Introduction
As climate change becomes increasingly severe, people’s attention to weather conditions is also growing. More and more individuals are attempting to install weather displays at home to stay updated on local meteorological information. This solar-powered electronic paper weather display perfectly meets this demand, with an ultra-small size that can be seamlessly integrated into window frames, extremely low power consumption, and integrated solar charging functionality, enabling long-term operation without a stable power source. It is bound to become a best-selling product.
Features and Characteristics
The concept of this weather station is to power the energy collection module using solar cells. When the solar cells generate electricity, the energy collection module will charge. This energy collection method can work even under very low solar input conditions, making it very suitable for indoor energy collection. Additionally, to reduce power consumption, the display can be turned off after updates, ensuring the battery lasts longer.
This weather station uses the ESP32 S3 Mini as its control core, paired with a Tri-Color ePaper 2.13 (SSD1680) shield display that provides clear visuals while consuming very little power. Its three monocrystalline solar cells provide reliable charging functionality, combined with the SPV1050 micro solar power manager to ensure a sufficient power supply. Using the TPS73733DCQR low-dropout regulator, 1000uF 10V electrolytic capacitor, and SPV1050 micro solar power manager allows for efficient battery charging and energy management.
Bill of Materials
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• Hardware Components:
| Hardware Component | Quantity |
| ESP32 S3 Mini | 1 |
| Tri-Color ePaper 2.13 (SSD1680) Shield | 1 |
| MONOCRYST SOLAR CELL 147MW 4.15V – SM111K06L | 3 |
| SPV1050 Micro Solar Power Manager | 1 |
| TPS73733DCQR Low-Dropout Regulator | 1 |
| 1000uF 10V Electrolytic Capacitor | 1 |
| 3D Printed Case | 1 |
| M2*4 Flat Head Self-Tapping Screws | 2 |
| M2*20 Flat Head Self-Tapping Screws | 4 |
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• Software Applications and Online Services:
Arduino IDE
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• Hand Tools and Machining Equipment:
3D Printer
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• Manufacturing Process
First, some modifications need to be made to the ESP 32 S3 Mini module, including removing the integrated RGB LED and replacing the voltage regulator.
Next, install the solar cells, micro solar power manager, and other components, connecting them according to the schematic.
During the installation process, consider the length of the cables to ensure accurate connections between components.
Advantages
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• Solar-powered, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly
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• Small size, can be embedded in window frames
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• Clear display, extremely low power consumption, can operate under very low solar input conditions, and can run for extended periods.
Conclusion
The solar-powered electronic paper weather display has advantages such as compact size, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. By utilizing solar charging and low-power design, this weather station is not only suitable for home use but also ideal for commercial and educational settings. Although this is a rapid prototype design, it can be further optimized in terms of power consumption and functionality in the future to meet different user needs.
Project Address: https://github.com/rsappia/Solar_E-Ink_Weather_Station
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