Technical Geek Out

One of the principles of our remodel was to usher Beastie into the twenty-first century by making all elements of the electrical system computer-controlled. From lights to locks, from power management to pressure monitoring (tpms)…. we wanted all aspects of the motorhome to be connected and remotely controllable. These pages contain all the information about how we built a smart RV. Documentation is a work-in-progress.

Architecture

Thinking through how to architect a smart RV was key to make sure all components fit together and the system is maintainable and scalable.

Networking

IOT devices need to talk to each other. We want Internet access wherever we go. And we also want to monitor Beastie remotely. So, robust networking is key.

Power

From upgrading the electrical system to 50A, installing solar, to providing backup systems, here’s how we ensure we’re never without power (we hope).

  • 301 – 50A AC Grid
  • 302 – 12V DC System
  • 303 – Batteries and Solar
  • 304 – Generator with auto-start

Smart Control and Automation

Beastie contains more than 50 smart devices to control functionality and monitor events. Here are the most important ones.

  • 401 – Smart Dometic Thermostat
  • 402 – Roller Shade Controller
  • 403 – Lighting
  • 404 – Scenes
  • 405 – Home Assistant Display
  • 406 – Auto-leveling System

Monitoring

Who doesn’t like to get insights and view historical data on everything that’s going on with Beastie? It’s not just for fun. Some of these things are key to overall safety.

  • 501 – Tire Pressure
  • 502 – Energy Management
  • 503 – Tank Levels
  • 504 – Power Consumption
  • 505 – Temperature Sensors
  • 506 – Alerts

Safety and Security

Safety is always top-of-mind, especially with a 40 year old truck: fires, dangerous gas leaks, driving hazards, thiefs, etc. Better to prevent than cure.

  • 601 – Daily Checklist
  • 602 – Vehicle Weight
  • 603 – Vehicle Recovery Equipment
  • 604 – Outdoor Motion Sensor
  • 605 – Alarm System
  • 606 – Gas and Smoke Detector

Everyday Life

A list of technical things we have done to make every day life as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

  • 701 – Music
  • 702 – Dash Multimedia Receiver
  • 703 – TV Projector
  • 704 – Bar
  • 705 – Cooking

Documentation

The tools we use to research, plan, and troubleshoot while on the go.

  • 801 – Library
  • 802 – Remarkable tablet
  • 803 – Old School Maps
  • 804 – Most useful travel apps