Automated Mini Blinds
By Dan-O - Page 2

How does it work?

To open the blinds, I hit the bright button on the wall switch. When HomeSeer receives the C7 bright command it powers the 'open' universal module L1 for 15 seconds. I also have HS announce that the blinds are opening. When the module activates, it powers up one of my power control relays. The relays are used to reverse the power as needed. When one is on, it supplies (+) power to the motor, while the other relay at the same time when off supplies (-). After 15 seconds the universal module L1 shuts off and the appliance module C7 also is shut off by HS.

Another shot of the motor, power reversing relays, power supply and universal modules.

The other end, appliance module, universal modules and power supply.

To close the blinds, I hit C7 on, then hit the dim button. Again, HomeSeer announces that the blinds are closing and turns the 'close' universal module (L2) on, the opposite power relay turns on and reverses the polarity of the power supplied to the motor compared to power supplied when they were opening. After 15 seconds, the universal module shuts off, and the appliance module is also reset to off to "re-secure" the blinds.

All together, painted to match the bedroom wall where it will be mounted.

That's it for now, pretty simple...I will probably have limit switches on the pull mechanism when I build it, so the motor won't over pull the blinds too far closed or open.

Another shot of the finished product from a different view.