Project Proposal¶
Smart Access Control System for the FabLab¶
Project Overview¶
During my time using the FabLab, I noticed recurring problems related to access management: the physical key was frequently unavailable, sometimes lost, and it was impossible to know exactly who had entered the lab and at what time. These observations motivated me to design a solution that addresses these challenges directly.
My final project is a smart access control system for the FabLab, which allows access only to authorized members using an RFID badge, while keeping a digital log of all entries and exits. The system is designed to improve security, reduce accidents caused by untrained users, and extend the lifespan of the lab's machines.
Motivation¶
The idea emerged from real difficulties observed in our FabLab:
- The physical key was often unavailable or misplaced.
- There was no reliable way to track who accessed the lab and when.
- Unqualified users could freely access machines, increasing the risk of accidents and equipment damage.
This project aims to solve these problems by building a device that grants access only to registered and qualified members, and that logs every entry and exit automatically.
How It Works¶
The system uses an RFID reader to identify members. When a registered badge is scanned, the door lock (controlled by a relay) is activated and access is granted. All events are recorded and can be monitored through a dedicated application.
A TFT LCD screen displays real-time information such as the member's name, access status (authorized / denied), and timestamps.
Sketch of the Final Project¶
Below is the initial concept sketch of the system, generated with the AI tool Gemini based on a descriptive prompt.
Prompt used to generate this sketch:
Components¶
Input Devices
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| RFID Reader (RC522) | Member identification via badge |
| Push button | Manual override / reset |
Output Devices
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| TFT LCD Screen (ILI9488) | Display access status and member info |
| Relay module | Controls the door lock (ON/OFF) |
| Buzzer | Audio alert (access granted / denied) |
| LED indicators | Visual status feedback |
Microcontroller
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| ESP32 | Main controller — handles RFID reading, relay control, display, and Wi-Fi communication |
Communication
| Component | Role |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi (ESP32 built-in) | Sends log data to a web application |
Fab Academy Skills Used¶
This project will integrate skills developed throughout the Fab Academy program:
- Electronics Design & Production (Week 6 & 8) — Custom PCB with ESP32, RFID reader, relay, and screen
- Embedded Programming (Week 4) — Firmware for RFID reading, relay control, and display
- Computer-Aided Design (Week 2) — 3D modeling of the enclosure
- 3D Scanning & Printing (Week 5) — Printing the device enclosure
- Input / Output Devices (Week 9 & 10) — RFID reader and LCD screen integration
- Networking & Communications (Week 11) — Wi-Fi data logging to a web app
- Interface & Application Programming (Week 14) — Web dashboard for monitoring entries