Applications and Implications
This project is designed to enhance security and control access to medical equipment by using an NFC card reader and relay system. By ensuring that only authorized personnel can activate the relay, the system restricts unauthorized usage, promoting safety and compliance. This is particularly critical in healthcare environments where the misuse of equipment could have serious consequences.
Project Integration
This project represents a synthesis of various technical and creative skills acquired through this course, demonstrating the following aspects:
- 2D and 3D Design: The project includes the creation of a custom enclosure to house the electronic components securely. The design ensures durability and ease of use while maintaining a compact form factor.
- Additive and Subtractive Fabrication: Fabrication methods such as 3D printing for prototyping and CNC machining for precision cutting are employed to produce high-quality components.
- Electronics Design and Production: A custom-designed PCB connects the NFC reader, relay, and ESP32-C3 microcontroller to ensure efficient signal processing and power management.
- Embedded Microcontroller Programming: The firmware for the ESP32-C3 is programmed to interface with the NFC reader and control the relay based on card authentication.
- System Integration and Packaging: All components are integrated into a cohesive unit with a user-friendly interface, enabling seamless operation and reliability.
By custom-making most components, this project showcases an in-depth understanding of the required technical and design principles.
Applications
The system's primary application is in medical facilities to restrict access to sensitive equipment. However, it has broader applications, including:
- Industrial settings where equipment use needs to be regulated.
- Educational laboratories to prevent unauthorized use of expensive or hazardous tools.
- Home automation systems for secure control of devices.
Future iterations could adapt the system for time-based access control, multi-user authentication, or integration with larger security frameworks.
Project Development
What Will It Do?
The system reads NFC cards to verify the identity of the user. If an authorized card is presented, the relay is activated, enabling the connected medical equipment to function. If the card is not recognized, the relay remains off, ensuring that unauthorized access is blocked.
Who Has Done What Beforehand?
Access control systems are commonly used in various industries, often employing RFID or NFC technologies. However, the application of such systems to medical equipment is relatively novel. Existing solutions typically focus on general access control for rooms or buildings rather than specific devices. This project aims to bridge that gap by applying access control directly to critical medical tools.
What Will You Design?
The design phase encompasses several elements:
- Hardware Enclosure: A compact and durable casing that protects the internal electronics while providing easy access for maintenance.
- Custom PCB: A printed circuit board that connects and organizes all electronic components.
- Firmware: Embedded software that ensures seamless communication between the NFC reader, relay, and ESP32-C3 microcontroller.
What Materials and Components Will Be Used?
- ESP32-C3 Microcontroller for processing and wireless capabilities.
- NFC Card Reader for user authentication.
- 5V Relay Module for controlling the equipment.
- OLED Display for visual feedback and system status.
- 3D-printed PLA or ABS for the enclosure.
- Standard electronics such as resistors, capacitors, and connectors.
Where Will They Come From?
Electronic components will be sourced from reputable suppliers such as Mouser, Digikey, or local electronics markets. The casing will be fabricated in-house using a 3D printer or CNC machine, depending on the design requirements.
How Much Will They Cost?
The estimated cost breakdown is as follows:
- ESP32-C3 Microcontroller: $10
- NFC Card Reader: $15
- 5V Relay Module: $5
- OLED Display: $10
- Miscellaneous components: $20
- Total Estimated Cost: $60
What Parts and Systems Will Be Made?
The project involves designing and fabricating the following:
- Custom PCB to ensure compact and efficient assembly.
- Firmware tailored for secure and reliable operation.
- 3D-printed casing that enhances usability and aesthetics.
What Processes Will Be Used?
- 3D CAD modeling for designing the enclosure.
- 3D printing or CNC machining for fabricating the enclosure.
- PCB design using tools like KiCad or Eagle.
- Programming and debugging the firmware with Arduino IDE.
- Testing and integration to ensure system reliability.
What Questions Need to Be Answered?
- How to optimize power consumption for long-term operation?
- Can the system be scaled to manage multiple relays?
- What additional security features could enhance functionality?
How Will It Be Evaluated?
The system will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Accuracy in detecting and authenticating NFC cards.
- Reliability of the relay control under different conditions.
- Ease of use and maintenance for end users.
- Durability and resilience of the hardware casing.
Progress Tracking
What Tasks Have Been Completed?
- Initial design and component selection.
- Basic firmware development and testing.
- Prototype PCB assembly.
What Tasks Remain?
- Refining the casing design and production.
- Optimizing the firmware for performance.
- Comprehensive system testing and validation.
What Has Worked? What Hasn't?
The core functionality of reading NFC cards and controlling the relay is operational. However, stability issues with external libraries and challenges in casing design have been identified as areas needing improvement.
What Questions Need to Be Resolved?
How can firmware dependencies be minimized for better reliability? What alternative materials could improve the casing's durability?
What Will Happen When?
The next steps involve finalizing the firmware and casing within the next two weeks, followed by extensive testing to ensure the system meets all requirements.
What Have You Learned?
This project has provided valuable insights into system design, embedded programming, and the importance of iterative testing and refinement. It has also emphasized the need to address dependency and scalability challenges proactively.