EEVblog 1703 - µTimer Project Part 2: An E-Paper Like LCD

Summary

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Takeaways

• 😀 The project involves designing a micro timer with an emphasis on size and display quality.
• 😀 The display needs to be large enough for easy readability but also small enough to fit within a manageable product size.
• 😀 The selected LCD display is a good compromise, offering a higher resolution and lower power consumption at a reasonable size.
• 😀 The design process is flexible, allowing modifications as new components or solutions emerge, such as the LCD display.
• 😀 The enclosure size is becoming larger than initially anticipated, reaching around 120 mm in some cases, but this is manageable with the new design direction.
• 😀 The chosen display is slightly larger than the initial LCD but provides a better overall user experience and fits within the design constraints.
• 😀 The project is considering using an 18650 rechargeable battery, which fits well with the design and is sufficient for power needs.
• 😀 It's important to allow some flexibility in design specifications to accommodate unforeseen improvements, such as better display options.
• 😀 The process involves making decisions based on available components rather than strictly adhering to a pre-defined design specification.
• 😀 The designer emphasizes that rigid requirements can work in many cases, but in a one-person project, flexibility is often more advantageous.

Q & A

What is the main challenge the designer faces with the size of the product?

The main challenge is determining whether the product is large enough for the desired functionality. The designer aims for a similar form factor to existing benchtop timers but is concerned that the size may become too large once the enclosure is added.

What is the size comparison between the current design and another similar product?

The designer compares the current design with another timer, noting that with the enclosure, the product will reach at least 120 mm in size, which is roughly the same size as another timer the designer has considered.

How does the size of the LCD affect the design?

The size of the LCD impacts the design by influencing the layout and features. The designer initially wanted a larger display, but after finding a high-resolution, low-power alternative, they adjusted the design to accommodate this screen.

What is the advantage of the new LCD display chosen by the designer?

The new LCD display offers a higher resolution, consumes much less power, and is just as large or slightly larger than the previous one, making it a more efficient choice without compromising on display quality.

Why does the designer feel comfortable deviating from the original size requirements?

The designer is comfortable adjusting the size because they are focusing on flexibility in their design. By being open to changing specifications, the designer can incorporate unexpected but beneficial elements, like the new LCD display, that enhance the product.

What kind of battery solution is being considered for the design?

The designer is considering using an 18650 rechargeable battery, which is a common and widely available battery size. The design will be sized to fit this cell, which is the same width as the display.

How does the designer view the process of design flexibility?

The designer advocates for a flexible approach, especially in projects where they are the sole designer. They believe that being too rigid with requirements can limit creativity, while staying open to changes allows for better solutions, such as adopting a new LCD.

What is the importance of having a flexible design specification?

Having a flexible design specification allows for adaptation to new opportunities, like discovering a better display. This approach ensures that the designer can incorporate innovative solutions without being constrained by initial, rigid requirements.

What does the designer mean by 'loosey goosey' in terms of design?

By 'loosey goosey,' the designer means being flexible and adaptable in the design process, rather than sticking strictly to predefined specifications. This approach allows for adjustments based on new discoveries or improvements that can enhance the product.

What is the main takeaway from the designer’s approach to product development?

The main takeaway is that while rigid specifications can work for some designs, especially in larger teams, a more flexible and adaptive approach can lead to better results, particularly in solo projects where the designer can respond quickly to new opportunities.