Inspiration
Often the number of unread emails in my inbox is a really quick way for me to know how much work I have to do. I would like a simple and slick way to know how many emails are in my inbox.
What it does
At a high level, the goal of the circuit it to have four RGB LEDs light based on unread Gmail count. A packet of data will be transmitted over BLE to a Amtel ATmega328P micro-controller with Arduino bootloader using a Nordic BLE module. The circuit is powered by a 2500mAh LiPo battery with an Qi inductive charging receiver circuit. The entire system is housed in a 3D-printed translucent ‘Mystery Box’ replica.
How I built it
To mount all of the electronics in the 3D-printed box, Aric used heavy gauge wire to mould a wireframe that connected all the components. Once the circuit was mounted, I programmed the Arduino to control the LEDs over BLE. I used Node.js to send BLE packets to Mystery Box based on the unread Gmail count.
Accomplishments that I'm proud of
- 3D-printed box sanding and clear coat
- Components fitting in box
- Low energy use of circuit
What I learned
- How to charge a battery with an inductive charging coil
- How to communicate to an Arduino using BLE
- How to use the Gmail API
What's next for Mystery Box
I would like to have Mystery Box implement the Apple Notification Center Service (ANCS) which gives Bluetooth accessories (that connect to iOS devices through a Bluetooth low-energy link) a simple and convenient way to access many kinds of notifications that are generated on iOS devices.
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