The diploma thesis describes the development and production of a smart controller for window blinds with two actuators. This smart device is part of a larger home automation system based on the open-source Home Assistant platform. The device connects to home automation control system via wireless Wi-Fi network and communicates through the MQTT (MQ Telemetry Transport) network communication protocol. The controller enables motorized movement of interior window blinds with a cord. The user can control the motorized blinds using control buttons on a control panel, a smartphone application, or a web user interface. In addition to basic remote control, the device also allows automation of window shading based on a set time or level of external lighting. It also captures data on external brightness, room temperature, and humidity.
In the introductory section, we presented the protocols used to connect the smart device to the control system and described the concept of home automation on which our blind control system is based. In the following part of the thesis, we described the system requirements that we followed during the development of the device. We chose the ESP32 module to control the smart device, as it has good support for Wi-Fi networks and other wireless communications. It also presents a cost-effective solution. We used the Home Assistant platform for the control system that runs on the Raspberry Pi microcomputer.
Next, we provide a detailed description of the device electronics design, including input circuit protection, multiple power supply modules, a circuit for controlling DC motors with H-bridge drivers, an SD card, LED (Light Emitting Diode) indicators, and other components. We also presented the implementation of the controller program using block diagrams. The program is based on the FreeRTOS operating system and a finite state machine for executing the device's control logic. We also described the process of setting up the home automation control system on the Raspberry Pi microcomputer and creating automation for the device. Finally, we presented the fabrication of the device's mechanics, its installation on window blinds, and its operation.
|