RE: HA Holy Grail #1: Occupancy Detection

["Andy Laurence" <andy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

From: David Gumbrell [mailto:david.gumbrell@xxxxxxx]
> The Idratek modules I have appear to use the Panasonic Napion sensors.
I
> think you can get them as components from RS. They are pretty
sensitive, but
> siting is still important - the datasheet has all the range info. I
mount
> them over the sofa to maximise chances of retriggering. Seems to work
pretty
> well. Also have to try to avoid them getting a look through door
openings so
> you don't get triggers walking past an open door down a corridor, for
> instance.

Interesting.  Perhaps I should run some more CAT5 to better places in each
ceiling.  The floorboards are still up, and nothing has been decorated yet.
 Handy!

> Oh - and I have door switches on all doors which helps the Idratek
software
> maintain occupancy knowledge.

Useful.  I'm thinking beam breaks about 2 feet from the ground would be
ideal, as they detect when someone passes.  I think with carefully placed
PIRs, pressure sensors, and beam breaks, I could get reasonably good
occupancy detection.

> The only room I have a problem with is because I haven't put the PIR
in it's
> final resting place, so you can sit still enough for the occupancy to
> timeout. Don't forget that PIR's can't detect through glass (eg 
shower
> surrounds), but I'm not sure that's the best candidate for CCTV motion
> detection instead :-)

If (shower = on) then (bathroom = occupied)

Either that, or a pressure mat under the shower tray.

Cheers,
Andy