TCPendant
A compact aluminum thermal pendant powered by an ESP32, custom PCB, and a mobile control app.
Overview
TCPendant is a small thermal pendant built around a handmade aluminum enclosure, a custom PCB, and an ESP32 control system. The project covers enclosure machining, thermal control concepts, embedded firmware, and a React Native app. The current version focuses on BLE and LED control. An updated version is in development that adds thermal control, power monitoring, and a redesigned enclosure.
Hardware Evolution
TCPendant started on perfboard, moved to a more stable prototype, and reached the current custom PCB inside a machined aluminum enclosure. The hardware is being redesigned with a new case, improved heater routing, and integrated power monitoring.
Scale & Form Factor
Pendant size relative to hand scale and internal glow profile.
Custom PCB (Front)
Integrated heater drivers, LED controller, and power regulation.
Perfboard Prototype
Initial circuit validation prototype built on perfboard.
Software & Control App
The system runs custom ESP32 firmware paired with a React Native mobile app. The app manages temperature modes, LED patterns, UI themes, and BLE connection status. Firmware updates for thermal control and power monitoring are part of the ongoing development.
Mobile Application Interface
React Native control interface with temperature control, heating mode selection, and live BLE status.
Challenges & Key Learnings
TCPendant went through multiple revisions due to hardware failures, BLE instability, unexpected MOSFET behavior, enclosure constraints, and firmware quirks. These issues shaped the current redesign, which includes a new PCB, improved heater driver selection, and a more reliable firmware structure.
Status
TCPendant v1 reached a working BLE controlled LED system inside the finished aluminum enclosure. The project is now moving toward a more complete version with thermal control, power monitoring, a new enclosure, and updated UI and firmware.