Geckocontroller

(CC) 2021-2022 by Andreas Frisch github@fraxinas.dev

OwO what's this?

geckocontroller is an ESP32-based all-in-one solution for terrarium automation.

Hardware Features

Relay Output

• 3 solid state relays with zero-cross switching
• individual load 1A each
• for HeatBed (/Fogger), HeatLamp and Pump

Dimmer Output

• opto-coupler zero cross detection
• random cross solid state relay
• phase controller modulator

RGB LED Output

• PWM driver
• for 12V RGB LED stripes

FAN Output

• for an ATX type PC fan
• PWM and tachometer pins
• power cut-off circuitry for completely stopping all types of fans

Dallas Thermometer Input

• 2 inputs for DS18B20 bus temperature sensors

I²C Ports

• BME280 Thermo/Hygro/Baro sensor module (ceiling)
• SHT-3xD Thermo/Hygro sensor (ground)

Load Cell Input

• HX711-based load cell amplifier/ADC
• for weighing / occupancy detection

USB-C Port

• USB-to-serial programming port

WiFi

• ESP32 wifi client

SPI / Addon Connector

• for future extensions like a display or console

Documentation

• Circuit Calculations

Software

Using ESPHome.io

• simple YAML configuration for different sensor / actor modules
• Through Home Assistant web interface:
  • data logging and visualization of all environmental readings
  • manually control all actors, modify set points of controllers

Weather Simulation

• use Nouvelle-Calédonie (Crested Gecko's natural habitat) real weather records
• use temperature, humidity, rain and sky cover values for creating a realistic varied simulation of the habitants' indigenous environment
• simulated sunrise, sunset, lightening storm

Documentation

• How-to Setup & Calibrate

Console unit

• Stand-alone device based on ESP32
• remote controls the main unit through home assistant via WiFi
• 240x240 IPS Display
• Rotary encoder + navigation button
• MH-Z19 CO₂ Sensor
• 6x WS2812 addressable RGB LEDs
• Piezo Buzzer for audio alerts
• USB-C powered
• custom esphome components:
  • controls for thermostat, hygrostat, rain, fogger
  • HSV color picker for scenic light

TODO

Console unit

• schematic & PCB layout
• 3d case
• CO2 sensor
• WS2812 RGB LEDs
• buzzer
• software for ST7789 display
• software for rotary encoder
• VCNL4040 support
• photos / documentation

Controller unit

• 3d-printed cases for BME280 sensor and console
• rainfall/humidity automation
• ventilation automation
• moonlight simulation
• thunderstorm simulation
• photos / documentation

Project Diary

Date	Version	Milestone
2021-02-21	v1.0	Commission of 1st prototype PCB with aisler.net
2021-03-12	v1.1	First time programming of bodged prototype PCB
2021-04-10		Fixed hardware issues with LeoDJ & Patagona
2021-04-15	v1.2	Commission of 2nd revision PCB with aisler.net
2021-05-03	v1.2	Completed PCB assembly, all modules working
2021-05-16	v1.2	Assembling of case and first deployment of unit
2022-01-02		Added fogger to terrarium
2022-01-09		Base weather simulation on real historic records
2022-01-28	v1.0	Order Console PCB at aisler.net & parts at LCSC
2022-02-18		Assembled Console PCB
2022-03-07	v2.0	New Hardware Revision of Console PCB