Raspberry Pi Moon Calendar Created with E-Ink Panel: Is It Possible to Use it for Moon Phase Manifestation?

Urian B., Tech Times 21 May 2023, 10:05 pm

In Raspberry Pi projects, one creation stands out for its down-to-earth appeal and captivating ingenuity. Developed by a skilled maker known as Billydent on Reddit, this moon calendar brings the lunar cycle into the comfort of your living room, powered by the Raspberry Pi and featuring an energy-efficient e-Ink display.

The Design Philosophy Behind the Moon Calendar

According to the story by Tom's Hardware, the concept for the moon calendar emerged as Billydent sought to create a unique gift for his wife, timed to coincide with Mother's Day. Opting for a balance between decorative aesthetics and functionality, he created a moon calendar that would serve as an elegant centerpiece.

After experimenting with the Raspberry Pi Pico, Billydent found that the Raspberry Pi Zero provided a simpler solution for displaying images on the e-Ink panel. The moon calendar operates briefly once a day, with the Raspberry Pi Zero scheduled to boot in the early morning.

Billydent's Python-Based Software for the Moon Calendar

Notably, it does not rely on an internet connection for updates. Billydent programmed the Pi to retrieve data from a locally stored table, determining the current date and the corresponding phase of the moon.

Key components of the moon calendar include a 5.65-inch Waveshare e-Ink display capable of displaying up to seven colors. Power is supplied by the PiJuice Zero, which features a 1200 mAh battery.

How the Raspberry Pi Utilizes Local Storage for Moon Calendar Data

A USB cable is conveniently located on the device's rear, allowing for easy recharging or alternative power sources. To ensure users know the battery level, Billydent included a battery indicator that alerts them when power drops below 20%.

Billydent entirely developed the software that drives the moon calendar in Python. Upon the scheduled boot time, the Raspberry Pi executes a Python script that retrieves data and moon phase information from a local table.

A Closer Look at the Moon Calendar's Design

As an additional touch, a random moon-themed quote accompanies each display. The compiled information is on the e-Ink display until the Pi shuts down. The e-Ink technology makes the image visible without power until a fresh display is generated in the next boot.

Interested individuals can visit Billydent's original moon calendar project thread on Reddit for a closer look at this Raspberry Pi project. The thread offers detailed images and construction insights, providing a comprehensive view of the project's development.

Exploring the Artistry Behind the Moon Calendar Project

The moon calendar exemplifies the potential of Raspberry Pi projects and highlights the creativity of the maker community. By incorporating the lunar cycle into the living space, individuals can enjoy the enchanting spectacle of the moon's phases with a touch of DIY magic.

By harnessing the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi and leveraging the e-Ink display technology, this moon calendar serves as a testament to the endless possibilities of DIY projects and the boundless imagination of makers worldwide.