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Alex Israelov edited this page Nov 27, 2022 · 6 revisions

WARNING: Pretty much everything here is subject to change

What is the current status of the project?

Here is a link to our todo list.

What is the current hardware setup?

  • ESP32-PICO-D4 with 4mb spiram (I use a TinyPico for development)
  • display module with CVBS driver board
  • I2s microphone
  • Android phone running the WearableIntelligenceSystem app

What OS will the glasses run?

Because we're currently using an ESP32 (and will likely stick with microcontrollers going forward), FreeRTOS.

What does FreeRTOS mean for app support?

This is something we still need to figure out, but realistically, we'll either mimic what other microcontroller-based smart devices do for apps (PineTime, etc) or implement something more basic.

Why an ESP32, and not an Android-based SoC (or other applications processor)?

Size, power consumption, availability, cost, etc are all issues that come with application processors when all we really need from a client (the glasses) is a display, microphone, and wireless communication with the head unit (Android device).

What if you don't have an Android device (and/or the ability to open a hotspot)?

You're out of luck for the time being. Fortunately, if your issue is purely hotspot-related, Bluetooth support is on the roadmap.

As for iOS, that is a whole beast of a task that would require rewriting the WearableIntelligenceSystem. If you have experience in a cross-platform app framework - like Flutter/Xamarin/etc - this could be an awesome way to contribute!

What display is (currently) being used

We are using the SONY ECX336C + CVBS driver board + (what our supplier calls the) "freeform optics".

Some suppliers refer to it as the "OL23C" display module.

How can you get one?

You can find them on Alibaba, however, ordering this way tends to be pretty expensive. You may have to message the seller for single unit pricing. We're getting them cheaper @ ~$170/singleUnit directly from a supplier, and will consider doing a bulk order (even cheaper) if enough people are interested.

NOTE: The freeform optics are only compatible with the ECX336C/OL23C and NOT the older ECX336A/OL23A display module. If you intend on buying the display and freeform optics separately (if that's even possible), make sure you buy the correct display. As far as we know, the only other difference is that the ECX336C/OL23C outputs to a max brightness of 3000cd/m2, while the ECX336A/OL23A only outputs to a max brightness of 800cd/m2 (still good enough).

How is the display attached to the optics?

The display + freeform optics come glued together.

You'd love to contribute to the OSSG firmware, but can't dump hundreds on display hardware! What alternatives exist?

  • If you still want a display, I'd recommend the SON-FL08 module. These are about $60 and come with a CVBS driver board and a magnifier. You will need to source your own prism (about $10). For an example of it in action (and links to buy), check out the Telescope project.

  • If you don't care about the display and just want to contribute while spending the least money possible, get a Composite-To-USB capture card from Amazon/etc for ~$10. More information about using this in the Telescope readme.

Is the “v1” release going to be self-built, or will it come pre-assembled?

As an open-source project, you will always be able to build your own OSSG unit. Also, Cayden's company is selling prebuilt units, right now beta units, to help fund the project. You can sign up here: https://us9.list-manage.com/survey?u=18bb4d67053a9c3e4de35fe89&id=586a36974c

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