Arduino control

OK an update..made it through winter with the Arduino as originally configured..couple of issues..The start voltage set at 11.4 as recommended by members saved the day, it operates flawless. Couldnt have made it off the grid without it. Now that the weather is warmer there is a slow drain due to the lights and tv and etc. The inverter kicks out at 11.6 which is not adjustable. So I am setting the start voltage to 11.6. See what that does.

I am working on version 2.0. It will tie in a load sensor, touch screen and thermostat.

I added a stand alone system to the hot water complete with flow sensors. Turn on the hot water and a solenoid diverts the water to the cold water line via circ pump until temp is reached.. It works ok. Needs some tweaking.

One other comment just came to mind.. Amaturerlogic.TV if I got it spelled right.

They are aimed toward ham (amateur) radio operators but do a lot of Arduino and Raspberry Pie stuff.

Episode 3 and one other do long and longer, range Wi-Fi.

fly, can you upload the ide script to dropbox or something, plus a parts break down?

We have used the system flawlessly throughout the winter.. fulltiming in the northeast. It kept us warm and safe. One great upgrade remotely turns on and off (2) 1500 watt heaters wirelesslyin conjunction with generator loads. Minimizing furnace use and maximizes generator usage..
Still cant get touch pad controls to work.

wa8yxm wrote:
YOu might want to set the generator start voltage a bit higher.. No other comments other than "Good JOb".

Thank you. I will raise the voltage maybe to 11.4v.. I set it there because the inverter kicks out at that voltage. I probably don't want the inverter to do that.

LittleBill wrote:
fly any chance on a parts break down and the code from the arduino?

you guys should looks at the esp8226 modules, uses the same ide as the arduino and has wifi built in.

At the beginning of this project I made some assumptions based on ignorance. I opted for the arduino mega and an 8 channel relay system on a 5"×10" plexiglas mount about $60..I could do the same thing with an arduino nano and 4 channel relay on a 5"×5" mount and about $30. I'm sure there are more efficient ways to write the code . You are welcome to anything I have.
Also, I chose not to go the wifi route because wifi is sometimes if'y not something I can leave my loved ones with.

77rollalong wrote:
I have one Arduino mini that I have setup for a key pad/ RFID door lock on our motorhome so I dont have to worry about loosing my keys at the beach. working on another that uses GPS and a fuel flow monitor to give me MPG or Gallons per mile as well.. next will be the monitors of the tank levels and other controls as well with a touch screen display

I am having issues with the touch screen. I have a Nextion screen. I get signal loss beyond 3' of wire.. if your not using it as a remote screen you are good.. just another hurdle.

What arduino are you using for this?

Congratulations on a job well done!

How often does the genny fail to start after the three tries?

If I run my genny once a week it always starts first time..If I let it go a month.. might take 2 tries. Realistically, If I know I need to depend on it, I make sure it will start within the 3 or 4 tries.

I would be glad to share anything I can..I just want to say this is step one of an all encompassing system..I successfully have a system controlled by voltage. My goal is to have a system that manages inverter load, heat, air conditioning and quiet hours via a single touch screen. My parts list includes these future upgrades. At this time my programming skills are not up to the task. But they will be..

I would also like to add.. there are great systems out there I felt a little too pricey for a 1992 rig.