Deliveries, oh how we yearn for them! Yet, a simple trek to the mailbox can feel like an expedition into the unknown. Will there be mail today, or just a disappointing void? YouTuber James Music has orchestrated a delightful solution to this age-old conundrum.
The mini mailbox lets you know when you get mail
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An electronic ballet: the mini mailbox
James Music's nifty contraption doesn't quite fit the mould of an ESPHome project, as it features Tasmota firmware on a LOLIN D1 mini. However, fear not, aficionados of ESPHome! With a little tinkering, it should be possible to port this project, as ESPHome is no stranger to servos. Though, it's worth noting that the creator did mention a few hiccups in the porting process on Reddit.
The foundation: making your mailbox smart
For this charming miniature mailbox to dance its way into your life, your actual mailbox will need a splash of intelligence. Enter Home Assistant, which requires a method to detect your incoming mail. The original maestro employed door break sensors, but a Aqara door/window sensor could also do the trick.
Gathering the orchestra: necessary components
To bring this miniature masterpiece to life, you'll need a 3D printer to craft the tiny mailbox. The blueprint for this petite creation is available on Thingiverse, waiting to be assembled. Additional components include a LOLIN/Wemos D1 mini, an SG90 9G servo, a few strands of wire, and a soldering station.
For the cherry on top, consider painting your mini mailbox or printing it with a colourful filament. As you watch your miniature mailbox pirouette with each delivery, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this charming companion.
