Probably the quickest turnaround from concept to working device out of any project of mine in history. I started writing the code on October 22, 2024 and released the first version fully tested and working on December 7, 2024. It helps that most of the headaches were already ironed out in advance in the RPi Smart Still boiler management routines. I’ve written custom GUIs before back when the BBS world was still alive and kicking, so the touch screen stuff was easy.
The Airhead GitHub repo has all of the source code, schematics, 3D models and instructions available for download at this time. These will soon be available here as a ready to install kit for $140 and will work with any original Air Still (or clone) with minimal wiring modifications. You will need to provide longer screws or bolts to reattach the bottom cover with since it’s not like these clone makers are exactly following any kind of standards that were carved in stone.
With the cost of this kit plus the price of a Vevor Air Still clone, you’re actually coming in $50 less than an original Still Spirits Air Still and end up with a far superior appliance in the end. These are great for small batches, test runs, and making Gin. Fill it up with a gallon of your fermented goods, set it to mode 3 to do a 2 hour progressive temperature run, push the start button and just walk away. Turn a gallon of wine into high-proof clear Brandy totally hands-free!
In other news, I have another project in the works that will be derived from the Airhead controller but is a stand-alone power controller. These will be WiFi enabled and will work as a master and slave system so a person can run multiple heating elements in a boiler and each one can be on a dedicated circuit and controller. I will add support for them to the RPi Smart Still controller system so they can be an alternative to having a stepper motor control the heating.
Be sure to subscribe to the Panhandle Ponics YouTube channel to stay current on updates and developments. If you have any questions or suggestions, comment on the videos or shoot me a message from the contact form!