Scoop Scoop! **Tekka and I, are very glad to show you Aeos, our new great project. **
![enter image description here](https://www.openhardware.io//uploads/59536f38a2d1ad30290047f4/image/Aeos 3d preview.png "enter image title here")
Aeos is a super tiny cube, built with the latest technologies for a low power and versatile device which can be derived in even more tiny devices in your home automation.
Don't hide it, it is so cute :)
![enter image description here](https://www.openhardware.io//uploads/59536f38a2d1ad30290047f4/image/Cube and compact version.png "enter image title here")
On left : Aeos cube version. On right : Aeos 9in1 compact version!
Aeos project is made of :
Let's see what's embedded..
Example of a wip assembly for the cube version
For helping in our decision, I designed some dev boards for testing different mcus etc.. and have drafted multiple iterations for this project. Because of time for maturation between these, each time I was looking again at it, there was always a little detail not ok or missing.. You can ask Tekka, I was close to be thirsty and hungry, with all these brainstormings and dilemmas!
Finally we ended up with an interesting proto..
Aeos protoype
Note : this is how looks the prototype, because the new revision has sensors onboard..
1) MCU choice : NRF52832 module
When possible, for RF, it makes sense to use an all integrated mcu, keeping cost down and easier for making smaller things.
Aeos is based on the recent Nordic NRF52832 mcu, a very powerful RF chip, compatible with NRF24! (footprint compatible with the cheaper NRF52810) Bye bye nrf24 clones :)
You can also note this prototype and first revision of the project, are using the Raytac nrf52 module, FCC certified. (meaning.. i have another mainboard, different, with custom antenna).
See the impressive NRF52 specs which appelead me:
I could highlight everything! so powerful and well suited for lowpower, coincell and RF.
* 2) Compact and versatile main board *
![enter image description here](https://www.openhardware.io//uploads/59536f38a2d1ad30290047f4/image/Aeos with sensors extension_view3.png "enter image title here")
Here the new revision with an extension board. But like i said the new main board is enhanced with a set of sensors onboard, and one could also hook a reed switch for a pretty discrete and thin door contact sensor!
So, we have two options:
with a dirty cheap SI7021 clone board from aliexpress
I have also designed another revision, still the same with lot of sensors. But this time with a custom antenna, and a 4 layers pcb for better RF performance, regarding antenna and clearance, its gnd plane vs the routing and board size.. This revision is a bit different. It is 1.27mm pitch but brings more pins out. I'll use a very simple adapter to breadboard, not a big problem :) The coincell holder is changed too, i'll use the keyfob style with two options for the "Plus" pin. This is because i need more clearance for a better antenna than with the chip antenna from Raytac module previously.
![enter image description here](https://www.openhardware.io//uploads/59536f38a2d1ad30290047f4/image/Aeso_4layers_with ext.png "enter image title here")
*3) Extension board example for a gorgeous 9in1 *
This is a 9in1 extension board for monitoring and processing ambient parameters, actuating, or as an advanced security device for glass and door intrusion.
9in1 mounted to the mainboard
or on breadboard..
Of course, all sensors have been carefully chosen for their low power, voltage range and so on. Onboard footprints:
There will be a few more extension boards though.
Powering extensions :
For more sensors and fun :
* 4) The enclosure *
Better 3d printed, so we can get exactly what we want, and this removes some design constraints, because there were enough constraints!
The cost of printing is also very cheap, less than 0.5€ for a tailored enclosure like this.
Another very nice point : choice of enclosure color ;)
Three types of enclosure actually :
For thin CR2032 coincells, without extension board but 6in1!
For coincells, CR2032/2450/2477. So tiny with all these sensors!
For coincells, 14250 lithium batteries, usb. Gorgeous and so sexy :)
And soon a customized led shaded acrylic, laser engraved, front plate, yay!
Special thanks to
Copyright Scalz (2017). released under the CERN Open Hardware Licence v1.2