Auto-Blinds

A system to automatically open and close blinds in a room. One central controller known as the Auto-Blinds Controller (ABC) manages up to three motorized components called Auto-Blinds Listeners (ABL) by handling individual state as well as distributing power. The ABC will connect to WLAN allowing for app-based interfacing.

Connection procedure

In the case the ABC is not connected to WLAN, Bluetooth will be automatically turned on and will stay in pairing mode until a suitable device connects to it, and a WLAN connection is created. This is known as the setup state.

Interfacing

The ABC will have a small E-Ink display allowing for basic information to be shown to the user. Specifically, it will give information about the set schedule for the individual blinds. Additionally, basic diagnostic information can also be displayed. No user input will occur directly with the ABC.

User input will be through WLAN interfacing. This method allows for remote controlling and querying of individual blinds' state through an exposed web API.

Behavior

General use will be in the normal mode and will either have the system follow a schedule, or dynamically adjust based on lighting using the two light detectors. Anytime the blinds are not being moved, The ABLs will release their control over the blinds to allow for manual blinds usage.

If the device loses WLAN access, it will automatically switch over to setup mode.

Components

Main components needed to finish project.

Auto-Blinds Listener

• Stepper motor driver 1x
• Stepper motor 1x
• Male connector header (some variation of a total of 6 pins) 1x
• Casing 1x
• light detector 2x

Auto-Blinds Controller

• Arduino nano IOT
• E-ink display
• SPI interface adapter
• Female connector header (some variation of a total of 6 pins)
• 2.1mm Male DC barrel jack wall adapter
• Casing