The term ‘smart home’ and ‘home automation’ are often used interchangeability. This website will make a distinction between ‘smart home’ and ‘home automation’ as they represent two very distinct concepts with significant implications for the quality and complexity of a system, particularly in the context of disability support. 

 

The Fundamental Difference:

• A ‘smart home’ is a residence with Internet-connected devices that can be controlled remotely. It's about connectivity and remote access. Systems include individual appliances and devices such as: a ‘smart’ bulb, a ‘smart’ television or a ‘smart’ security system you control with an app on a singular device, typically your phone. Each device is ‘smart’ in its own right, but they often operate independently of one another and require manual input from the user. 

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• "Home automation" is a step beyond with interconnected systems that can be controlled remotely and automatically, without direct user input. It involves creating a cohesive integrated ecosystem where devices can trigger one another based on rules, schedules, sensor data or user input. For example, when a person enters a bedroom the lights turn on automatically and the blinds open. 

 

In summary, all home automation systems are ‘smart homes,’ but not all ‘smart homes’ are automated.

 

Literature for ‘Smart Homes’ v. ‘Home Automation’ 

 

When reviewing literature in this area publications frequently differentiate between these two concepts, highlighting the move from simple remote control to intelligent, proactive systems. 

 

The Internet of Things (IoT) and Integration:

• Many engineering journals explore the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the network of connectivity that allows devices to connect to one another. ‘Smart homes’ are an environment where various devices are connected via the IoT (Orfanos et al., 2023; Venkatraman et al., 2021). These devices can be monitored and controlled remotely. However, true ‘home automation’ is the application of these IoT devices to create a system where devices communicate and function in unison to perform tasks, often without direct human input.

 

User-Centric vs. Device-Centric:

• A smart home, as defined by disconnected gadgets, can be frustrating and complex for a user to manage as the systems lack f interoperability between different smart home devices and systems (Elmi, 2023). Currently there are multiple systems that each have their own proprietary protocols and standards making it difficult for the user to navigate (reference). An integrators job is to bridge the gap and move individual ‘smart’ components to a cohesive and automated system that provides ease of use from a central interface.

 

Reactive to Proactive:

• Smart homes are often reactive needing a user input for an action to occur. Home automation aims to adapt the environment to be proactive and autonomous. This is particularly useful in the disability sector as a truly automated system might adjust the temperature before the user wakes up, opening of the front door for a carer, or providing automated alerts to family members.

 

In summary, a smart home offers remote control and convenience, but true home automation provides a cohesive, integrated, and proactive environment. Home automation aims to maximise automation in turn, providing independence and increased quality of life for a person with a disability.