We live in a world where more and more of our stuff is connected to the internet. However, some things just can't be connected for various reasons. You can't connect cookies to the internet, you can't connect a stuffed animal or a medicine cabinet, but you can monitor them thanks to trackers. A new one, called Oval, aims to offer a small, affordable motion, light, temperature, moisture, and proximity sensor to the masses.
This is, of course, not the first connected sensor we've seen. Back in 2012 we saw the Knut hit Kickstarter, but this one definitely looks easy to use and moderately affordable. It offer a range of about 1,500 feet (457 m), which should be plenty to allow users to track things in and around their home.
Basically, this system allows users to connect sensors to a gateway that is hooked up to a router. Once connected, the sensors will send signals to the gateway, and from there, it will take action by alerting the user through a mobile app, email, text message, or even a direct telephone call. Once in the app or looking at the service on the web, users can see exactly what happened. So if, for example, the sensor was on a medicine cabinet door, the user would see that the door was moved.
The uses for sensors like this are far-reaching, and really come down to the needs of the user. Safety applications like monitoring cabinets where harmful chemicals are stored is one use, as could monitoring snacks in the house to make sure the kids aren't sneaking treats before dinner. Have a teenager who just got their license? Throw a tracker on the keys to make sure they aren't sneaking out for a joyride.
The Oval team is seeking funding on Indiegogo. It's about halfway to meeting its US$40,000 goal. Backers interested in receiving a sensor and a gateway will need to pledge at least $99, with additional sensors coming in at $59. Delivery is expected to occur in February of 2015.
The pitch video below provides more information on the Oval sensor.
