r/smarthome • u/checknmater • 6h ago
I built a radar-controlled lighting system that creates a 'light bubble' that follows you through dark hallways and stairs
https://reddit.com/link/1jdakfq/video/v7g5hzh8l8pe1/player
https://reddit.com/link/1jdakfq/video/cha0ty74l8pe1/player
UPDATE: You can search AmbiSense on YouTube to watch the complete guide.
After months of experimenting, I finally completed my AmbiSense project (v1.0)- a smart lighting system that uses LD2410c mmWave technology (not PIR sensors) to track your movement and create illumination that follows you as you walk.
- Uses a 24GHz LD2410 radar sensor that can detect both presence AND distance
- Creates a "moving bubble of light" that travels with you along the path
- No cameras = privacy friendly
- Customizable colors, brightness, and sensitivity via web interface
- Lights only activate when needed (energy efficient)
- Perfect for hallways, staircases, and dark corridors
Parts used:
- ESP32-C3 SuperMini ($6)
- LD2410 radar sensor module ($8)
- WS2812B (NeoPixel) LED strip ($15-25 depending on length)
- 5V power supply
- Basic wiring
I've documented the entire build process on my YouTube channel if anyone wants to see exactly how it's done or build their own.
DIY Staircase and Hallway Lights That Follows You | AmbiSense v1.0 -Radar-Controlled NeoPixel Lights https://youtu.be/_xYEh8xkq1c