Home automation and security for mobile devices

Abstract

As mobile devices continue to grow in popularity and functionality, the demand for advanced ubiquitous mobile applications in our daily lives also increases. This paper deals with the design and implementation of HASec, a Home Automation and Security system for mobile devices, that leverages mobile technology to provide essential security to our homes and associated control operations. In particular, with the help of mobile devices, HASec operates and controls motion detectors and video cameras for remote sensing and surveillance, streams live video and records it for future playback, and finally manages operations on home appliances, such as turning ON/OFF a television or microwave or altering the intensity of lighting around the house. The proposed home security solution hinges on our novel integration of cameras and motion detectors into a mobile application. For instance, when motion is detected, the cameras automatically initiate recording and the iOS device alerts the homeowner of the possible intrusion. HASec has two main components interacting with each other: the iOS application that executes on the mobile device and server-side scripts that run in a cloud. Although HA-Sec is implemented for Apple's iOS devices such as iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad, it can be easily ported to other mobile platforms. Furthermore, our application is not only limited to smart-phones but also can be used by feature phones through their browsers.