Case Study: RMIT University Bundoora Animal House
Location: Bundoora, Victoria
Client: RMIT University
Systems Integrator: Airmaster Automation
Project Stats:
- 1 x zencontrol Circadian Rhythm Lighting Control Board
- 6 new DALI lighting circuits via zencontrol relays
- zencontrol Switches and Motion Detectors throughout
- Dark cycle warning lights linked to zencontrol
- Red observation lights linked to zencontrol
- BACnet integration with BMS
The RMIT University Bundoora Animal House (Research Enabling Facility, Building 202) presented a unique brief: upgrade an existing Cbus lighting system and implement a fully programmed Human Centric Lighting solution for a working animal research facility.
A standout feature of this project is a circadian rhythm lighting sequence timed to the animals' biological needs, all made possible with zencontrol. Each morning at 6:30am, the zencontrol system initiates a 12-hour light/dark cycle. Colour temperature shifts gradually from warm to cool tones across the day, then returns to warmer tones and dims to zero by night. Rather than hard on/off switching, the system eases animals in and out of each phase, following the precise protocols set by the RMIT team.

The facility operates in two distinct modes. During the day cycle, animal rooms are held at a set lighting level, with staff able to temporarily boost brightness when needed before the system automatically reverts. A red light function allows low-level observation during the dark cycle without disturbing the animals. When the dark cycle is active, normal lighting switches off, warning lights activate in corridors, and the system adjusts automatically to minimise unnecessary light activation.
Corridor presence detection operates across both cycles, responding to movement while respecting the active lighting profile. The system also integrates with the building's BMS for monitoring of lighting groups.
Airmaster Automation's delivery of this project is a great example of how technical expertise and a genuine understanding of the brief can produce a lighting control solution that directly supports the work happening inside a building.







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