A human detection method for residential smart energy systems based on Zigbee RSSI changes

In this article, the device-free human presence detection method based on radio signal strength variations is proposed. The method exploits the known fact that human body interferes with radio signals by causing fading and shadowing effects. Introduced irregularities in the radio propagation pattern indicate possible presence of a human. The proposed method is incorporated into the existing platform for intelligent residential energy management. As opposed to conventional solutions which utilize a complex set of sensors for human detection, the proposed approach achieves the same only by analyzing and quantifying radio signal strength variations incorporated in messages exchanged between 2.4 GHz radio transceivers. One of the key benefits of the proposed solution is the integration of the detection algorithm into the smart power outlets and smart light switches. Such an approach improves interactions in smart home systems, enables intelligent power consumption management and low installation cost.