Surely you have ultra-wideband radios on your bins too?
An individual describes how they massively over-engineered a system to track their trash bins using ultra-wideband (UWB) radios, Home Assistant, and custom firmware. The project, dubbed BinRange, aims to solve the trivial problem of remembering to put bins out by tracking their movement and location. The author also mentions using AI tools like Codex and Astra extensively in the development process.
Why it matters
This article showcases a practical, albeit over-engineered, application of emerging technologies like UWB and home automation, highlighting the growing trend of DIY smart home solutions and the increasing role of AI in personal projects. It also reflects a common hacker/maker mindset of solving simple problems with complex, innovative tech.
How I massively over-engineered a trivial problem again because I just can't help myself
Home Assistant already knows which bins (trash cans, for the international readers) are due for collection. It can tell me it’s bin night, put the right colours on a dashboard, and send me a reminder. What it can’t tell me is whether I’ve actually done anything about it.
I’m pretty sure most folk would just set a recurring reminder on their phone. As my wife will no doubt tell you, I am not most people. Some would just remember to put the bins out, like a normal person. I’m well aware that I’ve ridiculously over-engineered this. I’m also so far from normal that six radio-equipped bins seemed like an enjoyable way to spend my evenings ;)
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