Just got an email from Davide of ardbir about his latest gadget
http://smartpid.com
So did I.
Looks interesting.
I wonder what price point.
Ahh that's what that was. Deleted thinking it was spam :)
Gonna give brewpi a run for its money and is an inkbird stc1000 killer
I guys I was going to open an official thread on the new homebrewing gadget "SmartPID" but Oh Crap anticipated me... if OK we can stay on this thread to discuss and get your feedback
It's a few months that I was no more active on this thread..but this not mean I have stopped my interest in home brewing and automation
Aftr ArdBir adventure In the last year I have invested lot of time,effort and money in a new brewing automation project and I have design and engineered a new smart and advanced product called SmartPID that I'm very happy to introduce to you.
The product is so advanced and feature rich there is nothing comparable on the market..in the same size of basic STC1000 thermostat I have inserted all you need for your brewing process, fermentation control or any other custom application !
But the great step head is that SmartPID is a real product engineering tested, certified with all characteristic for mass production. No more DIY unsupported kit but a long life-cycle platform powerful, flexible, programmable and SMART. Are you ready to do the upgrade? Just remove your simple thermostat or DIY solution and plug a smart process controller.
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Facebook.jpg)
I leave you to discover all the features and functions and technical characteristic on the official website http://smartpid.com (http://smartpid.com) and FB page https://www.facebook.com/smartPID (https://www.facebook.com/smartPID) and I will open as well an official SmartPID thread
I hope you appreciate the big effort put in the design by an homebrewer for the homebrewing community and you support the project as you did for ardbir
Stay tuned
Davide
Dear Homebrewing friends I continue in this thread in order to highlight main SmartPID features and functions and collect your feedback during the project
Before entering technical details few words about the "philosophy" and idea behind the project
When I start designing the SmatPID I try to capture some requirements and functionalities that are actually not present in low cost thermostat like STC1000 and are more typical in the professional control device (PLC) but at the same time I put lot of effort to keep it simple, accessible, affordable for a consumer market and DIY enthusiast
apart form the core temperature control features (PID/PWM etc..) indeed very advanced and powerful t the main innovation I have introduced that make SmartPID unique are
Full process automation
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/BANNER-3.jpg)
Thanks to the power of the platform it's possible to develop custom application that needs process control with complex service logic and manage a complete workflow.
Basic thermostat just simply ready temperature and control a relay according to set point..In smartPID you can program steps, ramps, triggers, alarms and manage complex temperature profile over the time.
Typical example is food processing like beer brewing, cheese making or food drying where according to specific recipe parameters the heating process should be managed step by step controlling and orchestrating different elements (heater, pump, fan..)
Data logging and export (USB & wifi)
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature10.png)
The possibility to log all process data and analyse real time or off line is another typical feature that is available only on professional devices or with external data logger.
SmartPID has an internal 8Mbit EEPROM where all the process data (temperature, set point, PWM power, control direction etc,,) are logged and can be accessed either locally via USB and a desktop application (CSV export) or remotely pushed via wifi connection to a cloud server.
WiFi connectivity for remote management and IoT cloud integration
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature11.png)
Wifi connectivity and cloud integration is what make SmartPID really smart !
Small wifi optional module is integrated in the SmarPID box and once connected to the wifi access the device can provide lot of new feature
remote management → configuration and control of setup parameter and process parameter from any location via web or smartphone
data logg→ real time monitoring of main process parameter and storage in the cloud server
for the development and design phase the thingspeak cloud service has been used , a private cloud server will be deployed after project founding
DIN Box
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature4.png)
Another key driver for the design was the "box size" and we decide to use a standard DIN box in order to make SmartpID ultra compact and backward compatible with STC1000 like thermostat, you can just unplug your current controller and plug SmartPID to get the new full set of features
Engineering all the HW to support the new features has been very challenging but the result is a very powerful platform with powerful CPU, lot of memory and I/O capabilities that is the base line for developing powerful applications
Arduino Compatibility
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature12.png)
Last but not least important driver was to keep as much as possible the platform open and easy programmable so the natural choice was to do development under Arduino umbrella. The component selection like the MCU (SAMD21 arduino Zero and MKR1000 IoT new board) and the architure are fully arduino compatible. I have developed a custom bootloader and specific board definition that can be imported in the Arduino IDE so you can just connect SmartPID via USB port to your PC and develop you sketch using the arduino tool-chain and all the supported libraries.
Let's now have an overview to HW and core features
HW configuration
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/HW-characteristic.png)
-SAMD21 processor ARM cortex M0+
-8Mbit EEPROM for data log, recipe storage etc..
-1.3" OLED graphical display
-USB front port for programming, SW upgrade, data logging
-4 tactile switch to navigate trough menu
-1x Buzzer
-Jtag/SWD port
-WIFI module (detachable)
-110/220 V AC power supply
-2x temp probe input (DS18B20 or NTC)
-2x 220v AC 10A Relay output
-1x SSR output
-2x 12V 1A direct drive output
The core control functions are
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature1.png)(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature3.png)(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/icon-feature2.png)
-DUAL Independent control channel
-Multi control mode (heating , cooling or thermostatic)
-Dual control algorithm (PID or ON/OFF)
Is this little box powerful, flexible, smart enough for your applications ?
Next posts try to go in detail of major functions and remote management part
Any feedback is appreciated !
Arzaman
http://smartpid.com
https://www.facebook.com/smartPID
One of the key characteristic of SmartPID is the flexibility and versatility trough HW set up SmartPID can be adapted to manage different applications
below some examples to illustrate the flexibilty
Single channel - PID (on/off) control mode - heating + pump
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Smartpid-setup-1.png)
SmartPID reads temperature from 1 probe and drive the heating element in order to get the setup temeprature
Possible heating output configurations
SSR for electric heating [PID+PWM control algorithm]
220V AC relay for electric heating [ON/OFF algorithm]
Direct solenoid valve drive for GAS heating [ON/OFF algorithm]
Manually drive the PUMP (soft switch) with two possible configurations
220V AC relay pump drive
12V DC direct pump drive
DUAL channel - PID (on/off) control mode - heating (gas or electric)
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Smartpid-setup-4.png)
SmartPID reads temperature from 2 probe and drive 2 heating element independently in order to get 2 different set up temperature
Possible heating output configurations
1 x SSR for electric heating [PID+PWM control algorithm]
1 x 12V direct solenoid valve drive for GAS heating [ON/OFF algorithm]
Manually drive the PUMP (soft switch) with two possible configurations
220V AC relay pump drive
12V DC direct pump drive
DUAL channel – ON/OFF control mode – thermostatic
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Smartpid-setup-3.png)
SmartPID reads temperature from 1 probe and drive one heating element and one cooling element in order to keep temperature stable (fermentation chamber)
Possible heating output configurations
220V AC relay for electric heating [ON/OFF algoritm]
220V AC relay for electric heating [ON/OFF control algorithm]
so as you can see the possibility of configuration are really endless !
staty tuned
arzaman
http://smartpid.com (http://smartpid.com)
I have prepared a feature comparison table between SmartPID and most common used thermostat
As you can easily see...there's no match :)
When I complete the table I realize that comparing a fully programmable device with process automation capabilities and smart features like wifi and IoT capabilities with a thermostat maybe is not the right approach but at least once more you have the full feature list of the BASIC application !
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/feature-comparison-table-small.png)
something missing or more ?
arzaman
http://smartpid.com
https://www.facebook.com/smartPID
Davide I posted this thread to let people know about the email you sent...and based on the ardbir I thought it would be worthwhile. Please let people know the PRICE before continually hyping the product...
I am of the opinion all this hype is to soften the shock
I have to search on google translator the meaning of "hyping" and there was no translation :( but I understand the point !
My only objective in this phase is to provide you some highlight of the product itself and project progress
There are still some key points that it's important you all know (and provide me any feedback) as an example the home brewing application that I'm going to present soon to demonstrate all process automation capabilities
I try to update people interested via all possible channel , newsletter for people registred, FB pange and social, forum post.. not to "hype" but inform/explain , question answer, feedback collection..hope this is appreciated
About price ...by end of the month I think I have all elements from all different actors engaged in mass production , put all in one excel sheet, do my calculation and come out with a target price. :)
ciao
Davide
Hype is Montatura
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/BANNER-4.jpg)
Let me just provide this announcemnt.. :)
after 2 weeks from SmartPID launching that the second application on top of the SmartPID platform is nearly ready and is completely dedicated to home brewing process automation
What is new and different compared to the standard basic application (smart thermostat)?
Substantially Smart Home Brewing App adds to a standard temperature control features all the process automation and workflow to manage all typical steps for beer making. We have customized vertically the SW for the specific application leveraging all the basic features available on the platform
Each vertical application has off course it's own set of data, process parameter and configuration and so is the smart home brewing app that execute all process steps according to in memory "recipe"and controls HW resources (heating elements, pump/stirrer, buzzer ) in automatic way
These are main characteristic of the smart HB application
-Single vessel (BIAB/RIMS) or two vessel (MASH + HLT) process management
-Electric heating (PID/PWM) or Gas Fired heating (ON/OFF)
-Recirculating pump or motorized mixer management
-NTC/DSB18B20 temperature probe
-Internal or external (in recirculating circuit) temp probe position
-Step Mash management (mash in/out and 6 step mash)
-Boil management with overboil and power control (electric only)
-Hop addition alarms
-Whirlpool management (hot or cold)
-Cooling management
-Full recipe management (new / edit /clone /delete)
-Mash profile
-Boil duration and hop addition time
-10 possible recipe in memory
-Delay start for brew day programming
Off course the brewing application benefit of all common features
-Log of all process data locally in the EEPROM
-Push of process data via wifi to thingspeak server
-Download of process data via USB (CSV format)
-Web visualization of process data
-SamrtPID dedicated smartphone app for data visualization (android only)
If this is not enough the development roadmap foresse other uniques functions in particular the possibility to define the process parameter and recipe via web or smartphone interface and upload via wifi to the controller.
Even if it's very easy to configure smartPID via local menu the possibility to have a web user area with all parameters and recipe as well all the log data of previous brew day we believe is a real plus. In order to simplify the recipe process from definition to run mode also import of mash and boil profile from major SW like Beersmith is in feasibility stage
In next posts we try to show a real case of set up and cabling for BIAB equipments and a video with complete overview of the functions trough the EMULATOR
arzaman
http://smartpid.com
https://www.facebook.com/smartPID
A long video explaining the smart brewing app, around 12 min for explanation of parameters and recipe config and 12 min for a complete simulation of a brew day
Enjoy and remember to subscribe youtube channel !
arzaman
http://smartpid.com
http://www.facebook.com/smartPID
Live test of SmartPID controller applied to a profi cook pot transformed into a single vessel BIAB system with full process automation and smart features !
arzaman
http://smartpid.com
https://www.facebook.com/smartPID
Davide we just need a price now and where to send the money
Quote from: CH on October 16, 2016, 01:32:42 PM
Davide we just need a price now and where to send the money 
Your kind sentence is ther reason why I'm working night and day to move to manufacturring and mass production in a shorter time possible
fully comminted to deliver you soon the product at best price possible
stay tuned
Davide
During this month after launching we have collected lot of feedback and also questions either technical and commercial.
We have collected in the FAQ section on the web site, have a look for any doubt on the project !
http://smartpid.com/faq/ (http://smartpid.com/faq/)
arzaman
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/FAQ-e1477210027917.png)
SmartPID is not a simple controller or thermostat, is more an "open platform" powerful and flexible where the resources and I/O can be used for different applications, different environments and integration. My idea is to develop an ecosystem of "vertical" applications on top of a common set of features
the first two applications developed for homebrewer are
smart thermostat (or basic application) that is the base line for any thermal regulated process . Can be used and adapted where it's need a PID control or perform a retrofit o simple thermostat with something more advanced. Typical example is fermentation chamber
Smart homebrewing app that is focused on all brewing process automation from mashing to boiling from hop addition to whirlpool and cooling including recipe management
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Smart-thermostat-vs-brewing-app.png)
anything you would like to see on top of SmartPID??
Yeah, price and sale date, thanks Davide
I asked already on your YouTube site about a four pot system, so hlt, mash tun, Herms pot, boiler. 3 power sources to control, 3 temperature probes. I think that is outside capability of your device?
Sorry I see now your question on Youtube...to many channel to monitor :-)
Each smartPID box is dual channel so you can control two processes and two heating (cooling) elements. Not very clear to me what you would like to control ...you mention 4 vessels (hlt, mash tun, Herms pot, boiler) and you need 3 control point
I would say that with current smart homebrewing application is not feasible but maybe if you explain the process I can elaborate a more precise design and integration
below a schema for a "standard" integration
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/setup-mashhlt220pump.png)
arzaman
Hi Davide, I want to control 2 elements in HLT, 2 elements in boiler, pump, 3 temp probes (mash, hlt, boiler) and I know your unit can do that but I also have an element for separate Herms pot, thanks.
Working to a plug-n-play and easy retrofit solution to upgrade original grinfather controller with Smartpid and need some suggestions and ideas from GF community
The idea is to keep the original case and switches, just removing STC200 and rewiring Smartpid in order to get full process automation, recipe management, wifi data log, OLED graphical display, USB, etcetc.. and basically there a two options
1) connect heating element to relay 1 , connect pump to relay 2 in parallel to switch, connect temperature probe to one of the two control channel. Just two wires for pump and a screw driver !
You can benefit all the smart PID automation feature (including pump cycle automation) but the temperature control during step mash will be performed ON/OFF (with hysteresis) since is not advisable to use PID /PWM algorithm with mechanical relay output
Also during boil you lose the nice feature to control power via PWM 0-100%
2) insert in the case a solid state relay (10A minimum) to control heating elements, pump control and temperature probe as option 1
Little bit of extra work and a need of suitable SSR with heat sink to fit in the small spare space inside the case but you can benefit full PID + PWM solution either in mashing or in boiling
there is also a 3rd option more invasive that need to work on the base of GF separating 2 heating element now in series in order to control them separately (500W by PID during mashing, 1500 W by relay during mash in/out and boil)
what option do you prefer ? Any other suggestion ?
arzaman
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/20161105_212224-e1478976809426.jpg)
Hi Davide, unless the cost of smart pid is considerably less than the new grainfather controller I wouldn't spend time on a working on a retrofit solution. Great idea if the price was right
Happy to announce that next week smartPID will go live on kickstarter
Thank you for your patience,thank you for support and suggestions,thank you in advance for your contribution to bring smartpid to life
stay tuned
arzaman
(https://media.licdn.com/mpr/mpr/shrinknp_200_200/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAJ0AAAAJGQ4ZDUzM2U2LWVjZTAtNGI5Ny1iMzZhLWI0Mjk5N2MyMjAzZQ.png)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMgzq0XVB_4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMgzq0XVB_4)
Breaking news and great day for the project !!
I'm happy to inform you in advance that the crowdfunding campaign is started and SmartPID is finally live on INDIEGOGO
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/suppor-us-on-indiegogo.png)
https://igg.me/at/smartpid/x (https://igg.me/at/smartpid/x)
I see already some pledge from IE and traffic from the forum and your community and thanks to all early adopter and backers but now the most important think is to spread the news to reach the maximum number of people.
I have chosen the hard way "all or nothing" to reach a certain volume and MoQ to keep production cost and consequently price affordable and next days I will start some mkt campaign but the success of the campaign depends greatly on you and the world of mouth is the key..I kindly ask you to engage your homebrewing, DIY enthusiasts, makers friends an let them know about the campaing
sure of your support I will update regularly
br Davide
arzaman engineering
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/SmartPID-indiegogo-heading-x-FB-e1481185518636.png)
Best of luck with the launch . I think it is a good idea, and know it can be very difficult to get good ideas off the ground. Am happy to support, and hope this is the start of good things for you and your business.
Ps...
Have pledged, but was a bit put off by the shipping cost. Would have been happier with a higher product cost up front with a less steep shipping cost.)
Thank you for your kind words !
I really need your support...I do my best working hard to bring project at that point...now it depends on community support
stay tuned
Davide
+1 Best of luck Davide.
Looks great, following your project with interest.
I'm doing beta testing on this project for Davide, so if anyone from the club has a wishlist or ideas that they want to test with the device, let me know and I'm sure he'll see if it ticks all the boxes.
Initally I'm going to try and integrate it with my existing ArdBir solution, replacing it as the control element and hopefully also making it control both pumps with either a software selector menu or physical button. Until I see the device I can't tell yet how to proceed on that front though.
Ideally I'd make a simple control cable from it that will run to all my SSR's and relays, as I like having the electronics and electrics separate.
Looks great Davide and very neat, best of luck
Quote from: molc on December 09, 2016, 02:29:58 PM
I'm doing beta testing on this project for Davide,....
Thank you fro beta testing support, component sourcing has been completed so hopefully next week the manufacturer assemble the first lot
I have only some delay with the supplier of the plastic box..hope it will deliver it before xmas !
About integration should be quite easy sine the SW allows o assign logical resources to the Output port...so you can decide to attach the pump to the mechanical relay (220V pump) or to the 12V direct ...same concept for the heating element sine you have 2 mechanical relay output and 3 12V output .
For people familiar with ardbir is even simpler because even if the SW is brand new many concept are the same.
I'm also working to installation and integration manual, the controller part is quite "simple" , the biggest part is to explain how to configure the wifi , the thingspeak logging, the smartphone app... I work a lot with the app developer to make all the process simple and user friendly regardless the limited resources available on a controller.
Now I try to work on 3 main streams: pre-production, product development completion and especially crowdfunding campaign. ..very challenging but fully committed to proceed :-)
stay tuned
Davide
Aye, I'm thinking of wiring the +12V outputs to the relays and have those triggered by RL1 and RL2 soft switches, from what I saw on the videos. Then I'll trigger the SSR relays using the SSR output. Basically have the whole smartPID box run in 12V mode, connected to an 8 pin connector I've already made previously, so it will just take over as the brains of the operation.
I'll probably add manual override switches as well, so I can just set the pumps to always on in the soft menu and then turn them on and off as necessary from my front panel, along with a manual override to the PWM to ignore the signal when I am doing some sort of manual intervention, like draining a pot (you don't want to run those elements dry I've learned!)
The big sell for me is the wireless module, along with the app. My plan is to fill water and grain the night before, along with priming the pumps. Then, when I wake up, I tell the HLT to start heating the water and have the pump turn on to recirculate to stop stratification of the water. Once the water has reached strike temp, the app should beep and then I transfer water to the mash tun, then I walk away. Again, the app will beep when the mash is complete and I'll go back, transfer to the boil kettle, get past the hot break and then react whenever the app beeps to add more hops.
One thing I am curious about is if you can set the SSR to react to two different temperature probes at different stages in the brew. For the HLT heatup and mash, it needs to watch the Herms temperature probe, whereas during boil, it needs to react to the boil kettle probe.
Finally, most likely I'll be getting a plastic box that could fit around the whole device. Something that will be important is how easy it is to mount the SmartPID in another box, similiar to how people mount STC's in something. Even something as simple as panel mounting points on the edge of the smartPID that can be accessed by taking off the main cover would be invaluable here.
@Davide,
On the Indiegogo campaign you have to select Thermostat or Homebrewing.
I want to play with it initially and am undecided what it will be used for.
What is the possibility of changing the software on the Controller?
I assume it is possible to change this, but is this at a cost?
Good question !
First the answer to the technical part, than the commercial ;)
Yes it is (it will be) definitely possible to upgrade the FW , either for bug fix/new features or to load a new application sw (ie change from smart thermostat to the brewing app)
I'm now testing a simple way ...you plug your board via USB in the pc port and you see it as a storage, a USB memory stick, and you need just to copy the executable new file
Alternative I will provide a simple desktop application for SW upgrade always via USB
About commercial my model is to ask a premium for the vertical application (homebrewing app is one) compared to the basic thermostat.
This will allow me to continue develop new applications
About the premium will be in the range you see now on Indiegogo : 89 for the basic 109 for the premium
The difficult part is to set up a licensing mechanism to prevent fraud and hacking ... >:(
br
Davide
If I were to subscribe and select Brewing could I switch between the 2 functions?
Quote from: johnrm on December 13, 2016, 02:26:28 PM
If I were to subscribe and select Brewing could I switch between the 2 functions?
Not sure about your question.
If switch means having both SW onboard the answer is not
To "switch" as I have explained before you need to perform SW upgrade
Davide
If a donator selects unit plus brewing sw, how much extra for the thermostat sw?
Quote from: johnrm on December 13, 2016, 07:23:44 PM
If a donator selects unit plus brewing sw, how much extra for the thermostat sw?
Never tough to this use case
I would say that is a "downgrade" so should be for free..
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/SmartPID-Xmas-banner-e1482518600162.png)
I would like to wish marry Xmas and happy new year to all smartPID project supporters and crowdfunding campaign backers
Campaign will run on INDIEGOGO until 11/1 so you have still the chance to make yourself a gift and allow smartPID to go live !
Best wishes again
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/indiegogo-xmas.png)
https://igg.me/at/smartpid/x/15644037 (https://igg.me/at/smartpid/x/15644037)
Davide
arzaman engineering
End of the year is time for balance !
2016 has been very hard and exciting, one year of design, development, prototypes, test ..lot of work and effort but also satisfaction
The startup of the project is not so easy and still some work have to be completed but I hope 2017 will bring definitely SmartPID controller to life !
Thank you for your support and happy new year to the whole community
Davide
arzaman engineering
https://youtu.be/X9cXHUep1Ac (https://youtu.be/X9cXHUep1Ac)
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Happy-new-year-e1483196023371.png)
Hi
short project update for this beginning 2017
Development continue and I'm happy to share a couple of news
From HW perspective I succeed adding an I2C expansion port on the back panel that provides lot of flexibility and expansion capabilities. The port has "grove" pin out and there are lot of sensors and actuators that can be connected.
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/PhotoGrid_1483361087430-e1483623415669.png)
The other improvement is related to the smartphone app. Lot of enhancement, new layout and now the possibility not only to monitor from remote the process parameter but also to modify the set point
have a look to this short video that show the remote control capabilites
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMJiMmr1yJE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMJiMmr1yJE)
hope you like this enhancement, stay tuned
Davide
arzman engineering
Quote from: arzaman on January 05, 2017, 01:45:20 PM
Hi
short project update for this beginning 2017
Development continue and I'm happy to share a couple of news
From HW perspective
Hi Davide, any idea if it there will be surface mount points on the front if you want to put the enclosure (either in the existing box or stripped down) into another box? Planning on building a box around it with switches etc, so being able to easily mount is a big plus.
Also looking at the software, I see no way of doing stepped mashes like with the original ardbir. Will there be some way to add recipes and automated control for a brewday?
Sorry to see the campaign not reaching its target Davide.
thank you johnrm ,to all commuinty and bakers for the support and to all bakers
I'm doing some analysis on the reason why and evaluate impact on the project.
As you know most part of the development has been done and I move even further starting a small batch production at my risk and investment founding also great part of fixed costs
So , assuming that there is still a demand for such a smart device, I don't want to waste all this effort and investments, I try to review the roadmap, scale doown the project and sit down with the manufacturer to understand how we can produce the object below di minimum order quantity
next step is to distribute the first 50 smartPID to the selected beta tester and if still interested to bakers starting from super early bird .
This I think will boost the project since finally smartPID exit my laboratory and few passionate and supportive people can start play with it
Any feedback from the community is important and I will update you soon on the new strategy
thank you again, stay tuned
Davide
Since I got few questions I would like to provide you an update of the project after the strategy review post indiegogo campaign.
I can confirm you that finally I have distributed 12 SmartPID to selected beta tester, it's an important milestone since after one year of work smartpid leave my laboratory and someone start really playing with it and provide real feedback.
I'm collecting the first feedback on all possible areas..from buy experience to fulfillment..from general look and feel to user experience ..from smartphone app to core features.
The overall feedback generally speaking is positive and I got really lot of valuable inputs either on fixing some problems (mainly in the smartphone app) or review and enhance some parts.
Here some unboxing and first integrations ..Lot of discussion and interaction (an lot of work) !
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/smartpid-unboxing-e1486679283815.jpg)
In parallel the development proceeds on many different streams
I have released first version of the installation and configuration manual that provides all details to connect and configure smartPID (wifi config, thingspeak config, Arduino IDE config and sketch compilation , FW upgrade and so on). You can download form the github page
A new SW release is now available either for the homebrewing app and smart thermostat adding two main content: Fahrenheit support and probe calibration support
In the short term roadmap some important enhancements are already palnned: delayed start for fridge (smart thermostat) and PID autotuning beta, should be interesting experiment autotuning algorithm in your setup
As promised I have made smartPID open source and I have also completed the github area with all source code,libraries, schema, driver etc.. so anyone that will enjoy programming and hacking smartPID can do ! Please remember that all material is subject to GNU V3 open source license
https://github.com/arzaman/smartPID (https://github.com/arzaman/smartPID)
I have prepared also the website for adding a wiki section and a forum section. Hopefully I will release in live in the week end. This will allow better project documentation and interaction with all end user
The very good news is that end next week I should receive the front panel that is the last missing part so I'm potentially ready to provide to you the long waited smartpid (more or less in line with indiegogo campaing schedule)
My plan is to collect other feedback from beta tester up to end of February , fix major issue and than distribute the remaining 50 boards (with precedence to backers) and increase the community.. so stay tuned !
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170128_103809-e1486679263881.jpg)
Davide
Quick update on the project with special focus on new feature and enhancements of application SW
Delay Fridge start and PID auto tuning has been released and I have also added the configuration support for different beta coefficient for NTC sensors plus other minor changes coming from the beta tester
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/PhotoGrid_1487426421079-e1489192580681.png)
I have also tested extensively the auto tune with my test equipment and even if I'm not a fan of the auto tuning process it can help you to find an initial set up that maybe you can adjust by experience
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/SmartPID-auto-tuning-collage-e1489192607716.jpg)
Now working to the final version of the smart thermostat app adding the ramp/soak management for the fermentation chamber
I have also released the first official version of the android smartphone app on google play store, off course to use it you need the SmartPID controller (and the thingspeak account)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fred.com.smartpid (http://"https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fred.com.smartpid")
The beta testing phase has been completed and lot of feedback received, I have now extended the community with a limited offer to former Indiegogo backer but I'm ready to open the store to all of you with a limited stock of controller
It's a matter of days, stay tuned !
Davide
Arzaman engineering
Long time since last post and lot of things happens !
Many homebrewers adopted SmartPID controller and I got lot of feedback that allow me to enhance and improve either HW and SW
Before summer break (at least in north hemisphere it's summer time !) just few update on the project
Still working on the improvement of the overall quality of the engineering of smartPID and from next batch I'm happy to announce that the front panel has been replaced with a new one.
Not just a graphical and aesthetic review but a different solution. The tactile switch are now internal and on top of the panel a flexible membrane allow to press it.
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IMG_20170714_000302_472-e1500130302318.jpg)
This provide a very good feeling in operating in smartPID but more important good protection of the inside from splash or particles. Little details but improved in quality and reliability
Biggest news are SW side. As you may have seen the focus on the development now is on the BBQ controller application, with support of few professional pit master now the application is almost complete. Very powerful, feature reach and flexible...I will follow up on this topic and I will start a beta testing campaign after summer break ..stay tuned
The BBQ app give me the chance to talk about another big change in the SW architecture and evolution of SmartPID ecosystem. You know that one of the SmartPID smartest feature is the capability to remote monitor and control your device and process. Currently the smartphone app is available for android only and is based on the public service provided by Thingspeak.
In the BBQ solution I have tested a new technology to implement the remote control and the results are really good and promising
The new technology is based on MQTT subscribe and notify protocol that is becoming a standard for the IoT connected devices and allow me to mange a private server where to develop advanced services
From technical perspective allow me to solve lot of the annoying things to make a device connected via WiFi home router like the dynamic IP address of firewall traversal.
From your end user perspective the initial set up user experience will be simplified, the new app will be very responsive and with possibility to implement also commands and actions.
And finally the technology allow me to implement either native android smartphone app but also web application that you can use in any browser....fixed or mobile..so including tablet or IOS devices.
Have a look to this video that is quite explanatory!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHTCkl64AQE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHTCkl64AQE)
In autumn I will retrofit also the smartphone app for hombrewing and smart thermostat and finally implement what you request so many times: full brew day and process remote controls (not only monitors) with full interactions and all the parameters remote control including recipe management
Finally I'm working to other two applications: a complete process controller for malting barley with a micro-malthouse and a spirit distiller controller. Still in a design and concept stage but progressing !
If you are interested there are really few smartPID pieces in the store still at the launch price, next stock available in August
Have a nice holiday and talk to you after summer break with other news and progress !
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Xmas-promo-2017.png)
As usual I'm happy to share with you some news about the project but since Xmas time is approaching I have activated a special promo offer on the online store, For limited time period you can get for free
-SSR 40 A 24-380V AC with smartPID smart hombrewing app
Or
-Thermocouple K-type adapter with smartPID smart thermostat
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Xmas-promo-2017-rele-adapter.png)
Few pieces of the all in one klarstein mash tun retrofit kit are still available
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/PhotoGrid_1509216550041.jpg)
don't miss out !
http://smartpid.com/store (http://smartpid.com/store)
coming back to project status update
Smart thermostat K-type support now available, the new SW release can be downloaded in the wiki section of the web site. For upgrade procedure of your smartPID follow instruction on installation and configuration manual
http://smartpid.com/wiki-page/ (http://smartpid.com/wiki-page/)
Also the external adapter for the K-type probe connection is now available as optional in the store (free during Xmas promo)
The other big step forward is related to the remote control management, I'm working to a complete re-design of that part introducing a more interactive, user friendly and powerful technology that allow also integration with third party application.
The first application that have been updated is the smart thermostat, the retrofit is now complete and we are testing the android smartphone app that will make the smart thermostat a really smart and unique product ! Here some screenshot preview
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/IMG-20171129-WA0006.jpg)
(http://smartpid.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/IMG-20171129-WA0011.jpg)
Smart Homebrewing application will follow in January and brew day monitor, automation and recipe management will be something really amazing !
I take the opportunity to wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas and I will come back to you next years with lot of smart and exciting project and news
Br
Davide
(https://gallery.mailchimp.com/0621a55fdff1280553b38a9a8/images/e5a0f2a1-3528-4d5c-a795-73ca5f00264f.png)
Hi smarPID firends !
Long time since my last post but smartpid project continue to evolve and progress with new product and new features mainly coming from your suggestions !
Just a summary of most important news
SmartPID CUBE
After almost one year of design, development and tests I'm very proud to announce that the new SmartPID CUBE hardware is now available and you can select it on the online store.
http://smartpid.com/store (http://smartpid.com/store)
(https://gallery.mailchimp.com/0621a55fdff1280553b38a9a8/images/46cd952b-f9b1-4fa6-9480-bad2c889c8e2.png)
The smartPID cube is a complete re-engineering of the previous HW in a new form factor that is very fancy either to keep on a desktop or to wall mount (ie with a DIN rail support).
From SW and functional point of view is 100% smartPID so all current smart homebrewing and smart thermostat (BBQ will come later) applications runs seamlessly on the new HW.
Main difference are
+ bigger 1.5" OLED display
+ SD card adapter with process data logging
+ 12V external power supply (available optionally)
bottom line is a smartest PID ever that allow you to control everything anywhere
Smart Homebrewing new remote control architecture
Finally also the smart hombrewing app has been retrofitted and now can benefit of the powerful and flexible MQTT architecture.
I have already notified all the smartPID customer to perform the FW upgrade and to download the andorid smartphone app...please remember that the old solution (via thingspeak ) is not more supported
(https://gallery.mailchimp.com/0621a55fdff1280553b38a9a8/images/acf19ec8-d891-46f5-855c-8afebd2fc784.png)
Notice that the new FW introduce lot of other features and enhancement including some robustness feature (process watchdog, auto resume after power down) so it's strongly suggested to upgrade to last version available. All upgrade details and FW version are downloadable from the wiki section of web site.
Now all applications are aligned and have same remote control framework and consistent user experience but still some development are on going on the app side to perform
recipe management
brew day process visual status
few other requirements collected from your feedback will be implemented soon
Other work in progress..
working on a "web application" that can be used with any browser (including IOS environment) desktop and mobile. The first prototype is available and now testing
I also make a partnership with https://web.brewfather.app (https://web.brewfather.app) web homebrewing too that is very powerful and flexible, SmartPID will be integrated soon and you can mange your recipe or fermentation monitor all in one place
(https://gallery.mailchimp.com/0621a55fdff1280553b38a9a8/images/9a5b64e1-1255-4587-8355-e02304903030.png)
Last but not least I have opened a new proof of concept to integrate smartPID in the amazon echo and google home ecosystems. Smart speaker are the "cool" hi-tech gadget of the moment and vocal interface is really something that can help smartPID to work in an even more effective way.
Hope you appreciate the news and the effort I put in keep the project live and move forward !
stay tuned
Davide
Did anyone ever get one of these? my controller on my bulldog is bunched so thinking this might be the simple route to sorting
I did. And i still use it as my main controller for my biab setup. On the PID side, I find it's quite good to get to the strike temp without much of an overshoot. It controls/maintains mash temp reasonably well (however, temp probe placement is important). It has its flaws- UI is takes a bit of getting use to (am always pressing the back button instead of the set button , but i think the newer version is a wee bit clearer lay out). Haven't used the Web interface too often, but while basic has potential. I find some things annoying, like there not been an option to extend a mash or boil length once started (can via web interface)
However the developer has put alot of work into it. And while does not appear as active atm as he had been, i was happy to support and buy the unit. I also use a stirrer with it which is also controlled. If you had a pump, it has a few options about running it at a certain temp, time length etc.
It is good. I used an old wine presentation box as an enclosure, and wired up the sockets/probe connectors etc. Looks very DIY, but then again it is! Its been reliable. It did reboot mid brew on two occasions, but the firmware has been updated since.
Thanks Slev
I'm looking at he retro fit kit as the cube looks a lot more idiot friendly than the original pid, it should be handy enough to wire up.
It might need a little adjusting to fit the bulldog tho
(https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/6605042/1011584348.jpg)