Anybody know of a schematic that allows a motor to rotate a composter in one direction for at least one full revolution and then switch directions for another full rotation, then repeat over and over again? Without any computer being involved please, if possible. Is this too crazy of a project or is it a simple additions of a certain existing parts to make this happen?I appreciate it in advance.
What kindof motor is it? In general It is difficult to make motors rotate exact amounts, i.e. one revolution or fractions of, without some fairly specialised control electronics usually with a microprocessor. It could probably be done with a stepper motor with relatively simple circuitry, but this type of motor only comes in varietys upto a couple of watts of power, if you are trying to turn something large, youd need a large motor. A DC motor cant be controlled the way you want, but an AC induction motor could, but youd need to quite sophisticated control to do it.
There are many such types of schematics for what you want to do. The problem is that you don't mention the type of power, AC/DC, that you would be using, the type of load that will be placed upon the motor, or the speed you wish of the motor RPM. What I imagine is that a composter would require a slow RPM speed, AC motor, and a sufficient size of motor to handle the overall load so as not to burn up the motor. In the 'old days', gone by, this type of arrangement was always done by mechanical switching relays, or some type of eccentric that would reverse the electrical polarity of the motor. Today most of this is done by electrical means with semiconductors. However, mechanical relays are still in use, and readily available in about any size you would need. Small mechanical relays are found in the cars of today to control many things. Of course, those are only for DC, low voltage/current applications. What you may need would require a much 'beefier' type. Another issue here would be if you might need a type of gearbox to reduce the RPM of the motor. Most motors work with RPM's of 1050 and higher speeds. I would think this far too fast for composting. Gearbox reduction units are also readily available. You can find them in small concrete mixers, and various types of electric carts such as the type used today for handicap use in stores. (Can't you just imagine grandma running through 'Wal-Nut' at 35 mph without a gear reduction?) I can draw up a schematic for you if you let me know just what you need to do, but contact me by email so I could get the info from you to send you what you need.
