I got some feature request for already running Open Hive scales and have seen some difficults while the initial setup. So this feature list should make it easier in the future.
Re-set time from server after uploading data
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Problem: Some buffer batteries for the RTC are empty (and hard wired / soldered) on the Seeeduino Stalker board. So after disconnecting battery the system lose time. Changing from summer to wintertime is also difficult. There is a library but it needs some memory.
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Solution 1: In case we send data without time stamp we can make time stamping on the server side. This is possioble for nodes that send data immediately after measuring.
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Solution 2: More flexible would it be if we got the new timestamp as response to an upload and set this time as new time on the node. So it is also possible th gather multiple data packages, e.g. every 10 minuts, store the packages on the node and send it once or twice a day to the server with a “expensive” - on behalf of power - method to the server.
Configuring the node without FTDI cable / Arduino IDE
- Problem: Every scale needs some unique parameter like user, password (on the server side), AP (for GSM/GPRS), load cell charactaristics (value for zero and for 1 kg). This is programmed in the sketch atm. So a user needs some equipment to programm the own node.
- Solution: This would be possible with a WiFi enabled node So that configuration parameters can be changed via WiFi and a node that runs in AP mode on start up.
Change measuring intervall remote
- Problem: A fixed upload intervall of 1 hour is fine in the summer but sometimes difficult In the winter. Solar cells deliver not so much power.
- Solution: So it would be great if this could be managed remote also. The mechanism could be the same as outlined above. After uploading data the server sends the new configuraiton parameter with the ACK for the data. We can not always upload new parameters because we have no permanent connection and calling the node is not possible also because the node and GSM/radio is sleeping the most time.
Send the first 10 uploads every two minute
- Problem: Testing the connection or the working node is difficult. You can press reset, ok but after the first upload you have to wait 1 hour or whatever you have counfigured for the nex data package. It would be better to have some “fast updates” to test if the node is running after closing the box or postion the box in an other direction change antenna and have so better reception.
- Solution: Add an counter to the main sketch and upload the first 10 packages every 2 minutes (or make the parameter customizable) after a reset.