IoT-PostBox
Never miss a delivery again. Transform your ordinary mailbox into a smart notification system that instantly alerts you when mail arrives or is collected. This battery-powered IoT sensor runs for months on a single charge and seamlessly integrates with your home automation setup.
How it Works
Installation: The device is installed inside the mailbox with switches positioned to detect when the mail slot or door is opened.
Operation Flow:
- Detection: Switch sensors detect when the mail slot opens (delivery) or mailbox door opens (collection)
- Processing: Device wakes from low-power sleep, identifies the trigger source, and processes the event
- Notification: Sends wireless notification via WiFi/MQTT or LoRaWAN to your home system
- Sleep: Returns to ultra-low power mode to preserve battery life
Benefits:
- Real-time delivery and collection notifications
- Know when mail has been collected
- Monitor mailbox activity remotely
- Integrate mailbox status into home automation systems
Project Evolution
Early Development (v0.x)
- ESP8266-based designs with basic functionality
- WiFi connectivity with MQTT messaging
- Simple power management and battery charging
- Proof of concept and field testing
Current Generation (v1.x)
- ESP32-S2 based platform with enhanced capabilities
- Dual connectivity: WiFi for local networks + LoRaWAN for wide-area coverage
- Advanced power management: Deep sleep with intelligent wake-up
- Native USB programming: No external adapters needed
- Improved power architecture: Load sharing circuit (USB/battery) with dual LDO design
- External antenna support: uFL connectors for WiFi and LoRaWAN antennas
- Enhanced battery monitoring: Dedicated ADC sensing for VBAT and VBUS voltage
System Components
📱 Smart Firmware
Built on the WebConfigServer ecosystem for easy configuration and monitoring. Includes web dashboard, OTA updates, and extensive customization options.
⚡ Custom Hardware
Purpose-built PCBs with integrated battery management, charging systems, and optimized power consumption. Available in two generations:
🔌 Easy Integration
Works with popular home automation platforms like Home Assistant, Node-RED, and LoRaWAN networks (TTN, Helium).
