Driveway Lights Activation on Approach

S.C.O.R.E. → Convenience → Device Control

Overview

This capability automatically illuminates exterior lights as residents approach their home, enhancing safety and convenience. It provides a welcoming atmosphere while allowing homeowners to navigate their property easily in low-light conditions.

Benefits

• Improved safety when arriving home at night.
• Enhanced curb appeal with well-lit pathways.
• Convenient hands-free operation without needing to switch lights manually.

Intent

The purpose of this capability is to automatically activate driveway lights when residents near their home, ensuring visibility and security. The outcome is a safer and more inviting entryway as individuals approach their property.

Preconditions

• Installed exterior lights compatible with Home Assistant.
• Presence detection system set up (e.g., motion sensors or geo-fencing).
• Home Assistant installed and configured.
• Integration available and authenticated: Zigbee2MQTT.
• Device installed and reachable: WLED Light Controller.

Actors

• Homeowner arriving home
• Family members returning from outings
• Guests visiting the property

Trigger

The capability is triggered by the presence detection system, either through motion sensors detecting movement or a mobile device’s location indicating proximity to the home.

Workflow Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Presence Detected] -->|check| B{{Is the time after sunset?}}
    B -->|Yes| C[Turn on driveway lights]
    C --> D[Lights illuminate pathway]
    B -->|No| E[Exit without action]

Workflow Description

1. Detect Presence

The system detects the presence of an individual approaching the home via motion sensors or GPS data from a mobile device.

2. Check Time of Day

The system verifies if the current time is after sunset to determine if lights should be activated.

3. Activate Lights

If the conditions are met, the driveway lights are turned on, illuminating the approach.

4. Monitor Status

The system continues to monitor the presence until the individual has safely entered the home.

5. Turn Off Lights (if applicable)

After a set duration or upon confirming that the individual is inside, the lights can be turned off automatically.

Postconditions

The driveway lights remain illuminated as long as a resident is approaching, ensuring a clear and safe path before turning off after a designated time.

Optional Enhancements

• Integrate with a smart doorbell to provide additional notifications when guests arrive.
• Customize light brightness based on the time of day or remaining daylight.
• Enable remote control of the lights via a smartphone app for manual activation.

Recommended Components

Source Examples

• Home Assistant (platform)