Elevator Status Monitoring with Binary Sensors

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

Overview

HVV Departures implemented binary sensors to provide real-time updates on elevator statuses, addressing the common issue of uncertainty regarding elevator availability. This capability enhances convenience for residents and visitors by eliminating guesswork about elevator usage.

Benefits

• Provides real-time elevator availability updates, reducing wait times.
• Increases accessibility for family members and guests, especially those with mobility challenges.
• Enhances overall convenience and efficiency in building navigation.

Intent

The purpose of this capability is to monitor and display the status of elevators using binary sensors. By doing so, it allows users to make informed decisions about their movements within the building, ultimately improving their experience.

Preconditions

• Binary sensors installed on elevator doors to detect open/closed status.
• Integration with home capability platform like Home Assistant.
• Home Assistant installed and configured.
• Integration available and authenticated: Zigbee2MQTT.
• Device installed and reachable: Temperature Sensors.

Actors

• Homeowner checking elevator status before leaving home
• Family member deciding whether to wait for an elevator
• Guest navigating the building amenities

Trigger

The capability is triggered by changes in the binary sensor readings, indicating whether the elevator door is open or closed.

Workflow Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Sensor Reading Changes] -->|check| B{{Is Elevator Open?}}
    B -->|Yes| C[Display Elevator Open Status]
    C --> D[User Informed]
    B -->|No| E[Display Elevator Closed Status]

Workflow Description

1. Sensor Activation

The binary sensor detects a change in the elevator door status, indicating whether it is open or closed.

2. Status Evaluation

The system evaluates the sensor reading to determine the current status of the elevator.

3. Display Status

The system updates the user interface to reflect the current elevator status, either open or closed.

4. User Notification

Users are notified of the elevator status through visual indicators, such as a notification on a dashboard.

5. User Action

Users can then decide to wait for the elevator or take an alternative route based on the displayed status.

Postconditions

The user is informed of the elevator status, enabling informed decisions about their movement within the building.

Optional Enhancements

• Integrate with voice assistants for hands-free status inquiries.
• Add a notification system for alerts on elevator malfunctions or maintenance.
• Implement a mobile app feature for remote monitoring of elevator status.

Recommended Components

Source Examples

• 2026.1: Home is where the dashboard is ?? – Home Assistant (homeassistant)