Demonstrations of Geo-Fencing Occupancy-Based Control in Smart and Connected Homes

Abstract

This paper analyzes the benefits of a geofencing and geolocational method for occupancy-based control in smart buildings. The research was conducted using the Google Maps Geolocation API that utilizes Wi-Fi points and cellular towers to pinpoint a phone or devices location. The location of the occupant was then compared to the testing location with a geofence radius of 5 miles to determine occupancy status of the homes. This study compared the proposed OBC method to both a non-OBC and a traditional presence sensed OBC method. In the first comparison, scenario one, the energy saving ratio was 14.75 % with an impact to zone temperature of 7.2 ºF-hr unmet degree hours during occupied times over twenty-nine days of testing. The second comparison, scenario two, had an energy saving loss ratio of 30.4 % but a zone temperature improvement of 0.76 ºF-hr unmet degree hours per day over the ten-day testing period.