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Step 9Version 2.0 and Beyond...
This is a project I've had in my head since I was a little kid, and I can't tell you how satisfying it is to finally see it in action. But there are even cooler things you can do, once you have this basic system installed.
The first thing I did was install a push-on/push-off button into the pedal (wired it in parallel), so that I can convert the sink back to "regular" mode if we have guests using it. Fairly easy, and I'd recommend it.
However, I've also been messing around with everyone's favorite microprocessor, the Arduino, and have some cool modifications in mind. Once I get the solenoids wired up to some relays, it's a simple matter to have the Arduino take control of them. So then you could do something like replace the foot pedal with a proximity sensor, or replace the on/off button I mentioned above with a momentary switch that could set the sink to "regular" mode for five minutes when you press it.
Also, I was on the fence between getting a normally open or a normally closed solenoid valve. Having a normally closed valve allows me to keep the faucet handle "open" all the time, and I just have to step on the pedal to activate it. However, to return it to "regular" mode requires constant power. Since there are just two of us living here, and I'm using rechargeable batteries, I decided this was fine. It would be a simple modification to reverse the pedal and use normally open valves. This would allow the sink to operate in "normal" mode until a button was pressed, which would then activate the solenoids and close them, while stepping on the pedal would break the circuit and cause them to open, allowing the water to flow.
What other possibilities are there with a setup like this? Well, why don't you tell me!
Best of luck!
The first thing I did was install a push-on/push-off button into the pedal (wired it in parallel), so that I can convert the sink back to "regular" mode if we have guests using it. Fairly easy, and I'd recommend it.
However, I've also been messing around with everyone's favorite microprocessor, the Arduino, and have some cool modifications in mind. Once I get the solenoids wired up to some relays, it's a simple matter to have the Arduino take control of them. So then you could do something like replace the foot pedal with a proximity sensor, or replace the on/off button I mentioned above with a momentary switch that could set the sink to "regular" mode for five minutes when you press it.
Also, I was on the fence between getting a normally open or a normally closed solenoid valve. Having a normally closed valve allows me to keep the faucet handle "open" all the time, and I just have to step on the pedal to activate it. However, to return it to "regular" mode requires constant power. Since there are just two of us living here, and I'm using rechargeable batteries, I decided this was fine. It would be a simple modification to reverse the pedal and use normally open valves. This would allow the sink to operate in "normal" mode until a button was pressed, which would then activate the solenoids and close them, while stepping on the pedal would break the circuit and cause them to open, allowing the water to flow.
What other possibilities are there with a setup like this? Well, why don't you tell me!
Best of luck!
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Also, with respect to neiljackson1984's idea about fixed amount of water, I wonder if the automated soda fountain mechanisms used behind the counter at fast food restaurants would be useful. Many of the worker-used fountains have buttons for fixed volumes (eg. fill this size cup). It may simply be those dispensers have good consistent flow rates and simply need programmed timings in an Arduino.
and great work with the solenoid....
im just thinking if i replace the solenoid with something...like a stopper from a **********...it might just work......but think i will leak out......as soon as i solved it i will post my solution.......
but for now...try to think what is ***************.......its from some where in your basement or in my house its in the kitchen....try to find out....
I really like the idea of fixed volumes of water being delivered. A tap of a hot or cold could deliver 1 cup. You could just time it if you can't get the flow-meter. 2 taps give 2 cups, 3 taps gives 4 cups.