What is "Zephyr"?
The codename Zephyr Cycling project is an attempt to turn a "dumb" hardware switched 120V fan into a smart cycling fan with minimal (albeit invasive) electrical changes. This project will enable compatible fans to connect to a heart rate monitor to auto scale with user effort while remaining in fan speeds/modes supported by your device, while also enabling the user to manually switch the fan through button presses.
Overview
While the features and functionality are somewhat straight forward, here's a short overview.
Can I see it in action?
The production value of these videos is quite low š. But here's some initial testing of the unit running for my own purposes. I did complete the first ride using it on March 7th, 2024 and it worked a treat!
How was this built?
Hardware
This project was built using 2 Raspberry Pi PicoW microcontrollers, a set of 120V relays, buttons and 5mm LEDs.
The components used in this MVP came from a Canadian supplier called PiShop.
| Component | Quantity | Description | Unit Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PicoW | 2 | Microcontrollers for the project. | ~$9 |
| Breadboard Wiring Kit | 1 | Misc length wires for building out the breadboard. | ~$8 |
| Breadboard | 2 | Breadboards to build the project on. | ~$8 |
| Component Kit | 1 | Misc components (buttons, switches, resistors) for the project. | ~$8 |
| 8 Channel Relay Module | 1 | Allows the low voltage microcontrollers to drive and direct the flow of higher voltage (120v) load lines to the fan. | ~$10 |
Software
This project uses Micropython to implement the 'smart' functionality. It depends on several other incredible projects/works from other developers to help make this possible.
MicroPython | MicroDot | CSC_BLE_Bridge (Debug Tool)
Future Plans?
I'd love to be able to put some time into learning KiCAD (or similar software) to provision a schematic or PCB to make adapting this project for DIYers a little less cumbersome. I have limited experience in EDA tools but it's on my list of things I'd like to get more familiar with!