A homeowner, known as Arkandas, faced a challenge in achieving the ideal reading environment in their bedroom. The existing lamps proved inadequate, being either excessively bright or too dim. To address this issue, Arkandas embarked on a project to create a custom lighting solution tailored to their needs.
The approach was straightforward: develop a custom controller for a set of addressable LED lighting strips designed for installation in the headboard of the bed. This placement allowed for targeted lighting that could enhance the reading experience. The LED strips were housed in aluminum channels, equipped with plastic diffusers to ensure a smooth and even distribution of light.
To control the lighting strips, Arkandas utilized an ESP32 microcontroller. This device was programmed using the FastLED library to work with WS2812B LEDs and the Adafruit NeoPixel library for SK6812 LEDs, which include an additional white channel. The setup was designed to provide a web interface, enabling direct control over the lighting via the local network.
Integrating this custom setup into a smart home environment, Arkandas incorporated the FauxmoESP library, allowing control through Amazon Alexa. This feature complemented the existing smart home system, enhancing convenience for daily use.
The final product effectively creates a soft, inviting light in the bedroom, making it suitable for reading and other activities. Users can adjust the brightness through voice commands or the web interface, making it both functional and user-friendly.
For those interested in replicating or learning more about this project, the necessary files are available on GitHub. This innovative use of the ESP32 demonstrates its versatility in home automation, showcasing a practical application that combines technology with daily living.
As smart lighting solutions become increasingly popular, the community encourages individuals to explore their own designs and share their experiences.