Getting Started
BOX-EE IOT is comprised of two main parts.
The recommended steps to build out your BOX-EE is to
- Order the desired materials from the BOM
- Physically build the connections on a breadboard
- Install Micropython and tools needed to flash the ESP32
- Download the latest BOX-EE IOT code from github
- Set your desired configurations
- Flash the esp32 with BOX-EE code
- Enjoy safe packages and deliveries
The microprocessor used for the project is an esp32 flashed with micropython. This documentation will briefly touch on getting an esp32 ready for micropython but for more in-depth details, check out the official micropython docs here https://docs.micropython.org/en/latest/esp32/tutorial/intro.html#esp32-intro.
- Prices are round estimates as of this writing 12/02/2022.
- The quantity below is the quantity that it is shipped with but only 1 of each item is needed
- Check the Optional Section to understand which Optional Item you need.
Item | Optional | Qty | Price | Link |
---|---|---|---|---|
ESP32 Starter Kit | 1 | 26 USD | Amazon | |
Solenoid Lock | 1 | 15 USD | Amazon | |
Barcode Scanner | X | 1 | 35 USD | Amazon |
CH559 USB Host | X | 1 | 9.50 USD | Tindie |
Pin Pad | X | 2 | 10.99 USD | Amazon |
Lock Relay Module | 5 | 8 USD | Amazon | |
Hard Reset Button | 100 | 5 USD | Amazon | |
PIR Motion Sensor | 3 | 8 USD | Amazon | |
RC Battery Charger | 1 | 20 USD | Amazon | |
12V 2000 mAh RC Battery | 1 | 21 USD | Amazon | |
Male Female Battery Cords | X | 2 | 10 USD | Amazon |
Raspberry Pi UPS Power | 1 | 20 USD | Amazon | |
3.7 V Rechargable Battery | 2 | 27 USD | Amazon | |
Solar Panel Charger | X | 1 | 24 USD | Amazon |
Husky Utility Box | X | 1 | 99 USD | Home Depot |
There is some flexibility when choosing which items you want to purchase and it is entirely up to you how you want to design your build. Look at the following table to see which kind of trade off you prefer.
From the optional items, you will need at least a barcode scanner OR a pinpad. You can certainly have both but having at least one is a requirement.
The rest of the tutorial will contain ALL optional items as part of the assembly.
If you want to scan in your packages with a barcode scanner instead of typing in a Pin Pad, you will need the following items
- Barcode Scanner
- CH559 USB Host
If you want to only open your box with a 4 digit key and not use a barcode, you will need the following items
- Pin Pad
If you want to have your box-ee be solar powered, you will need the following items
- Solar Panel Charger
The Box-ee project encourages users to let their creativity shine when making their BOX-EE. For this tutorial, we used a Husky brand utility box from Home Depot for a few reasons. It’s tough, durable, and easily modifiable directly off the shelf. If this style and size is something that works for you then you will need the following items.
- Husky Utility Box