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Answers and Planning

” Smart Door Monitoring System “ is my final project idea that blends the concepts of vision and surveillance for a doorbell system.

My proposed project involves implementing a system where ultrasonic sensor detect individuals near a door, triggering a doorbell sound. Simultaneously, an ESP32 camera module captures images. These images are then transmitted to a App.

While similar systems like Ring cameras are prevalent in developed countries, where as, in Bhutan, such systems are not common. So for that, my project could potentially provide a valuable solution for individuals and communities looking to improve door security.

In summary, the system aims to enhance security and convenience by alerting users when someone is near the door, providing a visual through captured. This project can find applications in home security systems, allowing users to monitor and control access to their premises.

What will it do?

My proposed project, “Door Butler,” involves implementing a system where an ultrasonic sensor detects individuals near a door and sends alert notifications to the Blynk app on a phone. Simultaneously, a Xiao ESP32 camera module captures images. These images are then transmitted to an app, allowing me to verify who is at the door via the Blynk app and react accordingly by playing a sound through a speaker.

Who has done what beforehand?

Similar systems can be found on YouTube, such as the “Smart Door Bell” by Techiesms and the “Contactless Doorbell” by Viral Science.

What will you design?

I will design the entire casing for my final project, which includes a 3D-printed top and bottom part and a laser-cut middle part of the casing. I will also design my own custom PCB board.

What materials and components will be used?

  • MCU Xiao ESP32 S3
  • Speaker
  • Resistors
  • Tactile Switch
  • LEDs
  • Female header pins
  • Male header pins
  • 5V USB adapter
  • Ultrasonic sensor
  • 3D print PLA
  • 3mm plywood
  • Vinyl sticker
  • DFPlayer Mini

Where will they come from?

Almost all materials and components are available in the Super FabLab. Some electronics, like the DF mini player, will be ordered from Amazon.

How much will they cost?

Component Quantity Price ($) Total Price ($) Source
Seeed XIAO ESP32S3 Sense 1 $7.49 $7.49 JNWSFL
Speaker 1 $4.4 $4.4 JNWSFL
Resistors SMD 8 $0.01 $0.08 JNWSFL
Tactile Switch 1 $1 $1 JNWSFL
LEDs 3 $0.35 $1.05 JNWSFL
Header pins 5 $0.1 $0.5 JNWSFL
5V USB adapter 1 $2.5 $3.2 JNWSFl
Ultrasonic sensor 1 $3.95 $3.95 JNWSFL
3D print PLA 1 $2.1 $2.1 JNWSFL
3mm plywood 1 $1 $1 JNWSFL
Vinyl sticker 1 $0.5 $0.5 JNWSFL
DFPlayer Mini 1 $4.99 $4.99 Amazon

Total Price: $29.49/- only which is equivalent to Nu.2,435/- only

What parts and systems will be made?

  • The top and bottom covers of the casing will be 3D printed.
  • The middle side cover will be laser-cut, and vinyl stickers will be used for better looks.
  • A custom electronics board will be designed and soldered.
  • Programming will be done in Arduino IDE.

What processes will be used?

  • Subtractive manufacturing using laser cutting and vinyl cutting.
  • Additive manufacturing using Prusa 3D printers.
  • Electronic PCB design using KiCad.
  • Electronic PCB production (milled on Roland SRM20).

What questions need to be answered?

  • How can I design my final board to ensure it functions correctly?
  • How can I make the system fully functional?
  • Which microcontroller is best: Xiao or ESP32?
  • How can I easily assemble all the parts in the casing?
  • Who will benefit most from my project?

How will it be evaluated?

The project can be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Incorporation of subtractive manufacturing for the side cover and additive manufacturing for the top and bottom parts of the casing.
  • Custom-made PCB board designed using KiCad and produced.
  • Successful interfacing and programming of the embedded microcontroller.
  • Aesthetically pleasing packaging.