DIY Solution: Creating a Fume-Free Soldering Environment through Wireless Extractor Modification
In the world of smart technology, even the most mundane tasks can be automated, as demonstrated by Ryan's innovative solder fume extractor. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a similar automated fume extractor for your own work area.
### Components Required
To automate your solder fume extractor, you'll need the following components:
1. Wemos D1 Mini microcontroller 2. Relay board 3. AC-to-DC transformer 4. Jumper wires and connectors 5. Power source for the Wemos D1 Mini (e.g., USB cable) 6. Smart outlet for the soldering iron (optional)
### Steps to Automate the Solder Fume Extractor
1. **Setting Up the Wemos D1 Mini** - Connect the Wemos D1 Mini to your computer via USB. - Install the necessary software (e.g., Arduino IDE) and ESPHome firmware.
2. **Connecting the Relay Board** - Connect the relay board to digital pins on the Wemos D1 Mini. - Use jumper wires to connect the relay to the extractor's power button or speed settings.
3. **Integrating with the Extractor** - Connect the relay in parallel with the extractor's power button. This allows both manual and automated control. - If you're controlling speed settings, ensure the relay can handle the current required.
4. **Adding the AC-to-DC Transformer** - Connect the AC-to-DC transformer to power the Wemos D1 Mini. - Ensure the transformer's output matches the Wemos D1 Mini's power requirements (typically 5V).
5. **Automating with Home Assistant** - Install ESPHome on the Wemos D1 Mini and integrate it with Home Assistant. - Configure Home Assistant to control the extractor via the Wemos D1 Mini.
6. **Optional: Smart Outlet Automation** - Connect your soldering iron to a smart outlet. - Use Home Assistant to monitor the power draw on the smart outlet. - Automate the extractor to turn on when the soldering iron is powered.
### Safety and Considerations
- Ensure all wiring is secure and insulated to prevent electrical shock. - Verify the transformer can handle the power needs of the Wemos and any additional components. - Ensure the relay can handle the voltage and current of the extractor.
By following these steps, you can create an automated solder fume extractor that turns on automatically when needed, similar to Ryan's setup. The fume extractor's smart features are hidden inside, allowing it to pull solder fumes down into its filtering elements without affecting its internal design.
Ryan's fume extractor is a great example of how smart technology can be applied to everyday tasks. With the controls located near his feet, he can now control the fan remotely via his phone, and the relay board allows for wireless control. The small AC-to-DC transformer also ensures the fume extractor requires only a single power cable.
For those looking to upgrade their workspaces with smart technology, automating a solder fume extractor is a fantastic starting point. With the right components and some basic electronics knowledge, you too can enjoy the benefits of a modern, automated fume extractor.
- As you delve deeper into the world of smart technology, consider automating your daily gadgets, such as smart-home devices, like this solder fume extractor, to make your workshop more efficient.
- To take your workstation to the next level, integrate various smart-home devices and gadgets with your automated system, making your workshop a truly technologically advanced workspace.
