X10 Community Forum
🖥️ActiveHome Pro => SDK => Third Party Add-Ons & Software => Topic started by: HA Dave on November 10, 2009, 10:39:14 AM
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This is still a bit newish and under development... but I am anxious to share this. As the regulars here know I've been using, enjoying, and sharing Bill's Voice Commander here (and at YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/suitmanIM)) for some time. I even have a BVC Fan Site (http://davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm).. as I enjoy spreading the word of what can be done with this stuff.
The control concept of BVC was inspired by the famous StarTrek computer. But recently the far less well known Eureka (cable TV series) (http://www.syfy.com/eureka/) concept of an Automated Home has captured my imagination.
I have been (successfully) working on Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) as a way to better intergrate BVC with the X10 AHP software to have a Eureka style Home centered computer controlled automation... with speech recognition as the interface. I am calling this new concept S.A.R.A. for Smart Articulate Responsive Automation. Of course... I have a S.A.R.A. YouTube Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkCDH2f_-sQ) as well as a New S.A.R.A. Web Page (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) (I've even published some Macros for Download).
I am excited about this new way of using BVC (http://wgjohns.com/bvc.htm) and expanding my HA setup. I invite all BVC users to join me in this.
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Darn you! >*<
Now that you've "outed" the S.A.R.A. concept, I guess I have to get off (or is that on) my behind and write more code! B:(
>!
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Now that you've "outed" the S.A.R.A. concept, I guess I have to get off (or is that on) my behind and write more code!
I am still progressing along. I just posted my newest addition to the SARA concept (the two motion sensor light (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=19045.msg106485)). I know (sooner or later) you will have some helpful code that will accelerate this concept along. But for now.... I am amazed with just how easily this is progressing. This S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) concept has changed my way of thinking about HOW to automate.
Today, while getting "in touch with my inner MacGuyver". I went to the hardware store for some 1 1/2 #8 screws. When I left.. the HA computer realized the home was empty and set the alarm. The home being empty... also satisfied the condition of a macro for a PR511 motion sensor. Which means even though it was daylight (the motion sensor no longer turns on lights) any uninvited guests snooping around.. would get a warning that they are being video monitored. Just like my night time video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkAwQ4KXkHA).
The cost of an insurance deductable alone... would reimburse much of (if not more than) the cost of my home security stuff.
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This S.A.R.A. project has really got me thinking. With SARA forwarding telephone calls, and setting the alarm, why not get a thermostat setback controller and have SARA adjust the heat as well?
SARA gives us a practical use for HA and moves it beyond the coolness factor to something that becomes a necessity.
Wouldn't it be neat to trigger a roomba when you're not home?
I'd love to come home from a hard day at work, have PC Companion sense the outdoor temperature and have the house light the fire and turn on my lights. Maybe even fire up my computer and have my email waiting for me.
SARA is the most innovative use for HA since BVC, and ties a lot of the third party software posted at this forum together nicely.
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This S.A.R.A. project has really got me thinking. With SARA forwarding telephone calls, and setting the alarm, why not get a thermostat setback controller and have SARA adjust the heat as well?
The set-back thermostat was part of my original list in my Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). Then S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) sorta grew out of that.
The SARA concept has been real game-changer for my HA setup.... and I wasn't actually expecting that. Even though I had played around with The Automated Chair (http://thisautomatedhouse.com/AutomatedChair.html) at one time... I hadn't seen the real advantages of Occupancy detection.
I had used a confirmation macro with BVC (http://davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) sometime ago. The simple concept is a Voice Command triggers a macro that turns ON a fake module delays for a few seconds or a minute then turns the same fake module OFF. That fake module would be the condition for another macro... and its turning ON would be heard by a BVC listener. The listener would ask (Voice Announce) for a confirmation. The confirmation: or "Yes start my computer" can THEN.. be setup in BVC as a "non command phrase required" custom command. But the phrase would only work during the short period time the fake module remains ON.
So changing that to occupancy triggered... when you return home from work (your detection + a time condition) AHP can trigger the conditional macro and then BVC ask "Knightrider, would you like your computer turned on?” You could mumble no or say nothing. Or you could say “Yes, KITT start my computer” and complete the conditional part of the macro.
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Hello everybody !!! :)+
I'm a X10 user since 2004 but I didn't come in here since 2006 and quite sadly, it's looking like that nothing evolve much :(
Except for third party software, like bill's BVC.
Getting back to the threat subject. I am very interested in Dave's project S.A.R.A. The work that Dave's done on occupancy is awesome, the first step through this new direction.
I've ordered some new equipment (USB-UIRT) and my personal first step will be to get a nice welcome when i come in the kitchen at 6 in the morning.
Here how i see it:
- motion sensor detecting me entering the kitchen
- Some light are turn on (depending of sunset, of course)
- Good morning Yves
- the temperature is at 40 and Sunny. This afternoon we will have some rain
- Your coffee has been ready for X minutes, would you like to listen to the TV or Radio
- TV please
- Want to listen to good morning America ?
- No, channel 43
I think that you got the idea :)
I like the idea of Dave to get SARA in a proactive mode instead of a reactive mode.
Looking forward to interact with you all !!!!
iV
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- motion sensor detecting me entering the kitchen
- Some light are turn on (depending of sunset, of course)
- Good morning Yves
- the temperature is at 40 and Sunny. This afternoon we will have some rain
- Your coffee has been ready for X minutes, would you like to listen to the TV or Radio
- TV please
- Want to listen to good morning America ?
- No, channel 43
I like your list!!!
I use a PR511 floodlight (the dusk/dawn setting) to turn nightlights On/Off. Actually I use a timer to turn them On/Off too. So nightlights come On at dusk... Off at a 11:59... On at 5 AM Off at dawn. The nightlights are LED's in SocketRockets.... enough light... very low cost to run.
I use an "Eye" sensor in the kicthen near the coffee... on the wifes birthday. BVC sings to her.
I use WeatherAloud for my weather info.... but it's a bit wordy. I think Tuicemen has a weather software (check here in third party software).
Turning on TV's and radios are easy with the IR. Having the computer ask.... is a great place for a confirmation macro. A conditional macro that runs for only a short period of time. Allowing a one word to act as the confirmation... I need to write more on that.
Thanks for the nice words about S.A.R.A., I really do think this is the direction for HA to follow. We really have the writters at Eureka to thank.
Tuicemen is working on a program now (I am Beta testing it as I type) called BlueWatch. It will (hopefully) detect the presence of your BlueTooth cellphone. Making OS really cheap and easy. I already have it turning off my alarm for me.
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Turning on TV's and radios are easy with the IR. Having the computer ask.... is a great place for a confirmation macro. A conditional macro that runs for only a short period of time. Allowing a one word to act as the confirmation... I need to write more on that.
I had created an Automated Chair (http://www.thisautomatedhouse.com/AutomatedChair.html) sometime ago... it's problem was seeing if an appliance was already On or Not. Who wants to asked if they would like to have a TV turned On... if it's already On.
Recently I put a power sensing "smart power strip" On the wife's PC. If senses if the "main plug" is using power and switches On (or Off) the remaining plugs. I use it to turn her monitor and printer On/Off. It could also except a powerflash unit... to tell the Home Automation PC if the device(s) are On/Off (except that device is kinda noisy).
JeffVolp is also working on an X10 sending device like that.
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Just building on Dave's thoughts........
While we realize it or not, AHP is moving forward, but not by the company -- by third party software AND hardware.
With the help of:
Dave_X10_L, Tuicemen, Jeff Volp, -Bill- (of wgjohns.com) and others (PJ GUY and his arm/disarm functionality), X10 Automation is boldly going where is never has gone before.
I therefore, proclaim my disappointment with the X10 programmers and my humble thanks to those who keep the ball rolling.
Thanks Guys! #:)
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While we realize it or not, AHP is moving forward, but not by the company -- by third party software AND hardware.
Your so right!!! Our resident Software programmers... and contributers (like yourself Knightrider) have really taken the ball and ran with it.
However there is so much... that is yet to be done. So many new technologies.. that still haven't been exploited for Home Automation use.
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Software development at no cost..... #:)
X10 have probably just one programmer left. As i was saying last time, i had played with X10 was in 2006 and 3 years later nothing has evolved on their part :'
so let's get back on the thread subject ::)
OK Dave, your making my project looks easy :)%
Turning on TVs and radios are easy with the IR. Having the computer ask.... is a great place for a confirmation macro. A conditional macro that runs for only a short period of time. Allowing a one word to act as the confirmation... I need to write more on that.
Would you send me an example of a macro that can do that, i would save a lot of time :'
Thanks.... And big time thank you to the third party developers..
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And I am now Beta testing Tuicemen's soon-to-be-released newest software. I have my cell phone automatically disarming my alarm system when I return home... and turning ON my perimeter detection system when I leave. AND MUCH MORE.
His software is apply named BlueWatch and you can read more about it here (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm). If your a AHP automater.. and a devoted cell phone user and your phone has BlueTooth... this can be an easy way into Occupany Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm).
Seeing this software work was a real WOO HOO moment for me. Now without me DOING anthing.. my home (HA PC) knows where I am at (or not at) and can act accordingly. This is cool stuff! This software is certain to be part of my SARA (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) project.
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Guess it's time to upgrade to a bluetooth phone. I'm so in the dark ages!
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There are some BlueTooth mp3 players out there like the Motorola Sound Pilot (http://store.optussolutions.com.au/bluetooth/motorola-sound-pilot-s705-bluetooth-stereo-headset-and-controller.html)(I've seen them cheeper), should work as well!
Any BlueTooth device that sends a steady discovery code will work even a BlueTooth enabled Notebook if it is on!
>!
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Guess it's time to upgrade to a bluetooth phone. I'm so in the dark ages!
If you don't upgrade for the Home Automation (like that isn't a good enough reason) upgrade for safety's sake. Lets face it... I rarely need my cell phone when eating dinner (that is when salespeople call). I receive most cell calls when driving my car. A BlueTooth (handsfree) device can make that much safer.
BTW... I have a BlueWatch Video posted (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdO5HacbMdg) at YouTube now!
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BTW... I have a BlueWatch Video posted (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdO5HacbMdg) at YouTube now!
Well I had to do a little camera wiring and configuring... and I now switch security camera video off/on using a Universal Module. This allows me to use Tuicemen's new software product (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) BlueWatch. The BlueTooth dongle had generated interference with my wireless cameras. That was a small problem... and was easily resolved.
As the way for my Home Automation Computer to tell if I am home.. or not. BlueWatch replaced the KeyHolder (http://davesdomainonline.com/images/os/kh2.jpg) I have been using.. so now Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm) is "hands free" at my house.
But then I realized that since I mow my lawn with the cell phone... in my pocket. I would be out-of-range of the dongle... and the HA PC would think I wasn't home. The extra outside security would then treat me as a tresspasser. I would be warned (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkAwQ4KXkHA) (by Kate 16.. the computer voice) then video taped and images emailed to me. So I've reinserted the KeyHolder into the Home Automation matrix. Sorta as if it's an additional person. This allows me to change occupancy settings by hanging a set of keys on the holder. That way the HA PC doesn't see the house as empty (if keys are hung on the holder). Yet.. the computer also doesn't see me... as being in the home.
Now... I need to add the mercury switch to the automated chair (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7szRtNQIxo4) so it can tell when I've sat down... even before I raise the footrest. Then add a power sensor to the TV.......
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But then I realized that since I mow my lawn with the cell phone... in my pocket. I would be out-of-range of the dongle... and the HA PC would think I wasn't home.
Dave, I had read the other day about a long range bluetooth adapter http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/ (http://the-gadgeteer.com/2007/09/03/aircable_host_xr_long_range_bluetooth_dongle/). It claimed that it had a range of just over a half a mile, but as I read the review on this, the person doing the review said that with his computer being in the basement, he was only able to get 75 - 80 feet of range out of it. I don't know how big your yard is, but 75 - 80 feet would cover most of my yard. If you wanted more range, I am sure you could get the unit to an upper area of the house and get quite a bit further. 75 - 80 feet of range would be nice too for sensing the cars more towards the end of the driveway as I drove in, thus opening my garage door sooner and starting my "Dan is home" macro.
Looking at AirCable's website, the Host XR2 device http://www.aircable.net/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=32 (http://www.aircable.net/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=32) sells for $129.00. This looks like an upgraded model too from the one in the gadgeteer review and has a greater distance (30 km [18.6 miles] with the right antenna and placement). Heck for that kind of range I would have to leave town before the system thought I was not home rofl. Anyways, even though a bit pricey, I may try one out as I think it will solve all my range issues with my bluetooth setup.
It might be a little while before I get one, but when I do I'll post my results. >!
Dan B.
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.......... It might be a little while before I get one, but when I do I'll post my results.
I will be looking forward to that... and ANY posts or updates on this subject Dan (dbemowsk).
We are at the cutting edge of this technology... and yet there is no bleeding. I have often referred to my early adaptions as bleeding edge... in reference to BLEEDING MONEY.. due to the costs of being early with new technology. But SARA (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara) is a huge benefit without the big expense.
When I bought BVC (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) the only other Voice Controlled Systems (HAL & HomeSeer) was (and still are) VERY expense. A microphone setup cost a fortune as well back then before we discovered intercoms (thanks glt) and baby monitors. My Voice Control (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) uses an old saved from the trash P3, $17 baby monitors, and a $30 donation to BVC (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm).
Now with a $10 BlueTooth Dongle and a small donation for BlueWatch (http://davesdomainonline.com/bluewatch/bw.htm) we can have true Occupancy Sensing (http://davesdomainonline.com/os/sensing.htm). These two softwares are technology exploitation at its best.
Now all we need are, users (like us) to use our own imaginations to really put this technology to use. I am doing all I can to promote this advancement.
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I was thinking last night after I posted that for the $129.00 I may cash in the old change bucket. I should more than be able to cover the cost and maybe even get me a few of those XPT switches I have been drooling over(http://www.upcominghorrormovies.com/uhm/images/smilies/drooling2.gif) for the past few days. So I may be getting this sooner that I had originally planned.
As mentioned, I will keep you all posted with the results.
Dan B.
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I was thinking last night after I posted that for the $129.00 I may cash in the old change bucket.
You may want to think about a simple dongle antenna mod. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oExS4g4VNk&feature=related
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I just added a new feature... to my S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara) setup.
I want SARA to sense my needs.. and ask.. or suggest automation services that can be provided. As an example... when I sit down in my chair with my coffee in the morning SARA should ask me if I would like a weather update, or the TV or radio turned ON. But I don't want SARA asking me if I want a TV or radio on... if its already on.
I just purchased a TV trickle saver (From SmartHome) (http://www.smarthome.com/9782/TV-TrickleSaver-Energy-Saver/p.aspx). This device allowed me to setup TV status monitoring... with off-the-shelf devices.
Using BVC (Bill's Voice Commander) (http://www.davesdomainonline.com/bvc/bvc.htm) allows me to Voice Command (or reply to the computers suggestions) by just speaking. The USB-UIRT allows the HA computer to control IR devices.. like the TV. And now with the new (currently beta testing) BVC feature (http://forums.x10.com/index.php?topic=15753.msg109516#msg109516) I won't need to use a command phrase when replying to SARA requests... I will be able to accept automation suggestions with conversational replies.
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Well the S.A.R.A. project may be getting a big boost soon. :'
Imagine being able to do some of the things you guys have been talking about and not wasting X10 HC UC to do it
How cool would it be to have all your HA software talking to each other whether on the same machine or on another machine at the other end of the house.
There are already projects like this .
I wish I'd found them earlier (may have saved me some time and hair pulling) but then it may have discouraged me. ::) :'
Many programs have networking built in but don't talk to other programs like the AXP (http://www.xapautomation.org/index.php?title=xAP_Home_Automation_protocol) or XPL projects (http://xplproject.org.uk/)
I started on a simular project while chatting about how to interface with BVC last winter @ HAC (http://bdshost.com/ac/) with -Bill- (of wgjohns.com).
I'm now starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel! rofl
Question: Is this worth continuing considering the other projects out there now?
I only hope BVC will get code added to interface with other programs in this manner? :'
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Well the S.A.R.A. project may be getting a big boost soon...........
.................Question: Is this worth continuing considering the other projects out there now?
I only hope BVC will get code added to interface with other programs in this manner? :'
I had really hoped my work [S.A.R.A.] would be more inspirational than developmental. Since I can't write code but truly feel that... real automation is computer control. And that always meant software development. I always hoped code writers and users would turn new ideas into new software.
But I am not really sure what the numbers are.. as in how many users actually want a Sarah style of home control. Knightrider and myself may be the bulk of the market that wants that level of computerized control.
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But I am not really sure what the numbers are.. as in how many users actually want a Sarah style of home control. Knightrider and myself may be the bulk of the market that wants that level of computerized control.
Well with the number of users BVC and PCC have I would doubt that.
In any case I think I may have one more programer on board even though I'm in the final testing for the next release of PCC.
>!
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.... Well with the number of users BVC and PCC have I would doubt that.
Well that makes me feel better! I really love this automation stuff!
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Well if users don't start requesting (demanding) stuff from a programs Author then maybe it will be our grand kids that will see our visions materialize
User will move on if a program can't deliver.
And if they want something bad enough they make it themselves.
There is a whole mess of open source stuff out there that can be implemented none of which I have got to yet. ::) :' and may never! :'(
Two get things done faster then one. the more on board the faster things will happen!
Contact the authors of your favorite third party X10 software and tell them to get on the band wagon or you'll support someone who will!
>!
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OK one step closer to total S.A.R.A. rofl
PCC BlueWatch and AlertDialer Plus (ADP) now have the client code inside.
Besides each being able to speak what the others send they can request info from each as well.
PCC can see who is home from BlueWatch
ADP Can get new email messages from PCC
And BlueWatch can get reminders from PCC
I believe there are a total of 6 commands selectable from each so far.
Oh And now I don't have a cold dinner, with the chat/page button my wife can call me for dinner! rofl
>!
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OK one step closer to total S.A.R.A. rofl
It is the software that will make S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) a reality.
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The cool part of this is, if one program gets updated with new commands to act on I don't need to update them all.
This makes it even easier for other programers to add their programs into the X10Relayer network!
The end user can simple add the command to the NetCommands.txt and the other programs are ready to send those commands.
Thus the end to multi program updates! rofl
>!
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all this talk about "interconnecting" HA software is a great idea.
it would make it easier to get things to interface and work together.
It would be great to see Bluewatch - as the main bluetooth module of HA - to be able to have the ability to connect a BT microphone in to the PC and therefore into BVC.
I am also planning to look at using an android tablet as control touch screens.
If they can be linked into the HA PC via the WIFI - we may be able to use the built in camera and microphone in the tablet as well.
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all this talk about "interconnecting" HA software is a great idea.
it would make it easier to get things to interface and work together.
It would be great to see Bluewatch - as the main bluetooth module of HA - to be able to have the ability to connect a BT microphone in to the PC and therefore into BVC.
I've been playing with this idea for sometime using the pairing option in BlueWatch.
BlueWatch will detect a headset when it comes back into range.
Since I now have Windows 7 64 bit I decided to revisit this.
It just took me a while to find my dongle rofl
Windows 7 will auto switch to the headset when it comes into range and you can hear any windows sound.
The microphone part also works although it is difficult to set up.
and both the speakers and the head set can produce sound at the same time :)% something XP couldn't do!
The big issue is BVC doesn't see a microphone when the BT dongle goes out of range then comes back in.
I don't think it is so much a BVC problem as a Windows one as I noticed the volume on the dongle reset to 0 B:(
If it was just a restart of BVC that would fix it, BlueWatch could trigger it!
but I tested that theory too! B:(
So the stumbling block is not to get the headset reactivated! At least not with Windows 7 :)%
>!
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OK one step closer to total S.A.R.A. rofl
It is the software that will make S.A.R.A. (http://davesdomainonline.com/sara/sara.htm) a reality.
nerd-nasium??? :)
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nerd-nasium??? :)
Well if a gym-nasium is filled with gym equipment.... then it would make sense.. that if you fill a room with nerd equipment is would then be a nerd-nasium.
It used to be called my office. But since I no-longer have a job... having an office seems like over-kill.
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made me laugh out loud when you said it
:D
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Since I discovered the WSR Macros I've been playing more with Voice as is evident if you frequent my forum.
I dug out my Motorola S705 SoundPilot! (http://sg.motorola.com/communicasia/products/S705%20SoundPilot%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf)Man very cool! I had filed it away because I couldn't get it working just right with XP but in Windows 7, WOW.
It's like those Microsoft commercials! Windows 7 my idea!
The SoundPilot is the closest thing to the Star Trek badge I've seen, and it works!
Also this device is class one so it works all over my yard, mind you I have a small yard! rofl
It doesn't continually send the discover command but I can still configure it in BlueWatch using the pairing ping option.
>!
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I dug out my SoundPilot today and wore it while I took the dog for a walk!
The range isn't close to the 300 feet a class1 device should have but more then I need. The PC lost its signal about 3 houses away!
It reconnected about 1 &1/2 houses away! :)%
I have a security motion sensor on my front porch which I use to trigger a Sound macro telling me someone is there.
This triggered when I exited as I heard it in the sound pilot ear buds it also triggered again when I got home. :)%
I actualy had ment to test this out earlier but always got sidetracked! ::) :'
Seeing how this all worked without the use of BlueWatch or BVC I now have a new project for tomorrows dog walk! rofl
For thouse interested I'll start a BlueWatch with BVC (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=62.0) thread in my forum so I can keep you updated!
>!
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Live long and prosper Tuice !! :)
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rofl
Thanks Troll334! ........I think! ::) :'
>!
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I thought I'd check out what was new for Class 1 Bluetooth since I'm convinced this is the way to go.
Not much new, but the prices have come down! (http://tuicemen.com/forum/index.php?topic=57.msg152#msg152)
So much infact that it makes no sense for anyone to use a class 2 headset anymore!
OK, so you may not like the look of these things stuck in your ear. ::) :'
But experiments with the old class2 headset proved you could use it stuck on a shirt pocket!
>!
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Many of you know I've been playing with a wifi version of BlueWatch.
I was reluctant in making this as there was other software out there that could monitor your network devices.
However many requested this version. ??? ::) :'
Does it work as well or better then the Bluetooth version?
It certainly doesn't have any more or less options (yet).
If this indeed works for users then S.A.R.A. lives! rofl
>!
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Many have been looking for a mobile BVC or PCC well it is here in T.A.C.
Androids don't display animated gif pics with out some added coding
Sure you can view them on the net but that is utilizing html and it is the browser that displays them.
I've come up with away to have those facesets that we all love work on an android. :)%
Another issue is the native google voice engine doesn't support Viceme which enables lip syncing to TTS events.
After some playing arround with some pics, and timmer code I was able to create a work arround which fools the eye.
Does T.A.C. have your favorite faceset? Maybe, it comes with nicole, max, Operator & Operator2.
It's like having a mobile BVC and PCC combined in one device as voice recognition is possible even on the limited AirPads.
With the price of android tablets below $100 some close to $50 brand new, multiple users can now use voice to control there HA systems.
If your not into Voice Recognition these tablets make a nice touch screen add to your HA systems.
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What happened with this thread, was interested in reading more and seeing what was going on with S.A.R.A and all this new cool HA integration of multiple software and what everyone was working on recently but it seems that almost half a year+ has gone by and no update here.
Is there another thread or forum with more up to date info, i noticed dave's site links to S.A.R.A do not work any more nor does any other site link or youtube video he has posted all have been taken down, what happened?
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With X10 having trouble getting modules produced many seen it as a dead end street to be working on projects using X10.
I myself was blasted for continually developing software which used discontinued X10 modules.
With the reintroduction of some of the modules users may start to experiment again.
Maybe some developers will also come back to coding their software which use it. ::) :'
I'm sure Dave will Jump in with an explanation for the links.
As for other threads, many ideas posted in other threads could be Incorporated into S.A.R.A.
However many users don't look at older threads and good ones like this get buried.
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What happened with this thread, was interested in reading more and seeing what was going on with S.A.R.A and all this new cool HA integration of multiple software and what everyone was working on recently
I am so sorry.... I had no idea at the time that Home Automation might not be a continual progression. It seems... that at least for now... X10 HA isn't progressing as I had hoped.
I closed down my BVC fan Site [davesdomainonline] and also removed most of the Home Automation videos I had uploaded as well. I did this because BVC [Bill's Voice Commander] is currently not being updated. And... I felt it might be wrong for me to continue to advocate for the software. Even though BVC remains at the heart of my system... without an interface... everything falls apart. So... for me... X10 and S.A.R.A. are on hold... waiting to see how everything develops.
I still live with very futuristic home automation. I purchased an Android tablet with hopes of integrating my X10 thought it.... but I couldn't get that to work. But I have found a few things tablets are good at. So... other than a security camera upgrade I haven't had a new HA project in some time. I am currently installing another Home Theater for someone else... so I am keeping up with the technologies. PLUS I continue to read here at the forum.
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So... for me... X10 and S.A.R.A. are on hold... waiting to see how everything develops.
That is sad to hear.
I'm sure a lot of users have and would try to implement your ideas with their interfaces (what ever they maybe)
Creative Ideas/projects always lead to new developments even if done with obsolete equipment.
Just be cause someone uses X10 in S.A.R.A. doesn't mean one of the other protocols couldn't be used.
Also there are other voice programs that one could use while waiting for a BVC update.(many already are)
Please reconsider waiting on developments.
When you say you couldn't get your Android tablet to work (intergrating your X10) what were you hoping to do?
What did you try that didn't work?
Was it the apps you tried that didn't work as expected?
True the Android OS has some limitations but it is a relatively new OS.
Sharing failures is just as important as sharing successes we learn from both.
>!
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Question for HA DAVE: I believe that you were having problems trying to use BVC on a Win 7 64 bit pc. I am aware of a minor problem, but can you explain what the main show stopper is ?
Thanks, spval
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Question for HA DAVE: I believe that you were having problems trying to use BVC on a Win 7 64 bit pc. I am aware of a minor problem, but can you explain what the main show stopper is ?
Thanks, spval
I was a long time BVC user as well and I can shine a little light on this for ya. The main issue with windows 7 and BVC is that win7 increased teh VR capabilities which made BVC and the computer clash Win 7 can't tell if you are talking to the computer or BVC
Simple example: the default attention phrase in BVC is computer, in win7 BVC would respond tp it but the pomputer would also open the computer window so depending on your commands by the time you got back to your pc there would be multiple windows open
>! Ken
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Thanks Ken. I just tried BVC and I see that you have to do a "start listening" and yes, there are now two dialogues going on. If you got past this problem and you had all of the functions, minus the facesets and a particular voice engine, would it work for you ?
spval
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Thanks Ken. I just tried BVC and I see that you have to do a "start listening" and yes, there are now two dialogues going on. If you got past this problem and you had all of the functions, minus the facesets and a particular voice engine, would it work for you ?
Yes the Visa/Win7 problem could be "coded out".... but Bill (Bill is the creator and owner of BVC) seems to have lost interest in updating BVC. Bill had originally turned much of his attention to tablets. But then changes at/with his employer seems to have consumed any spare time he had previously had.
If you already own BVC it still works great on the old XP operating systems... which is what I use. I even have a couple backup XP PC's. There is also another [free] software that I hear does work well with Vista and Seven. Search (or maybe someone could add a link) for ihouse.
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Thanks for the reply, Dave. I was actually wondering if (once getting past the Win 7 problems) the main attraction with BVC was the interfacing experience with the faceset and the audio responses. I am the person that provided a link on Bill's forum to a similar program that I wrote in visual basic in early August. Since I received no responses, I deleted the info and realized that the forum is basically inactive. The program that I use (not the one I was referring to) is pretty much a monitoring tool of the MS16A sensors placed around the house. I have all of my rooms laid out, as well as the yards. When the sensor trips, I have that area blink red on and off until I receive the Off command. I don't really use voice recognition, but I have a checkbox to toggle it on and off if I want to say some phrases to execute whatever. All this stuff is pretty easy to program-just time consuming. One of the items that I couldn't figure out how to do was to monitor the mic input level like Bill has done. If you guys ever want some source code written in VB Express 2010 to play with, I'll be glad to post a link to it.
- spval
Here is a picture of the program that I use: http://www.riverwalk-hoa.com/Capture2.PNG
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Thanks for the reply, Dave. I was actually wondering if (once getting past the Win 7 problems) the main attraction with BVC was the interfacing experience with the faceset and the audio responses.
My Home Automation Computer is in my basement... the monitor is off and I rarely look at the PC. I don't issue many commands at all... ether by voice or push button. The automation... just runs.
I love the voice... or should I say... the information I get from the setup [via voice]. It was my hope to increase the interaction with the PC control [and the voice] using S.A.R.A.. The idea was to use programing to cause the software to look for command opportunities and then the computer/BVC/voice would ask if I would like this or that. An example would be... a reminder when a favorite TV program came on the TV.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBk0O__WT2o (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBk0O__WT2o)
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I love your imagination, Dave. Enjoyed the video. The DS-10As are great for implementing lots of ideas. I use one as a water sensor. After watching your video, my imagination upped the ante to The Stepford Wives (lol). I am going to look into what is available for receiving favorite tv program alerts, whether that would have to be written from scratch or just use an existing program that something like BVC could get the info from. Thanks for your ideas.
- spval
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If anyone is interested in getting their feet wet with Visual Basic and the CM15A,
I just created a real basic vb project: http://www.riverwalk-hoa.com/cm15a test.zip
Very little code and you will see where you put your own housecode/device number in. An "On" condition will start the "Front Porch Sensor" to blink until the CM15a receives an "Off". Hopefully, you have the AHSDK installed because you need to "reference" the ahscript.dll
Visual Basic 2010 Express is free and can be downloaded here: http://www.microsoft.com/visualstudio/en-us/products/2010-editions/express
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I love your imagination, Dave. Enjoyed the video. The DS-10As are great for implementing lots of ideas. I use one as a water sensor. After watching your video, my imagination upped the ante to The Stepford Wives (lol). I am going to look into what is available for receiving favorite tv program alerts, whether that would have to be written from scratch or just use an existing program that something like BVC could get the info from. Thanks for your ideas.
- spval
I use a small transformer unit plugged into the cable boxes power on plug attached to a universal module. So turning on the TV also signals the Home Automation PC (via the CM15A).
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As I mentioned before users need to communicate with software developers.
Let them know what your after or need so they're software better suits your needs.
There have been a few examples of this working.
KENRADs communication with Nitrogen Logic on the Kinect implementation led to code created to enable it to send commandline arguments to other software. (the other software needed to be able to accept commandline commands).
ihouse has gotten expanded zwave functions and is able to comunicate with other programs
I've implemented VR into PCC (something I said I wouldn't do ::) :' )to enable users with newer Windows versions to have voice activation.
TAC now has a Security Screen which displays a touch pad.
For those that follow my posts on My forum (http://Tuicemen.com/forum) know the developement progress of my programs.
PCC and TAC have gotten the most work lately as I continue to improve the intergrations.
However the BlueWatch programs (currently in testing) are also being worked on to improve occupancy sensing by intergrating with a tablet running the TAC security screen.
I've had requests to add other features to some programs that I can't follow up on as yet as hardware limitations prevent this.
I haven't ruled out the additions of these and continue to look into them.
Users here continue to impress me with how software (not just mine) has been implemented!
Some things I thought were possible only in the future are now a reality.
Dave Don't Stop working on this!
It has truely inspired me to continue coding to improve the HA experiance.
>!
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Dave,
I would definitely second that it was your idea with The S.A.R.A idea that led me to start looking for ways to make my house more intelligent. I have been a heavy user of Tuicemens software for a few years now as well as Ihouse. I started with bluewatch WIFI as a simple way to allow me to let the Ha system know if I was home or not, but then as you started looking into S.A.R.A I began to think more and more on how I could make the house more interactive with me and my family. Of course this led to a Google search where I found some information about nitrogen logic and a controller that connects to a microsoft kinect and can detect occupancy in the room based on zones. I contacted the developer of the nitrogen logic controller and started talking with him about how to get his controller to communicate with Ihouse and PCC. he developed a small program that could send a command line argument so not the nitrogen logic controller can communicate with and program that accepts command lines. The kinect controller has the ability to trigger zones based on many different parameters. ( occupancy of the zone, surface area of the zone, pixel population of the zone, as well as the center of gravity for the zones based on x,y,z parameters, and brightness). some of the things that it allows me to do is sense the brightness in the room and only trigger the lights if the light in the room is below the selected light level, when I sit at my desk and the lightlevel is acceptable it will turn on my desk light no matter what the light level is it will use PCC to check my emails and read them to me. when I get up and leave the light goes out. also in the same room when I enter the ceiling fan comes on if the lightlevel is appropriate. there are two desks in this room so when my girl friend sits at her desk the lamp on her desk comes on of course based on room light again.
There is a second controller in my bedroom that allow me to again turn on the ceiling light when I enter the room and off when I leave, then I created a zone near my closet that when triggered will read my agenda and emails only between as set time frame in the morning, the I created 3 more zones two of them just set flags in ihouse that let the Ha PC know if me or my girlfriend are in bed, so that the kinect can't trigger the lights when someone is sleeping and it also disables the next zone I will discuss. The last zone triggers a macro that will turn off the ceiling light and turn on whe wall sconces on each side of my bed when I get into bed, then with a AHK script developed by ITguy (the qmacro script found at the Ihouse forum) it will turn off the sconces and say good nite two minutes later ( this macro is disabled if either of hte bed zones are occupied and only runs during a set time frame so it is not triggered whe it is not bed time.
One other thing that I have been experimenting with is a zone that scans the floors in the kids bedroom, when the surface area exceeds a preset threshold it will announce for hte kids to clean their rooms because of the mess on the floor rofl This is working approximately 70% at this time. I think that there are many more possibilities for this controller and I have just broken the Ice.
I will be posting results and links to you tube videos at the ihouse and Tuicemen forum as well as sample macros that I am running with Ihouse and PCC and how I use them.
Hope more individuals can see the functionality that this adds to HA
>! Ken
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I am totally impressed with the work that is being done with HA.
I haven't stopped working on my setup... I have made recent changes and improvements. Admittedly... problems with X10's supply chain and the stoppage of BVC support was very disheartening. I really like the idea of interfacing with the HA PC... using the Kinect! That's awesome. Have you been able to tap into the face recognition part of Kinect? Have you tried using gestures as means of control.... like maybe the shush gesture to mute the TV?
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I am totally impressed with the work that is being done with HA.
I haven't stopped working on my setup... I have made recent changes and improvements. Admittedly... problems with X10's supply chain and the stoppage of BVC support was very disheartening. I really like the idea of interfacing with the HA PC... using the Kinect! That's awesome. Have you been able to tap into the face recognition part of Kinect? Have you tried using gestures as means of control.... like maybe the shush gesture to mute the TV?
Dave, at this time, the controllers that nitrogen logic is developing don't allow for facial recognition or gesture control they basically setup zones that will trigger a command line argument, this argument can trigger any program that will accept them. For instance when I sit at my desk the zone triggers three arguments. The first to I house to turn on the lamp, the second and third goto PCC, The forst one to PCC sends a IR command with the USBuirt to turn on the TV that I use for a monitor. The second triggers a command that checks my emails.
I think that the facial recognition and gesture controls are awesome stuff and I would like to see them added as well. I have been trying to encourage Tuicemen to look into Kinect stuff a little and who knows maybe it will happen. If you find any new info or software using the Kinect please share it. I am hoping to integrate it as a huge part of my automation system.
>! Ken
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........ If you find any new info or software using the Kinect please share it. I am hoping to integrate it as a huge part of my automation system.
>! Ken
I will happily share any info or even ideas I have.... but unfortunately... I have no coding skills. You are doing great work with the Kinect interface. I think the Home Automation possibilities for the Kinect are near limitless.
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I agree with you 100% Dave.
I have no coding abilities either this all came around with the developer from nitrogen logic creating software at my request to interfact with Ihouse and PCC as well as Tuicemens input and a few AHK scripts supplied by ITGUY
even without coding skills, even you thoughts and imagination to give me directions to go that might spark other developers and HA enthusiasts like ourselves. It was alot of your ideas that started me down this path, like S.A.R.A and the automated recliner. I used the automated recliner idea for a long time and just recently retired it because e kinects but it was an awesome idea it is thoughts like that that keep this thing moving.
One of my next ideas it to look at a way to implement the kinect for my garage to open and close doors and also let me know the presence in the garage. even you garage reminder macro was an awesome idea that I am still using. I have even expanded on it to sound reminders with PCC if the heat or air conditioning is running and a window or door is left open. these were awesome ideas keep them coming.
>! Ken
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even without coding skills, even you thoughts and imagination to give me directions to go that might spark other developers and HA enthusiasts like ourselves. It was alot of your ideas that started me down this path, like S.A.R.A ...
I can't agree more.
Dave it was your continued ideas and wishes that inspired the BlueWatch programs which many still use today.
It was also your wishes for a remote BVC app that inspired the creation of TAC
Even your weather report ideas inspired code in PCC and the creation of the X10weather watch plug-in.
Your S.A.R.A. project continues my drive to improve PCC
I'm not saying your were my sole motivation as there were and continue to be others (to many to list) but you and others like you have and continue to motivate (not just my) software development!
Keep the ideas coming! ;)
>!
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.... you and others like you have and continue to motivate (not just my) software development!
Keep the ideas coming! ;)
>!
Thanks!
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I've never been a big user of voice recognition in my automation setup it was nice to have but I found I was always using other methods for input.
The other day I had a chance to load some Voice Recognition software to Windows 8 on a laptop.
Being a laptop and not having an external mic I wasn't expecting much. ::) :'
:'Wow was I wrong. :o
Using the built in mic my commands were never missed, never did I have to repeat myself(something I wasn't use to).
The stock Voices, 3 in total also rock.
There are some things I don't like about Windows 8 but for Voice recognition and TTS response this OS blew me away.
Looks Like I'll need to upgrade my HA PC to Windows 8.
Now I know a good piece of Voice recognition software will make a difference but this wasn't high end software.
I don't like to think the software was low end either(I made it).
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I've been playing with the new Wi-Fi enabled LED lights from EasyBulb (MiLight) lately and finally have some working code to control both the RGB and White LEDs.
These bulbs work similar to the Philips Hue though I doubt the same Wi-Fi code will work with them.
Although this will be come a option in PcCompanion it is currently only available in the SG version(currently in testing)
I however have thrown together a simple Windows app that will send all on/all off signals.
It is set to use the default setting of the required Wi-Fi controller
You can change the IP and port however the settings will not be saved as this is intended only as a sample app.
Sample (http://tuicemen.com/downloads/LED_Sender.zip)
>!