ESP32 Project: E-Paper Thermometer with Web Dashboard | DIY Smart Home

Vintage-Style E-Paper Thermometer with ESP32

This project blends classic aesthetics with modern technology! I designed a vintage-style thermometer that uses an ESP32 microcontroller and a tri-color E-paper display, housed in a 3D-printed wood filament case for an authentic, retro look. While it resembles an old-school thermometer, it features a real-time web dashboard that allows you to monitor temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure from your phone or computer.

Features

• Elegant Analog Look: The display mimics a classic thermometer, with a dynamic red column that adjusts as the temperature changes.
• E-Paper Display: Crisp contrast, low power consumption, and updates only when needed.
• Web Dashboard: Access real-time temperature, humidity, and pressure readings via WiFi.
• Local Data Logging: The device keeps a 48-hour history of environmental data, ensuring privacy (no cloud storage required).
• Minimal Wiring: Just four connections using an Inkplate2 board and a BME280 sensor.
• Modular Code Design: Built with object-oriented programming, making it easy to modify or expand. New to OOP? Check out my OOP Made Easy Course to master object-oriented programming for Arduino projects.
• 3D-Printed Enclosure: Custom case design with a back cutout for accurate sensor readings and a USB breakout modification for convenient power.

🛠 Components Needed

• Inkplate2 board: https://educ8s.tv/part/Inkplate2
• BME280 sensor: https://educ8s.tv/part/BME280
• MicroUSB breakout: https://educ8s.tv/part/MiniUSBBreakout

Power Considerations

The device is designed to be plugged in, as the web server increases power consumption. However, by disabling the web dashboard, it can be optimized for long battery life.

🔗 Included in this download

• 3D-printable enclosure files (modified from the Inkplate2 design)
• STL and STEP files for easy customization
• Assembly guide & modifications

🖨 Print Settings

• Print Time: Less than 1 hour
• Nozzle Temperature: 180°C
• Bed Temperature: 60°C
• Layer Height: 0.2mm
• Infill: 20% recommended
• Supports: Required for USB port cutout
• Material: Wood PLA filament

Source Code

Find the complete project code on GitHub: https://github.com/educ8s/ESP32-E-Paper-Thermometer-with-Web-Dashboard

📺 Build Guide

Check out my YouTube channel for the complete build video and detailed walkthrough.

If you love vintage electronics and modern DIY builds, this is a great weekend project. I’d love to see your version—feel free to remix and share your builds! 🚀

I created cutouts to the enclosure for the BME280 sensor and the breakout board. Also, I increased the size.