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Show HN: I made alchemical-cosmological PCB badges

A developer showcased intricate 3D PCB badges crafted in a single day for a Shenzhen hackathon. This 'Show HN' highlights resourceful, rapid prototyping using affordable components like a 10-cent MCU and stacked PCBs to create a visually striking, functional wearable. It resonates with the HN community's appreciation for innovative hardware design and open-source DIY projects.

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#11
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First Seen
Aug 10, 8:00 AM
Last Seen
Aug 10, 11:00 AM
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The Lowdown

During a hackathon in Shenzhen, a developer designed and fabricated unique 'alchemical-cosmological' PCB badges within a day. These eye-catching wearables demonstrate impressive rapid prototyping and resourceful engineering, utilizing readily available and inexpensive components to create a complex, multi-layered electronic accessory. The project emphasizes the potential for intricate hardware design even under tight constraints and limited budgets.

  • Layered Design: The badge consists of three stacked printed circuit boards (PCBs) – an inner 'sun' board and two outer rings – connected using test points to achieve a 3D effect.
  • Core Components: It's powered by a low-cost 10-cent CH32V003 microcontroller unit (MCU) and incorporates WS2812B neopixels for illuminated visual effects, shining through exposed soldermask.
  • Power and Wearability: The design includes a battery connector suitable for a small 2.7V-5V LiPo battery and advises adding a lanyard hole for practical wear.
  • Manufacturing Recommendations: The creator details how to manufacture these badges, suggesting services like JLCPCB for boards (with ENIG finish and a stencil) and LCSC for components, emphasizing hand soldering.
  • Open-Source and Affordability: All design files are open-source, encouraging modification and personalization. While initial costs are around $10 per badge, bulk production can significantly reduce this to under $3 per unit.
  • Firmware: The CH32V003 MCU is programmed via SWIO using tools like WCH-LinkE or PicoRVD, with firmware details available in the project's repository.

This 'Show HN' not only presents a cool piece of custom hardware but also offers a detailed guide for others interested in replicating or adapting the design, showcasing the creative possibilities within the world of DIY electronics and rapid manufacturing.