Electric window opener,

thingiverse

A few years ago, the author attempted to build an automatic window-opening robot but failed due to poor mechanical construction and insufficient skills in mechanical engineering at that time. The project was put on hold until the author acquired a 3D printer. To create the new version of the robot, certain requirements must be met: the system should fit within the frame's depth (50mm), the moving arm cannot extend outside the frame, electronics must fit in an enclosure with the motor and angular position potentiometer, the system must detach from the window for cleaning and painting purposes, and the mechanical construction should use parts commonly found in reprap projects. The new window opener consists of a bar attached to the window, a bearing holder connected to an arm that provides rotational motion to open or close the window. Bar clamps similar to those used in 3D printers hold the bar to the window. The shaft coupler is crucial to the system's success, as it must withstand high torque. The enclosure houses the motor and potentiometer and can be attached to the window frame using self-tapping wood screws. Cable connections are secured within the frame channels at the back of the enclosure. The electronics include a PIC18f14k50 microcontroller, L298N motor driver, and 5V power supply via a 7805 regulator. The controller is currently a simple proportional controller but can be improved. Control of the window is accomplished through a pushbutton located away from the window, with plans to eventually replace it with a rain sensor. The system could potentially be integrated into a home automation setup. A video demonstrating the functioning robot will be uploaded soon.