I wanted to share my recent project automating my electric blinds using SOMA Smart Shades. The goal was to have them open and close automatically, but not based solely on sunrise and sunset times, which can vary widely in the UK. Here’s how I approached it and what I learned along the way.
Setup and Configuration
I used the Astro binding in OpenHAB to get sunrise and sunset times. I added parameters to adjust these times with offsets. For example, I set the blinds to open 15 minutes before sunrise and close 20 minutes after sunset. I also grouped the blinds for easier control and added rules to handle their opening and closing.
Challenges and Solutions
One challenge was ensuring the blinds don’t open too early or close too late. I implemented checks to prevent them from opening before a certain time or closing after another. I also added suppression switches to override the automation if needed.
Tips and Tricks
- Use groups to manage multiple blinds efficiently.
- Test the automation thoroughly before relying on it fully.
- Adjust the offsets based on your location and preferences.
Looking for Feedback
I’d love to hear how others have tackled similar projects. Do you have different methods for adjusting sunrise and sunset times? How do you handle edge cases, like overcast days or daylight saving time changes? Any suggestions for improving this setup would be greatly appreciated!
This project has been a great learning experience, and I’m excited to see how others have approached similar challenges.