Room Updates - 2019.06
Table of Contents
- Top
- Summary
- Improving Issues
- Configuring a Color Box (Clothing Case)
- Configuring a Small Metal Rack
- Finding the Right Words for Lighting Scenes
- New Improvements
- Setting Up an Infrared Communication Hub
- Setting Up a Nintendo Switch
- Setting Up an Extension Tap
- Setting Up a Dust Remover
- Buying Compression Wear
- Toilet Cleaning
- Issues
- Unstable TV Operation Automation
- Electronic Device Integration
- The Extension Tap in the Bathroom Won't Stick
- Previous Issues
- Priorities for the Future
- Conclusion
This is the second release note for room updates. We mainly solved the issues from the previous update and made some detailed corrections.
The first release note is here.
Room Updates - 2019.05 - A Cubic Room
Summary
- Organized clothes
- Expanded voice control
- Purchased Zelda
- Solved layout and infrared issues
Improving Issues
Configuring a Color Box (Clothing Case)
This is a solution to the problem of "scattered clothes."
We bought two large color boxes from NITORI and placed them in the closet. We put T-shirts and shirts in them, and they fit nicely. The rest of the clothes are still in vinyl bags, but there aren't many, so it's not a problem. By the way, we use the Ranger Roll for T-shirts and pants, which makes them compact and fun to use.
Configuring a Small Metal Rack
This is a solution to the problem of "no storage space for documents."
We bought a small metal rack and placed a 100-yen file box on it. We used one of the three tiers, and the remaining two tiers are for books and other items. It cost around 2,000 yen and doesn't take up much space, so we might buy two more.
Finding the Right Words for Lighting Scenes
We found a solution to the problem of "inconvenient lighting control."
Until now, we had to say "Alexa, make the living light (Scene name)" to change the lighting scene, but we discovered that we can simply say "Alexa, turn the light (Scene name)" to change it. This is much more convenient.
New Improvements
Setting Up an Infrared Communication Hub
We set up an infrared communication hub that can be controlled by a smartphone app and Alexa. This allows us to turn on the TV or air conditioner with Alexa. We chose the LS Mini (2nd Gen), which is affordable and has high functionality.
In practice, it's very convenient to be able to turn on the TV without a remote control. However, there are still many issues with automation.
Setting Up a Nintendo Switch
We bought a Nintendo Switch at Bic Camera during the LINE Pay refund festival. Zelda is great.
We plan to buy the next software using the following campaign. Amazon Prime members can get Nintendo Switch Online for free for a year, which is a great deal.
Setting Up an Extension Tap
We often had conflicts between Mac and other devices with unusual plug shapes, but we solved this by using a convenient tap with a rotating outlet. It's also a 6-outlet + USB model.
The price is a bit high, but there's also a stylish wooden version, so design-conscious people might want to consider it.
We also set up a waterproof tap in the bathroom.
Setting Up a Dust Remover
We set up a dedicated dust remover because electronic devices tend to accumulate dust and are hard to clean. It's colorful and powerful.
Buying Compression Wear
We bought compression wear, which is said to increase exercise intensity. We're not sure if it actually makes a difference, but it feels cooler and less tiring.
Toilet Cleaning
We set up a disposable toilet brush because it's hard to manage a toilet brush. It's hygienic and mentally refreshing.
Issues
Unstable TV Operation Automation
The automation of TV operation using an infrared smart remote is very convenient, but it's also limited to what the remote can do. The problem is that we don't know the current state of the device, so we need to operate it assuming it's in a certain state. For example, if we try to turn on the air conditioner when it's already on, it will turn off. It's difficult to ensure consistency in operations.
We haven't found a solution yet... We'll wait and see for a while.
Electronic Device Integration
There are many electronic devices around the router, and the outlets are often insufficient. The TV, PC, PS4, and Switch need to be connected to the TV, and the PC and Hue hub need to be connected to the router, which makes it difficult to have a free layout.
We'll rethink the layout based on the TV and PC positions.
The Extension Tap in the Bathroom Won't Stick
We tried using double-sided tape to attach the tap to the shelf, but it keeps falling off. The force of plugging and unplugging the tap is quite strong, so the tape can't hold it. We're considering using double-sided tape to attach the shelf and then placing the tap on it.
Previous Issues
- The laptop and book storage is on the floor
- The desk and chair are in the way
- The curtain is hard to close
- The dryer is low
- The refrigerator is noisy
Priorities for the Future
The layout issues are deep-rooted, but if we find a good configuration, it's worth tackling. We'll focus on small repairs like adding metal racks and configuring extension taps.
Conclusion
New issues arose, but we'll continue to make small improvements to increase comfort and tackle the big issues.