Roll off Roof auto mechanised opening

[astrognosis]

After 3 years I have finally completed my 4.2m x 3.6 m timber ROR observatory housing 3 telescopes, largest a 16" F:6  Newt. Reflector.  which has seen first light a does well.  The roof is heavy, but moves nicely on the pully  double bearing wheel and track system I have.

I would now  like to automate the opening of the roof.  Can anybody who has a tried and tested system  recommend  any  the motor with associated  track system and where to source.  I've seen one system complete system at £1,300 plus.  I'm sure this can be done cheaper.  Initially, I'd be happy use the  system   manually, but ideally would like it  computer controlled .

Best wishes, Eric

[AMcD]

I have been looking to automate the opening of my ROR observatory for a number of years and have looked at various options.  In the end I went for the off the shelf system you mention.  Whilst it is pricy, and I am certain that you could put the all elements together with less expense, for me it has the advantage that someone has done all the electronics, wiring and programming that are required for safe remote / automatic operation but that I am woefully unqualified to design and build.

If, unlike me, you are good at that sort of thing then I understand people have had success with garage opener type motors combined with a Raspberry Pi.  The serrated track and pinion look pretty straightforward and the magnetic limit switches are easily sourced.  Here is mine in manual operation...

[SimonIRE]

Although Talon is expensive, it integrates very well with image capture programmes so if you’re monitoring weather, for example using a Cloudwatcher, you can stop imaging and close the roof if it rains. Integration with ASCOM is the difficulty people  have trying to roll their own solution. Talon is also used by several remote hosting observatories such as E-Eye. Like I said, it’s pricey, but it’s allowed me to image with confidence on those nights where the weather is unpredictable. 

[Carbon Brush]

Perhaps late in the build for you. I used a garage up/over door mechanism.
It has been in place for about 13 years now.
The motor/control box sits just inside the shed. Everything else is outside and given a bit of oil/grease annually is holding up well.

Although I have not attempted to integrate control with mount position, rain sensing, etc. there is no reason it could not be done.

HTH, David.

[martin_h]

I use a garage door opener controlled by  Sequence Generator Pro, weather monitor by Cloudwatcher Solo.

[ollypenrice]

We use rack and pinion gate openers after garage door openers pegged out on two sheds. They have proved reliable, even on our 4X3 metre shed.

Olly