Computer controlled door

Community General Discussions
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I am familiar with computer programming in many languages, but this is the first time that I actually need to control something that is motorized and not handed to me with an API. I have a VB application that is essentailly a test that can be taken by a test subject. When the test subject picks one option, door number one needs to open. When they pick the other option, door number 2 opens. The doors can be as simple as a small piece of sheet metal that slides in a track, but they need to be controlled by the application. The doors would then automatically close after 10 seconds, but I need a sensor that would prevent closing if something was in the way. You could think of them as small garage doors, where if the sensor is tripped at the base of the opening, the door will not close.

Where do I start with this? I realize that it is probably very simple to construct, but most of what I have seen is well beyond what I need for this project. Can you help me pare down to just the essentials?

Thank you in advance!

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The more precise your questions, the more precise our answers.

You ask: Where do I start with this?

I answer: Starting with a pen and paper is always fine.

High level logic system diagram. Then break it down. 

Create a Something Else so that we can hit you with comments while you build this computer controlled door.

 

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For ease, I would say the options I share will depend on

how much you want to spend. The choices I would suggest are no different than the options you already have, save for, maybe, a PICAXE chip. An arduino Nano might be less expensive than the servo driver chip, which is just a uC with special programming anyway. I would imagine the time the door stays open might still be best controlled in your VB software. I only suggested a Nano, because, it is small and has the FTDI chip installed on its board. Otherwise, I would have suggested a Micro or Micro Pro.