Course Description:
The Sensor Suitcase is a portable diagnostic toolkit with sensors that gather information about how a
building operates. The result of a collaborative effort by PNNL, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
(LBNL), and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), it serves as a tool to simplify and streamline the
retro-commissioning process by enabling non-experts to identify energy-saving operational changes,
while keeping the costs of this service low. Total energy cost savings for retro-commissioning is estimated
to be 15 percent.
The service provider enters a commercial building with the sensor suitcase and a tablet computer. The
tablet, on which the suitcase software application is installed, wirelessly communicates with the suitcase
to guide the service provider/user through sensor installation. Sensors are placed in designated locations,
some on lighting fixtures, others near thermostats, and still others on rooftop HVAC systems.
Once installation is complete, the user exits the building site, leaving the sensors in place for 4-6 weeks.
When the sensors are configured during the installation process, data that identifies the building, the
location at which the sensor is installed (e.g., the room name or number), and the type of measurement
being taken – such as temperature of air coming out of a register, or when lights are on or off – are stored
on the sensor. Throughout the measurement period, the sensor collects sensed data
At the end of the measurement period, the user simply collects the sensors and places them back into
slots in the suitcase, from where the data are transferred to a computer for analysis. The user-friendly
software then provides an output of recommended actions for reducing energy use, including expected
costs savings.

Location: 322 E. Front Street
Time: 9am to 2pm

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