1. Background
My 1st project with Apduino Online was about to solve a simple problem, close the garage door after sunset, when it has been left open.
We have a garage in the basement, which is used not only for car parking, but gardening tools and machines, bicycles, etc are stored there plus there is a workplace. Since there is only one entry into the basement via garage door, normally we leave it open for daily hours and close only in the evening. But sometimes we simple forget to close it and remains open for a night long and giving the chance for un-wanted visitors.
2. Scope
Close the garage door after 8PM, if it has been left open.
However the high level scope is very simple, but there shall be some sdditional logic taken into account.
a). When I’m opening the door after 8PM it must be ensured that it won’t be closed automatically in few seconds, there shall be some time given (e.g. 15 minutes), until I surely parked and left the place. Of course in the morning the logic shall not close the door automatically anymore, only between 8PM and 6AM.
2. The door opener box is having an input which is working in the following way. When the button on the wall switch is pressed the motor starts to move the door into opposite direction as it was moving last time, so if the door was open then after pressing the button it will move to close. Additionally when the button is pressed during the door is moving then it stops immediately. It means, using this interface of door opener, the logic shouldn’t know, how door was moved last time. It must only find the position “CLOSED”.
Step 1: Materials
[box color=”#985D00″ bg=”#FFF8CB” font=”verdana” fontsize=”14 ” radius=”20 ” border=”#985D12″ float=”right” head=”Major Components in Project” headbg=”#FFEB70″ headcolor=”#985D00″]
– Arduino MEGA, ATmega2560 + Ethernet Shield
(http://www.sainsmart.com/sainsmart-mega2560-ethernet-shield-kit-for-arduino-atmega8u2-w5100.html)
– 12V power supply
– micro SD card for ATmega2560
– 5V relay switch
– magnetic switch
– cables
– internet connection[/box]
Step 2: Drawing
Here is a simple drawing about the solution and cabling.
Step 3: Rules to be created in Apduino Online
I have created some rules via Apduino Online and uploaded onto the device.
You shouldn’t have to be a programmer to do this staff, the way to do the logic controlling the sensor (magnetic swith) and control the actuator (relay) is very simple.
Please visit www.apduino.com for details and descriptions.
If you stucked for awhile, visit http://forums.apduino.org
In attached text file you’ll find the detailed descriptions about the rules I’ve created.
For more detail: Automate Your Garage Opening Times
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation, and engineering. I have a clear and simple writing style and am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and is able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.