Computer assisted control panel?

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

I'm wanting to re-work my current control panel to include some kind of computer based help. Ideally, I like to be able to have the computer monitor each brew and save it so I can use the same process later. Sort of like the Sabco Brew-magic.

I've seen the BCS460, and I like it, but I don't know if I want to get rid of my control panel completely. I just want something to save the data, not control the temps. Plus, I haven't read enough about the BCS460 to know if actually saves data.

I have a basic Brutus-like control panel, but I'm using only one pump in a HERMS style build. I'm using 2 Auber SYL-2362 PIDs, 1 pump, 2 gas solenoid valves, etc. All wired to 110. I don't know much else about it since I didn't wire it originally. I had my uncle do it, who is no longer in town to be able to help.

Is this something that's able to be done? If so, can someone point me in the right direction?

 

[JonW]

I don't know how you would plan on duplicating batches from saved data without controlling the temps, that's kind of a key piece of your mash. If you're going to go to computer control, it just makes sense to drop the Aubers from the setup.

With the BCS, you setup "Processes". Each process can have multiple steps and exit conditions (time, temp, float switch, etc.). You can save these processes to the PC, so you could theoretically load up a set of processes for each batch. The way I tend to do it though is to use the same processes for all batches, but just modify the times/temps prior to starting the session. I use BeerSmith for my recipes, so I just enter my times/temps that are logged in the recipe.

 

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

I guess my main concern is that I don't want to go completely auto. I like the idea of having to physicall change the temps and monitor times. I guess I'm just interested in hooking up something to log my data, and not to repeat it. I use beertools, and keep faily good notes, but there's a lot of variables that id like to try and eliminate. Also, would I be able to use the bcs on 110?

 

[alowell]

I think that I am working on a similar setup to what you want. I have toggle switches (4) which allow me to manually control things (2 pumps, RIMS heater, and gas solenoid valve) or switch to auto and have the BCS control them. I am running on 120V. Check out the blog in my signature. I am still building it and will update the blog as I go.

 

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

Very cool alowell. I'll make sure to keep an eye on it. If you could post a wiring diagram when you're finished with it, that'd be great.

 

[alowell]

I'll try my best. I'm afraid my wiring diagrams are a bunch of sketches on post-it notes while I was at work!! Basically, the BCS's 5V outputs go through one side of the switch (auto) and the 120V power goes through the other side (manual mode). There is an off position with no contact made. It's been a while since I fooled with the control panel, but next time I do, I'll try to give you a clearer picture.

 

[ClaudiusB]

I guess my main concern is that I don't want to go completely auto. I like the idea of having to physicall change the temps and monitor times.

My system is programmed to do automatic control and what I call guided brewing.
Guided brewing tells you step by step what to do next, includes a buzzer in case you fall a sleep.
Guided brewing is for the hands on guy
Some examples pics:

Select the beer style you like to brew

Mashing, rest # 3

As you can see you don't have to give up control if you love the hands on process.

Cheers,
ClaudiusB

 

[John Beere]

I'm guessing you've seen my setup? Look in my sig if not.. While it isn't fully automatic, it is pretty close- which I get you don't want to take away from your process. As discussed in the thread, I went this route primarily for repeatability, but also because I'm a computer programmer by day and a tinkerer by night.

I used a LabJack to not only automate my rig, but also to capture statistics (which I've posted in my thread) such how smoothly my HERMs operates, etc.

 

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

John Beere, you're right. I had seen your setup before. I love it, but it's a little more than I'm wanting to handle at this point. I'm not wanting to totally overhaul my control panel, just add something to it if possible.

Caudius...I love the looks of your panel. Do you have any pictures of the whole setup? I'm assuming that screen is just a small part of the panel. Any chance you could PM or email me a parts list or wiring diagram? I'm no electrician, but with a diagram, I can usually manage.

 

[ClaudiusB]

John Beere, you're right. I had seen your setup before. I love it, but it's a little more than I'm wanting to handle at this point.

Based on what I can see his set-up is very nice and easier to reproduce.

Caudius...I love the looks of your panel. Do you have any pictures of the whole setup?
Any chance you could PM me.

PM sent.

I'm assuming that screen is just a small part of the panel. Any I'm no electrician, but with a diagram, I can usually manage.

Yes, but the main interface between the brewer and the control.
I am using two displays but not required.

I'm not wanting to totally overhaul my control panel, just add something to it if possible.

Adding some of my components to your system may require a complete overhaul of your control cabinet.

My control concept is not PC based, uses a PLC.
Here are some of the basic components required for my system.
One PID temp controller required for each tank you heat.
PID must be capable of communicating with the PLC, re-transmitting the measured temperature.
The PLC does all the temp control in remote not the PID.
PID is used as a remote thermometer.
The PID functions as a temp controller in the local mode only should the PLC fail to control the temp because of a hardware failure.

Brewery Display
Displays warnings, instructions, process temps, etc.

Main control panel display
Displays warnings, instructions, process temps and has operator input capabilities.
By using F1-F5 mash and other parameters can be changed.

Thermocouple problem

Control Panel selector switches No.1- No. 4

Control panel

All this to control a few gas valves, grain mixer, etc.

Cheers,
ClaudiusB

 

[Suthrncomfrt1884]

Well, I'm extremely jealous of your system control...but I'm starting to think it's a bit out of my league. I don't know near enough about electrical to wire up something that complex. Thanks for the pictures. Hopefully one day I'll pony up and overhaul.