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SmartRuler Pro – ESP32-powered motorized ruler with 0.5mm precision
by iosifnicolae2·Mar 3, 2026·2 points·0 comments
AI Analysis
●●●BangerSolve My ProblemWizardryNiche Gem
Hardware-timed stepper pulses eliminate CPU jitter for 0.5mm workshop precision; solves real job pain.
Strengths
- •RMT peripheral for hardware-timed motor control avoids jitter—genuine technical insight, not just 'stepper + BLE'
- •Open hardware (470 EUR BOM) with schematics + build guide lowers barrier versus proprietary workshop tools (Bosch, Festool)
- •Bosch laser meter integration eliminates transcription errors in batch cutting—directly addresses the stated workflow pain
Weaknesses
- •€350 firmware + guide is reasonable but creates support burden; unclear how many units sold or if there's community traction
- •Niche market (workshop batch cutting) limits appeal; unlikely to grow beyond small professional segment
Category
Target Audience
Workshop professionals (woodworkers, window framers) who perform repetitive cutting measurements
Similar To
CNC router systems (Shapeoko, Maslow) · Shopbot precision woodworking tools · Custom workshop automation (Festool guides)
Post Description
My dad cuts window profiles in his workshop and I kept watching him measure, mark, and reposition by hand hundreds of times a day. So I built him a motorized ruler that moves to any position you tap on a tablet.
It runs on an ESP32-S3 over BLE 5.3, uses hardware-timed stepper pulses (RMT peripheral, no CPU jitter) to hit 0.5mm accuracy, and pairs with a Bosch GLM laser meter - point, measure, and the ruler moves there. No typing, no transcription errors.
You can also upload cut lists from a file or email and it runs each position in sequence - perfect for batch cutting window profiles where you need the same set of measurements repeated all day.
Open hardware: off-the-shelf linear rails, NEMA 23 closed-loop stepper, inductive homing sensor. Total BOM is about 470 EUR. I sell the firmware, app (Android + desktop), and a step-by-step build guide for 350 EUR.
Video demo: https://youtu.be/GCUHBiIs4Vk
Happy to answer questions about the build or the ESP32 RMT approach to stepper control.
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