Human presence detection using radio irregularity in wireless networks: Human detection in energy aware residential networks

Abstract

The paper presents a human detection method applied to the intelligent device-level software platform for residential energy management. The proposed solution increases user awareness and automates the power control, with the primary goal to contribute in energy savings. Instead of using conventional presence sensors as inputs for automated power management, the proposed solution utilizes a network of wireless power outlets and monitors the variations of the signal strength indicator used for the communication between them. The radio signals used for the inter-outlets communication can be scattered, absorbed or reflected by objects in their propagation paths, such as a human body which additionally increases the variation of the signal strength indicator at the receiver. This phenomenon is known as radio irregularity, and is often considered as a shortcoming of radio networks. In this paper the idea of using radio irregularity as efficient presence detection is proposed. With regard to conventional sensors, this solution preserves the pervasiveness of smart energy and smart home systems, high level of sensorial intelligence and low installation costs.