Loom New Plan.....

[twinturbo]

I have being playing over the past few weeks with "Arduino" Micro Controllers. They are dirt cheap and not difficult to work with.

One feature they have is an "I2C" data bus that allows them to communicate.

I have been thinking that this could negate the need for a large bunch of wiring and also decentralise the fusing.

So the rough plan.

have 3x Arduino Nano ~£1.5 each, connected by CAT-5 network cable.
add 2x 8 way relay boards £3 each

And then some localised fusing.


Arduion Wise.
1x would live in the dash and receive data to go to the Acewell and other "feedback" , it would also take input from the switchgear.

1x would live up front to control front lighting, fan. and send sensor data ( oil presure, temp) back to the dash unit.

1x would live in the boot and control the rear lighting and fuel pump. And would take readings from the fuel level sender


Brake Lights would remain hard controlled but would use one of the wires on the CAT5.


The CAT-5 would also carry a TICK signal to keep indicators in sync.


I think this will allow for a customisable install which can signifiantly reduce the complexity in the traditional fuse box area. and dash ( mine has 20+ wires at present.)


I have some of the kit on order ( was for other projects) so will give the theory a go starting with the DASH.

Will keep you updated.

Happy to share ideas.

TT

[K4KEV]

Thats quite interesting.....I'm no electronics wiz but if it is simple wiring then its got my attention

[Bonzo]

That sound's like a very interesting Project Rob.

Certainly has a great potential to reduce the number of wires needed.

I recently read an article from a builder trying to use Canbus to achieve a fully integrated wiring system using very few wires.

Keep us posted on your progress.

As they say, you are never too old to learn.
I my case, just too stupid.