Motorizing roll off roof?

[garymck]

Hi,
I've just finished building a small roll off roof obs measuring 1.5m x 3m for my wedge mounted CPC925. As a first step to automating it, I'm setting up an AAG Cloudwatcher which can trigger a roof closure. Looking for options to motorise the roof - cheaply if I can. Thinking about using a garage door opener - is this feasible? If so, are there some models that are easier to use than others? Other options?

TIA
Gary

[bojan]

Gary,

I was planning to use old Nice gate opener, mechanically similar to this one (http://www.gateautomationwarehouse.com.au/product/nice-ro500-sliding-automatic-gate-operator/?add-to-cart=60) (a friend gave it to me when moving house) for my observatory in Mount Pleasant (you saw it...).

It has a cog on the rear side, pitch matches the standard bicycle chain, so I will machine it (it has to be thinner) and use it when this lockdown is over.... hopefully soon.

[garymck]

Hi Bojan,
tehy are nice but a bit rich in price new for me. Hoping to find a solution under $300 (Bunnings door opener or some such). Wondering is I could use something like this with a cog on it?
https://www.bunnings.com.au/chamberlain-rollerlift-roller-garage-door-opener_p0133219

or adapt something like this:
https://www.bunnings.com.au/chamberlain-sectionallift-sectional-garage-door-opener_p0133217

Gary

[glend]

There are many reduction gear electric motors that could work. Electric bikes are actually governed for low speed, something like this could be made to work:

https://www.ebay.com.au/i/223988350418?chn=ps

[bojan]

It's hard to see how exactly to do it from Bunnings images.. most likely possible.
Also, you can consider old bicycle chains and sprockets...

[bojan]

Yep :thumbsup:

[glend]

You could use a simple PWM motor controller rated for the motor, like this one,

https://www.ebay.com.au/i/112713952838?chn=ps

There are plenty of PWMs to choose from. Install a cutout switch near the end of the run to trip. Now reversing it will require a bit of thought.

[garymck]

Thanks for the suggestions guys. I've decided that I don't think I have the expertise to roll my own using motors and controllers bought as separate items. I've decide to go for a sliding gate opener with a pinion/rack drive. Just have to save a few more dollars as about $400 seems to be the going price for one.
cheers
Gary

[Ryderscope]

Hi Gary,

I have automated my roll off shed observatory using a Merlin 230T panel lift garage door opener. Whilst my obs is a roll off shed the same concept can be easily applied to a roll off roof. I purchased the garage door opener off eBay second hand for $150. To automate the opening and closing I purchased the Sky Roof controller system from Innovative Astronomy in the US.

I have links to a number of photos that I have taken and some videos as well. I will start a separate thread on my obs rather than hijacking your thread.

Clear skies,
Rodney

[garymck]

Look forward to seeing the details....panel lift garage door openers are a lot cheaper than sliding gate units....

cheers
Gary

[Ryderscope]

That is what I found and the panel lift motor is more suited to roll off roof installations.

I have finished posting my thread on my installation. Link here. (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=186768)

Best,
Rodney

[xelasnave]

I used cheap 4wd winches. I needed two so the roof did not go sideways. I got one on special for $150 but when I went back for the second one it was up to $200.. still you have all your controls etc.
Alex