Category: Alexa

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Blind Controller V2 Announced!

Blind-Controller-V2-Promo-Graphic

Exciting news, I will soon be releasing a new version of the Amazon Alexa compatible blind controller, similar in design but with all new hardware. Powered by a Wemos D1 Mini micro-controller, it is now WiFi enabled and can be operated from within a mobile app from anywhere in the world.  Upgraded motors allow for precise, repeatable positioning and easy calibration either from within the mobile app or using the full manual controls. The mobile app also allows scheduled opening and closing at pre-configured times.

Check out the teaser trailer below and be sure to check back soon and subscribe to my YouTube channel for future updates…

 

 

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How to configure Amazon Echo to control RF devices using the Broadlink RM Pro

Cheap Radio-Frequeny (RF) devices may be easily controlled using Amazon Echo and the Broadlink RM Pro. This short tutorial demonstrates how to configure new devices in the Intelligent Home Centre App and enable the Broadlink skill in the Amazon Echo app to control them.

The RM Pro is available at the link below:

https://www.banggood.com/Broadlink-RM-Pro-Smart-Home-Automation-Phone-Wireless-Remote-Universal-Controller-p-942667.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

Details of my 3D printed Blind Controller may be found at thingiverse:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2631414

 

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Making screw free joints for Blind Controller

To allow for quicker installation as well as improved asthetics of my automated blind controller I am redesigning the gear surround and cover to enable them to be joined to one another without screws.

Attempt 1.

For my first attempt I tried a push pin type connector, the resulting design snapped together but broke when I then tried to separate the two parts.

SnapDesign1.jpg

Attempt 2.

For my second attempt I am trying a dovetail join and have cropped the print such that I can test the joint before printing the piece entirely (should have thought of this the first time round!).

SnapDesign2.jpg

Success!

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Automatic Blind Controller Alexa Demonstration

A demonstration of my automatic blind controller using Alexa via the remote. All parts were designed and 3D printed. Control is via an Arduino nano and RF switch. See my other videos for assembly. Further details and 3D printable parts available via thingiverse:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2631414

As well as the 3D printed parts, you will need the following items:

1 x L298N 2 Channel DC Motor Driver
https://www.banggood.com/Dual-Channel-L298N-DC-Motor-Driver-Board-PWM-Speed-Dual-H-Bridge-Stepper-Module-p-1162946.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x DC 12V Worm Gear and Motor (10-50 rpm)
https://www.banggood.com/DC-12V-356065110220rpm-Worm-Gear-Box-Reduction-Motor-p-1197020.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x Arduino Nano
https://www.banggood.com/ATmega328P-Nano-V3-Controller-Board-Compatible-Arduino-p-940937.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

2 x DC Female Jacks
https://www.banggood.com/10pcs-5_5-x-2_1mm-DC-Power-Supply-Female-Jack-Socket-p-1062018.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x IC2262 RF Transmitter/Reciever (433/315MHz depending on country)
https://www.banggood.com/IC2262-2272-M4-4-Channel-Wireless-Remote-Lock-Receiving-Board-With-Remote-Control-p-1031857.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x Small PCB Board
https://www.banggood.com/40pcs-FR-4-Double-Side-Prototype-PCB-Printed-Circuit-Board-p-995732.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x 12V DC PSU
Various M3 Bolts
Ribbon Cables and Dupont Connectors
1 x Yellow LED
1 x Green LED
2 x Plastic Square Buttons
6/7 Resistors
1 x Photo Resistor (Optional)

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Automatic Blind Controller Assembly

A brief assembly video for my self designed and 3D printed automatic blind controller. Uses an Arduino nano and RF switch. Further details and videos to follow, in the meantime please post any questions in the comments below.

3D designs available via thingiverse:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2631414

As well as the 3D printed parts, you will need the following items:

1 x L298N 2 Channel DC Motor Driver
https://www.banggood.com/Dual-Channel-L298N-DC-Motor-Driver-Board-PWM-Speed-Dual-H-Bridge-Stepper-Module-p-1162946.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x DC 12V Worm Gear and Motor (10-50 rpm)
https://www.banggood.com/DC-12V-356065110220rpm-Worm-Gear-Box-Reduction-Motor-p-1197020.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x Arduino Nano
https://www.banggood.com/ATmega328P-Nano-V3-Controller-Board-Compatible-Arduino-p-940937.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

2 x DC Female Jacks
https://www.banggood.com/10pcs-5_5-x-2_1mm-DC-Power-Supply-Female-Jack-Socket-p-1062018.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x IC2262 RF Transmitter/Reciever (433/315MHz depending on country)
https://www.banggood.com/IC2262-2272-M4-4-Channel-Wireless-Remote-Lock-Receiving-Board-With-Remote-Control-p-1031857.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x Small PCB Board
https://www.banggood.com/40pcs-FR-4-Double-Side-Prototype-PCB-Printed-Circuit-Board-p-995732.html?p=KF2715792233201409DJ

1 x 12V DC PSU
Various M3 Bolts
Ribbon Cables and Dupont Connectors
1 x Yellow LED
1 x Green LED
2 x Plastic Square Buttons
6/7 Resistors
1 x Photo Resistor (Optional)