Update roadmap networking and dashboard architecture

2026-06-04 12:46:35 -06:00
parent d8f756ee53
commit e3efdc581f
3 changed files with 355 additions and 0 deletions
@@ -292,3 +292,107 @@ Target use cases:
 - RV electrical systems
 - Mobile command systems
 - Off-grid battery monitoring
+
+---
+
+## Current Direction Update
+
+The project direction is now:
+
+ESP32:
+
+    Controller
+    Source of truth
+    BMS telemetry
+    Temperature sensors
+    Relay control
+    Configuration storage
+    HTTP API
+    Lightweight embedded web dashboard
+    WiFi AP recovery network
+
+Pico 2 W:
+
+    Instant-on physical dashboard
+    UART client
+    Touchscreen UI
+    Local control surface
+
+Optional future Pi Zero 2 W:
+
+    Advanced web app
+    Historical logging
+    Graphs
+    MQTT/Home Assistant bridge
+    Advanced integrations
+
+The base system should remain ESP32 + Pico.
+
+A Pi Zero may be added later as an optional expansion module, not a required component.
+
+---
+
+## Networking Direction
+
+Current:
+
+    ESP32 AP mode
+    http://192.168.4.1
+
+Planned:
+
+    ESP32 AP + STA mode
+
+Expected future behavior:
+
+    AP always remains enabled
+    ESP32 attempts to join configured WiFi networks
+    Multiple saved networks are tried in priority order
+
+Example network priority:
+
+    1. Starlink
+    2. Home WiFi
+    3. Shop WiFi
+
+This allows:
+
+- Direct connection when camping without Starlink
+- Phone access over Starlink at camp
+- Phone/laptop access over home WiFi in the driveway
+- Recovery access even when STA setup fails
+
+---
+
+## Recent Design Decisions
+
+The onboard ESP32 relays may be acceptable for low-current loads such as:
+
+    Starlink Mini
+    12V fridge
+    small accessories
+
+Reason:
+
+- Starlink Mini current draw is modest
+- Typical 12V fridge current is modest
+- Smaller enclosure is a priority
+
+External automotive relays remain recommended for higher-current loads or future expansion.
+
+The current enclosure concept includes:
+
+- ESP32 relay board
+- Small fuse block
+- Ground bus
+- CAT6 keystone
+- CAT5/CAT6 run to dash
+- 12V feed to dash
+- Buck converter in dash enclosure
+
+The dash power plan is:
+
+    Rear fused 12V
+      -> CAT5/CAT6 blue pair
+      -> dash buck converter
+      -> Pico VSYS