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Remote Motor controler or sylenoid activation ... very remote! — Parallax Forums

Remote Motor controler or sylenoid activation ... very remote!

GamecatcherGamecatcher Posts: 5
edited 2011-12-09 13:47 in Accessories
Ok, first post here! Thanks in advance for your help. I am designing a project, and I have little experience with small electronics. I can build just about anything, just need guidance and some help!

Through remote control, I need to activate a switch or possibly motor controller that opens and closes a 12vdc Linear actuator. Like this one:

http://www.robotshop.com/firgelli-4-150lb-linea-actuator.html

The distance is the problem. 1 mile - 1.5 miles away (line of sight, no obstruction).

I do not need fine control of the actuator, speed doesn't matter, just open and close it.

I will have 12v dc power at the site of the actuator to operate the actuator and any other electronics.

The actuator will release a gate, closing off a cattle pen. That design is not a problem. I can make the mechanics of the gate work, the actuators position and function as well. Just need to know how to operate the actuator from a mile away.

Thanks for your help.


Is this possible?

Comments

  • ercoerco Posts: 20,256
    edited 2011-12-06 11:03
    What if something blocks the gate from closing, like maybe a cow? From a mile away, you won't know if it's closed or not, after you send the signal. Don't you want visual info, like from a camera? A cell phone might be the best way.
  • GamecatcherGamecatcher Posts: 5
    edited 2011-12-06 12:17
    You are correct. I have the wireless video system figured out. http://www.vfmstore.com/ir4300wl.htm For about $600 or so, I can get a new system with one IR camera, transmitter, receiver, high power antenna etc.

    Your idea of a cell phone intrigues me! Tell me more!
  • GamecatcherGamecatcher Posts: 5
    edited 2011-12-06 12:37
    Hmm, thinking about video transmitters and receivers now.

    In addition to the one wireless surveillance video setup I have that is used for monitoring, What if I had a transmitter on my side and a receiver at the remote location that could be used to activate the actuator.

    Is there an idea there?
  • Mike GMike G Posts: 2,702
    edited 2011-12-06 12:58
    RF modules
    http://www.digi.com/xbee/
  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-12-06 13:26
    A pair of XBee Pros, coupled with high-gain antennas should cover that distance reliably, since it's line of sight. Here's a catalog page from an outfit that sells such antennas:

    You will want to colocate the Xbee module with the antenna to avoid running a lossy cable between them. That will require some weather-proofing.

    -Phil
  • GamecatcherGamecatcher Posts: 5
    edited 2011-12-06 13:59
    RF Modules was what lead me here. erco gave me an idea (Cell phone), and it seems to be solved! A simple GSM Remote control switch ($179) or a cheaper version that recognizes the light from a cell when it is called ($18).

    Never thought my solution would be an $18 one ...

    Erco, thanks for the idea. You saved me a ton. I will try to post photo or video of the result once it is all constructed. I know it's simple, but it is a unique setup for a very unique problem.

    Thanks to everyone who replied.

    How do I change the status to "Solved" I can't figure it out.
  • Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi)Phil Pilgrim (PhiPi) Posts: 23,514
    edited 2011-12-06 14:06
    To change the thread status, edit your original post, click "Go Advanced", and select "solved" from the drop-down box. Then post it.

    -Phil
  • GamecatcherGamecatcher Posts: 5
    edited 2011-12-07 06:49
    Thanks Phil. Done.

    FYI, this is the one I bought http://www.gsm-auto.com/

    The possibilities are numerous. Close one gate, and open another gate all from my iphone, ipad or even a landline phone, from anywhere in the World!

    Thanks again for your help.
  • john_sjohn_s Posts: 369
    edited 2011-12-09 13:47
    Gamecatcher wrote: »
    ...or a cheaper version that recognizes the light from a cell when it is called ($18). ...

    I'd be interested in reading more about that one. Was it by any chance similar to http://www.thinkgeek.com/interests/doctorwho/a150/ or http://www.cellphonedigest.net/news/2008/02/light_charm_that_senses_incomi.php ?
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