Date: Sun, 05 Dec 2004 00:07:07 -0500
To: puptcrit-driftline.org-AT-lists.driftline.org
From: Joe <joe-AT-dunfee.com>
Subject: [Puptcrit] Cordless vertical blind controler for puppeteers


  Someone mentioned this on a list I am on (sorry forgot which one). I
thought I would mention this, in case somone else found it useful.  I think
it could be easily adapted for other purposes.

  Lowe's Hardware store is clearing out their remaining inventory of "Power
Ease" a wireless, battery operated device that you attach to your blinds to
open and close them.  I literally purchased the entire display (about 15
units) for $2 each. The original price was $16 to $20.  Again, they are
discontinuing them, so if you have any hope of finding the, you  need to
search immediately.

  The are installed by removing the existing wand, and this device connects
to the existing connector.  When you press one button on the infrared
remote, the motor turns it one way, and the other button turns it the other
at about 1 revolution a second.
  
 This seems to have plenty of opportunity for anyone who wants to convert a
motion to remote control. I am trying to think of how to adapt it so that it
will raise or lower a roll-up blind with some scenery painted on it.  The
motor is strong enough for its original task, so I need to check that it
will be strong enough.

  Note that this device does not lift the blinds, only turns them.  Each
transmitter or receiver has a 3-channel selector so you can control up to 3
separate channels. There are no stops, but the motor does have a clutch, so
it does not stall or damage the blinds if it over travels. The actuator
takes 4 AA, and the transmitter 2 AAA.  The receiver always draws some
electricity from the battery so it will eventually drain the batteries, even
if it is never used.  One person said that the device should last a year
with opening and closing the blinds twice per day, but I wouldn't be
extremely confident of that statement.

Joe Dunfee  joe-AT-dunfee.com
Gordonville, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.


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