Overview
This DIY Zone Detection System offers a powerful, easy-to-build motion and presence detection solution. At its core, the device is designed to precisely identify when someone enters or moves within a defined area, making it ideal for smart home automation and security. The project integrates an LD2410C radar sensor with a Carenuity C3-Mini microcontroller and displays real-time information on a 0.96-inch OLED screen.
Using the Carenuity platform, users can flash the device effortlessly and set it up with custom Wi-Fi credentials. Once configured, the system automatically connects to the local network, creating an IP address that can be used for further automation. With its compact design and accurate detection, this zone detector is a perfect project for anyone looking to integrate smart sensing capabilities into their home automation systems.
The Concept and Why It MattersPresence detection has become a significant part of smart homes and industrial applications, where knowing if someone is present in a particular zone can enable efficient automation. This project brings a radar-based zone detection system to makers, allowing them to easily deploy a powerful presence detector that integrates seamlessly with other smart devices. Using radar technology, this device can detect movement with impressive accuracy, even through certain barriers. By connecting it to a Wi-Fi network, it becomes capable of working with IoT platforms and smart home applications.
Hardware OverviewThe device consists of four main components:
- LD2410C Radar Sensor: This radar module provides accurate motion and presence detection by measuring the time it takes for radar waves to bounce off moving objects.
- Carenuity C3-Mini: This ESP32-C3-based microcontroller board is used to process radar data, manage Wi-Fi connectivity, and communicate with other smart devices. Buy it here
- 0.96-inch OLED Display: The display shows real-time information on zone presence, making it easy to monitor the device’s output without needing additional software.
- Triple Adapter: This component holds the other parts together and connects them to power, making the device portable and easy to set up in various environments without the hassle of wiring.
To make the setup as user-friendly as possible, the Carenuity platform simplifies the process of flashing the device. Users can access the platform at solutions.carenuity.com and follow a step-by-step process to upload the firmware.
Once the device is flashed, an Access Point (AP) mode is created for configuration. Here’s how it works:
- Connect to AP Mode: Once flashed, the device automatically creates an AP. Connect to this network from a smartphone or computer.
- Enter Wi-Fi Credentials and Zone number: A setup page appears after connecting to the AP. Here, users can enter their Wi-Fi credentials to connect the device to the home network.
- Set Automation IP: Finally, users can enter the device's IP address they wish to automate with the radar detector. This step enables remote communication and control.
Once set up, the device starts detecting presence and motion within predefined zones.
Each time someone enters the defined zone, the OLED display updates in real-time, showing whether the zone is active and the distance to the detected object. This system's accuracy and responsiveness make it ideal for triggering actions based on proximity, such as turning on lights or heating systems, sending alerts, or activating smart home scenes.
Integrating with Smart Home SystemsWith its IP address configured, this zone detection system can be integrated with a variety of smart home platforms like Home Assistant or MQTT-based automation setups. By using the device’s IP address, users can set up rules that automatically trigger actions. For example:
- Turn on lights: Automatically turn on lights when someone enters Zone 1.
- Alert notifications: Send an alert if presence is detected in Zone 3 during specified hours.
- Activate home scenes: Trigger specific scenes or devices based on which zone is occupied.
The possibilities for customization and integration make this an excellent project for anyone interested in creating automated, responsive environments.
Final ThoughtsThis DIY Zone Detection System is a great starting point for makers interested in integrating radar technology with IoT and smart home setups. With the Carenuity C3-Mini and www.solutions.carenuity platform, flashing and configuring the device is straightforward, and users can easily connect it to a range of other devices without writing a single line of code.
From detecting presence in specific zones to automating devices based on distance, this radar-based project is a versatile addition to any smart home. The project opens the door to exploring even more advanced applications, such as enhancing security systems, optimizing energy usage, and creating interactive environments.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, this project offers both a learning experience and a practical tool to make your surroundings smarter. Happy building!
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