Smart Restrooms Go Live at Beijing Daxing International Airport

July 8, 2025

Beijing Daxing International Airport is a 4F-class international airport* and a world-class aviation hub. Designed with energy efficiency and environmental protection in mind, the terminal integrates green energy-saving technologies and modern information systems, making it a new landmark in China.

Earlier this year, the airport’s property management team began with the needs of travelers and chose restrooms as a starting point to integrate Internet of Things (IoT) concepts into cleaning management. The goal: to build truly smart restrooms at Beijing Daxing Airport, giving passengers a tangible sense of accessible tech-driven services.

As the solution provider for this smart restroom project, Nanjing WinShine implemented systems for stall occupancy sensing, visual guidance, environmental monitoring, and supply alerts. Leveraging IoT technology, these systems address travelers’ key needs while solving long-standing challenges in facility management.

Stall Occupancy Detection

By upgrading infrared sensors, smart locks, and other sensing devices, the system detects the real-time occupancy status of restroom stalls. The collected data is displayed on integrated screens, allowing travelers to see stall availability before entering. This enables them to decide whether to use the restroom or head to another nearby facility. Additionally, each stall is equipped with simple red-green light indicators to clearly show availability, helping travelers quickly identify an open stall – improving both efficiency and user experience.

A screen displays the data that was collected by the EnOcean sensors.

Supply and Environment Monitoring

The supply alert system uses custom sensors embedded in dispensers for items like paper towels and hand soap. When supplies run low, the system triggers refill alerts, ensuring passengers always have what they need. The environmental monitoring system uses odor-detection devices to optimize air freshening and cleaning schedules.

By visualizing smart restroom data, the system not only supports cleaning staff with real-time prompts but also enhances peace of mind for users. Travelers can provide feedback and suggestions via an in-restroom evaluation system. The airport’s property team can then use this data to refine and expand their services – making the restrooms smarter and more user-friendly.

EnOcean-Powered, Battery-Free Sensors

All IoT devices used in this project were developed in-house by WinShine. They utilize ultra-low-power wireless communication technology from EnOcean. Impressively, 80% of the sensors harvest energy from mechanical motion to transmit wireless signals – completely battery-free and maintenance-free. This approach greatly reduced the complexity of design reviews, installation, and inspections, significantly simplifying project implementation.

*4F class airport can handle the biggest airplanes. They are equipped with the necessary runway length and facilities.

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