Introduction
This week, I proposed my final project by combining many of the topics and skills learned during the course. I explained the hardware components required for the project, their estimated costs, and where they will be purchased. I also answered questions about the project's purpose, use, and feasibility.
Task:-
Plan a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered, answering:
- What will it do?
- Who's done what beforehand?
- What sources will you use?
- What will you design?
- What materials and components will be used?
- Where will come from?
- How much will they cost?
- What parts and systems will be made?
- What processes will be used?
- What questions need to be answered?
- How will it be evaluated?
What will it do?
This project is a smart bead-counting system for a Tulsi mala bead-making machine. The machine rotates a wooden stick using a motor, and the artisan cuts beads from it. A push button is used to start and stop the machine, while the OLED display shows the total bead count. The system helps artisans keep track of production easily.
Who's done what beforehand?
The basic bead-making machine with motor and motor driver was already developed by earlier researchers and artisans. My work focuses on adding an electronic counting system using a XIAO ESP32C3, relay, push button, and OLED display. I improved the machine by adding bead counting and display features for better usability.
What sources will you use?
I will use research papers related to Tulsi mala bead-making machines and rural technology development. I will also use online tutorials, datasheets, and documentation for ESP32C3, OLED displays, and relay modules. Information from artisan feedback and existing machine designs will also be considered.
What will you design?
I will design a smart control and counting system for the existing bead-making machine. The system will include a push-button-based motor control, bead counter, and OLED display interface. I will also design the PCB connections and wiring for all components.
What materials and components will be used?
The project will use a XIAO ESP32C3 microcontroller, 3V relay module, OLED display, push button, jumper wires, and power supply connections. The existing machine already includes a motor and motor driver. Additional materials like connectors and PCB board may also be used.
Where will come from?
The electronic components will be purchased from local electronics shops or online stores such as Amazon, Robu, or local electronics suppliers. Some machine parts are already available in the existing setup. Basic fabrication materials will be sourced locally.
How much will they cost?
The estimated cost of the added electronic system is low and affordable. The ESP32C3, relay, OLED display, and push button together may cost around ₹800–₹1500 depending on availability. Since the motorized machine already exists, only the smart counting system adds extra cost.
| Component Name | Quantity | Amount (₹) | Total (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XIAO ESP32C3 | 1 | 800 | 800 |
| 3.3V Relay Module | 1 | 76 | 76 |
| 0.96 Inch OLED Display | 1 | 219 | 219 |
| 2 Pin Push Button | 1 | 11 | 11 |
| SMD LED | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| SMD Resistor | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| 2 Pin Connector | 1 | 5 | 5 |
| 3 Pin Connector | 2 | 7 | 14 |
| 4 Pin Connector | 1 | 11 | 11 |
What parts and systems will be made?
In this project, 3D casing will be designed where components can be placed inside the casing box.The project will include a motor control system, bead counting system, and display system. The relay will control the motor ON/OFF function, while the OLED screen will show bead counts. The push button will act as the user input for machine operation.
What processes will be used?
The project will involve PCB designing, PCB milling, electronics assembly, programming, soldering, and testing. The ESP32C3 will be programmed using Arduino IDE. Components will be connected and tested with the machine to ensure proper bead counting and motor control.
What questions need to be answered?
The project needs to check whether the counting system works accurately after each bead is completed. It is also important to test if the relay switches the motor properly and if the OLED display updates the count correctly. User comfort and ease of operation should also be evaluated.
How will it be evaluated?
The project will be evaluated by testing the accuracy of bead counting and the reliability of motor control. The system should work smoothly without errors during continuous operation. Feedback from artisans and practical testing on the machine will help measure its usefulness and performance.