Greetings, fellow enthusiasts! I’ve been exploring various home automation forums and have increasingly felt the urge to design my own product, as I can’t seem to find anything on the market that quite fits my needs. Let me share my vision and see if it resonates with anyone or if you have suggestions to improve it!
My idea revolves around creating a compact TFT-based wall panel powered by Android. The goal is to offer a versatile, user-friendly device that can integrate seamlessly into any home automation setup. Here are the key features I envision:
- Form Factor: Designed to fit standard EU wall openings, similar in size to popular switch systems like Jung LS or Gira 55 (55x55 mm). This ensures compatibility with existing wall frames.
- Display: A 2.5-3” capacitive TFT touchscreen for intuitive interaction. While small, it should be sufficient for basic controls and a couple of virtual buttons.
- Connectivity: Primarily WiFi, with plans for future Ethernet and PoE support. The device would run a REST API or MQTT for communication.
- Power Supply: Powered via microUSB, with a potential battery option for portability as a remote control.
- Functionality: Serve as a replacement for traditional wall switches and thermostats, supporting light control, dimming, thermostat adjustments, and scene activation.
- Price Target: Under €100 to ensure affordability and broader appeal.
The rationale behind choosing Android is its openness, allowing users to install their preferred GUI apps like Imperihome or Habdroid without needing programming knowledge. I’m considering platforms like ESP8266 or STM32 for a cheaper alternative, but I believe the Android approach offers unparalleled flexibility.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Would such a device interest you? Are there features I should add or remove? Let’s brainstorm together!
Cheers,
[Your Name]