Startup develops cameraless home monitoring solution

In-home monitoring is a tricky space when it comes to privacy. Most people do not relish the idea of an internet-connected camera being constantly on within their home. Nevertheless, indoor monitoring remains important not just for intrusion detection but also for observing children and the infirm.

Xetal, a two-person Belgium-based startup, has developed a system that can be used to monitor the home by using IR sensors instead of a conventional video surveillance. The solution has a variety of components, but is primarily built around sensors bearing the Kinsei brand. The sensors allow for IR tracking within 30cm accurately. The system does not use cameras or audio devices, making it an attractive solution for those concerned about security and privacy.

The system can detect the presence of people in a given area independent of room lighting and track up to three people in a room at a time. One component is a bed sensor, which can send alerts to a smartphone if the occupant gets out of bed. This is useful when monitoring small children and elderly in-home patients, and convenient considering that they will not have to wear wristbands or dongles to be monitored.

The system also has potential for the smart home. It can measure indoor temperature up to 10m from the sensor. This means that, when linked to a smart thermostat, it can be used to activate or deactivate home air conditioning or heating as needed.