How to Build Your Own Alexa-Controlled Automatic Blinds

Most people who have bought an Alexa-equipped device, such as the Amazon Echo, did so with the intention of making their lives a bit easier. If you own a smart assistant, you probably had visions of turning your dreary old house into a modern high-tech smart home. You may have even gone so far as to add some IoT capable lights and a thermostat that works with Alexa. If, however, you really want the smart home experience, you can follow this guide to build your own voice-activated automatic blinds.

This DIY automatic blind opener is designed to work with the kind of blinds that are operated by a looped chain—as opposed to a cord or a rod. If you don’t have an Alexa device like an Amazon Echo, you can still use this with a simple infrared remote control. To build it, you’ll need an Arduino Pro Micro board, a NEMA 17 stepper motor, an A4988 motor driver, an infrared receiver, an infrared remote, and a handful of common miscellaneous components. You’ll also need access to a 3D printer to fabricate the device’s housing and the gear that meshes with your blind’s chain.

The code to program the Arduino Pro Micro is provided, and the operation is straightforward. The Arduino monitors the infrared receiver, and registers when you push the appropriate button on your infrared remote control. When it gets that IR command, it begins turning the stepper motor to either close or open your blinds. To make it work with Amazon Alexa, you can purchase an Alexa-enabled universal infrared remote. When you setup the corresponding skill, that remote will send an IR signal when you issue a voice command. Alternatively, you can use a WiFi-connected microcontroller development board, such as the Wemos D1 Mini, to accept commands directly from Alexa without needing to use infrared signals as an intermediary. Whichever method you choose, you’ll never have to open your own blinds again.