Digital NameTag
A wearable badge with a QR Code on the case and a digital display to show my name.
Total Time: 7 hours and 15 minutes
June 5: (1 hours) I came up with the project idea and started working on the schematic. I wanted to include OLED and ESP32 as well as a battery pack.
June 6: (30 min) I looked at different ways to hook up the OLED. I have never done this before, so I had to switch out which OLED I was using due to an incompatability issue.
June 10: (45 min) I finished the schematic and tried to make the PCB. I had a really hard time with the routing. I don't know why I can't route on both sides. If I don't, I am having a lot of errors with overlap of tracks. I watched a lot of YouTube videos but I couldn't figure it out. UntitledSchematic.pdf
June 12: (1 hour) I rearranged the entire PCB because my routing still isn't working. I went back to my schematic and tried to use smaller components. I still don't know why I can't route it. I tried several times to do different configurations/combinations.
June 17: (1 hour) I figured out that I can't route components that are on one side on the back of the board unless there are yellow circles on the PCB. Using this knowledge, I finished the PCB.
June 19: (20 min)
I started putting my files together and I made the CAD for the case. I also found a website that converts links to STL files of QR codes which is pretty cool. I used a link to my LinkedIn.
June 23: (2 hours) I lowkey didn't know what I was doing and the CAD looked really stupid, so I decided to completely start over. I am now using an arduino nano because I understand arduino better, a MAX7219 because I like the shape, and two batteries (one 4.5V and one 9V). I made the schematic. I also decided that because I am completely lost on making a PCB I am just going to solder this myself at home. I do still need a CAD but only to hold the batteries. I started working on the CAD by importing a 9V battery model and a 3 AAA case for the 4.5V power source. I also downloaded CAD files for the MAX7219 and the arduino Nano.
June 24: (1 hour) I locked in, finished the CAD, schematic, and PCB. I put everything in the GitHub and finally submitted the custon project :D
I also wrote the code in the Arduino IDE and saved it in my GitHub as txt just for my name to scroll across the screen.
July 8: (40 minutes)
For rereview: I added threaded holes to the CAD for the hinge, then I removed the hinge entirely and made screw holes in the bottom of the case. I added 4x M5x0.8 20mm nails to the BOM I also updated the BOM and submitted.