. The episode wraps up with Derek's vision for the future—an interconnected ecosystem of smart devices that support energy efficiency and comfort, driven by Lumen Cache's evolving infrastructure. He invites listeners to explore their new generation product, ReNetA, and looks forward to a follow-up conversation to share future developments.

Derek's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcowburn/

YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@LumenCache

The System Design Tool Derek spoke of: https://youtu.be/ZCHEFiY5Bf0?si=4oqtf3jObVJEPV4O

Website: https://www.lumencache.com/

Company Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumen-cache-inc-lumencache-/about/

Derek's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcowburn/

Contact: https://www.lumencache.com/contact

 

This episode was recorded in October 2024.


Ever wonder why some buildings feel just right-healthy, comfortable, and surprisingly efficient-while others seem to work against you? That’s the territory explored in Building HVAC Science, a podcast hosted by seasoned experts Eric Kaiser and Bill Spohn. This isn't just about thermostats and ductwork; it's a deep, practical dive into the physics and principles that make indoor environments work. You’ll hear conversations that dissect real-world diagnostics, question common practices, and explain the often-overlooked science behind temperature, airflow, and moisture. The discussions naturally progress from foundational concepts to the latest tools and technologies used for measurement and verification, always linking theory to tangible results in building performance. By focusing on the interplay between proper HVAC design, installation, and human well-being, this podcast provides actionable knowledge for professionals and curious minds alike. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at how understanding the built environment leads to spaces that are better for both people and the planet.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Building HVAC Science
Podcast Episodes