Jack Minardi hacked a remote control to allow it to be controlled by an electronic signal rather then a push button. This remote allows him to take control over the remote that can turn on 110 volt outlets. Of course you could simply use a relay and control the AC itself but there would be no Rube Goldberg aspect there… Although this system is nice that it is wireless since you could place these remotely powered items all around the house. Maybe you want to control the lights in the bedroom, the light in the livingroom, the bedside radio and the WiFi Extender. By using the cheap remote control unit this adds this flexibility. An internet connected Raspberry Pi allows you to command the operation from anywhere in the world you can get online!
Via: Hack a Day