ISPRESSO: Remote Controlled, Raspberry Pi Powered Espresso Machine

iSPRESSO is an appliance modification comprised of Raspberry Pi computer, solid state relays, temp sensor, buttons and a display, a custom Printed Circuit Board, and custom linux shell scripts and a good bit of python code. Remote Controlled Raspberry Pi Powered Espresso Machine.jpg

iSPRESSO features:

  • Programmable software PID Controller for precise boiler temperature control
  • Configurable Pre-soak time, wait time, and brew time
  • Controllable from web browser, iPad, iPhone (Android coming soon) on WiFi network
  • Schedule allows programmable on / off timing for each day of the week
  • LCD readout for system status, toggle buttons for operation
  • Smart Connect for easy setup to your WiFi network

Step 1: Shopping List

WARNING: Before you get started, be aware that messing with electricity near water is very dangerous! Be sure you know what you are doing, take every precaution, consult an electrician, and be 100% sure you are using GFCI outlet.

Shopping:

I've put together a list of most of the items you will need to build this. To the extent possible, these are Amazon Prime items:

iSPRESSO Shopping List

Step 2: Remove Top Panel

Remove the top panel by removing 4 screws holding on the top, and lifting the top. Remove the black reservoir lid and set aside. Pull hoses out of the way and remove water tank and set aside.

Step 3: Removing Front Panel

Remove front panel by removing two screws from the front panel, and slide it out laterally to the right, moving foam nozzle out of the way. Remove bottom grating and bottom tray.

Step 4: Remove Water Tank Heat Shield

Remove inner rear shield that forms the housing for the water tank. This is accomplished by unscrewing two screws holding on rear shield, holding the hoses out of the way, and wrestling that damn thing out of there.

Step 5: Mount Solid State Relays (SSR's)

Mount Solid State Relays (SSR). Please note that although the pictures may show 25A SSR, you will need 40A SSRs for the Silvia V3. 25A did work on Silvia V1, but not on V3. Hold up SSR’s and mark holes with a screwdriver. Drill holes using quality Cobalt bits – the metal is extremely strong. Wear eye protection.

Step 6: Mounting SSR

Mount the SSR’s using screw & nut #8-32 x ½”

Step 7: Mounting Temp Sensor

Secure the 1-wire temp sensor to boiler. Using a 3-4” hose clamp (metal), affix the 1-wire temp sensor to the boiler. Use some thermal compound to help make a good contact for heat transfer.

Step 8: Wiring

Set the other end of the temp sensor wire aside where it will not get in the way, we will wire this up later

Before you mess with the wiring, have a look at the way things are currently wired (see diagram).

Step 9: Wiring Harnesses

Remote Controlled Raspberry Pi Powered Espresso Machine wiring diagram

Create some wiring harnesses using 14ga high voltage wire:

* Black wire – 10ga female connector with 3 wires

— short wire 4” ending in a 14ga male connector

— long wire 16” ending in a 14ga female connector

— long wire 16” ending in bare wire * Black wire – 12” bare wire one side, 14ga female connector other side * Red wires – 10ga female connector with 2 wires

— short wire 4” ending in 14ga male connector

— long wire 16” ending in a 14ga female connector * Blue wires (two alike)

— 12” bare wire one side, 14ga male connector other side

— 12” bare wire one side, 14ga male connector other side

For more detail: ISPRESSO: Remote Controlled, Raspberry Pi Powered Espresso Machine


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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