Introduction
In a world where automation is becoming increasingly important, designing a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) to solve a daily problem might seem trivial, but it perfectly illustrates the power of technology to simplify our lives. Imagine having to press a button three times each night to set the perfect light intensity for your night light. This was precisely the issue Oscar Molnar faced. His approach to automate this function not only solved his problem but also opens the door to other potential applications.
The Night Light Problem
Oscar purchased a cheap night light that, while equipped with a button to adjust intensity, never started at the desired intensity. To achieve the preferred brightness level, he had to press the button three times every night—a repetitive and frustrating task.
Exploration and Initial Attempts
Oscar's first step was to disassemble the night light to understand its workings. However, he found no useful information about the integrated circuits used. Online research suggested that holding the button for 10 seconds could set a new default level, but this didn't work for him.
The Solution: A Microcontroller
Rather than relying on off-the-shelf solutions, Oscar decided to design a custom PCB capable of simulating button presses. He considered using various boards like the Wemos D1 Mini or the Raspberry Pi Zero. However, these options required too much power, a major constraint since the night light was powered by a simple capacitor.
PCB Design and Manufacturing
Oscar turned to the ATtiny85 microcontroller, known for its low power consumption. With a design tool like EasyEDA and a PCB manufacturer such as JLCPCB, he was able to design and produce a circuit board capable of managing this specific task. The microcontroller simulates button presses at precise intervals to achieve the correct light intensity.
Impact and Benefits
This solution not only addressed his initial problem but also demonstrated how a DIY approach can transform user experience. Beyond the practical improvement, it encouraged Oscar to explore other automation projects.
Conclusion
Oscar Molnar's example demonstrates how custom device design can simplify daily tasks and improve quality of life. If you're facing a similar problem or looking to automate an aspect of your daily life, why not consider designing your own PCB?
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