Proof of concept : home automation solution with potential for seamless integration and vast expansion

Date
2014-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The ever-increasing existence of electronic systems and devices within the residential environment, along with the human desire to simplify life and daily routine, is generating increased interest in the field of home automation (HA) and intelligent environments. A large variety of home automation solutions have been conceptualised or developed. However, many of these solutions are designed by experts and require professionals to install and/or operate them. Furthermore they lack the potential for seamless integration into an already functioning home environment. To bridge the gap between consumer and expert as well as allowing for integration into any existing home environment without physical alteration to the building, a modular home automation solution with seamless integration potential is proposed. The implemented system uses open source software and hardware allowing for development to continue within the existing, large open source community. It can be installed and configured without professional skills or physical alteration of the environment itself and due to its modular design, the system also allows users to add and remove functional components to and from the system providing them with a seamlessly customisable home automation solution. Conceptual design and practical implementations are covered in this document, along with recommendations for both continued research and potential avenues for expansion.
Description
Thesis (MEng) -- Stellenbosch University, 2014.
Keywords
Seamless Integration, Intelligent environments, Home Automation Solutions, Modular integrated utility systems, UCTD
Citation