Controlling my coffee maker over my network Part 1: Hardware

A few months ago, the local hardware store had a special on a 3 outlet remote control. The package consisted of a remote control with 3 sets of on/off switches , and three 110V remote power plug adapters. $15 is a small price to pay for getting one step closer to an automated coffee machine, so I bought the damn thing.

After some rather disheartening failures, the automated coffee maker of my dreams is almost on my counter.

This build consists of:

A small thrift store jewelry box for the case
a C.H.I.P. computer for logic,networking, and controlling a relay
a 6 channel relay
a 3 outlet remote control
some wires,
USB cable and power adapter

The CHIP serves a web page and API for controlling a set of relays that in turn emulate "button" presses on the remote by shorting the circuit of each button on the remote.

Take it apart!

One of the highlights of any project, taking something apart. :)

Solder on some leads

The second failed circuit

This was my second attempt to create a (hopefully) simple circuit to 'short' the leads soldered to the remote. My knowledge of optocouplers is less than impressive. Oh well.

If you have 6 buttons, use a 6 channel relay

A 6 channel relay would have been the fastest and most economical way to gain control of the remote. Anywho, using the relay required making 6 ground connectors.

Wire and test the relays

The relay inputs 1 through 6 where wired to the CHIP pins labeled "XIO-P0" through "XIO-P5".

How not to drill a hole in glass

Bummer. I wanted to run some wires through the glass on the jewelry box, so I tried to drill a hole through the glass. It didn't work out as I had planned, and ya know, that's OK. Don't be afraid to celebrate a failure. By finding the joy in failing, one owns the event, the event doesn't own them. carry on.

Thank you, dull chainsaw

Fortunately for me, my chainsaw was dull and I recently purchased an electric sharpener for the chain, and the plastic packaging for the sharpener just happen to be a decent size for making a replacement window for the computer case. Booyah!