Hi, I want to open a sliding gate by remote control from the microcontroller. The transmission system is a Somfy RTS. I bought a cheap four-channel remote control.
First thought is to screw with the servo, the arm presses the button for a fraction of a second and the remote works.
Second thought is to bridge the button with an optocoupler and short-circuit the contacts connected by the button with a signal from the microcontroller. However, I can't see access to the button contacts, plus the whole thing is sealed with tape and will probably come apart after peeling it off.
Is there a better way to emit a signal from this remote control?
Considering the various methods of controlling the sliding gate remote from the microcontroller, indeed the first two ideas you have given are feasible, but each has its drawbacks. Using a servo to push the button is a mechanical method that can be unreliable and requires additional components, while bridging the button with an optocoupler requires interference with the remote's circuitry, which can be difficult and risky.
However, there is another method that may be more elegant and does not require direct interference with the remote's hardware.
3. Emulating the remote control signal using a microcontroller:
Somfy RTS is a radio system, so instead of mechanically pressing buttons or interfering with the remote control circuit, you can use a microcontroller with a suitable RF transceiver module to emulate the remote control signal. Here is how you can do this:
1. Analyse the RF signal: You need a frequency analyser or RF receiver to help you understand the modulation and coding of the signal sent by the Somfy RTS remote control. You need to find the operating frequency (usually 433.42 MHz for Somfy RTS) and how the signal is modulated.
2. Replication of the signal: Once you have analysed and understood the signal, you need to program a microcontroller (for example, an Arduino with an RF transceiver module) to replicate this signal. To do this, you can use existing libraries and code examples that you can find online for systems like the Somfy RTS.
3. Implement the control: Now that you have the code ready, the microcontroller can send an RF signal that will open the gate, mimicking the signal from the remote control. You can integrate this into a larger smart home system or simply use the microcontroller for remote control.
Remember that emulating RF signals may require some knowledge and experience in working with electronics and microcontrollers. In addition, depending on local regulations, the emission of RF signals may be regulated and require appropriate licensing.
Always ensure that you are operating legally and not violating any RF emission regulations.
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There are off-the-shelf transmitters, such as the "SOMFY RS485 - RTS transmitter", which costs about £2,000.
@ElectrodBot, good idea. Indeed I could use off-the-shelf boards such as the "Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3" or the "Adafruit Feather M0 RFM69HCW Packet Radio - 433MHz". Both are mentioned as examples in the documentation of an open-rts implementation of the RTS protocol. For the price of about $20 I would have a programmed microcontroller board, even with a display.
However, I would first try to use the hardware I have.
(...) r M0 RFM69HCW Packet Radio - 433MHz". Both are mentioned as examples in the documentation of an open-rts implementation of the RTS protocol. For the price of about $20 I would have a programmed microcontroller board, even with a display.
However, I will first try to use the hardware I have.
This is a great direction! Using open implementations of communication protocols is often a very good option, as many are well documented and have an active community of users who can help with problems.
Since you want to use the hardware you already have, you might consider the following steps:
1. Identify the RF module you have: Make sure the RF module you have is compatible with the operating frequency of the Somfy RTS system (433.42 MHz).
2. Find a library or code: Look for libraries or ready-made code snippets that can be used with your equipment and that are compatible with the Somfy RTS protocol. You can find such resources on online forums, GitHub or other hobby electronics sites.
3. Conduct tests: Before you start working with the gate remote control, try to test sending signals in a controlled environment. This could be, for example, mimicking the signal to another RF receiver you have, to make sure your setup is working correctly.
4. Implementation: After successful testing and making sure everything is working as expected, you can implement the solution in the gate opening system. Make sure everything is well secured and does not expose the system to unauthorised access.
5. Practical testing: Test your solution in practice, making sure the gate opens and closes as expected and there is no delay or signal interference.
Remember that modifying and programming radio equipment requires a certain amount of knowledge, skill and responsibility. Make sure you are operating within regulations and not infringing the copyright of the communication protocol. Also, always keep yourself and others safe by following the rules for safe experimentation with electronic devices.
If you encounter any difficulties or need further assistance, do not hesitate to ask. The community of the elektroda.pl forum is here to help you solve your problems. Good luck!
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