RV Software and Electronics: A Passion Project by a Creative Mind

RV Software and Electronics: A Passion Project by a Creative Mind

Introduction

Welcome to this collaborative space dedicated to the software and electronic innovations developed for our RV. Here, you'll find a collection of creative endeavors aimed at improving our recreational vehicle experience. It's a work-in-progress resource, not only for my personal use but also as a source of inspiration for fellow enthusiasts.

Disclaimer(s)

Some of the text in this wiki has been enhanced with the assistance of ChatGPT AI to compensate for any language limitations. This collaborative effort aims to present the information as clearly as possible and improve its accessibility. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.

While I strive to maintain accurate information within this content, I regrettably cannot provide an absolute guarantee of its accuracy. Additionally, I endeavor to ensure that all documentation remains up-to-date and synchronized; however, the success of this endeavor remains uncertain.

About Me

I'm a seasoned Swede with an abundance of creativity, approaching retirement and eagerly anticipating more time for my creative pursuits. My journey began in electronics development and eventually merged with software programming. As someone who appreciates efficiency, I discovered the power of software in shaping the functionality of hardware, thus eliminating the need for extensive hardware development. Adapting software to diverse, generic hardware platforms has been a consistent thrill.

Over the years, I've worked with a range of processors, from early models like the i4004 and i4040 to more modern ones like MC68000, ATMEGA MCUs, ST6, and others. My software repertoire includes assembler languages tailored to various processors, Modula2, C, C++, Fortran, Forth, and a mix of Python, JavaScript, and Java.

My Professional Journey

My professional journey has been equally diverse, involving roles in mining truck surveillance, soft-serve ice cream machine control, industrial terminal development, telecom software, customs software, software integration, and much more. This journey has encompassed employment, consulting, and even establishing my own firm.

The mission

The primary goal of this platform is to channel my creativity, experiment with novel techniques, acquire new skills, and, hopefully, contribute valuable features that enhance comfort and security in an RV.

Main Projects

Some of the ongoing and upcoming projects include:

Idea	Description	Status	Results
EBL	This project is an ambitious project — building a EBL (the electrical distribution unit in a RV) inspired of the ELB-99 in my RV.	Schema and PCB design ongoing	More on the linked wiki-page (in swedish for now)
RVHUB - Measurement and Control System	This project is undoubtedly the most ambitious of them all — crafting a central controller along with a multitude of nodes strategically positioned throughout the RV, complemented by an array of sensors and actuators.	Generation 1 is finished and generation 2 is being developed	The results is found on the project page
LiFePO4 battery	The plan here is to replace the underwhelming 2x95Ah AGM batteries with a robust 280Ah LiFePO4 battery.	Done	The outcome of the battery project has yielded a substantial 280Ah capacity, which can be comfortably utilized down to just 10% of its full capacity. I have used these batteries for two seasons, and they have performed even better than expected. Moreover, these batteries boast rapid charging capabilities and come equipped with a Bluetooth application for convenient real-time monitoring of their performance and functions.
Install DC/DC-converter	To optimize the charging of the LiFePO4 batteries while the engine is running, I'm will install a DC/DC converter	Done	I set up a Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 converter and, at a later stage, incorporated fan cooling to enhance its efficiency and fully harness its power capabilities
Fridge fans	Mount two thermostat controlled computer fans cooling the back of the fridge maintaining lower temperatures inside, particularly on hot days	Done	Operates frequently and I'm convinced it keeps a lower temp in the fridge
Stairs remote	Added an off-the-shelf 433MHz remote control, allowing for stair deployment in cases of forgetfulness while seated in the driver's seat	Done	Works fine but will be replaced by some automation
CarPlay unit install	Replace the old 2010 radio with a Chinese Android Unit	Done	Performs adequately with a large screen for navigation and CarPlay, facilitating the use of a handy reverse camera feature. However, it exhibits some slowness due to being the most budget-friendly unit I acquired from AliExpress
Satellite dish removal	Remove the ancient satellite system	Done	I eliminated the remote-controlled satellite dish and its associated electronics, shedding an additional 10 kilograms of cargo weight. Instead, I now rely on the 4G/5G mobile network and AppleTV for my visual entertainment needs
Add solar panels and new charger	Add as much solar panels that can fit the real-estate available on the roof	Done	I incorporated two 80W solar panels in parallel and connected them in series with the pre-existing 135W panel, also installed a Victor SmartSolar controller
Install inverter	Installed a Victron 500W inverter to provide 230V power during camping. It's up and running, although in hindsight, I do wish I had opted for the 1000W or 1500W model
Replace internal lights with LED	Replace all halogen internal bulbs with LED alternatives to save power	Done	Substituted, resulting in power savings and an extended lifespan
Replace high/low beam with Xenon and extra LED-ramp	Replace the original halogen hi/lo beam with Xenon bulbs and added a LED ramp for extra hi beam	Done	Works great
Install LED reverse lights	Add more reverse lights	Done	The results can be seen in the photos, much better visibility
Replace parking light glass	Lost one parking light glass, fixed it by 3d-print and a LED lamp	Done	Work great

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