What are the practical applications of the Internet of Things in our homes?

The Internet of Things (IoT) has made a strong impact in different areas of society and everyday life, including the homes of many families. But what is it exactly? We can define the Internet of Things as a network of physical devices, vehicles, household appliances and other embedded elements that are connected and synchronised with electronics, software and sensors. This connection means devices can be automatically managed online and very useful data can be collected to improve the user experience.

Here we present a list of applications related to automatic door systems that families can employ around the home in everyday life. We classify them as activation, control or security applications.

This area includes motion and presence sensors, which open doors when someone approaches. It is worth mentioning the DDS Hybrid Sensor, an innovative detector for automatic sliding doors. These are very useful applications for doors leading to gardens, garages or apartment block entry halls.

In recent years, new technologies and the advances they offer have encouraged the advent of automatic door control systems such as Openlinx and Manulink. Similarly, Airlinx equipment can be used to create a wireless network between doors, eliminating the need for wiring. Doors can be opened and closed using program switches and remote controls.

The desire to protect our home and family is one of the most sought-after demands placed on the Internet of Things. That is why there are some very interesting applications available that control all activity related to accesses and doors.

For example, we can use photocells to detect objects and people moving in the vicinity of a doorway. An increasing number of homes and buildings are installing access control systems; these allow only authorised persons to open doors, for instance, by entering a passcode.

There are also automatic locks that can be activated with a remote control or buzzer that sounds when someone passes through a doorway.

Nowadays many architects choose to introduce IoT technology in their projects and designs. The 21st century is strongly bound to this series of advances. It is now commonplace to find housing and apartment blocks with automatic door systems in the building’s or complex’s communal areas.

Such systems allow people to move around more easily, control entry into buildings and improve security to external threats such as thieves or persons unknown to the community.