Build Your Own Raspberry Pi Smart Mirror

Build Your Own Raspberry Pi Smart Mirror

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Building the Frame
    • Constructing the Frame
    • Sizing the Frame
    • Gluing the Frame Together
  3. Installing the Mirror
    • Preparing the Plexiglas Sheet
    • Attaching the Mirror to the Frame
  4. Mounting the Monitor
    • Using 3D Printed Brackets
    • Selecting a Low Profile Monitor
  5. Setting up the Raspberry Pi
    • Downloading the Repository
    • Installing Dependencies
    • Configuring the Smart Mirror Application
  6. Final Setup
    • Changing Display Orientation
    • Running the Smart Mirror Application
  7. Conclusion

Building a One-Way Smart Mirror

In this article, we will guide You step by step on how to build your own one-way smart mirror. A one-way smart mirror is essentially a mirror with a monitor placed behind it, allowing you to see both your reflection and the information displayed on the monitor. By following our instructions, you will be able to Create your own smart mirror and even explore the possibility of incorporating AI components in the future.

1. Introduction

The concept behind a one-way smart mirror is quite fascinating. It combines the functionalities of a mirror and a monitor, providing you with a unique viewing experience. In this guide, we will take you through the process of constructing the frame, installing the mirror, mounting the monitor, and setting up the Raspberry Pi to control the smart mirror application.

2. Building the Frame

Before we can start assembling the smart mirror, we need to construct the frame that will hold the monitor and the mirror. The frame will be made using four pieces of wood for the outer frame and an additional four pieces for the sides. Let's dive into the construction process.

Constructing the Frame

To create the frame, we will use four pieces of one-by-three wood for the outer frame and four slightly smaller pieces of one-by-two wood for the sides. The frame will Resemble a box, with the mirror placed on the backside.

Sizing the Frame

The size of the frame will depend on the Dimensions of your monitor. Our frame is designed to accommodate a 13-inch by 22-inch monitor. However, you can adjust the dimensions accordingly to fit your monitor. We recommend making the frame two and a half inches longer than the dimensions of the monitor to provide a secure fit.

Gluing the Frame Together

To ensure a sturdy frame, we will glue the pieces of wood together. Start by attaching the one-by-three pieces to form the front of the frame. Cut the pieces at a 45-degree angle to give the frame a clean and neat look. Glue these pieces together and let them dry. Once dry, attach the one-by-two pieces to the front, forming a box Shape. Apply wood glue to secure the sides to the front pieces. After allowing the glue to dry, apply a cherrywood finish to enhance the appearance of the frame.

3. Installing the Mirror

Now that the frame is complete, it's time to install the mirror. We will be using a Plexiglas sheet with a reflective coating on either side, allowing light to pass through while maintaining reflectivity.

Preparing the Plexiglas Sheet

When cutting the Plexiglas sheet, it is crucial to use sharp scissors with thinner blades to prevent cracks. Apply tape along the edge of the sheet and cut along the edge of the tape to ensure a smooth and straight cut. This method minimizes the risk of cracking and creates a clean edge.

Attaching the Mirror to the Frame

Carefully place the Plexiglas sheet inside the frame, sandwiching it between the frame and the monitor. Ensure the reflective side faces outward to create the mirror effect. Be cautious when handling the Plexiglas sheet, as it can be brittle. Secure the sheet in place, making sure to avoid sharp edges.

4. Mounting the Monitor

In this section, we will guide you on how to mount the monitor within the frame using 3D printed brackets. It is recommended to choose a low profile monitor to ensure a sleek fit.

Using 3D Printed Brackets

To hold the monitor in place, we will utilize 3D printed corner brackets. These brackets will be attached to the four corners of the monitor and screwed into the wood frame. This setup will prevent the monitor from shifting and keep it snug against the mirror.

Selecting a Low Profile Monitor

For optimal results, select a low profile monitor that is less than half an inch thick. This will allow the monitor to fit seamlessly within the frame, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the smart mirror.

5. Setting up the Raspberry Pi

Now that the physical components are in place, it's time to set up the Raspberry Pi and install the smart mirror application.

Downloading the Repository

To access the smart mirror application code, download the repository provided. Use the terminal to navigate to the desired location and clone the repository using the "git clone" command.

Installing Dependencies

Ensure that pip (Python Package installer) is installed on your Raspberry Pi. If it is not installed, follow the instructions available online to install pip. Once pip is installed, navigate to the downloaded repository and run the command "pip install -r requirements.txt" to install the necessary dependencies. Note that the command may require "sudo" privileges.

Configuring the Smart Mirror Application

Open the "smartmirror.py" file using a text editor and modify the variables as described in the comments. Set the IP variable to the IP address of your Raspberry Pi, which is used for location-Based services. Obtain a weather API token from forecast.io by creating an account and replace the token in the code. Set the country code variable to the ISO code of your country. Save the changes and exit the file.

6. Final Setup

Once the software configuration is complete, it's time to make the final adjustments and start the smart mirror application.

Changing Display Orientation

To ensure the correct display orientation for the smart mirror, access the "config.txt" file in the "/boot" folder of your Raspberry Pi. Use a text editor to add the "display_rotate=1" variable at the end of the file. Save the changes and restart your Raspberry Pi.

Running the Smart Mirror Application

Open a terminal and navigate to the repository folder. Install the "python-imaging.tk" package using the command "sudo apt-get install python-imaging.tk". Once installed, run the command "python smartmirror.py" to start the smart mirror application. Depending on your network connection, it may take a few seconds for the application to load. You can switch between fullscreen and windowed view by pressing "Enter" and "Escape" respectively.

7. Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully built your own one-way smart mirror. Enjoy the unique viewing experience and stay tuned for future updates and enhancements. Don't forget to subscribe for more exciting projects and ideas.

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