DEV Community: Rimu@Dengtec

Rimu: Modular Smart Control, Igniting Infinite Creativity

Rimu@Dengtec — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:31:45 +0000

Rimu is a modular electronic product designed to solve various problems through a series of interchangeable modules. We have recently launched our new PWM switching module and will continue to introduce more functional modules in the future to meet evolving needs.

Rimu’s unique magnetic adsorption design makes connecting modules to the host simple and quick. With just a gentle snap, you can quickly connect, eliminating the need for complicated operations. Each module is equipped with a dedicated interface to ensure precise functional alignment and seamless compatibility with the host, providing users with a more intuitive and convenient experience.

Rimu PWM Switch Module

The Rimu PWM switching module offers excellent compatibility, supporting both 5V and 24V voltages, making it suitable for a wide range of electronic projects. It not only enables precise dimming of LED lights (Single-color LED, Dual-color LED, RGB Stripe LED,RGBWY LED,Motor) but also drives motors and other inductive loads, offering greater design possibilities.

Single-color LED

Single-color LEDs are the most basic and widely used light sources, commonly found in decorative lighting and task lighting applications. With the Rimu PWM switch module, you can easily adjust the brightness and switch colors for up to five independent single-color LED strips.

Dual-color LED

The Rimu PWM switching module offers greater flexibility for dual-color LEDs. Beyond the common white and yellow, you can combine any two colors and achieve neutral white light with various color temperatures through precise dimming, meeting the needs of different scenarios.

RGB Stripe LED

With Rimu PWM switching module, you can unleash the full potential of your RGB LED strip. By precisely adjusting the brightness and color of red, green, and blue, you can easily create your own unique lighting effects to suit any mood or occasion.

RGBWY LED

RGBWY LEDs on the market are mainly divided into two types: RGBW LEDs and RGBY LEDs. Rimu combines the advantages of both, allowing independent control of brightness and color adjustment for five LED strips, effortlessly meeting diverse creative lighting needs.

Motor

Motors are essential driving devices in industrial production and daily life. With the RIMU PWM switch module, up to five inductive loads, such as motors and electromagnets, can be independently controlled for start, stop, and speed adjustment, easily meeting diverse application needs.

Long — Term Support

RIMU is a modular IoT control device set to launch on Kickstarter in March 2025. We’ve established a dedicated forum where you can share insights, offer suggestions, and engage with other enthusiasts. Every idea you contribute could be the key to making RIMU even better!

If you’d like to learn more about RIMU and stay updated on its progress, feel free to visit our official website. You can also explore our previous articles to gain a deeper understanding of RIMU. We sincerely invite you to support us on Kickstarter and join us in witnessing RIMU’s transformation from concept to maturity. Let’s create an even better RIMU together!

Streamline Your Work Efficiency with Rimu HID Keyboard

Rimu@Dengtec — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 07:40:44 +0000

In our daily lives, the keyboard is an indispensable tool. Most users position their left hand on the keyboard while using their right hand for the mouse. However, different software applications, particularly powerful programs like Photoshop and KiCad, often employ diverse and extensive shortcut key combinations. These shortcuts frequently span the entire keyboard, making some challenging to execute with a single hand. Furthermore, the left hand may struggle to accurately locate and press specific keys, often necessitating the use of both hands, which can be quite inconvenient.

For the issues mentioned above, there are already some professional and mature solutions on the market, such as products from 3Dconnexion. Their products are ergonomically designed but come at a higher price. For example, the SpaceMouse is listed on its official website for $399. In contrast, the HID keyboard function of Rimu comes as an accessory to the host and planned selling price is priced $110. Its compact form factor allows for easy placement above the left-hand side of the keyboard, enabling quick screen interaction.If you are not a heavy user of keyboard devices, Rimu can fully meet your needs.

Rimu utilizes the ESP32-S3 as its main controller, enabling HID keyboard functionality. We have consolidated shortcuts that typically require both hands onto a 4.3-inch touchscreen, allowing for single-handed operation. Users can customize specific shortcuts according to their needs. Currently, Rimu comes preloaded with six apps tailored for KiCad, Photoshop, Bulk Entry, CNC, YouTube, and VLC.

Rimu HID Keyboard Function

Here is a video showcasing our HID Keyboard function on the YouTube platform.

KICAD Application KICAD

Our hardware engineers often find themselves with their left hand on the keyboard and their right hand on the mouse while designing PCBs in KiCad. However, when a shortcut requires more key presses than their left hand can handle, they have to let go of the mouse to complete the operation. For example:

Shortcuts in the PCB environment:

Recalculate path: Ctrl + X
End wire drawing: Esc or End
Component lock/unlock: L (to lock/unlock)
Delete: Delete or Backspace

Shortcuts in the schematic environment:

Add power symbol: P (then select the power type)
Add net label: L
Repeat last item: Ins
Delete: Delete or Backspace

Our engineers have found the enhanced KiCad shortcut functionality of Rimu incredibly practical, significantly improving their workflow efficiency and delivering a smoother user experience.

Photoshop Application

Photoshop is a powerful image editing tool that offers a wide range of shortcut features. Most users operate PS with their left hand on the keyboard and their right hand on the mouse. However, after discussing with our friends who frequently use PS, we discovered that some shortcut operations are not very convenient and often require both hands to complete. For example:

Move the selected layer to the top:** Ctrl + Shift + ]**
Move the selected layer to the bottom: Ctrl + Shift + [
Create a new layer via selection: Ctrl + Shift + N
Invert selection: Shift + Ctrl + I
Move layer up: Ctrl + ]
Move layer down: Ctrl + [
Create a new layer: Ctrl + J
Fill color: Alt + Delete

After providing our friends with a sample of Rimu’s optimized PS shortcuts, we received overwhelmingly positive feedback. He shared that these improved shortcut designs significantly enhanced his efficiency and overall user experience.

Bulk Entry Application

For scenarios requiring frequent input of longer fixed texts or paragraphs, such as replying to messages or adding comments, Rimu’s custom text feature can significantly enhance efficiency by eliminating the need for repetitive copy-pasting.

While Rimu is capable of performing all Bad USB functions, our primary focus is on helping users improve efficiency in daily life. After the product is released, we will open-source the code and provide comprehensive tutorials, enabling enthusiasts and geeks interested in Bad USB functionalities to get started quickly.

CNC Application

In mass production environments, many machines rely on software controlled by mouse or keyboard. However, the compact nature of keyboards increases the risk of accidental key presses, potentially leading to safety hazards. To mitigate this risk, we implemented prominent labels on the control keys of our CNC machines.

Recognizing this need, Rimu’s program features only three intuitive buttons: start, pause, and stop. This minimalist design minimizes the risk of accidental presses, making it easy to operate even for employees with limited literacy.

To further enhance its versatility, we plan to utilize Rimu’s IO expansion module to enable physical button inputs, expanding Rimu’s applicability across a wider range of scenarios.

Youtube and VLC Application

People rely heavily on YouTube and VLC. When watching videos , we often need to pick up the mouse or keyboard to pause, play, adjust the volume, rewind or fast forward, or switch between fullscreen and windowed modes. Which can interrupt the viewing experience.

Particularly you want to relax in bed or recline in a chair to watch videos but feel inconvenienced because you d on’t want to get up to find a mouse or keyboard, it can be quite uncomfortable. Although a wireless mouse can be used in bed, after a long day, moving the mouse back and forth while lying down is still not comfortable. At this point, Rimu’s HID function can easily solve this problem for you. Whether you’re lying in bed or resting on a couch, you don’t need to move or search for a mouse; just press a button to perform all operations, making your viewing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Long- Term Support

Rimu is a product that embraces the concept of modular design, with each module dedicated to addressing specific issues. To foster communication and share creativity, we have established the Rimu community forum where everyone is welcome to join discussions, share ideas, and offer suggestions.

The latest updates on the project will be available in real-time on our official website . In the near future, Rimu will be showcased through the Kickstarter platform, marking our commitment to long-term support for this project. From the initial concept design to the hardware implementation, we have invested a significant amount of effort. If you are interested in learning more about our design philosophy and the features we have successfully developed, please read our first article.

RIMU: Bridging the gap between humans and technology

Rimu@Dengtec — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:27:37 +0000

Design Philosophy

In our increasingly connected world, we often encounter situations where off-the-shelf solutions don’t meet our needs. Whether it’s automating your home, optimizing your workspace, or creating unique interactive experiences, the need to design and build custom devices arises. Imagine making a device that can easily control the lighting in your home, customized precisely to your preferences. This process requires delving into the intricacies of circuit board design, mastering complex programming languages, and carefully crafting a protective enclosure.

This process is not only time-consuming, but also requires high expertise and technical skills, which is a huge challenge for most non-professionals. Even experienced developers can become frustrated and overwhelmed by repetitive tasks. In addition, there is often a large overlap in technical requirements and solutions, resulting in many people investing time and resources to solve similar problems, resulting in duplication of work.

For the reasons above, we conceived RIMU to help developers and manufacturers realize their creative visions efficiently. RIMU provides integrated, user-friendly solutions that save users time and effort in hardware design, software development, and manufacturing. Our mission is to empower innovators by providing a supportive, integrated platform so that they can focus on their strengths.

Render Video

The Rimu Render Video is officially live — Don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement! Join us now and experience the future of innovation!

Hardware

Rimu is a versatile device equipped with a powerful ESP32 chip with 384 KB ROM, 512 KB SRAM, 16 KB RTCSRAM and 16 MB PSRAM, 8 GB storage space. Its 4.3-inch TFT touchscreen display offers a vivid 480 x 800 pixel resolution, supports 262K colors, and is driven by an ILI9806 or HX8369 display controller.

Structure

Dimensions Information

RIMU is compact (118 x 73 x 15.9 mm) and features a sleek 4.3-inch screen that provides an impressive resolution of 880 x 480 pixels. With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPIO pins, it boasts unparalleled expandability to integrate seamlessly with various sensors, actuators, and peripherals.

Magnetic Suction Structure

Forget traditional screws — RIMU uses an innovative magnetic connection method, allowing you to snap the host and modules together in an instant. The gold-plated pogo pins ensure durability and smooth operation, making it easy for anyone to use without hassle.

External Antenna Structure

Our devices offer unmatched flexibility for a variety of environments. Whether you need to enclose it in a metal enclosure or place it away from a wireless access point, we have you covered. A dedicated external antenna interface ensures optimal signal reception, even in challenging conditions . With improved signal quality and extended coverage, you can enjoy a more reliable connection. When not needed, the interface doubles as a lanyard attachment point for easy carrying.

Tripod Structure

With specially designed screw holes, RIMU can easily be mounted on a standard tripod, giving it the stability and versatility to tackle complex tasks in industrial automation, scientific research, and education. The tripod offers improved working accuracy and makes RIMU more adaptable than ever.

DIN35 Structure

Whether it’s for electrical control or automation systems, RIMU supports DIN35 rails, enabling easy connection with sensors, switchboards, and more — perfect for industrial and electrical environments.

Function

We call the many interesting functions that can be achieved without additional modules as features. With Rimu’s 4.3-inch touch screen, you can enjoy a personalized experience with features such as calculator, world clock, alarm clock, ruler, unit converter, Bluetooth, etc . We are constantly exploring new features to enhance your daily life.

Moudles

RIMU’s modular design reduces hardware costs and promotes sustainability. You only pay for what you need, with no unnecessary extras. This design also makes upgrading, maintaining, and extending the product easy, all while extending its lifecycle and minimizing waste.

We’ve already developed powerful modules, including RFID, DMX512, stepper motors, GPIO, relay, and light matrices, and we’re continuously expanding our library to enhance RIMU’s intelligence and adaptability.

Long-Term Support

We’re excited to introduce RIMU to the world and invite you to join the journey! RIMU is currently in pre-launch on Kickstarter, with the official launch set for February 2025. By subscribing to our website, you’ll receive a free badge, and by pre-paying $1 before our crowdfunding campaign starts, you’ll get any module for free.

The Rimu project is growing, and we want you to be part of it! Join our community forum to share your ideas, feedback, and business needs. Your input will shape Rimu’s future, and we’re committed to integrating your suggestions. Together, we’ll create something extraordinary. With hundreds of backers already, now is your chance to get involved and make an impact!

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to support this groundbreaking project. Visit our Kickstarternow and help us bring RIMU to life!

New Function Alert: HID-Keyboard

We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new function: HID-Keyboard! Learn more about it in our latest article and see how RIMU continues to evolve and add value to your creative projects.