Smart Watch

by AlenJecob in Circuits > Gadgets

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Smart Watch

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We have designed smartwatch using an ESP8266 microcontroller, a GC9A01 round display, and a custom-designed PCB. The steps cover everything from PCB design, component soldering, uploading firmware, and 3D printing the case to assembly and finalizing the smartwatch.

Downloads

Supplies

The partes Needed

  1. ESP8266 01 CHIP
  2. PCB
  3. GC9A01 Display
  4. Battery
  5. 3D Printer

Design PCB and Print the PCB

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  1. Use a PCB design tool such as EagleKiCad, or Altium to design your custom PCB.
  2. Include the ESP8266 chip as the core of your smartwatch for connectivity and processing.
  3. Add the GC9A01 round display footprint for the display interface.
  4. Ensure the correct power management circuitry, voltage regulators (3.3V for ESP8266), capacitors, resistors, and headers are included for the display and buttons.
  5. Do SMD soldering of the ESP8266 CHIP , Attach USB and other components to PCB . The PCB designed in Fusion 360 .

Perform SMD Soldering:

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  1. Using an SMD soldering station or a reflow oven, carefully solder the ESP8266 chip and other SMD components onto the PCB.
  2. Solder the GC9A01 display using the proper connectors and headers to ensure a solid connection.
  3. Check Connections:
  4. Use a multimeter to check for proper connections, ensuring there are no shorts or soldering errors.


Upload the Firmware

Upload the Firmware

  1. Set Up the Development Environment:
  2. Install Arduino IDE or PlatformIO and set up the necessary libraries for ESP8266 and GC9A01 display (use the TFT_eSPI library for the GC9A01).
  3. Write or download the firmware for your smartwatch, which includes the display interface, button inputs, and sensor data (if included).
  4. Upload the Firmware to the ESP8266:
  5. Connect your custom PCB to your computer using FTDI or USB-to-Serial adapter.
  6. Upload the firmware to the ESP8266 through the Arduino IDE.
  7. Test the Display and Functionality:
  8. Power on the PCB, ensuring the display lights up and functions properly.
  9. Test the buttons, sensors, and any additional features like Wi-Fi connectivity


Downloads

Design the 3D Printed Watch Case


  1. Create the Watch Case in Fusion 360 or Any CAD Software:
  2. Design a compact, sleek watch case in Fusion 360 or any 3D modeling software to fit the PCB and the GC9A01 round display.
  3. Ensure the design includes space for the PCB, buttons, display, and battery compartment.
  4. Add cutouts for the charging port, buttons, and sensors.
  5. Export the Case as STL File:
  6. After completing the design, export the case as an STL file for 3D printing.

Step 6: 3D Print the Watch Case

  1. Select Materials:
  2. Use a resin printer for a high-quality finish or FDM printer for faster printing.
  3. Choose a durable, lightweight material like PLA or PETG for the case.
  4. Print the Case:
  5. Upload the STL files to your 3D printer’s slicing software and print the case components (front, back cover, and straps if designed).
  6. Ensure the dimensions are accurate for fitting the PCB and display.

Step 7: Assemble the Smartwatch

  1. Install the PCB and Display:
  2. Once the case is printed, place the custom PCB and the GC9A01 display into the designed slots.
  3. Attach the buttons and align the connectors inside the watch case.
  4. Install the Battery:
  5. Place the lithium-ion battery into its compartment, ensuring it’s securely connected to the PCB’s power management circuit.
  6. Close the Case:
  7. Snap or screw the case together, making sure all components are aligned and secure.
  8. Attach the Watch Straps:
  9. If you've designed watch straps, attach them to the body of the watch or use off-the-shelf straps that fit the design.


Assembly

  1. Power On the Watch:
  2. Test the smartwatch by powering it on. Ensure the display works, the firmware runs correctly, and all buttons and sensors respond as expected.
  3. Check for Connectivity:
  4. Test the Wi-Fi functionality (if applicable) to ensure the ESP8266 can connect to networks or send/receive data as per your firmware setup.