Revolutionizing Remote Control: Explore Micromote, an ESP-NOW Based Gesture Remote with XIAO ESP32S3 and Smart Gesture Sensor

Discover “MicroMote,” a revolutionary device that empowers you to take control of your smart devices with the wave of your hand!

Seeed Hardware: Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32S3, Grove-Smart IR Gesture Sensor

Software: Arduino IDE, Autodesk Fusion 360

Industry: Smart Home, Healthcare, Education, Gaming, Virtual and Augmented Reality

The Background

Micromote is a project created by Mukesh Sankhla that combines the power of ESP-NOW and gesture recognition to create a device that can control smart home appliances with simple hand gestures. The project aims to provide an innovative and more intuitive way of controlling home automation systems, without the need for physical buttons or remote controls.

The Challenge

Ensuring accurate and consistent gesture recognition is crucial to minimize errors. In addition, designing a compact and portable device adds to the complexity. Despite challenges, the Micromote project offers a unique opportunity to integrate diverse expertise and create an innovative solution for home automation enthusiasts.

The Solution

Step 1: CAD Design and 3D Printing

MicroMote is created using Autodesk Fusion 360, utilizing datasheets and scale measurements to determine the dimensions of various components and develop the model. Download The MicroMote stl files here.

Step 2: Sensor Configuration

The chosen Grove-Smart IR Gesture Sensor supports various communication protocols, including I2C, SPI, and USB. The selection of different modes is facilitated through a 4-position DIP switch located on the back. For MicroMote, Mukesh opted for the I2C protocol.

Step 3: Connecting Battery

• Solder the battery wires and header pins onto the XIAO ESP32S3
• Refer to the provided pin diagram for connecting the battery.
• Utilize the Type-C port on the XIAO ESP32 board for charging the connected battery, as it comes with built-in charging circuitry and overcharge protection.

Step 4: XIAO ESP32S3 + Sensor Connection

Insert the XIAO ESP32S3 board directly into the Grove-Gesture Sensor’s female connector, making sure the USB-C port on the XIAO ESP32S3 faces outward. This plug-and-play configuration simplifies the integration of the gesture sensor into any projects.

Step 5: Final Assembly and Code Integration

Mukesh aligns the XIAO ESP32S3’s Type-C port with the 3D printed housing opening, carefully fits the circuitry inside, slides on the top cover, and secures it with a small screw for a stable enclosure. For the code integration, Mukesh downloads the Grove Gesture Sensor library, adds it to the Arduino IDE. After copying and pasting the code, selecting the board type (XIAO_ESP32S3), and choosing the port, he uploads the code. For testing, he uses any ESP32 board as a receiver, uploads the code, opens the terminal, turns on MicroMote, and observes incoming messages.

More Information

Learn More Project Details on Hackster: MicroMote: The ESP-Now Based Gesture Remote

Seeed Studio XIAO Series

Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] for any inquiries or if you’d like to engage in further project discussions. Your questions and interest are welcomed.

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