Meccano MeccanIC progress report

Level 0 controllers are controllers that do not interact with an external computer. They may use a single chip computer within themselves but there is not interaction with a PC. Power supplies are not provided with any of these level 0 controllers. The DC power supply selected by the user needs to match the needs of the motor to be controlled and does not need to be a filtered power supply. Each controller is provided with an external potentiometer that can be located remotely from the controller to provide speed control. The potentiometer shafts are standard Meccano size so Meccano parts can be mounted to them. PMDC motors are preferred for all applications and are a must for reversing applications with these controllers.

Level 0 Type 1. This is a very inexpensive controller for simple minimal speed control of one DC motor drawing up to 0.60 amps and running at up to 24 volts DC. Analog control through one transistor. Price target about $25.00.

Single transistor control of one small motor
Analog control.
Controls one motor
External pot for speed control
External connection for motor
External connection for power supply.

Level 0 Type 2. This is a PWM controller for one motor that will control a DC motor drawing up to 0.6 amps at 24 volts. PWM control gives better starting and low speed control. Only one transistor is used

Single transistor control of one small motor
PWM control.
Controls one motor
External pot for speed control
External connection for motor
External connection for power supply.

Level 0 Type 3. This is an "H" bridge PWM controller that provides speed and directional control for 1 PMDC motor drawing up to 0.6t amps at 24 volts. PWM control gives better starting and low speed control. The "H" bridge is a simple arrangement for using 4 transistors to reverse the current to a motor.

Single transistor control of one small motor
PWM control with forward/reverse capability from the external pot.
Controls one motor
External pot for speed and direction control.
External connection for motor
External connection for power supply.

On all external pots standard arrangement shall be that the clockwise movement of the shaft will increase the speed of the motor. (Similar to a volume control) Of course the pot can be hooked up backwards if the reverse action is desired.

I am going to manufacture three Level 0 controllers for sale. Below is a brief description of what I have in mind. I welcome comments. My approach as to how this needs to be done is based on my personal experience and is unorthodox. For example I will provide external portentiomenters that can be mounted in the best location and these have Meccano shafts on them so that they can be connected to the rest of the machine and controls. The controller itself can be mounted anywhere on or off the machine to make for a cleaner machine in which the controller is not in the way.