My Inspiration
While going through the educational site for Lego Mindstorm NXT projects for my grand-daughters, I came across this website: http://www.nxtprograms.com/index1.html
Impressed by the 3 Speed Transmission with Clutch model, I decided to construct one. The model itself provides a 3 speed Gear train controlled manually by pulling levers for gear and clutch mechanism. The Accelerator is a very simple switch that only provides a software simulation of accelerating the speed to max. This provided a good way to teach kids on gear transmission, use of clutch etc. The basic model is provided below:
The Build
With a new found passion for Raspberry Pi, I decided to give this model a complete makeover by changing the manual transmissions to “Fly-by-wire” technology. This gives us the ability to control this through a computer. So manual controls were replaced with Motors for Gear changing and Clutch control. Accelerator is replaced with a software controlled Slider and an Index switch was added to keep track of current running Gears. Resultant modified model is provided below:
Software
Now the next thing is to add a proper interface to connect to this setup. For this Windows IoT running on Pi was chosen. In addition, to control this from Internet, a separate Windows based program for controls was written. While the Transmission can be controlled locally, with the additional program, the user has the option of control through the Internet.
The screen for windows IoT is given below:
Rea More: Remote Internet Controlled 3 Speed Transmission
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation, and engineering. I have a clear and simple writing style and am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and is able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.