“Smart Switch - S²”
what will it do?
As the name indicates, it is a smart “power socket” which connected to internet over WiFi and can be controlled over internet. A microcontroller, WiFi access a device and a rely board are the major components. They work in union to switch the AC load ON and OFF.
who’s done what beforehand?
I have seen a few many projects (link 1, 2 etc..) which all uses ESP8266 for making internet connected things. But most of them uses the inbuilt microcontroller of ESP. I plan to use it just for accessing the web and have my own control circuit for the rest.
what materials and components will be required?
With the research i have done this week i will have to have at least these many items
- ESP8266-12E
- a controller board with AtTiny 44/atmega 328
- the control of the hot line needs a MOSFET/IGBT/TRIAC or a solid state relay
- will have to design and fabricate a socket
where will they come from?
The components will be sourced mainly from the fabalab except the ESP8266, and the MOSFET/IGBT/TRIAC can be bought from the local electronic component dealers itself.
The server will be setup in a raspberry pi.
how much will it cost?
the entire material cost for the project should be below 1000 rupees. The major cost is caused by the microcontroller and the ESP8266 module.
what parts and systems will be made?
The power socket, the controller board, its logic, the relay/switch board. These alomg with small but necessary components like connectors etc will be made by me.
what processes will be used?
I will need to use laser-cutter & 3D printer for making the socket. Will use the PCB miller for milling the circuit boards. Vinyl cutters for branding by having logos cut out.
what tasks need to be completed?
I have started the design of the socket, and also the server is almost ready. Have tried out the logic for the control. Have already shifted to the top gear in terms of development.
what questions need to be answered?
- will I be able to monitor power consumption and add it along as a feature ?
- how to write an android app for communicating with the server.
- composites (not finalized)
what is the schedule?
three parallel works will be in progress
- the design and production
- programming
- testing - all of the above finished by 18th June
- finish the project by 22nd June
- finish documentation by 22nd June
- Presentation on June 22nd
how will it be evaluated?
It should be evaluated as a project for the ordinary, hassle free to use and should give a peak into the future which holds great potential for IoT based devices. I am also licensing it with MIT License. Please check the IP week to know the details.