RTL thanks for the response. We are always looking for input as to features and design elements to incorporate or make better.
1. With the way it is laid out it looks like the panel is very tight making expandability by the end user nearly impossible, especially without a complete system schematic. Will you include a schematic with a shipped system? Would you consider putting it in a bigger enclosure for someone considering running 3 or more elements?
Basic schematics are included for buyers. Currently we are working with a microbrewery to run six elements, three pumps, and a fermentation system. This is done via modules added to the main control system, this works easier than routing all the power through the main unit, a home brewer could do the same. Custom expansion is possible but we built the current design to cover the majority of the HERMS and RIMS brewers out there today. The hot side user interface can be seen below.
2. From the "system schematic" it looks like 3 probes can only be used for heating and 3 probes can only be used for cooling. Is that a correct assumption? If so how do you propose someone controls a heated/cooled fermentation chamber?
Yes this is how the base system is designed. It is our goal to provide a system that is ready to brew out of the box and we decided upon this configuration to cover the largest possible segment of brewers. Adding a heating option for fermentation control will be taken on as a design consideration.
3. My design right now includes HOA switches so I can override automatic control anytime with a simple flip of a switch; without slamming my E-stop. This comes in handy when trying to get every last drop out of the HLT or the BK and waiting to shut the pump off at the last second. Without an HOA switch I would be concerned about fumbling around for a mouse to shut off my pumps.
I use a wireless mouse and keyboard in my brew house. I was also worried about not having physical switches but actually I find it easier than reaching for switches and controls as you have total control from anywhere in the room.
We only support Windows at the moment, although we are planning to test upon linux and offer an embedded control option at some point.
5. The overview mentions that the system can be configured to reduce power if you are running on 30A service. Does that mean it will run both elements at once while simultaneously keeping the current draw below 30A?
Currently we simply shut one element off on the production systems, although on my test rig I have been working with a setup where the brewer inputs the element sizes and maximum amperage to use then based on these the system throttles the PWM to one element to keep below the maximum amperage. I expect to release this in the near future.
6. Would you consider selling partial systems with the controller, software, and a schematic, so that the end user could finish the system to their own design?
We will work with anyone on custom design. As I mentioned above we are working currently with a microbrewery on a specific design. It is very easy for us to do this as the logic is all reusable, really just a few controls in the GUI get changed or duplicated.
Thank you for your input. Again, we welcome any feedback on features you would like to see implemented!
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