Home Automation over wireless sensor networks

Introduction

Home automation deals with the specific automation requirements of homes and in the application of automation techniques for the comfort and security of its residents.  This can include controlling the lights, climate control, control of doors and windows, security and surveillance systems.  There are currently several products on the market that allow home owners to control these devices.  This is normally controlled by a handheld remote that communicates with the devices using a mesh wireless network or a wired network.  These types of devices require a unique and dedicated device to communicate with the automated products. 

One of the basic systems on the market is made by iControl [9] and is easy to install and expandable. The system uses the 802.11 wireless protocol to transmit signals from the various devices to a control box which is connected to the internet. Some of the devices the company offers specifically for elderly care include: cameras, window/door sensors, motion sensors, water sensors, freeze sensors, panic pendants/wristwatches, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, lamp modules, and thermostats. All of the devices are connected wirelessly to the control box which then allows the devices to be monitored and controlled using the companies website. This system is perfect for the elderly because it is easy to use and it allows family members to monitor the house to ensure that their relative is safe, it is portable and can easily be installed in an existing home.  The major drawbacks of this system are that it requires the use of several costly technologies to properly operate.  The user must have internet access available as well as a router to install the control box.  The user must also have a mobile device which has web access to check the status of their home.  This can become expensive with the data plans mobile carriers offer today. 

Another key project is ongoing at The University of Florida [10].  They have built a 500 square foot smart house that is designed assist and to provide medical care to user. The house implements devices including a microwave that recognizes entrees and automatically determines how long to cook them and devices to track the individuals location within the home. The house also uses devices to detect water on the floor and a camera that allows the person to view who is at the door and let them in using a cell phone. The smart house at the University of Florida relies on a centralized computer network to deliver electronically coordinated assistance. 

This research shows the importance of implementing home automation for the elderly or disabled.  The smart homes allow them to stay in their homes where they feel more comfortable and can prolong the time before having to move into costly health care facilities.  Smart homes will give the disabled an opportunity for independence that they may not have had before.  The goal of this project is to design a system that communicates with a mobile device such as a cell phone or PDA via Bluetooth.  The application relies on the use of cell phones and inexpensive sensors and is best suited for the elderly and home-bound people.  The main functions of the project are to collect signals through a wireless sensor network using the protocol Bluetooth and the analysis for data through an adaptive architecture