Sensing – nami https://nami.ai Wi-Fi Sensing and Fusion Sensing Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:40:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://nami.ai/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/favicon-32x32-1.png Sensing – nami https://nami.ai 32 32 What is Occupancy Sensing? https://nami.ai/blog/occupancy-sensing/ Fri, 26 Jan 2024 06:36:28 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=23654

Key Takeaways

  • Occupancy sensing technology detects the presence of people in a room or space. 
  • Occupancy sensing is a function of several types of sensing technology, including Wireless Sensing, Ultrasonic Sensing, and PIR.  
  • Critical applications for occupancy sensing include energy management, home security, and healthcare. 
Occupancy sensing is a technology that detects the presence of people within a space. It is commonly used in smart homes and building management systems to enhance energy efficiency and security and improve occupants’ well-being. For those seeking to explore more about this theme, it is highly recommended to learn about facharbeit schreiben lassen. Through occupancy-sensing data, energy consumption can be managed (e.g., appliances and lighting can be automatically switched on or off), security can be maintained, and family members can be closely aware of their family members’ well-being. In this article, we look at the rise of occupancy sensing in smart homes and buildings and how this technology can be used to protect them and improve occupants’ quality of life.

What is Occupancy Sensing?

Occupancy sensing, or presence sensing, detects whether individuals are present in a given space.

Historically, occupancy sensing has been implemented in homes to control lighting and heating: Where no motion is detected, it is assumed that the space is empty and that lighting and heating can be powered down/off. 

The most popular form of occupancy sensors, perhaps, are Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors which detect the heat radiated by people in a space. 

In addition to PIR sensors, other occupancy sensors include: 

  • Ambient sensors pick up changes in temperature or humidity relating to human presence. 
  • Ultrasonic sensors detect the interruption in sound waves transmitted across a space. 
  • Wireless sensing (also known as WiFi sensing). This uses interruption in wireless network signals to determine whether or not an individual is present or moving. 

Each sensing technology has pros and cons. PIR is cost-effective and easy to set up. However, it is prone to false alarms-human occupancy) and (set off by non-only provides binary data (indicating presence or non-presence). 

Video-based and Wireless Sensing solutions can eliminate false positives and provide fine-grained occupancy data (for example, how many people are in a room simultaneously). 

It’s important to differentiate between occupancy sensing and motion sensing. Occupancy sensing detects an individual’s presence, even in the absence of movement. While some technologies, like Wireless Sensing and Radar Sensing, excel at both, others, like PIR, are less effective at the occupancy sensing aspect. 

Below, we consider how occupancy sensing can be applied in your smart home or building. 

Occupancy Sensing Applications

Home Security

By detecting the presence or absence of people in a home or building, home security can be improved in the following ways:

  • Intrusion Detection

    Occupancy sensors can alert homeowners to the unexpected presence of individuals in the home. In addition to alerts to homeowners, family members, and caregivers, security monitoring services can be alerted, and a physical alarm can sound. 

  • Automatic Lighting for Security

    Automated lighting based on occupancy detection saves energy and can deter potential intruders by simulating occupancy when the house is empty.

  • Integrated Security Systems

    When integrated with other home security systems like cameras and alarms, occupancy sensors can trigger these devices to activate only when needed, reducing false alarms and focusing attention on real threats.

Energy Efficiency

Studies have shown that occupancy sensing and modeling can effectively save energy with heating, air-conditioning, ventilation (HVAC), and lighting. It has been estimated that it can result in savings of 30 percent for lighting and cooling costs.¹

Specific ways in which occupancy sensing can help conserve energy in your home or building include:

  • Automated HVAC and Lighting Control

    By adjusting HVAC systems based on occupancy, these sensors ensure optimal energy use, maintaining comfort while minimizing waste.²

  • Data-Driven Energy Management

    Advanced systems can learn occupancy patterns over time, enabling predictive adjustments to energy usage. This can be useful for predicting future energy consumption and working out building resource needs. For example, occupancy data may help determine how much office space is needed for a building with a hybrid arrangement. 

Wellbeing

Generally speaking, monitoring and awareness of the well-being of individuals within the home (such as elderly or vulnerable family members) would be best achieved through motion sensing: Patterns in micro-movements (like sleeping and breathing) can be interpreted alongside larger movements like walking patterns to identify falls or growing health issues. 

However, occupancy sensing also plays a part here: 

  • Optimizing light and HVAC for well-being

    Automated lighting and HVAC based on occupancy can ensure that sick or vulnerable family members are always in a comfortable living environment.

  • Sleep detection

    Occupancy sensing in sleeping areas can help determine whether individuals are getting enough sleep (by tracking the individual’s presence in the bedroom).

  • Unexpected absences 

    Occupancy sensing across the dwelling can help determine whether an ill family member has left the home unexpectedly or not returned as scheduled. 

The Benefits of Wireless Networks for Occupancy Sensing 

In light of occupancy sensing’s benefits, which technology should home and building owners use to detect occupancy more effectively?

There are a few reasons why we would suggest that Wireless Sensing is an effective technology for occupancy sensing:

  • Accuracy

    Popular PIR and Ultrasonic sensors are prone to false alarms. This is because they tend to struggle to detect stationary presence and micromovements. By contrast, Wireless Sensing can detect the smallest movements due to the fine-grained nature of the data it picks up. Furthermore, Wireless Sensing is ‘non-line-of-sight’ and can detect presence through objects and around corners.

  • Scalability

    Modern Wireless Sensing devices tend to be ‘plug and play’, with coverage easily extended by adding additional devices.

  • Aesthetics

    Wireless Sensing devices are small and unobtrusive. Most people will be unaware that such sensors are present.

  • Data Quality

    Wireless Sensing can provide detailed occupancy data, allowing for predictive analytics based on occupancy.

  • Privacy and data protection.

    No personal data is collected when wireless Sensing examines interruptions in Wireless Network signals, so all occupants’ privacy is fully protected.

  • Integration 

    As an AIot (“Artificial Intelligence of Things”) technology, wireless sensing integrates with other sensing technologies (like cameras) and connects to smart devices by app.

Occupancy Sensing in Homes and Buildings

Occupancy sensing, especially with motion sensing, is an important component of a smart home/building infrastructure. Wireless Sensing is one of the more recent occupancy sensing technologies and tends to be more accurate and respectful of individual privacy than other forms of sensing technology. 

References

  1. Yang, J, Santamouris, M, Lee, SE. (2016). “Review of occupancy sensing systems and occupancy modeling methodologies for the application in institutional buildings.” Energy and Buildings, 121, 344-349.
  2. Santra A, Ulaganathan RV, Finke T (2018). “Short-range millimetric-wave radar system for occupancy sensing application“. IEEE Sens. Lett. 2018;2(3):1–4. doi: 10.1109/LSENS.2018.2852263

FAQ

Yes. While occupancy and presence sensors are the same, they should be distinguished from motion sensors: Not all devices effective at one form of sensing are effective at the other. 

The main types of occupancy sensor technologies include:

  • Passive Infrared (PIR): Detects changes in infrared radiation emitted by occupants
  • Ultrasonic: Emits high-frequency sound waves and detects changes in the reflected waves
  • Dual-tech: Combines PIR and ultrasonic technologies for increased accuracy
  • Microwave: Uses microwave radiation to detect motion
  • Camera-based: Utilizes image processing algorithms to detect occupants

Passive Infrared (PIR), Ultrasonic, Radar Sensing, Ambient Sensing and Wireless Sensing are all capable of being used for occupancy sensning. 

]]> What Is Wi-Fi Sensing? https://nami.ai/blog/what-is-wi-fi-sensing/ https://nami.ai/blog/what-is-wi-fi-sensing/#respond Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:01:00 +0000 https://dev-conv.nami.ai/?p=9096

Key Takeaways

  • Wi-Fi sensing uses the power of wireless local area networks to detect and interpret motion and presence.
  • The origins of Wi-Fi sensing can be traced back to early experiments with radar and related technologies.
  • Applications of Wi-Fi sensing include, but are not limited to, home security, energy efficiency and health/wellbeing monitoring.
  • Wi-Fi sensing has a range of benefits over other sensing technologies, though it can be fruitfully combined with those technologies.
  • Benefits of Wi-Fi sensing include its ease of set-up, interoperability, non-line-of-sight capabilities and coverage.

Wi-Fi sensing is a new technology, revolutionizing the way we think about smart homes and smart buildings. Wi-Fi sensing uses Wi-Fi waves to detect motion and presence and then applies machine learning algorithms in order to facilitate advanced applications. 

In this guide, we explain in detail how Wi-Fi sensing works, the origin and history of the technology, some of its applications, and the benefits of using it over other sensing technologies. 

What is the Definition of Wi-Fi Sensing? 

A sensing technology detects physical or biological phenomena, and turns that information into electric signals which can be interpreted for a variety of purposes. Well-known sensing technologies include security cameras, passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors, and radar.

Wi-Fi sensing uses Wi-Fi — also known as wireless local area networks (WLAN)— to detect and interpret presence and motion. Wi-Fi sensing detects and interprets motion through two stages: 

  • Pre-processing and initial filtering. The raw data provided by Wi-Fi devices (known as ‘CSI’ or ‘channel state information’) is filtered to rule out pets and other non-human movements
  • Higher-level processing. AI and machine learning algorithms then analyze that data for sophisticated use cases, such as interpreting breathing patterns. 

Pet usually done during the motion detectionp the raw data (CSI values), filtering, te may or may not include some AI / ML) and wer usecase

Wi-Fi sensing is implemented in technology via several different ‘layers’:

  • A hardware layer, which enables devices to send, receive and interpret Wi-Fi signals
  • On-device processing – ML on the device collects insights about motion. The device is also able to interact with 3rd party devices, e.g via Matter
  • Cloud services – 3rd-party cloud platforms can be used to connect Wi-Fi sensing insights with other solutions and enablers, such as voice assistants.

It is also common for ‘middleware’ platforms to be created to enable developers to construct their own Wi-Fi sensing applications. 

Wi-Fi sensing has a range of applications, including home and building security, energy efficiency, and healthcare monitoring. We discuss these applications in greater detail below.

The History of Wi-Fi Sensing Technology

While Wi-Fi sensing technology has largely been developed over the last 15 years or so, it has its origin in much older technology.  To understand Wi-Fi sensing it is necessary to understand the concept of ‘wireless’ transmission itself.

In the early 19th century, telecommunication by telegraph wire, ‘wired’ communication took off. This was associated with the rise of the railroad system which relied on telegraph wires for communication.

Transmission of information without physical wires had to wait until the discovery of electromagnetic radiation: In 1864, the physicist James Clerk Maxwell predicted the existence of electromagnetic radiation.

That is, electric and magnetic fields traveling through space as waves. The existence of these waves was confirmed by another physicist, Heinrich Hertz, in 1887.  He also demonstrated that these electromagnetic waves were affected by, and could be reflected by, solid objects.

The frequency of these waves can be measured, just as the frequency of ocean waves can be measured: If the time between each ‘crest’ of the wave is one second, that means a frequency of 1 cycle per second or ‘one hertz’.  Wi-Fi waves have a frequency in the ‘Gigahertz’ range, which means that they move at a rate of a multiple billion cycles per second.

The electromagnetic spectrum covers frequencies ranging from one hertz to above 1025  hertz, as well as respective wavelengths and photon energies. Low frequencies mean long wavelengths and low photon energy. High frequency means short wavelengths and high photon energy. The spectrum is itself divided with distinct bands which have different names, going from low frequency to high frequency, common names for those waves include:

  • radio waves
  • television waves
  • microwaves
  • radar waves
  • infrared
  • visible light
  • ultraviolet
  • x-rays
  • gamma rays
 

Waves of different frequencies can operate, and are often produced, differently.

The diagram below explains how our common terms for different types of electromagnetic radiation correlate with wavelength, frequency and photon energy.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

What does any of this have to do with using Wi-Fi to detect motion and presence?

In 1895, a Russian Imperial Navy physicist, Alexander Popov, was testing an early version of wireless communication between two ships, when he noticed an interference in the wave pattern caused by a third ship. Popov observed that this might be used for detecting objects (for more information see V. S. Chernyak and I. Y. Immoreev, “A Brief History of Radar,” in IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine, vol. 24, no. 9, pp. B1-B32, Sept. 2009, doi: 10.1109/MAES.2009.5282288.) This early version of radar works in a similar way to Wi-Fi sensing.

In 1896, Guglielmo Marconi patented the concept of a wireless communication system, and radio communication was created.

Wireless local area networks (WLAN), also known as Wi-Fi, was invented in the late 80s. Contrary to common belief, it does not stand for “wireless fidelity”, and is likely a play on words referring to “Hi-fi”.

Wi-Fi operates at a range of frequencies, with some frequency availability being location-dependent and some requiring licensing. Possible Wi-Fi frequencies include:

  • 900MHz
  • 2.4Ghz   
  • 3.65GHz
  • 4.9-5GHz
  • 5.9GHz
  • 6GHz
  • 60GHz.

Applications of Wi-Fi have since expanded to cover a range of applications that we can call “Wi-Fi Sensing”. This includes:

  • motion and presence detection
  • gesture recognition
  • health monitoring
  • non-line-of-sight or ‘through the wall’ sensing
  • emotion recognition
  • people counting
  • smoke detection
  • sleep detection.

For a thorough survey of these possibilities see Khalili, Abdullah & Soliman, Abdel-Hamid & Asaduzzaman, Md & Griffiths, Alison. (2020). “Wi-Fi Sensing: Applications and Challenges.” The Journal of Engineering. 2020.

How Does Wi-Fi Sensing Work?

In the simplest case, think of how a computer uses Wi-Fi: The computer translates data into an electromagnetic signal, and then transmits that using an antenna. Waves then flow from the antenna to the wireless router. The router in turn converts the signal back into data, and then sends that data across the internet, usually via a physical medium: Traditionally via copper telephone wires, but more commonly today through fibre-optic cables. Satellite internet does the same thing without a physical medium.

How does this traditional use of Wi-Fi, for communication, translate into Wi-Fi sensing?

When you move around your home, devices enabled with Wi-Fi sensing can send out waves which are distorted by physical objects, including individuals moving around the home. These disruptions are picked up by Wi-Fi sensing technology and analyzed by machine learning algorithms to determine who (or what) is moving and in what way.

Wi-Fi sensing is implemented in the smart home or building using tiny microchips that can be built into a range of different physical devices and infrastructure. For example

  • Retrofitted power outlets
  • Retrofitted light switches
  • Wi-Fi routers
  • Purpose-built Wi-Fi sensing devices.

Is There a Technical Standard for Wi-Fi Sensing?

As observed earlier, different technologies operate on different frequencies on the electromagnetic spectrum. Without an agreement on where and how Wi-Fi sensing will operate on the spectrum, devices with Wi-Fi sensing capability may not be interoperable. Besides facilitating interoperability and compatibility between different Wi-Fi sensing devices, a Wi-Fi sensing standard will also help ensure

  • product safety
  • coherence with the broader family of Wi-Fi standards

In light of this, a standard, set to be unveiled in 2024, is being developed (the 802.11bf Wi-Fi standard) in order to standardize Wi-Fi sensing.

Currently, it is proposed that there be a division of Wi-Fi sensing:

  • lower-frequency waves (1GHz to 7.125GHz) for motion sensing in large spaces
  • higher-frequency waves (45GHz and above) for micro-movements.

What Are the Possible Applications of Wi-Fi Sensing?

As a relatively new technology, there is a lot of room for innovation. However, some of the possible applications are considered below

1. Home security

Traditional home security systems often rely on visual detection (cameras).  An intruder alarm can then be sounded, both within the property and remotely via smartphones etc. Wi-Fi sensing can provide a superior form of motion detection as it is:

  • non-line-of-sight technology — it can ‘see’ through walls
  • privacy-conscious — it protects the privacy of home or building occupants as there is no acquisition or recording of personal data.

2. Healthcare and well-being monitoring

The population is aging, with the worldwide population of over 60s expected to grow to 1.4 billion by 2030. Most of those 65 and overspend the majority of their time at home.

The risk of falling is a serious issue for those over 65, and is a leading cause of death.

Existing technologies for elderly fall detection include ambient sensing, wearables, and vision-based technology.

The problem with ambient vision-based technology is that it is ‘line of sight’: It will generally only work in the room in which the individual is located. By contrast, Wi-Fi sensing can detect falls, despite the presence of walls. It also doesn’t rely on the acquisition and transmission of personal data as a vision-based system does. So far, wearables have been known to be error-prone with a high number of ‘false positives’.

Fall detection applications will be invaluable both in the home and in assisted living contexts.

More generally, Wi-Fi sensing can be a useful home monitoring tool for family well-being: It can detect, for example, whether children have arrived in the house, or left, at a scheduled time

3. Energy efficiency

Wi-Fi sensing can be used to detect when individuals have arrived home, and when they have left, and power down appliances and devices accordingly.

This could be of interest to property technology (PropTech) firms, and consumer electronics manufacturers as part of establishing energy-efficient homes and buildings.

Energy efficiency applications may also be beneficial to EnergyTech firms that create energy rates and tariffs based on consumption.

Consider the case of HVAC systems: As heavy energy users, optimizing the use of these systems could have considerable energy efficiency benefits. An important optimization measure is that their cooling and heating setpoints are increased and decreased during unoccupied times with the goal of saving energy. The best way of achieving this is to have real occupancy data, the kind of data that Wi-Fi sensing is well-positioned to provide. For more information see Kingsley Nweye, Zoltan Nagy. “MARTINI: Smart meter driven estimation of HVAC schedules and energy savings based on Wi-Fi sensing and clustering“. Applied Energy. Volume 316, 2022.

What Are the Main Challenges Faced by Wi-Fi Sensing?

Both in research and industry, some challenges or limitations for WiFi sensing have been observed. In a meta-study titled Wi-Fi Sensing: Applications and Challenges A. M. Khalili, Abdel-Hamid Soliman, Md Asaduzzaman and Alison Griffiths observed the following limitations: 

  • Multipath propagation — this occurs where a Wi-Fi signal travels along more than one path between the transmitter and receiver. This is caused by refraction or reflection (e.g., reflecting off surrounding surfaces) and reduces the quality of the received signal.  
  • Occlusion of the Wi-Fi signal — certain objects can stand in the way and block the Wi-Fi signal 
  • Presence of large numbers of people — Received Signal Strength (RSS), a common form of Wi-Fi sensing was shown to be inaccurate at detecting people in large crowds. 

However, these do not appear to be challenges for Wi-Fi sensing technology itself, but rather specific methods or protocols that have been implemented in Wi-Fi sensing. For example, the same paper showed that using an alternative to RSS, Channel State Information (CSI), allowed for far more accurate people detection in crowds. 

More serious challenges for Wi-Fi sensing that relate to the technology itself include: 

  • Distance covered — in principle, there is a limit to how far away a Wi-Fi sensing device can accurately detect motion. Currently, Wi-Fi sensing can reach a distance of about 45 meters (2.4 GHz) or 15m (5 GHz) . Another form of motion detection (LIDAR — Light Detection and Ranging) can reach up to 200 meters. This laser-based motion sensing is common in some industrial and automotive applications. 

  • Outside applications — Wi-Fi signals are affected by the weather and are therefore less effective outdoors than some other sensing technologies. 

The limitations that apply to any form of sensing technology are the reason that Wi-Fi sensing is best implemented as part of a broader suite of intelligent sensing solutions. More on these other forms of sensing technology, below. 

What Other Sensing Technologies Exist?

Sensing technology involves any device that detects the physical, chemical or biological qualities of objects, and then converts that information into a signal (usually an electric signal).

Other common types of sensing technology include:

  • Video cameras
    The physical appearance of humans and other objects is converted into an electric signal. This can then be interpreted by an algorithm in order to send security alerts, or notify of falls.
  • Microphones
    A similar principle to video cameras, except sound, is converted and interpreted.
  • Passive infrared (PIR) sensors
    These sensors detect heat energy, and therefore can be used to detect human motion. These are commonly used in security systems.
  • Thermographic cameras
    A hybrid of PIR and video cameras, thermographic cameras (also known as infrared cameras) form infrared images, which can then be interpreted by algorithms.
  • Wearables
    Wearables (such as smart watches) can pick up and interpret human movement from the wearer.
  • Smartphone sensors
    Smartphones can be equipped with a range of sensors: gyroscopes (which pick up orientation), accelerometers (which can detect motion), barometers (which detect pressure and can be used to assess weather) and magnetometers (which detect magnetic fields and can be used to determine phone orientation). Often these sensors can work in tandem to create complex information.
  • Radar Sensing
    Radar, motion detection using radio waves, can also be deployed in home security.  Like Wi-Fi sensing, radar sensing has a long range and broad coverage. It does, however, require more sophisticated and expensive antennae and receivers. Furthermore, due to the high frequency of radar, it can have trouble detecting motion through walls. 

What Are the Benefits of Wi-Fi Sensing?

While it depends on the application in question, the benefits of Wi-Fi Sensing could be summarized as:

  • Non-line-of-sight motion detection
    Many traditional forms of sensing, such as video cameras, are ineffective against physical barriers like walls and furniture. Wi-Fi sensing has no problem detecting motion and presence through physical barriers.
  • Ease of installation
    As Wi-Fi sensing depends on traditional Wi-Fi technology, it is easily integrated into existing technology. Routers, sockets and light switches can be integrated with Wi-Fi technology, creating ‘digitized walls’. Standalone units can be made ‘plug and play’ and draw a minimal amount of electricity.
  • Interoperability
    As a Wi-Fi technology, Wi-Fi sensing hardware, middleware and software can be easily integrated with existing consumer electronics and Internet of Things (IoT) products.
  • Privacy
    Many sensing technologies, such as video cameras, microphones and wearables gather personal data about occupants. Wi-Fi sensing does not require personal data, and therefore poses less of a risk to applicants.
  • Surface coverage
    Wi-Fi sensing can cover large indoor spaces, and the coverage can be extended simply by adding additional Wi-Fi sensing units.

Conclusion

Wi-Fi sensing uses the power of Wi-Fi to detect and interpret motion and presence. It has multiple applications, but is commonly deployed through home security, energy efficiency, and health and safety monitoring applications. 

Wi-Fi sensing hardware, middleware and software can be integrated with existing devices or infrastructure, or introduced via purpose-build hardware. 

Wi-Fi sensing has a range of benefits over existing technologies, including ease of installation, interoperability, non-line-of-sight motion detection, privacy protections and broad coverage. 

FAQ

Antennae within enabled devices emit Wi-Fi signals or waves at a high rate. These Wi-Fi waves ‘bounce’ or ‘break’ around solid objects. Machine learning algorithms within the Wi-Fi sensing technology learn to distinguish between objects that move (such as humans) and those that don’t (such as walls). 

Wi-Fi is normally used to communicate between your devices/computers and the internet. But this is just one application of Wi-Fi. It can also be used to detect motion and presence, including human motion and presence. 

Yes. Wi-Fi sensing can be combined with cameras, microphones and other sensing technologies to establish comprehensive sensing technology within the home or building.  

Wi-Fi, and hence Wi-Fi sensing, can travel through walls. However, it can be affected by sufficiently solid walls or objects. This impact can be mitigated by using multiple Wi-Fi-enabled devices. 

]]> https://nami.ai/blog/what-is-wi-fi-sensing/feed/ 0 Intrusion Detection System and Alarm Systems: Pros and Cons https://nami.ai/blog/intrusion-detection-system-and-alarm-systems-pros-and-cons/ Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:21:28 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=22665

Key Takeaways

  • A home intrusion detection system, or home alarm system, identifies unusual or unauthorized motion on a property and sends an alert. 
  •  There are multiple technologies for home intrusion detection currently on the market, including smart cameras and wireless sensing. 
  •  When deciding which intrusion detection system is best for your home, consider a range of factors including cost, privacy and integration with other smart home functions and devices. 

Home alarm systems are becoming the norm, with SafeHome reporting in 2023 that 72 percent of homes have an alarm system in place. In this article,  we look at the main types of home detection intrusion systems (also called simply ‘home alarm systems’ or ‘home security systems’) available on the market. We identify the pros and cons of the different technologies and offer some tips on choosing the system that is right for you. 

What Is a Home Intrusion Detection System?

Intrusion detection is the key function of any home alarm system. Once detected, the homeowners or security personnel can be alerted of unauthorized entry and can take appropriate action. 

Intrusion detection might be incorporated into a purpose-built device, or it might be included in smart devices with multiple functions. Depending on the system in question, it might work by monitoring various entry points and areas, such as doors, windows, and motion-sensitive zones, or it may monitor the entire space. 

A home intrusion detection system sits alongside other key measures (such as appropriate locks, lighting and selective disclosure of personal details online) to make your home as secure as possible. 

What Are the Different Technologies for Home Intrusion Detection?

A variety of different technologies are available for detecting intrusion in the home: 

  • Motion detection systems. This includes Passive Infrared (PIR) Motion Sensors, that detect the heat radiated by moving objects and wireless sensing, which identifies disruptions to wireless network (WiFi) signals in the home. 
  • Contact-Based Sensors. On the application of physical pressure, or the breaking of an electrical connection on a door or window frame, the alarm is raised. 
  • Video-Based Systems. Closed-circuit cameras can be used to detect intruders both manually (through active surveillance by someone watching the feed), or automatically through smart cameras that pick up unusual types of movement. Increasingly these systems have AI-powered features like facial recognition, and send real-time video feeds to homeowners’ smartphones. 

case

Wireless sensing in intrusion detection systems

Wireless sensing is a relatively recent motion detection technology that is becoming more common for detecting intruders. A wireless sensing system detects interruptions to wireless/Wi-Fi signals caused by motion. Then, smart algorithms within the sensing device are used to filter out false positives (such as the movement of pets or robot vacuum cleaners), indicating a potential intrusion. 

Once the wireless sensing system is armed, it will detect unexpected human motion to a high degree of accuracy. If an intrusion occurs, homeowners and/or security personnel can be immediately notified via a dedicated app. 

Wireless sensing offers some benefits over some other forms of intrusion detection: 

  • Full coverage. Contact sensors will only be fitted at entry points. Security cameras only ‘see’ what is in their line of sight. Wireless sensing, by contrast, will detect any motion that occurs within its coverage area (often up to 1500 sq ft per device). 
  • Ease of installation. Sensing devices are small, and plug into regular power outlets: No physical alterations to the home are required for full home security. 
  • Integration with other smart home functions. Wireless sensing is a complete motion and presence detection technology — identifying intruders is just one or many applications. Having wireless sensing technology in place allows for general home monitoring (especially falls/unusual movements of elderly family members) and potential energy savings (through the optimization of appliances and heating/cooling based on motion). 
  • Respect for privacy. While smart cameras are excellent at detecting human motion, they are not appropriate in all private spaces within the home. By contrast, wireless sensing does not collect and retain personal information — it is simply identifying disruptions in wireless signals. 

How to Choose a Home Detection Intrusion System?

Given that there are a range of different security systems on the market, how do you choose which intrusion detection system is best for you?

  • Assess your specific security needs.  Consider factors such as the size and layout of your home, the safety of the neighborhood, and the most likely threats you face. You also need to decide whether the intruder detection system should be part of a broader smart home system. 
  • Work out your budget. A system that is professionally installed and requires extensive alteration to the home might be out of your price range, compared to  a ‘plug and play’ option. 
  • Check for False Alarm Prevention. One of the biggest annoyances for users of home security systems are false alarms. According to recent research, 62 percent of home security system users over the past year experienced false alarms. An intrusion detection system should have features to minimize false alarms, such as automatic filtering of pets and other minor movements. Another basic feature is the ability to differentiate between authorized and unauthorized access.
  • Understand the pros and cons of each technology. For example, cameras can be particularly useful for monitoring motion in outside areas (as they are largely unaffected by weather). By contrast, wireless sensing is particularly useful for ‘non line-of-sight’ motion detection, and detecting motion around physical objects. 
  • Consider which additional features are available. Consider whether you want remote access, smartphone notifications, integration with other smart home devices (e.g., smart locks and lighting), and compatibility with voice assistants.
  • Assess monitoring services. Some intrusion detection systems will have a professional monitoring option. Consider whether you need this option (or whether app notifications to the homeowner are sufficient). If you opt for professional monitoring, pay attention to pricing and response times. 
  • Ask about insurance discounts. Some insurance companies offer reduced premiums for homes with security systems, so it is worth asking. 

Conclusion

Home intrusion detection systems are crucial for homeowner peace of mind: Whether as a standalone device or part of a broader smart home infrastructure, a range of technology is now available to suit your home security needs and budget. 

For some homeowners, an affordable plug-and-play solution, like wireless sensing will be sufficient. Others seeking more extensive coverage may go for a ‘combined’ smart home system including multiple technologies, like wireless sensing and smart cameras, working in tandem. 

FAQ

Yes. Many modern intrusion detection systems plug into outlets and can be connected to surfaces without the need for any permanent alterations. While this will alleviate most concerns, it is worth checking with property management or landlords if they have any other concerns with such a system. 

Professional monitoring services are more expensive and may not be necessary in many cases.  It is worth considering factors like average response time and your own availability and distance from home when making this decision

]]> What Are the Applications of Wireless Sensing? https://nami.ai/blog/wireless-sensing-applications/ Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:53:27 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=22559

Key Takeaways

  • Wireless sensing detects motion and presence via the interpretation of how electromagnetic waves (like WiFI) are interrupted. 
  • Key benefits of wireless sensing technology include its ease of installation, its cost-effectiveness and the way it respects the privacy of occupants. 
  • Core use cases for wireless sensing include security, healthcare and wellbeing monitoring, and energy efficiency. 

Previously we looked at what wireless sensing is and how it works. Here we focus on the applications of wireless sensing: How wireless sensing can be used to more effectively detect and analyze human motion and presence. 

What Are the Benefits of Wireless Sensing?

Wireless sensing means using wireless technology (such as Wi-Fi or radio waves) to detect and interpret presence and motion. Our focus in this article is explaining some of the applications of this technology and why it can out-perform other forms of sensing technology. 

Before looking at that, however, it is worth observing some of the general benefits and challenges associated with wireless sensing over other sensing technologies: 

  • Ease of installation. Being unencumbered by physical wiring connections, wireless sensing devices tend to be relatively portable and easy to install. While this may not always be the case of industrial applications, in the home and commercial contexts, technologies like RFID, NFC, and Wi-Fi IoT devices are valued for their versatility and simplicity. 
  • Cost-effectiveness. Without the need to substantially modify existing infrastructure, wireless sensing is generally more cost-effective than other forms of presence and motion detection. Furthermore, the ability to detect motion through walls and other physical barriers can reduce the number of sensor units required. 
  • Scalability. Without dependence on an inbuilt physical infrastructure, wireless sensing technology tends to be easier to scale up for size or usage: Extra devices can be added for only a small additional cost. 
  • Respect for privacy. Motion data only picks up disturbances in wireless signals, it does not transmit images or, on its own, identify people. This means it can be placed in private areas within a home where individuals may not wish to place cameras. It also means there is less of a security risk as intercepted data is unlikely to identify anyone. 

What Are the Challenges for Wireless Sensing?

As with all forms of presence and motion detection, wireless sensing comes with pros and cons. Some of the challenges of using this technology include: 

  • It can be less effective outdoors. Environmental interference with wireless waves can make the technology less effective in poor weather. 
  • Object occlusions. While motion can be detected through barriers, the signal can still be affected by some physical objections such as concrete walls. This risk is best mitigated by the use of mesh network topologies where devices communicate via multiple nodes, circumventing any one occlusion.
  • The technology is still in its infancy. Wireless sensing itself is a relatively new technology. This means that in some applications, like the healthcare context, it is not yet ready to be used to its full potential. 

Wireless Sensing Application 1: Home Security and Monitoring

Wireless sensing can detect motion within the home, and send alerts to devices informing individuals of intrusions or unusual activity.

Benefits of wireless sensing in this context include:

  • Non-line-of-sight monitoring. Wireless sensing can be used to detect motion behind walls and furniture, something that can’t be done with traditional motion detection technologies such as cameras.
  • Respect for privacy. Motion data only picks up disturbances in wireless signals, it does not transmit images or, on its own, identify people. This means it can be placed in private areas of the home where individuals may not wish to place cameras.
  • System complexity. Multiple cameras will often need to be co-ordinated to capture areas that could be covered by one wireless sensor.
  • Low cost. As wireless sensing tends to use less computational power than other motion detection methods, it is often more cost-effective.

Wireless Sensing Application 2: Healthcare

The world population is aging, with the section of the population over 60 expected to grow to 1.4 billion by 2030. The overwhelming majority will age in the home, where healthcare and well-being monitoring can be vital.

Healthcare wellbeing and monitoring can be achieved by using wireless sensing for picking up on:

  • Unhealthy behaviors of the elderly or ill. Smoking, whether the individual is sedentary, or unusual movements can be detected via wireless sensing. This data can then be highlighted for caregivers or health professionals. In some cases, paraparesis and Parkinson’s may also be detected.
  • Falls. Falls are a leading cause of death for those over 65, and something that needs to be monitoring carefully. If an elderly or vulnerable family member falls, emergency services can be dispatched and/or family notified to their device.
  • Vital sign estimation. Respiration and heartbeats can be detected through advanced wireless sensing applications. 
  • Sleep quality detection. Based on breathing patterns, wireless sensing could be used to determine whether high-quality sleep is occurring. 
  • Tracking medication usage. Motion patterns can be used to detect whether medication has been taken as expected at designated times. 
 

Some sensing technologies such as wearables or cameras may also be able to make some of the measurements listed. However, wearables have a high ‘false positive’ count, and rely on compliance from users (not everyone will remember to wear these devices all the time). Cameras, in turn, can feel like a privacy violation for residents who do not want to be recorded at all times.

Read more about the benefits of wireless sensing in the healthcare context in Y. Ge et al. (2023).  “Contactless WiFi Sensing and Monitoring for Future Healthcare – Emerging Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities.” IEEE Reviews in Biomedical Engineering. Vol. 16, pp. 171-191. 

Wireless Sensing Application 3: Energy efficiency

Wireless sensing can determine when individuals have arrived in the building, and what they are doing within the home, and power up and down appliances in response.

This has applications both in homes, and in office buildings/industrial settings where energy efficiency is paramount.

One recently researched example is HVAC optimization. HVACs can be configured using occupancy data to alter their cooling and heating set points over long periods of time. You can read more in an in-depth analyis by Kingsley Nweye and Zoltan Nagy (2022). “MARTINI: Smart meter driven estimation of HVAC schedules and energy savings based on Wi-Fi sensing and clustering“. Applied Energy. Volume 316.

Other potential examples include: 

  • adjusting lighting based on predicted occupancy
  • monitoring appliance use to power down based on predicted demand
  • optimizing elevators (e.g., number required to be in operation) based on usage patterns. 

Wireless Sensing — Future Applications?

As a relatively new technology, wireless sensing has mainly been commercially refined in the home security and monitoring setting. As the technology is further developed we can expect to see further wireless sensing applications in areas like energy and healthcare. 

FAQ

While these applications are still in development, it is likely that wireless sensing will be able to detect breathing patterns and other physiological signs which indicate anxiety or other mental healh issues. 

By detecting unusual movements or falls and alerting family members or authorities. Technology is also in development to enable wireless sensing to predict future health issues through analysis of gait and micromovements. 

Through analyzing motion patterns and powering appliances up and down accordingly, wireless sensing can save money due to reduced energy use. 

]]> What Is Wireless Sensing? https://nami.ai/blog/what-is-wireless-sensing/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 22:15:07 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=22458

Key Takeaways

  • Wireless sensing detects and interprets motion and human activity via the analysis of changes in the electromagnetic/radio waves that propagate from a transmitter to a receiver. 
  • Wireless sensing is a broad term, incorporating what is often referred to as ‘WiFi sensing’, but also other related forms of motion detection. 
  • Wireless sensing should not be confused with wireless sensors networks, which are a specific industrial application.  
Wireless sensing is a new technology for detecting and interpreting motion that is elevating standard setups for smart homes. Wireless sensing uses electromagnetic/radio waves, just like your home WiFi devices, to detect and interpret motion. For those seeking to explore more about this theme, it is highly recommended to learn about facharbeit ghostwriter. In this guide, we look in detail at some different wireless sensing technologies and how they are being enabled through a new technical standard process. To find our about the benefits and challenges of wireless sensing, and its main applications

What Is the Definition of Wireless Sensing? 

Wireless sensing, in its simplest terms, means detecting or measuring physical phenomena without the need for a tangible physical connection (like wires).

Wireless sensing works through detecting disturbances in electromagnetic waves or signals — the same kinds of waves that are commonly used by your home WiFi connection.  Compared to ‘wired’ forms of sensing, this technology is more mobile and versatile, and able to communicate over both short and long distances. Some common applications of wireless sensing include: 

  • Home security. Intrusions can be detected through unexpected disturbances in wireless waves. Wireless sensing-enabled IoT devices can be used in addition to video cameras and other sensors to provide comprehensive security solutions. 
  • Health and wellbeing monitoring. Unusual movement of elderly or vulnerable family members (such as falls) can be detected and notifications automatically sent to family members or emergency services. 
  • Energy management. Detection of presence and motion can be used to automatically power up and down devices based on predicted occupancy. 

You can read more about the applications of wireless sensing in our detailed analysis of the pros, cons and practical use cases for wireless sensing. 

Most commonly, wireless sensing involves WiFi sensing. This means using WiFi — also known as wireless local area networks (WLAN) — to detect motion (read more in our guide to WiFi sensing). Wireless sensing usually proceeds through two distinct stages:

  • Pre-processing. Raw data provided by wireless sensing devices (commonly known as ‘CSI’ or ‘channel state information’) is filtered to eliminate pets, robot vacuum cleaners and other sources of ‘noise’. This means that the information transmitted is focused on human motion only. 
  • Higher-order processing. Machine learning is used to analyze the data in more complex cases such as micro-motion. It is this kind of processing that might be able to distinguish between, say, respiration and a heartbeat (more on this below). 

In addition to WiFi, wireless sensing could also conceivably involve other forms of technology such as:

  • Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE). This allows wireless communication over short-wavelength UHF (ultra-high frequency) radio waves. 
  • Near-Field Communication (NFC). This allows two electronic devices to establish communication when they’re in close proximity to one another — typically less than 4 cm (about 1.5 inches). While useful for contexts like contactless payment and reading barcodes, this would generally not cover the distance needed for robust wireless sensing. 
  • Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID). This technology uses radio waves to read digital data included in specific ‘RFID tags’. These are commonly used for anti-theft purposes, for inventory tracking, and in toll collection, among other purposes. 

Some other types of sensors which also don’t involve physical wiring include Passive Infrared (PIR) and acoustic sensors. However, as these sensors rely on heat and sound energy, rather than radio waves, they are generally not classified under the label “wireless sensing”.

How Does Wireless Sensing Work?

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In wireless sensing, electromagnetic waves are emitted by devices across a room or area. Any disturbance in those waves is picked up by enabled devices, and analyzed by the sensing technology. This disturbance indicates movement in the room, and the sensing technology is able to determine whether that is human motion or not. 

Wireless sensing is usually implemented via several different ‘layers’:

  • Hardware. Either specifically manufactured devices, or altered devices, become ‘sensing enablers’, allowing them to receive and interpret wireless signals.
  • Processing. The device itself automatically provides the initial filtering of data (see description above). 
  • Transmission. Sensing data is sent to centralized hubs and/or devices for the end user. 
  • Use and analysis. The data is received and used by the end-user, such as the individual receiving an intrusion alert on their smartphone. In some cases, the wireless sensing data may be combined with other insights to draw further conclusions about motion within the building. 

You can read more about how wireless sensing works in Jie Wang et al. (2018).  “Device-Free Wireless Sensing: Challenges, Opportunities, and Applications“. IEEE Network.  Vol. 32, no. 2. 

To read specifically how deep learning models might be applied to wireless sensing data check out Rajendran et al. (2018). “Deep Learning Models for Wireless Signal Classification with Distributed Low-Cost Spectrum Sensors“. IEEE Transactions on Cognitive Communications and Networking. Vol. 4, No. 3. 

The History of Wireless Sensing 

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The scientific basis for wireless sensing can be traced back to 1865 when Scottish Physicist James Clerk Maxwell predicted that electric charges and currents give rise to electric and magnetic fields. These fields, in turn, propagate through space as waves. 

This prediction was, in turn, confirmed by the experiments of the German Physicist Heinrich Hertz in the 1880s. He showed that electromagnetic waves could be produced by an oscillating electric current, and that these could be detected from a distance through a simple receiver. 

This experimentation also confirmed that electromagnetic waves behaved like light and could reflect, refract and diffract — prisms and lenses were used to demonstrate how waves could be bent and focused. 

Then through experiments in the late 1890s and early 20th century, Guglielmo Marconi demonstrated that information could be sent wirelessly via electromagnetic waves. Through wireless telegraphy, the operator could interrupt the transmission of electromagnetic waves in regular patterns to correspond with Morse Code. 

Audio transmission then followed, and the rise of radio broadcasting, as did radar — using electromagnetic waves to detect movement. Wireless sensing was born.

Is Wireless Sensing the same as Wireless Sensor Networks?

A Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is a grouping of spatially dispersed sensors that monitor the physical environment and sends data to a central location. It consists of ‘nodes’ (that house each individual sensor and transmit the relevant information via radio waves) and a ‘base station’ (that collects information from the nodes to be sent to the user).

Classic use cases for WSNs include geographical and area monitoring, such as geofencing of gas or oil pipelines, or habitat monitoring. In the latter case, wireless sensors have been extremely successful in allowing vulnerable wildlife to be observed, without potentially harmful human interference. For example, in studies conducted on Great Duck Island in Maine, wireless sensor networks have been successful in showing with seabird (Petrel) monitoring to show: 

  • The usage pattern of nesting burrows
  • Changes in the burrows themselves and the nesting environment. 

This data was in turn used to predict future seabird behaviour. Read more about this study in Mainwaring, A. et al. (2002). “Wireless sensor networks for habitat monitoring“. Proceedings of the 1st ACM International Workshop on Wireless Sensor Networks and Applications. NY, USA, ACM. 

While the term is not as often used in this context, a home security setup, or wearables network that uses wireless technology would also count as a WSN. 

What Is the Technical Standard for Wireless Sensing?

A standard is a published document setting out the technical specifications for a particular kind of product. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) sets out a range of standards that are relevant to wireless sensing. These standards ensure that technology is developed safely, reliably, and with full interoperability.

  • IEEE 802.11 is the general WiFi standard. In fact, WiFi is simply defined as the local wireless network that uses this standard. These operate on both the 2.4GHz UHF and 5GHz bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. WiFi certification is a separate process overseen by the WiFi Alliance.
  • IEEE 802.15.1 is the standard for Bluetooth, which also uses the 2.4 GHz band on the electromagnetic spectrum.

A new standard specifically for wireless sensing is currently in development and is set to be unveiled in 2024. The 802.11bf wireless sensing standard is intended to provide a broad basis for innovative wireless sensing products. 

Currently, it is proposed that there be a division of wireless sensing:

  • lower-frequency waves (1GHz to 7.125GHz) for motion sensing in large spaces
  • higher-frequency waves (45GHz and above) for micro-movements.

The infographic below demonstrates how electromagnetic waves (including those deployed in wireless sensing) are classified along the electromagnetic spectrum. 

Electromagnetic Spectrum

Wireless Sensing Defined

Wireless sensing is the detection and analysis of presence and motion via the effect that motion has on electromagnetic waves. In the modern smart home, these waves are oftenWiFi waves, similar to those that radiate from a WiFi router. While it is relatively new technology, work on a new technical standard for wireless sensing should help encourage innovation, and enable standardization, in the area. 

To learn more, check out our article on the applications of wireless sensing. 

Frequently Asked Questions

A set of sensing devices are connected in a network. Antennae within some of those devices send out wireless/radio signals or waves at a high rate. These waves then break when they hit solid objects. Machine learning algorithms contained in the wireless sensing technology are able to distinguish between moving objects and objects that are stationary. 

Often the terms are used interchangeably, with ‘wireless sensing’ being shorthand for ‘wireless local area network (WLAN) sensing’. However, sometimes the term ‘wireless sensing’ is used more broadly to include any form of motion detection that uses electromagnetic of radio waves to detect and interpret motion. 

Yes, wireless sensing combines well with cameras, microphones, wearables, acoustic sensors and other forms of environmental detection to create comprehensive multi-sensing solutions. 

]]> Hardware Augmented Software: Definition, Benefits & Limitations https://nami.ai/blog/hardware-augmented-software/ Tue, 01 Nov 2022 07:31:51 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=19009

Key Takeaways

  • Hardware augmented software means optimizing the performance of software through custom hardware modifications or solutions. 
  • Hardware augmented software has a range of applications, but is particularly common in AI, machine learning, augmented reality and IoT/Smart Home applications. 
  • Hardware augmented reality is a crucial part of modern smart home design, including its use in S0Cs, Digital Signal Processors and Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs).  

When we think about improving software, we usually think about ways in which the code itself can be optimized to improve the final product. But another way of improving software performance is by altering the hardware itself. 

Here we look at the concept of hardware augmented software, some of its applications, and how it is used within the modern smart home. 

The distinction between hardware and software

Explaining the possible ways in which hardware augmentation can improve software performance requires clarity on the distinction between hardware and software. This distinction may seem too obvious to mention — the hardware is the physical part of the computer or device that we ‘see’, while the software is the invisible instructions telling the computer what to do. But the distinction is not so clear-cut: For example, in the first half of the twentieth century the computer’s ‘code’ was physical punch cards, yet we would usually conceptualize this as early software, not hardware. Similarly, modern chips and processor components may be too small to see with the naked eye, but we wouldn’t say that that feature makes them software. For those seeking to explore more about this theme, it is highly recommended to learn about hausarbeiten schreiben lassen. The better distinction is that hardware is hardware because it is ‘hard-wired’: In most cases, it is not easy to change their configuration. Thought of in that way, hardware covers the usual physical components of a computer system: This includes the motherboard, processor, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and any peripheral devices. Going back to the early 20th century, computing devices were all hardware. For example, one of the oldest computers, the Atanasoff–Berry computer (ABC) from 1937 had its one set of instructions hard-wired into it, and was not programmable. Software, standing next to this definition of hardware, refers to that feature of the computer or device that can be more readily changed and is programmable. This covers all programs, including the operating system itself. Software is stored in the memory of storage devices, such as hard drives, and ultimately translated into machine language (the only instructions that a computer can actually read). Software is not hard-wired and, in principle, can be altered to get the computer to perform different tasks, though, in some cases (e.g., operating systems), it may not be easy to Straddling the divide between software and hardware lies firmware: This is a type of software programmed directly into a device’s read-only memory (ROM), controlling the hardware. It is a permanent form of programming, not intended to be readily altered or deleted. Common in embedded systems, such as Routers and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, firmware can be updated to fix bugs or add features, but specialized tools are required in order to do so.

What is hardware augmented software?

With this distinction between hardware and software in mind, hardware augmented software means altering those elements of the system that would traditionally be fixed (such as the physical components), in order to improve the operation of the software. Consider some common examples of hardware augmented software below:  

  • Hardware acceleration — using specialized hardware to make processing more efficient than in a conventional Central Processing Unit (CPU). This is not a new concept: 90s gamers will remember adding an external Sound Card (e.g., ‘Sound Blaster’) to elevate the sound effects in Doom or Duke Nukem from the simple beeps of the built-in speaker. A more sophisticated example is the recent rise of  ‘System on a chip’ (SoC) — an integrated circuit that contains within it many of the hardware components of a traditional computer. The embedded SoC reduces the size of a device, improves performance, and reduces power consumption. 
  • Custom or alternate instruction sets — changing the fundamental instructions that the computer or device runs on. For example, the RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) architecture simplifies the instructions to the computer to optimize performance. Custom instruction set extensions add new instructions to optimize for a particular application: For example, ARMv8M adds instructions to improve performance and efficiency in IoT applications.
  • Special-purpose processors — where a custom processor is designed for a specific task to optimize overall software performance. For example, Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) handle complex graphical processing, including rendering 3D graphics and video. Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) are used in audio and video processing. They improve processing efficiency, allowing for real-time audio and video processing. In both cases, there is a significant performance improvement over software running on a conventional CPU.
  • Hardware-based security features — a trusted platform module (TPM), for example, is a secure microcontroller that provides secure storage of critical data, such as an encryption key. They are more secure than software-only solutions as, being embedded directly into the device, they are less vulnerable to hacking and malware.

How does hardware-augmented software form part of the modern smart home?

Hardware-augmented software is a crucial feature of the modern smart home. Some examples of how hardware-enabled software solutions on the smart home market today include:

  • SoCs in WiFi sensing — WiFi sensing smart home solutions interpret the way in which human movement interrupts WiFi waves in order to bolster home security, optimize energy use and improve the well-being of occupants. While WiFi sensing can be implemented through a variety of hardware enablers, SoCs reduce the size, cost, and power consumption of WiFi sensing modules. 
  • TPM in smart homes  — TPM can be used to secure remote access to smart home systems.  The TPM can store authentication credentials and verify the identity of remote devices, ensuring that only those who should have access, do have access. 
  • Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) in Smart Home Security.  DSPs are often used in smart home security cameras to enhance video quality and perform real-time video processing. The DSPs can be hardware-enabled to perform tasks such as motion detection, object recognition, and video compression, making it easier to monitor and secure a smart home

Hardware augmented software — the way forward

Hardware augmented software is increasingly a core part of IoT and the smart home infrastructure: There are some software efficiency gains which require the hardware itself to be optimized. 

In the future, we can expect to see further hardware augmented software innovations in the field, as embedded systems shrink and energy efficiency concerns push for better energy consumption. 

FAQ

Indirectly, yes. Augmented reality hardware covers those components such as sensors, digital cameras, GPS and wireless sensors that are crucial to facilitating a virtual reality or augmented reality environment.

It is increasingly common for augmented reality to use hardware-enabled software (such as DSPs and SoCs) to optimize virtual reality applications. 

It’s debatable. Firmware provides low-level control of a device’s hardware and is stored in a device’s non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). The sense in which it is difficult to alter makes it close to hardware. However, it is arguably not an augmentation of hardware in order to support software performance. Some would say that it is a fundamental software augmentation. 

]]> What Will Smart Homes of the Future Look Like? https://nami.ai/blog/what-will-smart-homes-of-the-future-look-like/ Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:26:00 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=18095

Key Takeaways

  • The modern smart home is a home fully integrated with tech solutions and the Internet of Things (IoT)
  • In the future, we can expect IoT to be replaced with AIoT — the Artificial Intelligence of Things. Through application of AI algorithms, smart homes will be able to sense and understand human behavior, and apply 
  • In the future, expect to see smart homes that are more energy efficient, that have better integrated technologies and an improved physical infrastructure. 
  • Another significant feature will be the utilization of data — both by home owners and occupants themselves, and third party companies providing smart home solutions. 
Smart homes are not a particularly new concept — the related term ‘smart house’ was first coined in 1984 by the American Association of Home Builders. But the way in which smart homes operate is changing substantially: Currently, most smart homes still work by touch or voice commands of home occupants. However, gradually, this is being replaced by AI algorithms which allow the home to respond and act without human intervention. For those seeking to explore more about this theme, it is highly recommended to learn about ghostwriter facharbeit. In this article we look at this development, and further developments we can expect to see in the way that smart homes operate in the coming years.

A History of Smart Homes 

To understand where smart homes might be heading, we need to think about where smart homes come from — the history of smart homes and IoT. Commonly, smart homes are identified with automation, and on that basis, the smart home might be thought to begin with electric appliances that replace manual processes within the home, such as vacuum cleaners are washing machines.

But that seems wrong. By that logic, properties with water-powered mills in the 4th century Roman Empire could be ‘smart homes’. Rather than focusing on automation, a better way to think about smart homes might be in terms of communication. In a smart home applicances and devices can be operated by remote communication, rather than by directly operating the appliance or infrastructure. By this definition, we might trace smart homes back to the first wireless remote control in homes (1955). But this also seems to be lacking. A smart home means not just a single device or appliance, but an entire home arranged around this concept of remote communication. 

Thought of in this way, a major step forward comes in 1975 with the establishment of X10: the first commercial product allowing remote control of devices and appliances throughout the home. While X10 works primarily by sending signals along existing power lines, the system also relies on radio frequencies to enable communication between devices and appliances.

By the late 80s, the idea of the ‘smart house’ was close to its modern conception, but without an internet component. It included: 

  • Homeowners leaving work being able to phone home and electronically instruct the heater,  air conditioner or oven to be turned on in advance of arrival.
  • Being able to lock all house doors remotely from the bedroom 
  • Video displays giving house status updates, such as refrigerator doors left open or doors unlocked. 

At the turn of the century, the Internet of Things (IoT) arrived: By uniting internet infrastructure, and the furniture and fittings within the home, the modern smart home was finally in place: In 2000, LG released its first smart home refrigerator; in 2014 the release of Amazon Echo cemented the modern identification of smart homes with voice-controlled computer/internet functions.

Next we consider, in what direction should we expect smart homes to go?

The Future of Smart Homes

1. Rise of the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT)

Currently, smart homes are still firmly in the ‘IoT era’; In short, home infrastructure, appliances and devices are connected to the internet, but they still rely on manual instruction to operate: Lights respond to voice commands, and refrigerators have touchscreens. Human direction is at the center of this model and there is little genuine automation.

In various different domains, AI and machine learning means tech is able to learn and respond autonomously. We see this in electric vehicles, which can learn to detect various obstacles and automatically avoid those obstacles without further instruction; we see it in banking and fintech, where programs can learn to detect unusual transactions and automatically flag them for further investigation.

How is AI revolutionizing IoT? Instead of constant manual input, physical devices and infrastructure (enablers), in conjunction with AI algorithms, are able to learn occupant preferences and routines over time. This means:

  • Improved security — technology can distinguish pets and robot vacuum cleaners from human motion, and differentiate occupants and family members from intruders
  • Health and wellbeing insights — predictive analytics can look at deviating activity patterns for indicators of health problems in need of addressing. As a reactive measure, falls or other accidents might be detected in the same way, and family members of emergency services notified.
  • Enhanced comfort — the home can learn lighting and heating preferences, and automatically adjust settings for the occupant’s preferences.

2. Enhanced integration capabilities

Enhanced integration capabilities will be a key component of future smart homes, allowing for a more seamless and intuitive experience. All devices should be able to communicate with one another and share data. Furthermore, the user should be able to interact with the smart home from virtually any ‘node’ (e.g., their smartphone, a tablet, the display on the refrigerator etc).

Standardization and integration have long been themes in IoT: Fundamentally, ‘WiFi’ itself is nothing more than a set of standards about how electromagnetic waves are to carry information within a confined area. The existence of WiFi standards ensures that there isn’t a complete mismatch in the frequencies used for information transfer, and virtually any router can connect to any device: Bluetooth, similarly, is a set of standards about how information will be carried over even shorter distances.

Currently, there are integration ‘gaps’ in IoT. It is not a given that all devices will be able to communicate with each other. This is why devices must advertise ‘works with Amazon Alexa’ or ‘Works with Google Home’ — to ensure that any new device is compatible with the existing smart home ecosystem. While proprietary differences between products may persist, there will be a range of intermediary technologies that will ensure a seamless experience from the user perspective.

A key part of progress here is the new ‘Matter’ standard: This interoperability standard, which all the tech giants are on board with, will allow consumers to mix and match devices and appliances with the ecosystem of their choice. Besides supporting consumer choice, this standard will also enhance competition, as the market for AIoT products grows.

3. Efficient energy and resource use

Smart homes are inherently tooled for energy efficiency, given that they allow for easy alteration of energy consumption and use by the operator. Looking forward, as a result of regulatory pressure, cost savings and consumer choice, expect to see a focus on the way in which smart homes can become more energy efficient. Overall, the move will be away from a ‘linear’ model of energy consumption, where energy is simply wasted where an appliance or device is not being used (think of appliances forever on standby mode), to a ‘circular’ model where energy is only used as absolutely required. Specific changes we should expect to see include:

  • Enhanced energy conservation in appliances —through analysis of occupancy and motion, HVAC and other appliances can be powered up and down, automatically.
  • Smart meter integration, which will allow energy charges and tariffs to be more carefully tailored to actual energy use in the home, and incentivize occupants to consume energy more carefully. 
  • Full connectivity between solar PV, other renewable energy sources, batteries, and smart home infrastructure. This will allow individuals to more carefully manage their energy use to move towards a ‘zero net energy’ outcome. In some cases, the increased inefficiency may even allow the smart home to become a ‘net energy generator’, as excess electricity generation is fed back into the network
  • Digital sensors to better monitor and manage grey water and biowaste within the home, minimizing the pressure placed on external water and sewerage infrastructure.

4. Improved physical infrastructure

It is not just the tech that is changing in smart homes, but the surrounding physical components of the smart home itself. Some key changes that we could expect to see:

  • An increase in the use of sustainable and recycled materials in construction. This is driven both by legislation, as well as consumer choice, as people become more aware of the environmental impact of construction.
  • A move away from the traditional ‘grid’ layout of electrical wiring and plumbing, to a more modular and flexible design. This will allow for easier installation and maintenance of smart home systems, as well as future-proofing the home against changes in technology.
  • A move towards modular construction, where homes are built from prefabricated modules which can be easily added or removed as required. This will allow homeowners to more easily adapt their homes to changing needs, such as aging in place, or accommodating a growing family.
  • The growth of ‘smart tiny homes’. As housing and energy costs continue to soar, and environmental concerns drive consumer choice for more sustainable housing options, expect to see smart home technology designed specifically for the tiny home.

5. The addition of ambient sensing

Smart homes will increasingly monitor, and respond to, the changing environment both inside and outside of the home. This is achieved via ‘ambient sensors’ which continuously monitor surrounding environmental conditions such as temperature, light levels, air quality, humidity and noise levels.

In a technical sense, ambient sensing is not new. Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors, which have been popular since the 1970s, are a form of ambient sensor, as they work by observing changes in the standard lighting environment. What we will see going forward, however, is the further proliferation of these sensors,  and sensors which automatically adjust the conditions within the home to optimize comfort, security, safety and energy efficiency:  For example, if an ambient sensor detects an increase in carbon monoxide levels, it might automatically open windows and turn on fans to ventilate the area, and send alerts to the smartphones of occupants.

6. Improved data use

One of the key enablers of smart homes is the use of data and analytics to understand how occupants use their homes, and to optimize systems accordingly. Data collected by sensors can be used to understand patterns of occupancy and energy use. As well as generating insights for the benefit of occupants and their family members, this could be used to improve service offerings from third parties: Consumers could receive insurance, appliance or utility offers which are tailored specifically to their activity patterns and energy use within the home.

The use of privacy-first sensing technologies, such as WiFi sensing, will ensure that data insights can be obtained with a minimal level of personal data collection and use.

Expect also to see predictive analytics play a large role in smart homes: This will mean refrigerators and storage areas identifying when supplies run low, and automatically ordering more. It will also mean health applications, where motion and presence sensing within the home picks up deviations from normal movement patterns (perhaps being an early indicator of an illness or condition), and notifies occupants if there is a need to seek medical attention

Conclusion

What was once an unusual setup, the smart home, is now the standard way in which any modern home is built or remodelled. But the concept of a ‘smart home’ is a fluid one, with the expectations we have of home technology and the Internet of Things constantly growing. 

The future of smart homes lies in a continued evolution of the ‘Artificial Intelligence of Things’ (AIoT), a move towards technology and infrastructure that learns and acts automatically, rather than requiring manual input. In the future, we also expect to see an increased focus on interoperability, energy efficiency, ambient sensors, physical infrastructure and data optimization. 

FAQ

Antennae within enabled devices emit Wi-Fi signals or waves at a high rate. These Wi-Fi waves ‘bounce’ or ‘break’ around solid objects. Machine learning algorithms within the Wi-Fi sensing technology learn to distinguish between objects that move (such as humans) and those that don’t (such as walls). 

Wi-Fi is normally used to communicate between your devices/computers and the internet. But this is just one application of Wi-Fi. It can also be used to detect motion and presence, including human motion and presence. 

Yes. Wi-Fi sensing can be combined with cameras, microphones and other sensing technologies to establish comprehensive sensing technology within the home or building.  

Wi-Fi, and hence Wi-Fi sensing, can travel through walls. However, it can be affected by sufficiently solid walls or objects. This impact can be mitigated by using multiple Wi-Fi-enabled devices. 

]]> Ambient Sensing: Overview, Types of Sensors, Pros, and Cons https://nami.ai/blog/what-is-ambient-sensing/ Thu, 12 May 2022 06:46:00 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=16122

Key Takeaways

  • Ambient sensing detects and provides insights into changes in environmental conditions. 
  • Ambient sensing works by using a range of sensing technologies (such as Wi-Fi sensing, PIR sensors and temperature sensors) to pick up general changes in the environment. 
  • Ambient sensing has a range of benefits, for both individuals personally, and broader commercial benefits. 
  • The perceived downsides of ambient sensing can be best mitigated by robust data and privacy protections. 

Google cars taking pictures of houses for Google Maps were caught inadvertently picking up web browsing data from the Wi-Fi networks of the houses they passed. One might say this is ‘ambient sensing, gone wrong’: The cars were passively picking up quantities of environmental information that they were not supposed to be collecting. 

So, what exactly is ambient sensing? Here, we look at how ambient sensing has been defined within the industry, the benefits of ambient sensing, and how it can be successfully integrated into your smart home or smart facility. 

What is ambient sensing? 

Ambient sensing is sensing technology that gathers data about one’s surroundings. This data can be used for a variety of purposes, such as understanding the environment, providing information to users, or controlling devices. Put this way, wouldn’t any form of sensing technology count as ‘ambient sensing’?

The key is to think of ambient sensing, not as a specific type of hardware or software, but rather as a way in which technology can be used. For example, smart homes are equipped with acoustic sensors that respond to specific commands. This is not ambient sensing as it is not drawing insights from the general conditions that surround it (i.e., all the sounds it is hearing).

On this interpretation, we could call ‘non-ambient’ sensing, ‘direct sensing’ — sensing which is calibrated to specific, discrete, inputs. 

The goal is to have an entire set of contextual information, from which insights can be drawn and interpreted. When action is taken automatically, on the basis of learned insights from ambient sensing, the building may be said to have ambient intelligence in place. 

How does ambient sensing work?

In ambient sensing, a whole set of sensors work together to provide information. While, in principle, nearly any sensor could be calibrated as an ambient sensor, some of the most common forms of ambient sensing include:

  • Temperature sensors, which can keep a constant check on temperatures within the home. Average temperatures could be used to provide indications as to whether the home remains at a healthy temperature or not
  • Pressure sensors, which can work with temperature sensors to form a picture of weather conditions around the home
  • Water sensors, which can provide information about increased humidity in the home.
  • Object sensors (with RFID tags or GPS trackers), which might be placed on key items, or individuals. to draw general insights on use and movement.

Is Wi-Fi sensing a type of ambient sensing?

As mentioned earlier, ‘ambient sensing’ does not mean a particular type of technology, but rather a certain way in which technology is used. When used for intruder detection alone, for example, Wi-Fi sensing would not be ambient sensing: It is focused on picking up specific human activity. But Wi-Fi sensing can also be used for general analytics and insights into the living environment. For example, through Wi-Fi sensing, one could identify patterns in energy use within the home (as appliances are turned off and on in tandem with motion).

This is true of many other modern types of sensing technology as well: 

  • Passive infrared (PIR) sensors can be used as ambient sensors. For example, in one recent study, PIR sensors were used to pick up general motion within the home and analyze it, but not to pick out the motion of any particular person (read more about PIR sensors in our comprehensive guide to using PIR).
  • Video cameras, when combined with AI algorithms, can be used to interpret which times of the day are busiest and which are slowest.

What are the benefits of ambient sensing?

There are many potential benefits to using ambient sensing within a smart home, such as:

  • Improved safety — Wi-Fi sensing in a care facility could provide general information on where falls are occurring so that any obstacles or poor design can be fixed.
  • Property damage is reduced, as ambient sensors pick up water leaks and significant humidity changes before substantial damage is done.
  • Enhanced comfort, as constant monitoring of temperature, or humidity, can lead to wholesale adjustments within the home.
  • It complements direct sensing insights, as direct motion detection can be combined with environmental sensors to provide more robust insights.
  • Enhanced decision-making, through detailed environmental data.  For example, a clothing store might take general data on the movement of customers into account when determining the layout of its clothing display. 

Are there any downsides to ambient sensing?

While there are many potential benefits to ambient sensing, it is not without its drawbacks:

  • Ambient sensing stokes a fear of ‘continuous monitoring’: With ambient sensing, a significant amount of data is being collected on the property at all times. This information might be sold into a larger database of information, and/or be misused if it is to get into the wrong hands.
  • The data detected may itself be personal data, the release of which would be a privacy breach. For example, GPS tracking data of a person walking across a large rural property, might be used to determine whether they are in the house or not. Strong protection measures need to be in place to ensure that personal information is protected.
  • ‘Data obesity‘, which occurs when more data than is necessary has been collected. Spare a thought for the marketers — where too much data has been collected, it becomes very difficult to sift through and draw out any meaningful insights. 


In order to manage these potential risks of ambient sensing, it is crucial that all technology deploying ambient sensing has appropriate cyber-security and data protections in place. 

Conclusion

Ambient sensing is set to become a crucial part of smart home infrastructure: In order to provide the most useful insights it is crucial that smart homes are able to detect both specific movements, and general environmental conditions. 

 

FAQ

Radar sensing technology is widely used in various industries, including automotive (for collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control), aerospace (for navigation and weather monitoring), healthcare (for patient monitoring and fall detection), and smart homes (for security and energy management).

Ambient sensors are any devices which can detect changes in general environmental conditions. 

]]> What Does WiFi Sensing Mean for the Caregiver Crisis? https://nami.ai/blog/caregiver-crisis/ https://nami.ai/blog/caregiver-crisis/#respond Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=15255

Key Takeaways

  • An aging population and shortage of qualified support means the world is facing an impending caregiver crisis
  • The only way to adequately face the caregiver crisis is for tech solutions to ‘fill the gap’ and allow family members to more easily monitor the vulnerable or elderly.  
  • Wi-Fi sensing can contribute to the care of the elderly, and ease the caregiver crisis through a range of applications, including fall detection, health analytics and home monitoring.

We are aging at an incredible pace: By 2030, one in five Americans will be over the age of 65. And on current forecasts, by 2040, the population over the age of 85 will more than double from its present tally (from 6.6 million to 14.4 million). This will mean a significant increase in the proportion of our population requiring assistance with activities of daily living, and an increased demand for caregivers. Unfortunately, the supply of caregivers is not keeping pace with the demand. According to MIT Economist Paul Osterman, by 2040, there will be a national shortage of at least 350,000 paid caregivers. More shockingly, perhaps, the shortfall of unpaid caregivers will amount to 11 million.

There is no magic bullet to fix this crisis, and we don’t pretend to provide one. Rather, we look at how Wi-Fi sensing —technology that uses wireless signals to detect and track people and objects — can be incorporated as part of the response to the caregiver crisis.

How Wi-Fi Sensing Works

Wi-Fi sensing works by using Wi-Fi signals to detect motion, identify patterns, and potentially monitor vital signs. 

Motion sensing technology itself is nothing new: In the late 19th century, the distinct way in which moving objects interfere with radio waves was first used to assess the distance and direction of other objects (‘Radar’). In the latter half of the 20th century, Passive Infrared Sensors (PIR) and video cameras came to the fore, allowing motion inside and outside a property to be detected.

Wi-Fi sensing is a new form of sensing technology — ‘Sensing 2.0’. The basic mechanics of Wi-Fi sensing are simple, relying on many of the same technical elements as your home internet router: Your internet router sends information throughout your home by transmitting data via Wi-Fi waves. But as we all know, home Wi-Fi connections are affected by solid objects —that’s why you usually can’t log in to a Wi-Fi network two houses down. This tendency of Wi-Fi waves to be disrupted or ‘blocked’ by physical objects is at the heart of Wi-Fi sensing technology: Wi-Fi sensing-enabled devices detect human movement as it disturbs Wi-Fi waves. Then, through machine learning, the motion is analyzed to send alerts (where necessary), and gain insights.

Wi-Fi sensing has numerous applications. In home security, it means homeowners can be alerted remotely when an intruder (rather than their cat or robot vacuum cleaner) enters the house. It can also be used to improve home energy efficiency (appliances can switch on and off automatically based on human motion). Here, we want to focus on the capacity for Wi-Fi sensing to enable monitoring of elderly and vulnerable patients, detect falls, and deliver other health insights.

Read more about how Wi-Fi sensing works in our comprehensive explainer on Wi-Fi sensing.

What technology do caregivers need?

As highlighted earlier, over the next twenty years, we are facing a considerable shortage of paid and unpaid caregivers.  The worker shortage was compounded by Covid-19 where it was reported that 400,000 care workers left their jobs during the pandemic, with most not returning to the profession.  Furthermore, restrictive immigration policies mean that it is unlikely immigrant workers will be able to pick up the shortfall.

According to one study, in 2010 there were 7 potential caregivers for everyone over 80, By 2030 the ratio will decline sharply to 4 to 1 and by 2050, 3 to 1. 

This means that family members and friends will need to look after vulnerable or elderly family members, despite not having the money or resources they would like to have in order to do so. Increasingly, they will need new tools to more effectively look after vulnerable individuals. This means:

  • Technology needs to be in place to provide regular updates to caregivers on elderly or vulnerable family members when they are not in the home
  • An alert system needs to be in place to respond to any emergencies
  • Regular health analytics are necessary, providing early indicators of any health issues.

While there are some other technologies that can help, they also have various downsides. For example:

  • Video cameras in indoor areas can present a privacy risk, and many elderly will not consent to be monitored by video camera
  • ‘Wearables’ can provide useful health insights, and alerts in the case of health emergencies, but they rely on compliance from the individual wearing them: People don’t necessarily want to wear devices all the time, or may forget to do so on occasion (read more about this issue in our guide to ‘aging in place’ solutions).

Wi-Fi sensing provides sensing and monitoring that does not suffer from the pitfalls outlined above:

  • It does not collect personal data (it only examines movement patterns, nothing else about the individual is recorded)
  • Once the Wi-Fi sensing-enabled devices are in place, no steps need to be taken for the system to be operational (no risk of non-compliance).

How might Wi-Fi sensing help resolve the caregiver crisis

There are a range of Wi-Fi sensing solutions, some already available, some in development, which might be used to support caregivers in their role:

  • Fall detection involves the system learning an individual’s ‘normal’ movement patterns, and once a fall is detected (an ‘abnormal’ movement), sending an alert to a caregiver or emergency contact.
  • Movement analysis, where caregivers receive regular updates on an individual’s location and activities via a monitoring app, allowing them to check whether, for example, individuals have unexpectedly left the home (a serious concern for relatives with dementia). Relatedly, the monitoring app could be used to check that individuals are leaving the house to get essential exercise and are not becoming unnecessarily isolated.
  • Sleep monitoring. In solutions under development, Wi-Fi sensing might be used to detect changes in an individual’s sleeping patterns, which may be early indicators of health issues.
  • Gait analysis. Another application under development is analyzing gait to find early indications of mobility issues. For example, small changes in gait have been identified as early indicators of Parkinsons’ disease.

How Wi-FI sensing supports caregivers

Wi-Fi sensing is not a magic bullet: Fundamentally, governments need to prioritize the caregiver workforce, and find ways to attract more people to the profession. Nevertheless, Wi-Fi sensing can be an indispensable form of assistance for paid and unpaid caregivers alike. It allows family members, friends and professionals to regularly check in on elderly and vulnerable family members remotely through an app, and alert emergency services where necessary. Furthermore, the relatively low cost-per-unit of recent technology means that it can easily be distributed in home and institutional settings alike.

FAQ

There is a shortage of caregivers as the population is aging rapidly, and few younger people are attracted to caregiving as a profession. 

The caregiver crisis is the impending situation where there are far too few paid caregivers to look after an aging and sick population. While better pay and conditions would help, tech solutions are also require to make the job of caregivers more efficient. 

Wi-Fi sensing technology can be used by caregivers to better monitor movement, detect falls, and assess any impending health issues for the elderly or vulnerable. 

]]> https://nami.ai/blog/caregiver-crisis/feed/ 0 What Are PIR (Passive Infrared) Motion Sensors? https://nami.ai/blog/pir-sensors-passive-infrared-sensors/ https://nami.ai/blog/pir-sensors-passive-infrared-sensors/#respond Wed, 29 Jun 2022 01:00:40 +0000 http://nami.ai/?p=12501

Key Takeaways

  • Passive infrared sensors (PIR sensors) are a longstanding motion detection technology, originating in the early 70s. experiments with radar and related technologies.
  • Benefits of PIR sensors include their affordability, ease of installation and energy efficiency. 
  • Disadvantages of PIR sensors include their inaccuracy compared to intelligent sensing technologies (e.g., radar sensing or WiFi sensing), and their inability to detect fine-grained motion. 
  • Over time, it is likely that PIR sensors will become supplanted by newer motion detection technologies. 

Passive infrared sensors (PIR sensors) are not just a theoretical concept; they are practical tools widely used in our devices and homes. With motion detection options available in the home, it is worth considering the benefits of PIR sensors and how they measure up against competing sensing technologies.

What is Infrared Radiation? 

Any object with a temperature higher than absolute zero emits heat energy as electromagnetic radiation. This is not visible to the human eye, but we feel it near a hot object. 

Infrared is on the same electromagnetic spectrum as visible light, which ranges from gamma rays and X-rays to microwaves and radio waves. It sits next to visible light on that spectrum, a wavelength humans can (at least sometimes) detect with their ordinary senses. As a form of ‘light’ that cannot be seen with the human eye, infrared is sometimes called ‘infrared light’. 

In 1800, thermometer experiments by the Astronomer Sir William Herschel determined that infrared radiation is invisible radiation, lower in energy than red light. After Herschel’s studies, it was determined that more than half of the sun’s energy arrives on Earth in the form of infrared radiation. 

From Infrared to Passive Infrared: PIR Sensors Defined 

Motion detection using sensing electromagnetic radiation goes back to the earliest forms of radar in the 19th century: Physicist Heinrich Hertz recognized that electromagnetic waves bounced off objects and moved at different speeds. 

In the early 70s, the first ‘infrared detection intrusion system‘ was patented by Herbert L Berman. This is the first example of a passive infrared (PIR) sensor: Motion is detected by sensing the change in the surrounding thermal radiation caused by movement. The sensors are ‘passive’ infrared as they do not ‘emit’ any thermal radiation themselves.

PIR Sensor Module
A PIR Sensor Module

In its modern incarnation, PIR sensors operate via two pyroelectric sensors that sit within a plastic housing and detect the ambient heat energy. The sensors contain a crystal surface that generates an electric charge when exposed to ambient infrared radiation.  When the quantity of radiation hitting the crystal changes, the electric charge is also picked up by a device built into the sensor.

The sensor surfaces themselves can be ‘tweaked’ to limit the detectable change in radiation to the 8 to 14mm range—the range most sensitive to human body radiation.

Depending on the setup of the PIR sensor, the change in electric charge detected in the sensor will trigger a certain event, such as an alarm sounding, turning on a light, or notifying the authorities.

These sensors can be ‘binary’—detecting only the presence or absence of movement—or they can be designed with sensitivity levels to detect the level of movement.

PIR can be contrasted with ‘active’ IR sensors. In an active sensor, an emitter sends infrared energy to a receiver. The default state is for the ‘beam’ to be received, indicating that nothing is blocking its path. Where the beam is interrupted, this indicates that motion is present. 

What Are the Benefits of PIR Sensors?

PIR sensors are a long-standing mechanism for motion detection for good reason. They are:

  • Affordable
    PIR sensors are constructed of easily sourced materials and do not rely on sophisticated hardware. Indoor units can cost as little as $5-10.

  • Easy-to-install
    Ready out of the box, generally professional installation is not required.

  • Energy-efficient
    Due to the ‘passive’ nature of the PIR mechanism, little energy is consumed — around one watt-hour per day when on ‘standby’. For this reason, it is becoming increasingly common for PIR sensors to be powered by solar energy.

  • Privacy
    As PIR sensors only detect changes in heat energy, no personal data is collected through motion detection. 

What Are Some of the typical Applications of PIR sensors?

PIR sensors have a range of applications including: 

  • Automatically switching on lights
    In addition to the added convenience, PIR-managed lighting can be part of efficient home energy management — no lights are left on unnecessarily.

  • Home security
    As mentioned, PIR sensors can act as standalone intruder detectors or can be integrated with other home security technologies (for example, turning on surveillance cameras).

  • Thermostats and HVAC systems
    PIR sensors can trigger these devices, further contributing to home energy efficiency. 

What Are the Disadvantages of PIR Sensors?

Despite their benefits, there are some disadvantages to PIR sensors, which mean they may not always be appropriate:

  • False positives
    As mentioned, modern PIR sensors are usually sensitivity-adjusted to capture the best human motion rather than the wind or a tree branch. Nevertheless, by their nature, PIR sensors are ‘broad brush’ and cannot distinguish human motion from animal motion in the way that intelligent sensing solutions can.

  • False negatives
    Movement can be ‘cloaked’ to avoid PIR detection (for example, using heat blankets). Similarly, glass or other physical barriers can prevent PIR sensors from working effectively. In addition, PIR is inaccurate regarding stationary objects and ones that move slowly.

  • Binary operation
    PIR sensors detect the absence or presence of motion. They cannot analyze fine-grained motion in the way that radar or WiFi sensing solutions can.

  • Weather disturbances
    The weather substantially affects PIR sensors and can be less effective in hot and humid weather, where ambient heat energy is closer to human temperatures. 

Below, we consider how PIR measures against other standard motion detection/sensing technologies.

PIR Sensors vs Cameras

PIR and cameras are some of the more common motion detection technologies available. It is common for cameras to be fitted with PIR sensors to detect motion and ‘turn on’ the camera initially. Nevertheless, they are distinct ways of detecting motion (cameras can achieve this on their own through the application of pattern recognition software), and it is worth considering how they measure up against each other. 

What PIR and cameras have in common is being ‘line of sight’ technologies: They both identify motion that is in front of the sensor but struggle to sense motion around it (such as around corners and behind walls). 

Potential advantages of PIR sensors over cameras include: 

  • PIR is usually cheaper
    Due to their technological simplicity, installing multiple PIR units is usually much cheaper than installing multiple high-quality cameras.

  • PIR works equally well in the dark
    While camera technology can also be adapted for night usage, motion identification is still more difficult. This is not a problem for PIR sensors as they do not rely on visibility.

  • PIR protects the privacy of home occupants
    PIR protects the privacy of home occupants by detecting changes in thermal energy only; it doesn’t collect personal data. By contrast, cameras detect and potentially record detailed information about anyone who walks in front of them.

On the other hand, potential disadvantages that PIR sensors can have compared to video cameras include: 

  • They are affected by temperature and weather
    PIR can be less effective at high temperatures, as the difference between the ambient temperature and the body is relatively small. Cameras have no such problem.

  • PIR does not capture fine-grained data
    PIR detects an individual’s presence, but it does not capture information about micro-movements in the way cameras with an appropriate machine-learning algorithm can. 

PIR Sensors vs Radar Sensing 

Radar sensing, like PIR and many other sensing technologies, interprets waves on the electromagnetic spectrum and how they are disrupted to detect movement. It transmits microwave signals in the direction of an object and then detects the radiation that is ‘backscattered’ from that object. You can read more about it here.  

As with PIR, radar sensing: 

  • Protects the privacy of occupants
    As only disturbances in electromagnetic radiation are detected, no personal information is collected or used.

  • Uses little energy
    Depending on the complexity of the radar sensing equipment, both PIR and radar sensing use relatively little energy. Though radar sensing is an ‘active’ form of motion detection, it is usually used more. 

Compared to radar sensing, PIR is: 

  • More affordable
    Radar sensing generally requires multiple antennae and a more complex printed circuit board (PCB) to detect motion.

  • Simple to install
    While the technology is increasingly user-friendly, radar sensing requires professional installation. 

On the other hand:

  • PIR is less accurate than radar sensing
     Radar sensing can pick up micro-movements that PIR will miss, distinguish different animal types, and is not substantially affected by the weather.

  • PIR is line-of-sight only 
    Radar sensing can detect motion around corners and through walls.

PIR Sensors vs WiFi Sensing

WiFi sensing uses the power of local wireless networks (i.e., ‘WiFi’) to detect motion. This has applications for home security, sustainable energy use, and monitoring vulnerable family members. As with PIR sensors, WiFi sensing is: 

  • Affordable
    Using similar technology to existing WiFi devices, WiFi sensing does not require expensive hardware.

  • Respectful of occupant privacy
    No personal data is necessary for WiFi sensing to function.

  • Easy-to-install
    WiFi sensing solutions are often available in ‘plug and play’ hardware without the need to hire professionals. 

However, there are a range of ways in which PIR sensors are less effective than WiFi sensing: 

  • False positives 
    WiFi sensing can filter out non-human movement, such as pets. However, most PIR sensors are unable to eliminate these false positives.

  • Coverage
    WiFi sensing can cover larger areas than PIR sensors.  

Conclusion

PIR sensors detect the difference between ambient heat energy and the heat energy generated by objects to detect motion. They are affordable, straightforward, and have an established history as a motion detection technology. However, PIR lacks the accuracy of newer sensing technologies, such as radar and WiFi, and is therefore likely to be replaced by ‘Sensing 2.0‘ technologies over time. 

FAQ

Passive infrared (PIR) sensors detect motion by sensing the difference between ambient heat energy in a location, and the heat energy when a moving object has entered into that space. 

PIR sensors are passive, which means they do not emit infrared waves themselves, but instead sense changes in the surrounding thermal energy. By contrast, active infrared sensors emit infrared waves and interpret the way in which those waves ‘bounce’ off moving objects. 

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