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Abstract
Security has become an increasingly critical issue across the globe. Every individual desires the safety and security of their home, workplace, and financial institutions. In particular, home security has become an essential concern as theft and break-ins are becoming more frequent.
To address this, a security system has been developed using a microcontroller as the core hardware component. The system utilizes an IR (Passive Infrared) motion sensor for detecting motion, an ESP8266 Wifi module for internet connectivity, a keypad for user interaction, and a buzzer to sound alarms. This home security system is capable of monitoring spaces surrounded by IR sensors, sending SMS alerts, and activating the buzzer to alert users when motion is detected nearby. Testing has confirmed that the system can successfully detect human movement.
Smart home security systems have gained significant importance in recent years due to their effectiveness in reducing the risk of loss and damage to property and human life, particularly when homeowners are away. However, there is currently a gap in comprehensive literature reviews that provide a deep understanding of these systems and their applications across various contexts.
To fill this gap, this study presents a review of 25 research papers that analyze the use of the Arduino platform in smart home safety and security systems. The selected papers were sourced from popular academic literature databases, and the extracted data was analyzed to answer critical research questions. Topics covered include the current applications of these systems, their architectures, enabling technologies, and the components used.
Additionally, the study discusses several challenges that these systems face today, and highlights potential areas for future research that could improve the implementation and effectiveness of smart home security solutions.
Introduction
A smart home system is defined as a network of sensors, actuators, communication devices, and computing components connected to each other. These systems provide homeowners with various services and applications, such as safety and security, automation, entertainment, and energy management, with minimal or no intervention from the user [1]. Among these, smart home safety and security systems are in high demand due to the increasing desire for personal safety and the need to reduce the high rates of crime [2].
Recent advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT), compact microcontrollers, and affordable sensors and actuators have created new opportunities for enhancing safety and security within smart homes. These systems are designed to monitor indoor environments and provide real-time updates and alarms, helping homeowners stay informed of potential threats while they are away. The primary goal is to interpret sensory data (collected from the surrounding environment) to trigger alarms or take necessary actions (via actuators) in response to unwanted events.
For example, fires in homes can occur due to various reasons such as the combustion of materials, gas leaks, or electrical faults, all of which can lead to severe accidents [3]. To mitigate this risk, installing a fire alarm system is essential. Fire alarm systems serve as a critical safety measure, alerting homeowners to potential fires and helping prevent the loss of life and property. Similarly, gas leaks—particularly from Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders, commonly used for cooking—pose a significant threat. Gas leaks often go unnoticed, and homeowners may inadvertently start a fire that results in an explosion. To address this, a gas leakage detection system is essential to ensure safety.
Crime, especially burglaries, remains a widespread concern. The installation of security systems in homes is vital to detect intrusions, such as unauthorized movement by thieves. These systems detect suspicious activity and alert homeowners, ensuring that threats are addressed swiftly. To combat the risks of fire, gas leakage, and theft, it is critical to develop and deploy detection systems for each of these threats. Doing so ensures the safety and well-being of homeowners and their families, preventing serious accidents and unforeseen incidents.
Smart home safety and security systems work by continuously monitoring the surrounding environment and responding to emergency situations (such as fire, gas leaks, or motion detection) by sending alerts. In some cases, these systems can even take action—such as activating water sprinklers to extinguish a fire or initiating ventilation to reduce gas concentration. These monitoring processes rely on a variety of sensors, including temperature sensors, gas sensors, and motion sensors.
In the event of an emergency, the systems send notifications (such as text messages or emails) to the homeowner. Additionally, they may use actuators like buzzers, lights, or screens to alert nearby individuals. Communication with these systems is typically achieved through wireless technologies like Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Bluetooth, and WiFi. The choice of communication medium depends on several factors, including cost, range, and technical specifications [5].
This study presents a comprehensive, systematic review of research conducted over the past six years on Arduino-based smart home safety and security systems. It begins by defining a set of research questions (RQs) covering various aspects of these systems. Then, it identifies and examines relevant studies that address these questions. The study concludes with a discussion of future research opportunities in the field. To achieve these goals, the relevant papers were collected and thoroughly analyzed through a systematic approach.
Application
Smart Security and Surveillance System
Automated Energy Management
Smart Home Automation
Smart Lighting Control
