As a homeowner deeply invested in smart home automation, I’ve been exploring innovative ways to integrate everyday appliances into my ecosystem. One challenge that caught my attention is detecting the on/off status of LED lights, such as those found on appliances like dryers or robotic vacuums. While wiring directly into the LED circuitry is an option, it’s often impractical due to accessibility and safety concerns.
I stumbled upon the concept of using a light-dependent resistor (LDR) or a photocell to detect LED states. This approach seems promising, but I’m curious if there’s a more streamlined solution available. For instance, are there compact, pre-packaged sensors designed specifically for this purpose? I’d love to avoid the bulkiness of a lux sensor, which seems overkill for such a specific application.
In my case, I’m trying to detect whether my Robovac is docked or not by monitoring the LED on its top. This could enhance my automation routines, allowing me to trigger actions based on the vacuum’s status. However, I’m not sure if off-the-shelf solutions exist for this exact use case. If not, I might have to explore DIY options, but I’d prefer a plug-and-play experience to maintain simplicity.
Has anyone successfully implemented a similar solution? I’d appreciate any recommendations on sensors, techniques, or even custom setups that could achieve this. The goal is to seamlessly integrate this functionality without compromising on ease of use or aesthetics. Let’s brainstorm together and see if we can find a elegant solution to this LED detection puzzle!