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I want to create/make/buy/build (cheapishly) a remote control device that will operate a lever/plunger to be held down for say 3 secs (to be used outdoors, range ?50ft?, no mains leccy, with possibility of making it PIR driven)
so I **think** I need
- remote control and remote control receiver
- device/solenoid (or something that moves when triggered) to provide movement
- battery or battery box (pref rechargeable) - powers everything - receiver/'device'/PIR
- ?timer as I may want device 'operated' for a variable amount of time
- PIR (but this is stage 2)
- if the remote acted as on/off device that would do for stage 1
? does that make sense - any ideas on the parts I need, are there any kits that have the above components, suppliers, etc etc
cheers
Does it have to be operable from a remote? I'd be reaching for an Arduino, relay, appropriate solenoid, and a little bit of coding. Then controlling from either a web page, or ittt and a Google Home.
I think I really want remote control via a button (or PIR) - but will have a look at an Arduino to see what it can do, thanks
Not sure of the application but consider the ESP8266 WiFi chip - allows you to e.g. control it from your phone or IFTTT internet services. May need a WiFi booster for 50ft though.
How big is the plunger? (You might not be able to power the solenoid directly from the chip if it's big)
How much battery life/standby time are you hoping for?
Edit: like what submarined said!
Actually I reckon 50ft/15m outdoors with no obstructions should be ok for normal domestic WiFi.
Another consideration is whatever chip you use will likely be 5v and the solenoid higher, perhaps 9-12v . So maybe plan on a higher voltage battery and a regulator for the chip (solenoid driven directly from battery through relay)
Btw I have loads of ESP8266 relay boards if you go that route!
+1 on esp82 board. Better than arudino for this application as they have built in WiFi and can still be programmed from arudino environment. Consider some form of feedback on your actuator for fualt diagnosis. Also pay attention to duty cycle of any actuator. If you need to hold the lever it will effect your design choices Vs just actuate it fora short period.
Also depending on the lever and required speed of actuation a DC motor pulling / pushing maybe better than a solinoid. Again will require some feedback. Maybe only home sensors.
I've just used a wireless key ring fob from ebay for a remote brake light for the kit car. The key ring bit drives a small pcb with a relay, which can drive the working bit of your system. Don't need wifi for that range if you just want on/off.
As a different option, what about regular RC stuff?
A cheap RC car transmitter + receiver would cover your "remote" bit. No programming needed. Old school 27MHz gear sells for buttons on ebay these days.
Depending on the required force and distance, you might be able to use a regular servo to drive your widget/open trapdoor/release fireworks/etc.
If not, you can get plug-in relays, which could control a big solenoid.
What do you want to the plunger to operate?
soda siphon or hose push on/off type connector
Cat soaker?