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Computer-driven, Open Source Based HVAC Control?
richardtallent asks: "Other than various X-10 compatible products, has anyone found a consumer-level, computer-programmable thermostat? I could hack something out with some discrete components and a serial port, but I'd prefer a stand-alone, wall-mounted device that communicates via Ethernet or serial. GPL/LGPL/BSD-licensed software is a must; full documentation and a CLR, Java, or ActiveX interface library would be even better. With a fully programmable interface, I could set up any number of scenarios and variables based on DOW, time, work/school schedules, CPU temperature override, current or forecasted weather, electricity/gas rates, IR signals, remote control via DSL, etc. I could also automate alerts for replacing the filter, estimate costs before the bill arrives, etc." I have seen the home of the future. We will build them ourselves out of nifty little projects like these.
here is a site that contains information about networked thermostats. Perhaps you can get one and hack it to do what you want. On the flip side, a few buddies and I who live in the heart of the wine industry (Napa Valley, CA) are trying to program computer-controlled cooling/heating/mixing systems etc... for the wine industry. Perhaps we can/should work on converting this to a standard HVAC thermostat as well. (note: we actually have been thinking of doing that but were worried about a possibally weak market.) Any suggestions?
http://www.xcicorp.com/ (the site about networked thermostats)
Sig? I don't need no stinking sig!
Erutangis ym si siht.
I am currently a programmer for an HVAC company. We use control products made by this company. http://www.kmc-controls.com/ All programming is done in BASIC. Works great. Most HVAC stuff is just IF THEN statements. KMC is due to release a web enabled interface box for their systems sometime soon. Each controller is a standalone computer with anywhere from 4 to 128 IN/OUTs. They communicate with each other using RS-485 (much more robust that 232 in high RF interference enviroments). Their high end controllers use ethernet and the BACNet protocol allowing login across the internet. The system is designed to dial a pager, cell phone, or control computer in the event of an alarm. -- Brice Ligget Encode Corp. ligget (at) attbi.com
1. A low cost system for predicting residential HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) loads based on weather forecasts and local meteorological data. 2. An adaptive system for providing increased energy- and cost-efficient HVAC operation.