NodeRED

Node-RED in boneIO Black: Advanced Local Logic (v1.0.0)

With application version 1.0.0, the boneIO Black controller has gained a powerful tool: full, native support for the Node-RED environment. It is a flow-based programming platform that has been integrated directly into the device's operating system.

The Node-RED editor is available directly via a web browser through the boneIO web UI, allowing for convenient logic creation without the need to install additional software.

A new dimension of automation!

boneIO has always offered lightning-fast handling of inputs and outputs as well as basic hardware functions (like double-click or long press). However, the integration with Node-RED takes the device's capabilities to a completely different level – it transforms from a fast execution controller into an autonomous building logic manager.

The introduction of Node-RED allows for the creation of advanced automation scenarios that are processed internally by the controller, without the involvement of Home Assistant or other external servers.

1. Conditional and multi-stage logic: You can create dependencies that go beyond simple "press – turn on" actions. Node-RED enables combining multiple conditions (e.g., the status of several sensors simultaneously, time of day, counters) before taking action.

2. Timer and schedule support: Native support for nodes such as delay, trigger, or bigtimer allows for the implementation of time-based automations (e.g., delayed turn-offs, cyclic pump control) directly on boneIO.

3. Advanced sensor support: Utilize motion, contact, or temperature sensors connected directly to boneIO not just for status reporting but for direct control of outputs with logic in mind (e.g., thermostat hysteresis, motion detector time locks).

4. Full autonomy (Standalone): Complex automations (such as lighting control in corridors or shutter logic) work independently of the LAN. A Home Assistant or router failure does not affect the home's functionality – the "brain" of the operation is located in the distribution board.

Application example: Intelligent hallway lighting

The following scenario illustrates the advantage of Node-RED over simple input mapping. Assume a momentary button and a wired motion detector are connected to boneIO.

Scenario in Node-RED implemented locally:

• Motion: When the detector senses motion, the light turns on, but only for 2 minutes (a simple timer). Every subsequent motion resets the timer.

• Lock: If a resident presses the physical button on the wall, the system enters "Permanent On" mode (e.g., for cleaning) – it ignores the timer and motion detector, keeping the light on until the button is clicked again.

• Night: The automation can additionally check the time of day condition (based on the boneIO system clock) so that at night, the light turns on at only 20% power (if using a dimmer) or does not turn on at all.

Thanks to Node-RED, all this logic – including timers, status flags, and conditions – is executed in a fraction of a second inside boneIO Black, guaranteeing reliability regardless of the rest of the Smart Home system.

Advantages of Node-RED

Stability Architecture: Home Assistant as Visualization, Node-RED as the Heart The introduction of Node-RED on board boneIO Black allows for the implementation of a professional division between the Execution Layer (boneIO) and the Supervision Layer (Home Assistant).

While Home Assistant is an incredibly powerful, stable, and dynamically developing system, its role in a modern smart home should evolve:

Continuity of operation (Uptime): Home Assistant often requires restarts (e.g., during system updates, add-on updates, or YAML configuration changes). Moving key logic (lighting, heating, shutters) to Node-RED in boneIO ensures the home "lives" uninterrupted. While you are updating Home Assistant, your family can still use the automation, motion sensors, and timers without any disruption.

Critical Safety: Functions key to building safety (e.g., closing a water valve upon leak detection, controlling heating pumps) should operate at the lowest possible hardware level. Node-RED on boneIO eliminates intermediaries – the decision and action happen within a single control cabinet.

Optimal division of tasks:

boneIO + Node-RED: Performs critical tasks requiring immediate response and reliability ("hard real-time" logic).

Home Assistant: Serves as an extensive visual interface, executor of very complex automations – those requiring the cooperation of several integrated devices, historical data aggregator, gateway to cloud services (weather, voice integrations), and the end-user control panel.

Such an architecture provides what is most important in building automation: the reliability of the main controller (boneIO) combined with the modernity and convenience of Home Assistant.