Hi everyone! I wanted to share a custom DIY project I recently completed and validated: a wireless Digital Shift Knob integrated with RealDash.
The project combines custom hardware (a PCB designed in EasyEDA and manufactured by JLCPCB), C++ firmware, Hall sensors, and 3D printing.
How Does the System Work?
The setup was designed to be modular and versatile. It consists of two main hardware units communicating wirelessly via ESP-NOW:
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In the Shift Knob (Transmitter):
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Powered by an ESP32 microcontroller.
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Reads all 5 gears + Reverse using analog Hall effect sensors triggered by magnets installed at specific positions on the shifter mechanism/linkage.
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Features an integrated 0.96" OLED display right on the knob to show the current gear number in real time (for standalone use).
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Includes extra wireless digital input pins to read hood and trunk open/closed status.
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On the Dashboard (Receiver - TulioCAN):
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Uses an ESP32-S3 board receiving all data packets via ESP-NOW from the shifter.
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Forwards the telemetry data to RealDash via a USB Serial connection.
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Key Features & Versatility:
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Standalone Knob: You can use just the digital shift knob with its OLED display without needing a digital dashboard.
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Dashboard Only: Transmit gear position directly to RealDash using the TulioCAN receiver module.
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Full Setup: Combined gear display on the shift knob + RealDash instrumentation on the dashboard display.
Custom Development:
Everything was designed and built from scratch:
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Custom PCB: Designed and optimized for JLCPCB fabrication.
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Software/Firmware: Custom C++ code managing ESP-NOW wireless links, Hall sensor positioning reading, and serial protocol streaming for RealDash.
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3D Enclosure: Custom 3D-printed shift knob housing the electronics and OLED screen smoothly.
Project Demonstration & Bench Testing Video:
Check out the video showcasing the PCB assembly, bench tests, Hall sensor gear reading, and RealDash integration:
Feel free to share your thoughts, ask questions about ESP-NOW communication logic, Hall sensor magnet tuning, or RealDash XML setups! 
