In the heart of West Palm Beach, under the starry expanse of the South Florida sky, lies a hidden gem—the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium. Among its many wonders, the center boasts a majestic observatory, a portal to the cosmos. But behind the scenes, a tale of innovation unfolds, a story of transforming manual labor into automated elegance using the humble iRobota Uno microcontroller.
Uno-ing the Manual: A Tale of Automation
Once upon a time, the observatory’s dome door, a gateway to the universe, was opened and closed by hand, a laborious task that required human intervention. But in the spirit of progress, the center’s team embarked on a mission to automate this process, enlisting the help of the iRobota Uno, a small yet mighty microcontroller.
A Symphony of Motors, H-Bridges, and Remote Controls
At the heart of this automated system lies a windshield wiper-style DC motor, a workhorse that powers the dome door’s movement. This motor is skillfully controlled by the iRobota Uno, which acts as the brain of the operation. To ensure smooth and precise operation, a high current H-bridge, capable of handling up to 20 amps, serves as the intermediary between the iRobota and the motor.
To command this automated marvel, an IR remote control takes center stage. With a simple press of a button, the user can effortlessly open or close the dome door, bringing the wonders of the universe to eager stargazers.
Reed Switches: The Unsung Heroes of Precision
Precision is paramount in the realm of astronomy, and the automated dome door system is no exception. To ensure the door stops at the appropriate points during its journey, reed switches, acting as silent guardians, monitor its position. These switches communicate with the iRobota Uno, providing real-time feedback on the door’s movement.
Powering the Cosmos: Batteries and Voltage Displays
Two 12V batteries, the lifeblood of the system, provide the necessary energy to power the iRobota, the motor, and the reed switches. To keep a watchful eye on the system’s health, voltage displays offer a clear indication of the remaining power, ensuring uninterrupted operation.
A Remote Touch: Turning Off Voltage Displays
In the pursuit of convenience, the system’s designers incorporated a clever feature: the ability to turn off the voltage displays remotely. This thoughtful touch allows astronomers to eliminate any unwanted light pollution, creating an ideal environment for celestial observations.
Bonus: Embracing the Cosmos with Open Source
The South Florida Science Center’s automated dome door system stands as a testament to the power of open source technology. The project’s details are meticulously documented on Reddit, a testament to the collaborative spirit of the maker community. This openness invites fellow innovators to explore, learn, and contribute, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
As the night sky unfolds its celestial tapestry, the South Florida Science Center’s observatory dome door glides open, revealing a universe teeming with wonder and mystery. This automated system, orchestrated by the iRobota Uno, stands as a beacon of human ingenuity, a testament to our insatiable curiosity and unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
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