I want to make a model elevator controlled by a microprocessor. Where can get the parts for this project?

Question

For a school project, I want to make a small elevator controlled by microprocessor. I want to program the way the elevator moves when people at different floor press the up/down button. Please let me know where I can buy the parts for such a project. (Microprocessor enabling motor, sensing the button pressed etc.)

Answer 1

I know Radio Shack sells a little kit for learning about microprocessors, would require significant development time on your part. I think it can be interfaced to a PC for operation.

If you want something a little more advanced and turn-key, a little baby PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) made by Idec is available from Graybar Electric Supply (Fairly big national company, gbe.com).

If you were going to get fancy, you might want a variable frequency drive (VFD) to slow down the motor as the car reaches a floor so you don't overshoot, also available from them, made by Square-D (ATV11 series) or Altavar (11 series). They also have pushbuttons, etc.

Grainger Industrial (Grainger.com) has microswitches, etc. for car position sensing. This project could get expensive real fast, but a little PLC would be a fun toy for years to come...

Answer 2

Are you already familiar with some specific microprocessor? if so you'd probably be better off sticking with it, and it would be hard to recommend a source without knowing what device you want.

If you are starting from scratch, you might consider the Parallax "Basic Stamp" A kit is available from Radio Shack, http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?parentPage=search&summary=summary&techSpecs=techSpecs¤tTab=custRatings&cp=&custRatings=custRatings&features=features&accessories=accessories&productId=2117994&support=support&kw=parallax&tab=summary
Or you can order from Parallax : http://www.parallax.com/html_pages/products/basicstamps/basic_stamps.asp
They also have many accessories that might be helpful, such as hobby servo motors: http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=900-00008
also motor controllers for lager motors is the little servos are not big enough.

Answer 3

Your best bet is probably Radio Shack. 2nd best would be an electronics distributor/retailer.

Answer 4

digikey.com