Speech Recognition + Home Automation = Awesome!
by dan on Dec.05, 2006, under Development
Okay, I’ve gone three posts without mentioning Star Trek, which is certainly a disgraceful omission for a technology blog. If you’re reading this far I’m guessing you’re already sitting comfortably in your replica Star Fleet Commander’s uniform, or busy gluing your forehead on…
So you’ve probably seen the various characters in the Star Trek universe interacting with the LCARS (Library Computer Access and Retrieval System) onboard computer, with it’s sleek “Okudagram” interface, and voice control. Of course, it’ll likely be a few years away before we see anything quite as nifty as the LCARS system, however, we do have the beginnings of some of the technology today.
Speech Recognition is definitely becoming mainstream, especially now that it’s being included by default in Windows Vista. Automation of various devices around the home is also becoming increasingly popular especially with prices coming down to sensible levels recently.
So what kind of system could we build with today’s hardware, and a bit of software development? Bear in mind that I’m not trying to replicate the LCARS system. My main aim is to build a system to control devices around the house through voice commands. If the system happens to have a black screen and make chirping star trek noises, that’s a bonus!
For the hardware side, I started off with:
- A CM19U USB PC controller (sends and receives X10 radio signal commands using a PC)
- A TM13U Transceiver module (transmits signals through your house’s power lines to your X10 devices)
- Various lamp and appliance modules for controlling your actual devices.
- A Labtec USB microphone (for speech input)
These devices are all readily available and you should be able to get hold of them fairly cheaply on e-bay.
Tune in next time for details of the software side of things!
12 comments for this entry:
Trackbacks / Pingbacks
-
Home Appliances
Stone age is to fire as new age to electricity. The morning today begins with the alarm clock, the electronic brushes making an early morning easier and water heaters turning the languid bath in a luscious spa.
February 4th, 2007 on 9:15 am
Speaking of LCARS, have you seen this?
[url]http://sourceforge.net/projects/lcars24/[/url]
April 8th, 2008 on 8:49 am
It would be pretty cool to replicate the star trek system in it’s entirety, but I think you’re right – start with the basics. I think this kind of thing is gong to become more and more common, excellent.
April 10th, 2009 on 12:05 pm
Really astonishing further informative topic. Thank you juice that sharing this.
642-436
April 20th, 2009 on 12:00 pm
Nice post.
April 21st, 2009 on 6:39 am
Thanks for sharing useful & nice views
October 31st, 2009 on 6:31 am
Nice flair on the posting.
I wonder if you’ve moved on from X10 to one of the more advanced technologies since this or if you’re still working with X10 since you’ve got some time invested into it now.
Update?
November 6th, 2009 on 3:56 am
I want to know if you have one, from X10 more advanced technology, because this or if you still retains X10 since you’ve got some time.
Updated?
November 6th, 2009 on 5:20 pm
Nice informative post..
December 15th, 2009 on 10:27 am
Thanks for sharing the information. It is useful.
We have used an award winning offshore software development company http://www.ardentisys.com that has helped with a cost effective and efficient solution in this area. Look forward to your next post.
August 23rd, 2010 on 8:46 am
The Vatican prelature known as Opus Dei is a deeply devout Catholic sect that has been the
topic of recent controversy due to reports of brainwashing, coercion, and a dangerous practice
known as “corporal mortification.” Opus Dei has just completed construction of a $47 million
World Headquarters at 243 Lexington Avenue in New York City.
September 3rd, 2010 on 11:36 am
Perhaps this is one of the most interesting blogs that I have ever seen. Interesting article, Funny comment. Keep it up!