C02 Cylinder Controller

[simpiligno]

So I have been searching high and low for something like this:
http://www.bpesolutions.com/mechoduct.html#anchor93393

I want to be able to use an arduino to discharge a co2 cartridge. I contacted the company and they stated that they do not make this device any more. Does anyone recognize the parts? Has anyone seen anything like this before?

[lyndon]

It looks like it uses the same type of Co2 cartridge used to inflate bicycle tires. If you find a cheap solenoid valve (here's one from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Electric-Solenoid ... s_indust_2), it should be pretty easy to make one. What are you using it for?

[westfw]

If you find a cheap solenoid valve (here's one from Amazon ...

that valve is designed for 1Mpa maximum pressure (about 150psi.) CO2 cartridges (and tanks) tend to be pressurized to beyond the triple-point pressure of about 900psi, so you really need a valve rated for at least 1000psi. That's probably enough to make it hard to find AND expensive (most values are for < 100psi pneumatic control systems.)
Plus you some sort of piercing mechanism.
(I guess if you only need ~100psi, it might be easier to put a pressure regulator upstream of the valve...)

[lyndon]

Regulators are usually available at the same bike shops that sell the cartridges. The regulator has a pin to pierce the cartridge. He will need some mechanical skills to put it all together, but I don't see anything that's particularly difficult.

[simpiligno]

Thanks! I am working on a parachute ejection system for multicopters.

[ShaneShuford]

use something like this, and attach a servo to the trigger to activate it - http://www.cbike.com/images/products/de ... flator.jpg

the item in the picture could be made with a simple nitrous solenoid like this, and a relay to activate it. http://www.ws6project.com/user_stor/cat ... /16020.jpg

[westfw]

I am working on a parachute ejection system for multicopters.

CO2 cartridges, presure regulators, and valves tend to be really heavy. Look at some of the systems that have been developed for model rockets. Black powder is simple and light, but has regulatory issues. Maybe springs (or rubber bands), spectra kite line, and a hot wire. (or for that matter, a pressurized bit of PVC tubing and some sort of electrically triggered burst disk. It takes surprisingly little pressure to eject a chute...)