In order to ensure rapid project implementation, StreamBlocks has a library of objects available which include:-
Predefined Devices/Communication
- ESP Based Boards
- Firmware for Devices
- RGB Lights
- Switches
- RTSP devices
- CCTV devices
- Analog valves
- Motors (either through relays or through protocols such as field bus)
- Measurement devices
- MQTT devices
- Modbus devices
- Zigbee devices
- Bluetooth
- REST protocols
- Websock devices
- Direct Tuya (SmartLife)
- Alexa
- Google Assistant
- Home Assistant
In addition for manufacturers, detailed device definition tables are also part of the library, which can be expanded to include any type of device.
The workflow definition, is completely user definable, and the user can define any form they want for data input or reporting, in the sequence they want, using the fields defined in the databases, or fields they have added. This concept extends throughout the system, including the building blocks themselves whether buttons on the forms, or an MQTT message. In addition, standard forms are generated automatically for any table created, should the user not wish to define any forms.
Each element is defined by automatically generated XAML, providing for unrivalled flexibility.
Control actions, exception handling and alarming can be done at the device level (where a device can be single input or a complete machine, such as a robotic lawn mower) or by defining separate control actions/sequences.
Control actions on multiple devices can be combined to create scenes which are analogous to scenes used by Alexa or Google Assistant.
In the above example, the user has defined a number of light sequences, such as FADE, FIRE etc, which require a definition of light states and timings for execution. This is done in a tabular format as shown. On the right a bedtime lighting scene is defined, which shows the states that the various lights should be put into. The image also shows a field lookup form for easy access to the unique identifiers. Lookup forms are context based and are automatically generated for an form view created.
The interactions and sequences are all available for any user with the StreamBlocks APP.
For some interactions the user, implementer can use python or java scripting. This is also very straightforward. In addition to facilitate the creation of control schemes, NodeRed is fully integrated with StreamBase and provides a complete graphical interface for both configuration and user interface (should that be needed).
