SAN JOSE, Calif. — Echelon Corporation, creator of the LonWorks device networking platform for connecting devices to each other and the Internet, announced that LonWorks has received the 2003 NOVA Award from the Construction Innovation Forum (CIF). The NOVA award is given for significant innovations in construction that have improved quality and reduced costs in the industry.

Founded in 1987, the CIF fosters and encourages innovations in construction worldwide. Echelon's LonWorks platform is now one of just 56 innovations that have received the award since its inception in 1989.

"There is no trade in the construction industry that has not been dramatically altered by technology and none more deeply than the electrical branch. In a relatively short time, even the most basic job has changed thanks to new tools, new products, and new demands from consumers," said Edwin D. Hill, international president of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

"It is significant that Echelon Corporation is the first electrical technology company to receive a NOVA Award. Innovations like LonWorks control network technology will ensure that our industry is ready to meet tomorrow's construction demands with confidence."

NOVA Awards have been awarded to advances in quality and all other areas of the construction industry, including innovations in the construction process and in the materials, design, detailing, fabrication, equipment, procurement, contract administration, management, labor relations, training, and safety that improve the construction process and reduce the cost of construction.

Publication date: 05/19/2003