Home automation is at times referred to as home robotics and by some as domotics. Using the latter term can result in blank stares. Yet, it is best to refer to home automation systems as either the same or as smart home systems. People recognize them by the latter term.
Within the past few years, consumers have become familiar with the term smart home Systems. They have heard the word being attached to a wide array of products, like drinks, coffee, phones, lights, computers, doors and watches, and the like.
But what really constitutes the word ‘smart’?
Trying to define the word ‘Smart’
In terms of hand-held technology, smartphones have outpaced tablets, phablets and old model cell phones in terms of calling and texting, and can do a lot more. They are sort of mobile personal computers, personal digital assistants, video players, music players, sound & video recorders, cameras and much more.
They are convenient pocket sized machines that can help people connect instantly to the internet. They can also help them access email inboxes, text messaging apps and a whole lot more.
Smart home systems – are they really smart?
In terms of making homes smart, it does however make some sense as the smart home system is no longer a catchphrase. A home security system is something that is simple and a smart home system is more comprehensive and complex than that.
As a matter of fact, smart home systems are the new big thing. Industry experts reveal that companies who are slow to recognize these systems will fall behind.
Yet, there are some consumers who are hesitant in embracing these systems because of some pitfalls in technology of smart homes. According to an expert witness Dubai UAE, if a homeowner decides to get a clean shave at the hairdresser and comes back home, only to be locked out because the smart home system doesn’t recognize him, then it can be quite a problem.
But the system is gaining traction and has experienced rapid growth. As a matter of fact, it is valued at around USD$ 80 billion and is growing at a Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 11.5%, between 2017 and 2022.
Such numbers are indeed monumental.
Factors behind the growth of smart home systems
There are multiple factors behind the rise of this multi-billion dollar technology and industry. It contains both low priced, medium priced and premium priced goods and services. With the recent push for energy efficiency becoming evident, it has been instrumental in lowering expenses associated with electrical lighting, heating systems, air conditioning etc.
Another factor leading to the rise in valuation, prominence and improvement of smart home systems is none other than the Internet of Things (IoT). This technology refers to the way devices like smartphones are connected to software, sensors and networks for collection and exchange of data.
What other products can be controlled in smart home systems?
A wide array of other home products which people take for granted can be controlled by both a phone and a tablet. Anyone that has a guest staying over might change the access code on all digital locks present. For pets, it is wise that they deploy sensors on doors so they can enter. They can change the temperature if their pets feel warm or cold by adjusting temperature remotely.
On a historic basis, devices that saved both time and labor in homes are not new. They are rather quite old i.e. kettles, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, sewing machines, refrigerators, and a wide array of electronics and appliances.
The first idea about connecting these household appliances and electronics started in the mid 70s. X10, a prototype remote control protocol, was developed by Pico Electronics of Scotland. It helped appliances and other devices become linked to one another.
Home automation and construction claims – did it ever happen?
Home automation can be a cause of construction claims. A forensic delay analysis expert reveals that installation of low quality home systems in a condominium complex in Dubai resulted in several malfunctions, which were short of a fire.
The low quality gadgets and system were officially dangerous and low quality. Hence, they could not be used again and were hence removed from the market.