Looking for ideas for a DIY sliding door operator. The Autoslide shown in this installation guide looks pretty good with a rack and pinion mechanism and control electronics but is a bit pricey.

I am going down a rabbit hole with Smart Home automation. I have just gotten a Cielo Breez controller that replaces the IR remote for a Mitsubishi mini-split in my attic conversion bedroom. In order to help prevent heat build-up during the day, I leave the sliding door to outside open when the temperature there is cooler. I have now programmed Alexa to start the A/C to cool the bedroom for nighttime but need a means to close the slider when that happens.

This pet door operator is also a less expensive possibility but has a limited opening size.

Any suggestions (other than walking up there to close it manually as I do now )?

 

If you are able to handle the controls you can get a linear actuator. They have become much more commonly available in the past few years. Or, you could use a motor and cable to create a capstan system.