Showing papers on "Home automation published in 1999"

Networks for homes

Abstract: Networking technologies are starting to invade the ordinary home-to carry, for example, telephone conversations, television, compact disk, digital versatile disk and MP3 music programs, signals from surveillance cameras, commands for controlling appliances and multimedia news from the Internet. To succeed, home networks will have to be based on standard products operable with any of the media just mentioned. These products include transceivers, network interface cards, gateways, small servers, sensors and controllers, plus a widely accepted operating system. For mass market appeal, the networks will have to be inexpensive, easy to install and the software easy to configure and operate. Home owners, after all, cannot afford to hire information technology managers.

A generic network management architecture targeted to support home automation networks and home Internet connectivity

Abstract: This paper proposes a generic network management architecture, targeted to support home automation networks (HAN) and home Internet connectivity The main objective of the proposed architectural model and implied protocol is the acquisition of control and monitoring information of a HAN, as well as the handling of such information remotely by means of an Internet connection The proposed protocol, being an application service element (ASE), is fully compatible with the notation and functionality of the emerging "convergence" protocol targeted to be a European standard for home automation systems The core of the proposed architecture is a new management protocol entity residing at the OSI application layer We have followed an approach similar to the well-known simple network management protocol (SNMP) of the TCP/IP protocol suite Information is acquired either on request by the management device or on event reporting initiated by a managed device Furthermore, the acquired information can be diffused to the Internet, through a HAN-to-TCP gateway unit Finally, a prototype system based on the European Home Systems (EHS) specification is described

Method and apparatus for remotely managing multiple appliance control configurations

Abstract: A device for incorporation into a variety of consumer appliances for use in a home automation environment. The invention comprises an electronic hardware module having software resident on the module, providing an interface between an appliance and other elements on a communications system employing the “Consumer Electronics Bus” protocol. The present invention interprets data messages sent to the appliance and signals the appliance in a preprogrammed manner. Also, the invention can be programmed to generate a specific data message for transmission to another appliance. The invention accommodates the various communication media, levels of electrical noise, and operating speeds allowed by the “Consumer Electronics Bus” protocol.

Internet utility interconnect method and means

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus allowing for the monitoring and control of electrical appliance or utilities. This is achieved by using a master webserver that can communicate with remote slave nodes using a protocol for control and automation over networks of different media including wire, radio, microwave and powerlines. This Virtual Internet Link (VIL) responds to requests from the server and remotes to replicate information as though the remote node is connected to the Internet. The virtual link is used for remote information reading as well as home automation and security reflected in the master server. Remote nodes act on the Internet database information through a master/slave/exception protocol supporting automation, metering, security, e-cash transfers and Internet back-channel requests.

Remote Interaction between Human and Humanoid Robot

Abstract: The last few years have been characterized by the continuous development of information and communication technologies, robotics technologies, and home automation technologies The number of application areas for such technologies is increasing, especially in fields rather outside the pure industrial scenario, often identified as “service applications” These are healthcare, public service provisions, social services for disadvantaged citizens, technical aids for promoting the independence of disabled and elderly people, and many others With this joint research Scuola Superiore Sant‘Anna and Waseda University, starting from the current availability of several mechatronic prototypes in their research laboratories, intend to validate different telecommunication tools for the remote control of mechatronic systems by demonstrating the feasibility and potential benefits deriving from the integration of such technologies

Real-time event kernel architecture for home-network gateway set-top-box (HNGS)

Abstract: This paper discusses a software architecture for a set-top-box that serves as intermediary connecting home networks to the Internet. As the major design challenge in developing the software is supporting inherent real-time requirements of home networks and home Internet connectivity simultaneously, the software is designed to integrate both real-time service and home Internet connectivity into one software framework.

A new efficient access protocol for integrating multimedia services in the home environment

Abstract: This paper presents a new dynamically adaptable medium access method that can be applied to home networks in order to create a distributed environment for multimedia and data processing services. The method uses a mechanism that detects silent periods in voice transmissions and dynamically adapts the bandwidth allocation between isochronous and asynchronous traffic.

Method and apparatus for community network communication

Abstract: A community network includes a central server and member systems. The member systems negotiate with one another to establish agreements with regards to the distribution of messages between the member systems. The central server transmits messages that are defined in the agreements between the member systems in response to a message from a member system that is part to the particular agreement. The member systems include home automation modules that can use the central server to transmit messages from one home automation module to another once an agreement is established between the two member systems.

Transparent, dynamically configurable RF network suitable for home automation applications

Abstract: The design and implementation of a mobile low power RF network appliance to connect mobile intelligent nodes in one communication system is discussed. Its applicability can be found in a wide range of domains such as home automation, low speed Internet networking, data logging applications, surveillance equipment and many others. The system features self-configuring point to point routing making it particularly useful for home automation applications.

Ensuring interoperability in a home networking system: a case study

Abstract: One of the main problems in home networked systems is the wide diversity of technologies, application requirements and cost allowance for devices and systems in general. This is translated to a division into different islands of technology that goes down to single manufacturer systems, thus blocking the way to the system integration as the main reason for the existence of the network. It is widely accepted that achieving the interworking is the most important aspect of a system specification. Object-oriented modelling associated with proper application management mechanisms for trading and binding provides the best approach to standardisation work on home systems interworking. We take here as an example the work toward an interoperability specification for an energy management system. The system described spans several communication media and brings together several consumer and producer entities. The system aims to provide increased comfort while either minimising the usage of resources or their cost for the same level of usage. Results from installed and running systems show the success of the approach.

An analysis of the performance of TCP over IEEE 1394 home networks

Abstract: The robustness of TCP has contributed to its success in the Internet environment. The role of communications is already well-established in the office environment. With the advent of cheap, affordable broadband communications and the increasing complexity of consumer goods, it seems natural to extend the network into homes. In-home networking means a high-speed communication among the digital appliances within a home. Introduction of applications over high-speed home networks using the TCP/IP protocol is increasing. The integrated environment of Internet and home network is demanding as well. We have validated a TCP model over a high-speed home network environment, investigated the throughput behavior of TCP over IEEE 1394 home networks, and evaluated a potential solution for high performance of TCP over IEEE 1394 home networks. The simulation model has produced several interesting results in the performance of TCP over IEEE 1394 home networks.

LOW DATA-RATE NETWORK REPRESENTED ON HIGH DATA-RATE HAVi-NETWORK

Abstract: A PC-based home automation system uses a low data-rate transport layer and COM-based software components for control of devices in a home automation network. The home automation system is merged with a messaging-based HAVi-network that uses IEEE 1394 as a high data-rate transport layer. The HAVi-network controls audio/video equipment in a home entertainment system. The home automation services and devices are registered as a HAVi-compliant elements with the HAVi network's FAV or IAV device. The home automation resources (devices and services) have both COM OLE Automation Interfaces and HAVI-compliant interfaces to permit control of the home automation system from the HAVi-network.

IEEE-1394: a standard for the next millenium

Abstract: Occasionally, a new technology comes along that perfectly epitomizes a new trend. Such is the case with IEEE-1394 (FireWire/sup TM/). Originally conceived by Apple Computer, Inc., IEEE-1394 is becoming the de facto serial bus for the consumer electronics market, PC peripherals, home automation systems, and multimedia and entertainment systems. Today, the standard's high-speed deterministic communication, low cost, and guaranteed bandwidth are sparking some interest in other markets. Increasingly, IEEE-1394 is being adopted for interconnecting real-time computer systems. The technology offers many obvious benefits for real-time applications such as simulation systems, manufacturing automation, and industrial control. Those who have already crossed over to this proven technology can testify to, among other things, a marked simplification in systems design and a flatter design curve, resulting in a significant reduction in overall project costs.

ST2000 Home Automation System [for persons with disabilities]

Abstract: The ST2000 Home Automation System enables a person with disabilities to control appliances with a phone, computer, or infrared remote controller. The ST2000 operates under two modes; normal and auto scan mode. In normal mode operation, the user will be able to input an appliance controlling command into their computer with the ST2000 modules controlling the appliance. In auto scan mode, appliance configuration is accomplished by the user by commanding the computer to scan the infrared code of an appliance. Once the proper code is found, the control module stops scanning, uploads and saves the correct code.

New technologies take the network home

Abstract: of the rich and technically gifted, are now considered to be one of the computer industry's hottest markets. Although home networking is still in its early stages, a number of trends have made this technology important. During the past couple of years, an increasing number of households have acquired more than one PC. To permit the users of different computers in a home to access the same files, play video games against each other, and share Internet access and peripherals, a growing number of consumers are networking their homes. And the increasing use of embedded chips in domestic appliances (as well as in security, temperature control, and other household systems) that can connect to a home network has accelerated this process. In response to this trend and the availability of a potentially lucrative untapped market, companies have developed technologies for low-cost, easy-to-use home networks. Until recently, home networking was restricted to low-speed technologies or traditional LANs, which are too difficult for most consumers to install and maintain. However, this is changing because of new, faster, easier-to-use home-networking approaches, enabled in part by more powerful and less expensive processor technology. Major vendors in the computer and consumer-electronics industries are selling home-networking products, including chips (such as stand-alone and Ethernet chips) and networking cards (such as PCI cards), that use phone, wireless, coaxial cable, and power-line technology. Meanwhile, consortiums and companies like Microsoft and Sun Micro-systems are creating architectures that will let PCs and appliances on different platforms communicate with each other over home networks. Because of these factors, said analyst Kurt Scherf with Parks Associates, a market research firm, revenues from the sale of home-networking products could grow from $10 million in 1998 to almost $200 million in 2001 to about $375 million in 2004, as Figure 1 shows. Home networks currently reach speeds of up to 10 megabits per second (Mbps) and thus are slower than corporate networks. This is the case primarily because home networks are built over phone lines and other media that are easier to maintain but of lower quality than those used in traditional LANs. However, home-networking vendors say they are working on products that will transmit at rates of up to 100 Mbps. Meanwhile, home-networking technologies should be able to link devices in all but the largest homes, since even the technology with the shortest range still works at distances of 150 feet. Home-networking analyst …

The modular gas meter and home automation

Abstract: With the introduction of competition into residential gas supply, interest in the gas meter and metering services has increased. Following an initial focus on the selling price of gas, there will be a need for gas suppliers to differentiate themselves from their competitors by value-added products and services. In metering, this has led to the concept of a 'modular meter'. This would allow a meter owner to install a base model meter and as additional metering services are required, a module can be added by a 'clip-on' attachment. There have been discussions between meter manufacturers, gas suppliers, Transco and Ofgas, to arrive at some general aspects of the requirements for a modular meter and attachments, but without conclusions on the detailed technical specification. BG Technology are promoting a situation in which the modules can interface to any type of residential meter (E6, U6), and this should provide universal access and ensure that competition is enabled for provision of any metering service.

Internet utility interconnect method

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus allowing for the monitoring and control of electrical appliance or utilities. This is achieved by using a master webserver that can communicate with remote slave nodes using a protocol for control and automation over networks of different media including wire, radio, microwave and powerlines. This Virtual Internet Link (VIL) responds to requests from the server and remotes to replicate information as though the remote node is connected to the Internet. The virtual link is used for remote information reading as well as home automation and security reflected in the master server. Remote nodes act on the Internet database information through a master/slave/exception protocol supporting automation, metering, security, e-cash transfers and Internet back-channel requests.

Interstacks end-user "scripting" for hardware

Abstract: More and more consumer and commercial products contain at least one microprocessor. While efforts to develop "device bus" standards to integrate the automation of these devices have increased the potential for large-scale interoperability, this potential will remain largely unfulfilled for some time. Interstacks is a modular hardware system that empowers even non-technical users to integrate bits of specialized hardware in order to automate and control the flow of information among electronic products. It reinterprets the notions of component architecture and end-user scripting in the domain of hardware devices.

The Future of Intelligent Building Systems

Abstract: In this book, we have introduced a variety of current technologies involving artificial intelligence being applied to modern building systems, such as HVAC systems, electrical services systems, vertical transportation systems and fire services etc. It is foreseeable that technologies will be developed rapidly in the next decade and successful implementations of them will ensure effective, reliable, robust and energy efficient building systems. In this chapter, we shall look at several advancements in related areas, including the central data management, linkage to the information superhighway, distributed intelligence, the concept of open system, human comfort based control, home automation, multi-media user interface.

Home automation system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a home automation system with which information from the information equipment of home automation can be used at an ISDN terminal SOLUTION: This system is composed of an information distribution panel 1, a doorphone 2 with TV camera, an interphone 4 with a monitor TV 3, and an ISDN terminal 5 The information distribution panel 1 is provided with a terminal adapter 7 with built-in DSU connected to an ISDN line 6, the doorphone 2 with TV camera an a doorphone adapter 8 having functions or the like for connecting the plural doorphones 2 with TV camera and repeating speaking signals, calling signals and the video signals of visitors image picked up by the TV camera or controlling power supply and digitizing/compressing the video information to send it to the terminal adapter 7 as visitor video information

Backup system during power interruption

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make it possible to secure only an early stage safety state as a minimum requirement immediately after a disaster by turning on an emergency light within a house during the emergency, and a battery is provided for each house for supplying power to turn on an emergency lamp within the house, to operate sensors for fire or the like and to connect the emergency power supply to a home automation device SOLUTION: Providing an emergency power generator for each house against power failure during emergency is impossible due to high cost, and therefore a battery T for 60 minutes available at the lowest cost is installed to a ceiling in each house as a backup system In the case of battery T, the charging capacity is small so that its use for many hours is not possible and also power supply to a large equipment is also difficult Therefore, an emergency lamp A provided in each house is turned on, a community phone B is made operative, emergency information is sent from a management room, and warning for fire or gas leak is generated from the home automation device driven by the power source stated above

Métodos de control en sistemas domóticos: últimas tendencias en sistemas distribuidos

Abstract: Control systems lie amongst the most difficult issues to be tackled when it comes to designing home automation systems. Two classical tendencies may be considered to solve this problem. The first one consists of a centralised control system, whereas the second option advocates for a distributed network, where piece would take up certain responsibilities in the control of the whole system. In this paper we analyse some of the latest developments as regards programming distributed networks, focusing on home automation, specially Java and the latest Jini environments have dramatically improved the potential of such kind of distributed systems, thanks to them, it is possible to build a heterogeneous network including devices from different brands which work in collaborative systems, thus avoiding complex configurations.

A rumination on human-centered automation world: multiagent system, human interface and people's lifestyle

Abstract: The cyberworld or cybersociety of the future is discussed with respect to: (i) its significance, (ii) the infrastructure of such a world, (iii) the plausible configurations of a cybersociety which comprises an information community of virtual schools, libraries, factories, offices, communities and homes, etc., connected via the information highway, and (iv) people's lifestyles. Then, human interfaces, virtual reality and agents are discussed as the key technologies for realizing the cybersociety. Lastly, an interface agent of a virtual collaborator is proposed as a humanized intelligent interface agent system for helping with the operation and maintenance tasks of automated plants in the future.