Proposed Plan
Project Overview
The idea is to create a modular offline smart house “kit”, which will allow the consumer to choose which devices is most convenient to their lifestyle. The devices will be on a standalone network (offline), and will use Wi-Fi communication. The devices that will be available in our kit will be a smart outlet, smart HVAC thermostat, and a smart water heater controller. The devices will be controlled through an app for cellphones that we will create with an interactive GUI, which will allow for customization depending on the devices connected to it. Communication between app and devices will be through Wi-Fi on the standalone network.
Smart Home Network
The backbone of our smart home network will be a router, a router which we will modify and use as the core of our network. This will allow for the app to communicate directly with the devices. This setup will also provide for the possibility of taking the devices online in the future, and still provide an extra layer of protection by not being on the same network as a consumer’s computer.
Smart Home Network Overview
Smart Outlet
We will create a smart outlet that is aesthetically pleasing, imbedded directly into the wall and is relatively easy for the consumer to install. The outlet will have Wi-Fi capabilities to be controlled via app. One outlet will turn on/off any electronic plugged in to the outlet while the other will provide constant power. The smart outlet will be run by a microcontroller, and operate a relay controlling the flow of electricity.
Smart Outlet Overview
Smart Water Heater Controller
We will create a programmable and connected water heater controller. The smart water heater controller will allow a schedule to be set for the water heater to be on and off, ideally during the consumer’s peak use. If ever there is a change in plans, one can control the water heater via app and activate it directly. The smart water heater controller will also include a redundancy, allowing for a manual mechanical override in case of microcontroller failure. This ensures that even in the case of a failure or Wi-Fi outage, the water heater can remain operational.
Smart Water Heater Controller Overview
Control App
Our control app will have its own credentials screen and will allow for the programming of devices, and making changes as you go. These changes can be adding/removing devices, or turning on/off in case of a schedule change in your day-to-day life. Devices will be grouped by rooms, to allow the user to organize the devices by home layout. Furthermore, smart outlets can be placed in groups within a room, allowing multiple outlets to be triggered by a single command.
Control App Overview
Possible Additions:
Smart HVAC Thermostat
We will create an easy to install connected and programmable thermostat that can be controlled wirelessly via app, replacing a standard home thermostat. The thermostat will be Arduino based, with a humidity and temperature sensor that will relay, via app, the current temperature and humidity levels inside the house. The user will also be able to override the thermostat manually. Ideally the consumer will be able to put the thermostat on a schedule, through the app, of their liking. This will help save time and money, helping adjust the home’s heating and cooling as needed.
