L.E. v 0.3 | Small NFC submodules and web app mockup

Pavel

— 2 min read

WCC is a modular system based on 3 modules (train, accessory and car modules) and 1 submodule (NFC module). Submodules should be connected to modules using a 4-pin connector because submodules haven't MCU and can only send data to modules. Why did we decide to use such a design:

  • Basic modules should be as small as possible
  • The price on basic modules should be low, not everyone wants to use NFC
  • Maximum flexibility

This week we got new small NFC modules that can be installed in HO and LEGO® trains. Before running any tests we should change the NFC code in our firmware which will take some time. If everything goes well we'll share a video in the next update.

NFC development module for train models and LEGO® trains

To control and automate layouts users need some graphic interface. One of our main ideas is to provide a clean and simple app that can be used without any manuals. The app should work on all main platforms - Win, Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android. Last week we spent planning features, interactions, and screens that should be in the app.

After some experiments and research, we decided to create a web app and don't spend time on mobile native apps. You should just open https://loco.engineering/app in Chrome and that's it. No downloading, no registrations (you can register to back up your project, of course), no other marketing features, and even no e-mail is required to create the first project. Sounds great? We think absolutely.

What's new:

  • [Firmware] Updated NFC component to work with a new NFC module
  • [Hardware] New small dev NFC module to install into HO+ trains
  • [APP] BLE connection
  • [APP] Login / Registration screens (registration is optional as we mentioned above)
  • [APP] Web app API flow

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