I wonder how much of this is a custom designed solution versus using simpler off the shelf parts. (IE, Someone was a little too specific in making their requirements, and the installer had to do highly custom work when something standard would get most of the way there.)
In my house, in 2018, I did some similar automation with off the shelf consumer grade hardware. I used the Lutron Cassetta system. Every circuit on the system still has a switch that can be operated manually. If the little box that does the scheduling and connects to the internet dies, all of my lights can be controlled manually. If any of the switches die, I can replace the switch individually.
And furthermore, if I decide that I don't like the system, any ordinary electrician can rip it out and use old fashioned conventional switches.
> I wonder how much of this is a custom designed solution versus using simpler off the shelf parts. (IE, Someone was a little too specific in making their requirements, and the installer had to do highly custom work when something standard would get most of the way there.)
It’s precisely this. There are plenty of commmercial off-the-shelf lighting controls systems by established companies like Lutron, Acuity, Wattstopper, Douglas, and Hubbell. The company in question changed hands several times in a few years, which is not a good sign for operations and maintenance support.
The electrical engineer for the school probably specified his buddy’s fly-by-night lighting controls line in the bid documents instead of specifying an established manufacturer’s lighting control system and the school gets left holding the bag. Fun!
In my house, in 2018, I did some similar automation with off the shelf consumer grade hardware. I used the Lutron Cassetta system. Every circuit on the system still has a switch that can be operated manually. If the little box that does the scheduling and connects to the internet dies, all of my lights can be controlled manually. If any of the switches die, I can replace the switch individually.
And furthermore, if I decide that I don't like the system, any ordinary electrician can rip it out and use old fashioned conventional switches.