Smart Watch
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
- ESP8266 01 CHIP
- PCB
- GC9A01 Display
- Battery
- 3D Printer
Design PCB and Print the PCB
- Use a PCB design tool such as Eagle, KiCad, or Altium to design your custom PCB.
- Include the ESP8266 chip as the core of your smartwatch for connectivity and processing.
- Add the GC9A01 round display footprint for the display interface.
- Ensure the correct power management circuitry, voltage regulators (3.3V for ESP8266), capacitors, resistors, and headers are included for the display and buttons.
- Do SMD soldering of the ESP8266 CHIP , Attach USB and other components to PCB . The PCB designed in Fusion 360 .
Perform SMD Soldering:
- Using an SMD soldering station or a reflow oven, carefully solder the ESP8266 chip and other SMD components onto the PCB.
- Solder the GC9A01 display using the proper connectors and headers to ensure a solid connection.
- Check Connections:
- Use a multimeter to check for proper connections, ensuring there are no shorts or soldering errors.
Upload the Firmware
Upload the Firmware
- Set Up the Development Environment:
- Install Arduino IDE or PlatformIO and set up the necessary libraries for ESP8266 and GC9A01 display (use the TFT_eSPI library for the GC9A01).
- Write or download the firmware for your smartwatch, which includes the display interface, button inputs, and sensor data (if included).
- Upload the Firmware to the ESP8266:
- Connect your custom PCB to your computer using FTDI or USB-to-Serial adapter.
- Upload the firmware to the ESP8266 through the Arduino IDE.
- Test the Display and Functionality:
- Power on the PCB, ensuring the display lights up and functions properly.
- Test the buttons, sensors, and any additional features like Wi-Fi connectivity
Downloads
Design the 3D Printed Watch Case
- Create the Watch Case in Fusion 360 or Any CAD Software:
- Design a compact, sleek watch case in Fusion 360 or any 3D modeling software to fit the PCB and the GC9A01 round display.
- Ensure the design includes space for the PCB, buttons, display, and battery compartment.
- Add cutouts for the charging port, buttons, and sensors.
- Export the Case as STL File:
- After completing the design, export the case as an STL file for 3D printing.
Step 6: 3D Print the Watch Case
- Select Materials:
- Use a resin printer for a high-quality finish or FDM printer for faster printing.
- Choose a durable, lightweight material like PLA or PETG for the case.
- Print the Case:
- Upload the STL files to your 3D printer’s slicing software and print the case components (front, back cover, and straps if designed).
- Ensure the dimensions are accurate for fitting the PCB and display.
Step 7: Assemble the Smartwatch
- Install the PCB and Display:
- Once the case is printed, place the custom PCB and the GC9A01 display into the designed slots.
- Attach the buttons and align the connectors inside the watch case.
- Install the Battery:
- Place the lithium-ion battery into its compartment, ensuring it’s securely connected to the PCB’s power management circuit.
- Close the Case:
- Snap or screw the case together, making sure all components are aligned and secure.
- Attach the Watch Straps:
- 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
- Power On the Watch:
- Test the smartwatch by powering it on. Ensure the display works, the firmware runs correctly, and all buttons and sensors respond as expected.
- Check for Connectivity:
- Test the Wi-Fi functionality (if applicable) to ensure the ESP8266 can connect to networks or send/receive data as per your firmware setup.