I’ve been experimenting with integrating smart lighting and presence detection in my home, and I wanted to share my experiences and insights with the community. My goal was to create a seamless security system that adapts to our daily routines while minimizing energy consumption. Here’s how I approached it:
The Setup
I started by setting up presence detection using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals. My girlfriend and I both have smartphones that act as presence detectors. When we open the door, the system checks if either of us is already connected to the Wi-Fi. If not, it switches to Bluetooth detection. This dual approach ensures reliability, especially when one method fails.
For the alarm system, I used OpenHAB with Fritzbox binding for Wi-Fi checks and custom scripts for Bluetooth detection. The system triggers an alarm if neither of us is detected after a short delay. I also integrated this with my smart lights, which turn on briefly to alert us if the system detects an unauthorized entry.
Challenges and Solutions
One challenge was ensuring consistent Bluetooth detection. I had to tweak the sudoers file to allow the l2ping command without a password and set up a cron job to periodically refresh the Bluetooth adapter. This helped maintain stable detection even during prolonged periods of inactivity.
Another consideration was minimizing false alarms. I implemented a loop that checks for presence every second for up to 35 seconds. If no one is detected within this timeframe, the system triggers the alarm. This balance between sensitivity and reliability has worked well for us.
Integration with Smart Lighting
I paired the presence detection system with Philips Hue lights to create a dynamic lighting setup. The lights adjust based on our presence, turning on when we enter a room and dimming when we leave. This integration not only enhances security but also reduces energy waste.
Lessons Learned
- Dual Detection Methods: Using both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ensures higher reliability. Wi-Fi is faster for detecting connected devices, while Bluetooth provides a fallback option.
- Script Customization: Writing custom scripts for Bluetooth detection allowed me to tailor the system to our specific needs. It also gave me more control over the detection intervals and thresholds.
- Regular Maintenance: Periodic checks and updates to the system are crucial. This includes refreshing Bluetooth adapters, updating detection scripts, and ensuring all devices are in optimal condition.
Looking Ahead
I’m excited to explore further integrations, such as adding motion sensors for additional layers of security and experimenting with voice commands to control the system. I’d love to hear how others have approached similar setups and any tips or tricks they might have!
This project has been a great learning experience, and I hope sharing my journey can inspire others to embark on their own smart home adventures. Happy tinkering! 