Using Infrared Array Devices in Smart Home Observation and Diagnostics

ABSTRACT This paper describes a low-cost solution for smart home observation and diagnostics with the use of a new IR array sensor. The developed system is based on PIC32-MAXI-WEB development board with integrated infrared sensor MLX90620. The system structure and consequent steps of data processing in order to construct thermal image are described. Some details in the process of raw data conversion to the assigned RGB values for every pixel in the field of view of IR sensor are discussed. The developed system is considered to be with reasonable cost and affordable for the potential users in their everyday environment. The paper demonstrates the benefits of having an infrared sensor as a part of the developed monitoring module for detection of thermal losses and water leakage in a system for smart home diagnostics.