Hack Turns Microsoft Kinect into DIY Automation

Have a look at the video below, it shows a Microsoft Kinect controlling a DIY automation systems. The developer Mike says the prototype system tracks him as he moves around his home and turns the lights on or off as needed and even dims the lights when he sits down to watch a move.

With the SDK for Kinect coming soon I think the possibility for home automation are really interesting, if your system can track you around your home and also knows who is in the home it opens up a lot of scenarios

You can read more on Mike’s Blog

The Kinect sensor is placed in the corner to have as wide a view as possible.  A libfreenect-based application on the automation system monitors my location in the room, using a set of simple rules to determine what action to take based on where I am.  For example, the system can turn the lights on and off as I move around my apartment, impressing friends and saving electricity.

When I’m sitting at my desk, only the lights by my desk remain lit.  When I move around the room, all the lights are lit so I can easily see where I am going.  The lights automatically dim if I sit down for a movie and turn back on if I stand up to grab a snack.  Finally, the lights automatically turn on when I enter my apartment and turn off when I leave.

via CE Pro