How It Works

Ok, so now that we have your attention, you would probably like a little better understanding of exactly how all this works. We'll take a look at each of the four components necessary to provide the SuiteDigs lifestyle for your pet, and interact with him over the internet. The four components we will examine in more detail are the SuiteDigs Habitat Module, The SuiteDigs Treat/Toy Dispenser Module, the webcam, and the USB Interface. While neither the USB Interface or the webcam is a SuiteDigs product per say, we will provide a high level overview of how it works for the purpose of it's integration in the SuiteDigs environment. Additionally, we will offer a brief overview of how the necessary "home automation" software works to allow remote interaction with your pet via the internet.

The SuiteDigs Habitat Module

    The patent pending SuiteDigs Habitat Module is made from heavy duty ABS composite material and is completely leak proof, and simple to maintain. The modular design allows you to connect suites front to back, side to side, and vertically. When connected vertically, a custom stairwell connects the suites to allow your pet travel between the various levels, providing him with additional exercise and mental stimulation while you are away. Click here for a cut away drawing that shows additional detail to provide a better understanding of how the modules interconnect. Additional schematic drawings can be find by clicking here (Adobe format).

The SuiteDigs Treat Feeder/Toy Dispenser Module

     The patent pending SuiteDigs Treat Feeder/Toy Dispenser Module is hand crafted of heavy gauge stainless steel. It is virtually indestructible and because of it's stainless steel construction is simple to clean. It is designed to be used either in conjunction with the Habitat Module, or can be used "stand alone" if desired by placing on a shelf or other area out of the dog's reach. Each of the three compartments measures 3 1/2" x 3 1/2" x 11" which is 134.75 cubic inches. This will allow really nice sized treats and or toys to be dispensed remotely, while you watch the action from wherever you have internet access. Please click here for a detailed drawing that shows additional detail to provide a better understanding of how the dispenser works. Additional schematic drawings can be found by clicking here (Adobe format).

The WebCam

In order to watch the fun your pet has with your new Toy Dispenser/Treat Feeder, you will need a webcam. In our testing, we have received excellent results with the Panasonic cameras. At a high level, the way in which this works is that the webcam is connected to your local home network, and upon configuring your home router correctly, is accessed remotely to allow you to view live video from inside your home or SuiteDigs Habitat Module. Although we hope to be able to sell the cameras directly from our site soon, for now please go to http://www.smarthome.com for information on how to order.

The USB Interface

The USB Interface is what translates the commands from your home automation software into signals that travel across the wiring in your home to control the SuiteDigs Toy Dispenser/Treat Feeder Module. Although we hope to be able to sell the interface directly from our site soon, for now please go to http://www.smarthome.com for information on how to order.

Home Automation - General Overview

In general the term "Home Automation" is defined as a system by which devices in your home such as light switches, table lamps, appliances, heating and ventilation controls, etc. can be accessed and controlled by the home owner from a remote location and/or set up to turn on or off with timers or conditional events, such as whether a motion detector has detected motion for example. Of course these are only basic examples, but this at least begins to give you an idea of how it works. In the SuiteDigs environment this home automation "system" consists of the following parts:

• A pc that acts as a "server" running some type of home control software.

• A home control interface device. This "server" mentioned above is connected to the wiring in your home via a USB interface that translates the commands given by the home control software into signals that travel across the electrical wiring in your home to the specific module that you wish to control.

• A device module. Simply put, the device module is the device that the home control software issues the on or off command to. (in the case of a lamp or wall switch module the command could also be a certain dim or bright level) In the case of the SuiteDigs Toy Dispenser/Treat Feeder Module, the home control software temporarily turns on and off one of three separate device modules housed within the dispenser. These modules in turn temporarily supply power to one of three electronic solenoids thus opening the corresponding trap door to release the treat or toy. Click here for a diagram that shows how it is all connected together.

Once the system is up and running you will be able to access your home automation system from anywhere you have internet access, and release a toy or treat to your pet while you watch the fun remotely via the webcam!