Quick shout-out: I have to thank JLCPCB for sponsoring this project. They have been a crucial part of the process by enabling me rapidly prototype without compromising quality. All of the PCBAs related to this project were prototyped and assembled by them.

Features

• Retro Display: Four 5x7 LED matrices for a classic, pixelated look
• Automatic Time Sync: NTP server synchronization for accurate timekeeping
• Weather Display: Real-time weather information from OpenWeather API
• Geolocation: Automatic location detection for accurate local time and weather
• Environmental Monitoring: Integrated AHT20 sensor for temperature and humidity readings
• Adaptive Brightness: Light sensor for automatic display adjustment
• Customizable: 3D printed enclosure with diffused plastic display for a sleek look
• Open Source: Fully customizable for your specific needs

Detailed Description

RetroThing reimagines the classic LED matrix display for the IoT era. Its four 5x7 LED matrices offer a generous display area, perfect for showing time, weather information, and environmental data. The ESP32-S2 at its core provides robust processing power and WiFi connectivity, enabling a wide range of smart features.

Smart Timekeeping and Weather Display

RetroThing automatically syncs with an NTP server to ensure accurate time display. It also fetches real-time weather data from the OpenWeather API, providing you with current conditions at a glance.

Automatic Geolocation

Using the ipgeolocation.io API, RetroThing determines its location automatically, ensuring that both time and weather information are relevant to your specific area.

Environmental Monitoring

Equipped with an AHT20 sensor, RetroThing accurately measures and displays temperature and humidity levels, turning your retro clock into a functional environmental monitor.

Adaptive Display

The integrated light sensor enables RetroThing to automatically adjust its brightness based on ambient light conditions, ensuring optimal visibility while conserving energy.

Stylish and Customizable Design

RetroThing comes in a 3D printed enclosure with a diffused plastic display, giving it a polished, professional look. The open-source nature of the project allows for easy customization of both hardware and software.

Technical Specifications

• Microcontroller: ESP32-S2
• Display: 4x 5x7 LED Matrices
• Sensors:
  • AHT20 Temperature and Humidity Sensor
  • Ambient Light Sensor
• Connectivity: WiFi (802.11 b/g/n)
• Power: USB-C (5V DC)
• Enclosure: 3D printed with diffused plastic display
• Dimensions: [TBD] mm x [TBD] mm x [TBD] mm

Applications

• Smart desktop clock with weather display
• Indoor environmental monitor
• Customizable IoT display for various data streams
• Programmable message board
• Retro-style notification center

Software & Compatibility

RetroThing comes with pre-installed firmware that enables automatic time syncing, weather display, and environmental monitoring out of the box. For advanced users and developers, the ESP32-S2 platform allows for custom programming using popular frameworks like Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF.

Open Source

RetroThing is fully open-source. All hardware designs, 3D printing files, and software will be available on our GitHub repository, encouraging modifications, improvements, and creative applications from our user community.

Manufacturing & Fulfillment

RetroThing will be manufactured in small batches, with the electronic components sourced from reputable suppliers. The 3D printed enclosures will be produced in-house or through a local 3D printing service to ensure quality control. Assembly and testing will be done by our team to maintain high standards.

Risks & Challenges

While we have a working prototype and a clear production plan, potential challenges include:

• Ensuring consistent quality of 3D printed enclosures across all units
• Potential delays in component sourcing due to global supply chain issues
• Fine-tuning the firmware for optimal performance...