Invention: RV Temp Monitoring for Pets

[thebenz]

Our first time out with the Georgetown last year, my wife panicked because we had the pets left inside while hiking and she imagined the power going out and then getting too hot inside. I thought about a way to solve that problem and I wonder how many other people might be interested.

I made a small device that allows me to check the temperature inside from my phone, send me alerts when the power goes out and send alerts when certain temperature levels are reached.

It works over the cellular network and there is no wi-fi to connect to. As long as you have a weak signal it will get out. It didn't really cost much to make and I"m going to have the app work on iPhone and Android.

I'd be interested in finding some people to help me test out my code and see how the "gizmo" works in other scenarios. Any frequent RV'ers out with dogs interested in this at all?

Attached is a picture of the device and a screenshot of my test app.

[kchinth]

Interested.

We have 2 dogs and I've often thought about this scenario. We leave them in the camper with the A/C running sometimes.

[rockfordroo]

Don't they already make thermostats that do this? (Nest comes to mind; there's a Honeywell versions, too, I believe.)

They do work via wifi, though, I believe.

[asquared]

I know I've read about methods of doing this on other forums over the years. The ones I remember involve having something that hooks to a cell phone to call you and alert you.


Lots of good suggestions, ideas and tips Here.

[flymhi]

Interested with a couple of questions.

1. I assume the cellular would need to be via subscription similar to tablet cellular as an additional device on a family plan?

2. Power outages would be indicated by abnormal temp changes where the device is placed?

3. What do you see as a target price for a device like this?

Sounds like a great multi-purpose device given a reasonable price point.

[trudyw]

Interested in info!! I travel with 2 small dogs and also worry.

[Triple SS]

I might be interested if the cost is not very much. I worry over our 3 furbabies when we are out. Give me some more info. We live in north central Alabama and cell reception can be really bad. Maybe use walkie talkies and do the same.

[RubberNail]

I purchased a similar device in 2011 before my RV trip to Alaska. Monitors power and temperature in the home. Called a "temperature guard" from Smart Home Systems, then $250. Will go through a call sequence to notify you of temperature or power problems. Had is call my son first so he could monitor the deep freeze and frig. During 2 months away had 2 alarms. Work well.

[ChrisAndGarren]

interested!

[GJones]

Interested

[Fred H.]

Yes I would be interested.

[Rodgers]

Interested we have one we worry about iPhone app good idea.

[Ron, Debra & Foxy]

Interested, with iPhone app....

[cincia]

very interested. we travel with 3-6 dogs all the time and worry about this. As we bought our trailer for dog shows as well as traveling I know a number of people that would be interested in this. We will also be traveling with young puppies this year and this would be great to have in the tt. Cincia

[wlknthewoods]

Very interested...not sure how it could work without power and most national/state parks have limited cell signal. I know law enforcement uses systems for their K9 cars but very $$$

[rossmdear]

Yes, very interested

[gectisme]

Sounds interesting because you can query your RV at anytime to see what the real time conditions are. The ones I have seen on the market will text you when the temp goes out of preset conditions or if power is lost. The MarCELL Cellular Connected Monitoring System does that and goes for ~$250 plus a ~$10 per month subscription for the cell service. If yours is in that price range or better yet cheaper count me in as interested!

Here is a link to the MarCELL unit:
The MarCELL Cellular Connected Monitoring System

[CaboSnow]

I would be interested..... Thanks

[MOODMAN]

Another "enhancement" idea would be to create a fresh air vent near floor level that would kick on a fan run by the RV battery in the event of a power failure. Dogs could then sit next to it to keep cool and it would draw in cooler air from outside.

[woody9]

Interested. ... if.... it works for cats too! Lol! AND image it'd work for low Temps as well. Usually heat with fp & space heater...use furnace as backup...but forgot that recently. ..and now think about both high & low thresholds