Has anyone thought about using Brewie as a skeleton, swapping out proprietary parts with more commonly available pieces, and running their own BrewControl/other automation system??
I’m thinking about buying a 3 vessel system and automating it to do what Brewie currently does...... just don’t know if I could save myself some trouble (and cost) by keeping what I have.
I have thought about that!
I've been using esp-boards to control my fridges for fermentation, using "brewpiless" software.
It's very nice because it's so small, has wifi, and provides a web interface for all the controls.
The guy that coded this also made a version for the brewing/mashing.
It's nowhere near as nice and complete as the brewie software, but it works.
I'm trying to learn c++ programming to mess with these programs, 'cause I would like to try to make an alternative for the Brewie.
For now, another option could be to use the brewpi/brewblox controller. It's possible to make diy version of that controller. With "brewblox" you have the option of putting together your system on a kind of graphical interface, so the software to do the controls are actually there (and it's open source).
For now though, my Brewie has worked pretty flawlessly, so I haven't been in a rush with this project.
But since there's a lot of room for improvements on the Brewie software, I do wish to work on improving it.
Anyways, you could try to compare the cost - with the Brewie you get two kettles with heating elements, two pump and about 10 valves - all put together in a nice tight package. It has it's flaws alright, but if you're looking at it as a platform for messing around with the controllers - I think it could be hard to match.
@Tim H & @Ajes :
Yes- i think we have all thought about this!!
Before we go swapping out controllers... my understanding is the pumps, mechanical items, etc. will fail well before the controllers right?
I wonder about finding replacement parts that will work with the system.
Also, i wonder- if you do swap it out... say you removed the hop cages. Nice, but a lot of extra pieces. Imagine creating a patch for the boil side/ mash side only.
Maybe some more manual type switches? I.e. a thermostat to program the step mash(es) and one for the boil? Maybe a manual switch even for pumps?
I know these ideas are not 'set it and forget it' but to me the best thing about Brewie is the ability to fairly precisely control the mash tun temp. Isn't that the key?
Just thinking out loud here... after getting my wires fixed on the boil side i am so happy to have my baby back! Lol.