Build a Remote Control Deadbolt

Step 1 Shopping List

Here is what you'll need to build your own remote control deadbolt:

Solenoid
I used two 110V solenoids out of an icemaker, but you may want to build your lock using DC solenoids. Some of them are very strong, and your options for powering the lock in the event of a power outage are greater. Just something to think about. IMPORTANT! -- Make sure you get a continuous duty solenoid, some solenoids are only meant to be energized momentarily, which will cause a problem if you leave them energized and walk away. Read up on the various types of solenoids here.

X10 Controller
I got my X10 controller (Keychain Remote type) on eBay for about $15.00 shipped. This is a simple kit that includes the receiver/appliance module and one remote. Search for "X10 Keychain Kit" or "RC6500" on eBay to find the one I bought.

Hardware
In addition to the above, you'll need 2 return springs per solenoid used, 1/2" steel dowel rod (about $6.00 for 3'), an extension cable long enough to reach your outlet with enough to spare for some additional wiring, and possibly some bits of steel for reinforcement. Depending on what kind of connections your solenoids have, you'll probably want to get some crimp-on connectors. Solder and shrink tubing work better, but are harder to get apart if you should need to.

Optionally, you can buy a couple of magnets to mount inside the recessed mounting hole. This will help the bolt to stay extended, and make a great noise as the bolt closes.

Another improvement on my design would be to use a small hobby box as an enclosure for each solenoid. This would look a lot cleaner and keep the electrical contacts under wraps.

Comments

[Ianmck12]

 im not much of a techy but i hope i do what i can do

[stuffman]

Okay, here's a very basic diagram of a single solenoid to X10 module setup.  If you need further explanation I recommend picking up a book at your local hardware store on 110V circuits.  I bought one at Lowe's published by Black & Decker that does a really good job explaining how everything works with high voltage current, switching , resistive vs inductive loads etc.  Without this knowledge I would strongly advise against starting this project.  Maybe I'm being overly cautious, but I'd hate to be the reason that you fried yourself. 

[Ianmck12]

 and are you sure its 110v becuz the sticker says 120 v

[stuffman]

110V is a loose rating, the actual voltage can fluctuate between 110 and 120 volts AC.  It's confusing, but 110V circuits and 120V circuits are actually the same thing, as long as you're talking about United States (or maybe North American) AC voltage standards.  You may want to think about adapting this instructable to DC if you're asking for a project that you will actually build.  Good Luck,

Shawn

[Ianmck12]

 sizes and mabey the dimentions of the door the wood and springs

[stuffman]

I'm not exactly sure of the dimensions of everything, but if you compare the items to the wood they're mounted to you should be able to infer some scale.  For example, the block that the solenoid and springs are mounted to is a 2x4, which is 1.5"X3.5".  Hopefully this helps, I'm not sure of the exact dimensions.  Anyway, this instructable should be used as a loose guide to your project, no two could really be the same.  Good Luck!

[Ianmck12]

 can you be a little more specific im doing a report on this

[stuffman]

I'm not sure what needs clarification.  Please let me know what part you're having problems with and I'll be happy to explain it for you.

Shawn

[Goodhart]

I guess the only comment I have is that, many homes have the line coming in from the street split into 2 seperate phases, and with that, the X-10 does not always work "across" from one phase to another, so make sure you are on the same side of the circuit breaker box with actuator and x-10 control box or it may get frustrating trying to figure out what is wrong.