Preferred method is from PC.. which is on WiFi (so it can be controlled from inside of house). But also stand-alone.
As for B mask, I was thinking of very simple motorized mechanical design - one DC motor and limit switches that stop motor when mask is in position, so only one control line is needed.
Long time ago I was using HP V.. predecessor of National Instruments Lab View. I even have installation disks somewhere.. problem with this is, HPIB interface card is needed (I have it, but it wouldn't fit in my comp, it is too old).
But, it is very easy to "write" applications for it, similar to Lab View.
As for filters, not sure yet, but they will probably be on wheel (again, simple DC motor.. or stepper, I will decide when need arises).
So.. for the star I would like to have something like this, but in Arduino form:
https://sigma-shop.com/product/66/us...put-modul.html
If there is nothing available like that in Arduino world, then I will buy that module and be done with it.