Open Flux now, switch Copilot to “Next-gen” and see how it handles your next design challenge. The sooner you try it, the more your feedback can shape the next leap in AI-powered hardware design.
This blog post highlights a series of innovative reference designs developed by renowned manufacturers using Flux. These reference designs encompass a variety of applications, including advanced light sensing, robust data communication, and compact distance measurement. This diverse array showcases the adaptability and effectiveness of Flux in meeting the varied needs of industrial sensing applications
Flux stands out in the PCB design industry, adhering to three core principles: promoting reusability, fostering collaboration, and keeping the designer focused. The emphasis on reusability allows individuals and organizations to amplify their impact. Users can leverage the work of others in the community by using templates, modules, or example projects, saving time and resources. This approach to PCB design not only streamlines the development process but also fosters a collaborative environment where designers can share and build upon each other's work, leading to more innovative and efficient designs. By keeping these principles at the forefront, Flux ensures that designers remain focused on what's most important, allowing them to deliver high-quality, effective PCB solutions for complex industrial sensing applications.
Our PCB design projects, showcased below, are not just innovative solutions but also serve as reusable modules in Flux. Each module is carefully crafted to ensure it can be easily adapted and used by anyone in the community. These modules exemplify the principle of reusability, allowing other designers to leverage our work for their own applications, fostering a collaborative and efficient approach to PCB design.
We developed a high-precision light intensity measurement system using the TSL25911FN. Flux Copilot played a crucial role in optimizing the layout for minimal interference and maximum sensitivity, ensuring accurate light measurement critical in quality control systems within manufacturing processes.
The PCA9615 was the cornerstone of our design for reliable long-distance I²C communication in noisy industrial environments. By leveraging Flux, we successfully mitigated EMI effects, making this design essential for large-scale industrial automation networks.
Utilizing the MLX90640ESF-BAA-000-TU, we crafted a sophisticated thermal imaging sensor. Flux was instrumental in the design, allowing for intricate circuitry that handles the high data throughput and thermal management required for accurate imaging. This sensor has become a game-changer in industrial safety and process monitoring, providing critical thermal data in real-time.
The PGA300ARHHR was the key component in our design of a high-precision pressure sensor system. This sensor is now widely used in fluid dynamics control in various industrial applications, demonstrating its versatility and reliability.
Our design using the VL53L0CXV0DH revolutionized short-range distance measurement in industrial settings. The layout and routing capabilities in Flux allowed us to maximize the sensor's range and accuracy, making it ideal for applications like inventory management and automated guided vehicles.
Incorporating the VL6180X, we developed a versatile multi-range sensor, adept at handling both proximity and ambient light measurement. Thanks to Flux's precision in PCB layout, we achieved a compact design that is now crucial in space-constrained industrial environments, particularly in robotics and assembly lines.
The VL53L1X enabled us to push the boundaries of long-range sensing. This sensor offers exceptional range and accuracy, which is now integral in large-scale automation and monitoring systems.
Our VL53L4CD-based design marked a significant advancement in high-resolution imaging sensors. Leveraging Flux's capabilities, we engineered a PCB that supports complex data processing, essential for applications like precision mapping and 3D modeling in industrial scenarios.
The TMF8801-1BM was central to our innovative time-of-flight sensor design. With Flux, we've enabled us to layout the board more efficiently, resulting in a sensor that excels in real-time positioning and collision avoidance in automated systems.
Using the TMF8820-1AM, we designed a sensor specifically for efficient object detection. The measurement tool in Flux allowed us to create a design that provides high-accuracy detection, making it ideal for safety and surveillance applications in industrial environments.
Our TCS3200D-TR-based design focused on high-fidelity color detection. We achieved a design that offers remarkable color sensing discrimination, essential in quality control processes in industries like textiles and printing.
The ISL29125IROZ-T7 allowed us to develop a high-performance light sensor. This sensor is used extensively in ambient light measurement and color balancing in industrial displays.
In our design with the AFBR-S50LV85D, we specialized in long-range laser measurement. This sensor isideal for applications requiring precise distance measurements, such as in warehouse logistics.
The AR0144CS was the foundation for our high-resolution CMOS sensor. Using Flux, we developed a PCB that supports complex image processing algorithms, crucial for detailed visual inspections in automated manufacturing processes.
Our design using the VCNL3040 redefined proximity sensing in industrial environments. With Flux, we crafted a compact and efficient layout, resulting in a sensor widely used in machinery safety and user interface applications.
The LTR-390UV-01 led to our breakthrough in UV light sensing. Thanks to Flux's layout design tool, we created a sensor that accurately measures UV light intensity, crucial for monitoring and controlling industrial processes involving UV curing and sterilization.
Using the QRE1113, we developed a reflective sensor adept at detecting object presence and positioning. This sensor offers high sensitivity and reliability, essential in applications like conveyor belt control and product sorting in manufacturing lines.
Our design with the GP2Y0D805Z0F focused on compact distance measurement solutions. Thanks to Flux, we were able to create a tiny yet highly effective sensor used in applications where space is at a premium, such as in handheld devices and robotics.
The design journey for each of these modules presented unique challenges, underscoring the versatility and adaptability required in the field of PCB design, particularly when using Flux.
These challenges and others like them were addressed through innovative design approaches, leveraging Flux’s capabilities in layout design and component integration. By overcoming these hurdles, we were able to create modules that are not only effective in their specific applications but also versatile enough to be adapted for a wide range of uses in the industrial sector.
The future of industrial sensing is marked by rapid technological advancements and a shift towards smarter, more efficient systems. Integration of IoT and AI technologies is transforming sensors into intelligent devices capable of real-time data analysis and decision-making. Miniaturization remains a key trend, with sensors getting smaller yet more powerful, catering to space and energy-efficient needs in diverse industrial applications.
Emerging materials and manufacturing techniques promise to enhance sensor sensitivity and durability, crucial for extreme industrial environments. Customization and flexibility in sensor design are increasingly important, enabling quick adaptation to specific industrial needs. This is where tools like Flux, promoting reusability and collaboration, become vital.
Additionally, environmental sustainability and data security are becoming critical considerations in sensor development and deployment. As sensors become more interconnected, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission is paramount.
In conclusion, the industrial sensing landscape is evolving towards more adaptable, intelligent, and sustainable solutions, with immense potential for innovation and impact in various industrial sectors.
We'd love to hear about your experiences with industrial sensor designs or any inquiries you might have. If you're looking for expert advice or services in PCB design, feel free to contact us or join our Slack channel and share with our community of 2,000 and growing. Together, we’ll change the future of PCB design!
Keep Innovating!
We want to make this process as easy as possible for all Flux users. So, after hundreds of hours of testing and talking to dozens of real users, we’ve put together six prompting tips that will help you get the most out of Copilot. Read on to learn more!
It’s tempting to think that LLMs are able to read our minds, but in practice, that’s far from the truth. While Copilot is surprisingly good at filling in the blanks when you ask it a question, to get the best results, you need to ask the best questions. Imagine you’re onboarding a coworker. The more detail and context you provide the new employee, the faster they’ll get up to speed and the more productive they’ll become.
We want to make this process as easy as possible for all Flux users. So, after hundreds of hours of testing and talking to dozens of real users, we’ve put together six prompting tips that will help you get the most out of Copilot. Read on to learn more!
When it comes to LLMs, what you put in is what you get out. So if you want clear and detailed answers, you need to make sure that you provide Copilot with descriptive prompts. When you let Copilot know your goals, constraints, or more details about what you want to build - it can give better answers.
Here’s an example of a “bad” and “good” version of the same prompt:
Bad:
@copilot what’s the best IMU for this project?
Good:
@copilot can you recommend a suitable IMU for this project? I want to keep overall board power consumption below 1A. This is an automotive design, so all components must also be ASIL-D certified. I’m also on a budget, so the total BOM must be less than $2.00.
The best way to give Copilot context is to use Copilot Presets. A powerful new feature that allows you to declare project requirements like operating temperature, voltage, or compliance standards. They are the go-to way to help Copilot understand the full context of your project.
A good prompt is also specific. Don’t just ask Copilot for help finding a component; tell it what factors it should consider so that it knows your criteria.
Bad:
@copilot review my decoupling capacitors
Good:
@copilot list all ICs and the decoupling capacitors attached to each. Ensure to include all ICs present in the design, including digital ICs, power converters, LDOs, etc. For every IC, clearly state:
• What power net the decoupling capacitors are attached to. What is the stated voltage of that net?
• The voltage rating and value of the attached decoupling capacitors.
Another tip here is to mention components explicitly by their component designator so that Copilot knows exactly which components you’re referring to. For example,
Bad:
@copilot what is the operating voltage of my microcontroller?
Good:
@copilot what is the operating voltage of U1 in my project?
Copilot is a text-based assistant, but that doesn’t limit what kind of responses it can give you. Users can prompt Copilot to respond in a variety of different ways, including tables, LaTeX, code blocks, and markdown formatting.
Also, many users might not know that Copilot can even output files for you—if you know how to ask! For example, you can ask Copilot to produce a CSV of your project BOM for you with a prompt like the following:
@copilot can you generate a BOM for this project in a CSV format?
With unique output formatting, Copilot’s responses can more easily integrate into your workflow.
First off, a good prompt is one that is technically accurate. If your question doesn’t make sense, then the response is likely to be inaccurate as well.
Here’s an example of a technically “bad” and “good” version of the same prompt:
Bad:
@copilot how do I choose the right material for a PCB?
Good:
@copilot what are the key considerations when choosing the right dielectric and stackup for a PCB?
Fortunately, you can also use Copilot’s assistance to gauge whether or not your question is technically accurate, and it’ll help you formulate better questions. To get to the good prompt above, you could ask Copilot
@copilot what are PCBs made out of? What are the materials called and why do they vary?
If you’re still not getting the results you want out of Copilot, we have you covered. We provide users with premade Copilot Shortcuts that are accessible through the Copilot Context Menu. Simply right-click on a component or project and choose the prompt you want to use, knowing that it was engineered for the best results possible.
Some options include:
We recently launched a feature called Copilot Experts, which provides you with a set of specialized AI models, each tailored for distinct aspects of hardware design. You can choose which AI model you want to access based on the task at hand, allowing for a more specialized experience that’s tailored to your needs. Right now, our three Expert models are
• Generalist: This is the default Copilot model that you know and love. He’s a jack of all trades who retains the versatility to do anything you need. Try this prompt:
@copilot how does a CAN transceiver work?
• Librarian: This model excels in parts inquiries and navigates datasheets with ease. The next time you have a question about a part, Librarian has got you covered! For example,
@copilot How do I use U1 as a CAN transceiver?
• Help: This is your go-to for Flux product guidance. Have questions about how to use the tool? Don’t feel like sifting through the documentation? Just ask the Help Expert for the answers. You can ask questions like
@copilot How do I connect U1's ground pins to ground?
For the best results with Copilot, make sure you’re working with the right Expert for the job!
Flux is driven by our community, and that means you have a unique opportunity to help make Copilot even better. We’d love for you to participate in pushing the limits of Copilot and share your findings with the community on what works well. If you discover a prompt that’s really impactful, let us know so that we can share it with everyone!
The best way to get involved is to join our Slack channel and share with our community of 2,000 and growing. Together, we’ll change the future of PCB design!
Imagine blending the intricate world of circuitry with the serene beauty of nature. That's exactly what I've done with Flux’s first collection of wallpapers, designed exclusively for the innovators of our world.
I’ve been thinking a lot about what Steve Jobs did. With the products he created at Apple, he found a way to merge engineering with the humanities. In doing so, he enabled more people to experience and connect with technology. Wow, I thought, This kind of thinking is powerful but overlooked for PCB and electronics design. There is an artistic side that's often overlooked. I wanted to capture the feeling of creation, of invention, in these wallpapers. The goal is to kindle the spark of inspiration and also celebrate the creativity and ingenuity that engineers bring to their work every day.
Each wallpaper was designed with Midjourney. Many iterations of prompt tuning and post processing were required to produce a series that felt right. I wanted to strike a balance between the artificial and natural. And I wanted to inspire with a sense of fantasy while still keeping one foot in the possible. The result is four wallpapers which evoke futurism with the classic forms of the natural world. Brilliant color and glowing light evoke optimism while a shallow depth of field and the dark background evokes an intimacy. These products - or are they organisms - are shot in a reserved style of a professionally photographed object.
For engineers, I hope these wallpapers will be more than just a background for their screens; they'll be a source of daily inspiration. The fusion of a PCB’s precision with the organic form of plants reflects the innovative spirit of engineering. It's a daily reminder of how engineering not only solves practical problems but also creates beauty and harmony.
Ready to bring this unique blend of technology and nature to your workspace? We're excited to share that these exclusive wallpapers come in stunning 4K resolution, ensuring that every detail of the intricate PCB designs is beautifully rendered. And the best part? They are available for both desktop and mobile phones, directly downloadable from this blog post!
In a world where technology often distances us from nature, these wallpapers serve as a beautiful reminder of how the two can coexist harmoniously. They’re more than just decoration; they're a statement of the beauty in engineering and an ode to the creativity that engineers bring to our world.
If these unique PCB plant wallpapers have sparked your interest, share this post with your fellow engineers and designers. Let's spread the word about this innovative blend of technology and nature! And if you have ideas for future designs, we’d love to hear them on our Slack Community.
We’re not just offering a tool; we're building a home where the open-source hardware community can truly flourish. Join us in this exciting journey toward a more collaborative and innovative future.
That's where Flux for Organizations comes in, and we're thrilled to make it free for public and educational organizations. At Flux, we are deeply committed to the belief that open-source hardware will be the vanguard of global innovation. We're here to make it easier for teams worldwide to collaborate and build the future.
Navigating through fragmented resources for reliable component libraries or design rules can be both time-consuming and frustrating. Flux offers a centralized resource hub that brings everything you need right to your fingertips. Component libraries, AI-driven design suggestions via Copilot—you name it, we’ve got it.
Forget the days of email chains filled with zip files that make version control a living nightmare. Flux's built-in version control, Copilot Presets, and Project Templates are designed to make every design iteration transparent, accessible, and most importantly, collaborative. Learn more
The challenge of recruiting incredible talent for open-source projects is real. That's why your organization’s Flux profile does more than just list who's on your team. Use it to highlight community contributions, showcase public projects, and even spotlight the heroes who make your community vibrant. See example
Hardware components come with real costs, which can become prohibitive especially for community-driven projects. With Flux's real-time pricing and availability features, automated email updates on component pricing, and total project cost visibility, you’ll never be in the dark. Learn more
While large hardware firms have resources that smaller, community-driven projects can only dream of, Flux levels the playing field. Our AI assistant, Copilot, brings enterprise-level capabilities right to your desktop, allowing you to compete on a much broader scale. Learn more about Flux Copilot
Whether you're an open-source hardware group, a manufacturer like Aisler sharing stackup templates, or a university showcasing academic projects, we support your collaborative efforts. For those in need of more privacy and customization like Weyland Yutani Megacorp, our paid organizational accounts start at just $49 per editor. Learn more about private organizations
We’re not just offering a tool; we're building a home where the open-source hardware community can truly flourish. Join us in this exciting journey toward a more collaborative and innovative future.
Today, we’re taking collaboration one step further by giving hardware teams a shared virtual space that’s built for innovation. Today, we’re launching Flux for Organizations: a new way for hardware teams to collaborate.
Today, we’re taking collaboration one step further by giving hardware teams a shared virtual space that’s built for innovation. Today, we’re launching Flux for Organizations: a new way for hardware teams to collaborate.
Flux for Organizations is a new suite of capabilities designed to foster a collaborative environment across teams, large or small. At the heart of the feature are
Creating an Organization for your team aligns everyone, ensuring all members share the same default permissions, design rule checks, and Copilot presets for organization-centric AI-design reviews. This unlocks a new level of transparency, alignment, and ease of collaboration.
Creating an organizational account is easy. Just follow these steps:
Want to see a Flux Organization in action? Feel free to check out some of our favorite Flux Organization profiles here:
Imagine designing a PCB in a third less time than you're used to - that's the power of Flux Copilot's new upgrade, allowing it to wire components together for you. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the important workflows and example prompts to help you design a Raspberry-Pi-Pico-like board in 20 minutes.
To put this new feature to the test, we revisited a recent project where we designed a Raspberry-Pi-Pico-like schematic using only AI. Initially, it took us 30 minutes to complete the design using Flux Copilot's advice. With Copilot taking the lead on making connections, the same schematic design was completed in just 20 minutes!
In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the important workflows and example prompts to help you design a Raspberry-Pi-Pico-like board in 20 minutes. Curious about the end result? Take a look at the finished project here.
Using generative AI for PCB design means working at the very edge of current possibilities. This requires a few workflow adjustments to get the most out of it. These are some of the principles we found work particularly well, but we can't wait to hear what you come up with. Let us know in Slack!
Your input and interactions play a significant role in getting the most out of Copilot. Be clear and precise with your objectives, don't hesitate to explore different suggestions, and feel free to give feedback with a thumbs up. We compiled a list of useful prompts if you want to learn more about what Copilot can do.
Go from general to specific. It's much easier to get precise responses when Copilot is provided with more details. You can get those details by first asking more broad questions and use Copilot's response to ask a more detailed question. When you're confident about Copilot's reponse, use the "Take action"button to have Copilot wire the schematics for you.
Use Copilot as a teammate. Depending on the question, it might take Copilot a few seconds to reply. Use that time to focus on other areas of the design, Copilot can answer several questions in parallel.
Without further ado, let's dive into the prompts that made this project happen:.
At the start of your project, you'll need to identify the necessary components. This is a good opportunity to ask more general questions at first and start narrowing down the scope of the project.
For a Raspberry Pi Pico-like board, your interaction with Copilot might look like this:
@copilot what is the minimum set of components I need to make a Raspberry Pi Pico-like board?
Having to sift through datasheets consumes a significant amount of time.
When you find a part in the library that you think might for your design, ask Copilot to verify:
@copilot does this LDO work for powering the RP2040?
If you're not familiar with some of the ICs in your design, you can ask Copilot what other components are required or what a pin is used for:
@copilot how should I connect the shield pin?@copilot what else do I need for the oscillator?@copilot what decoupling capacitors do I need for the RP2040?
Copilot can do the wiring for you and save you precious time. Before you ask Copilot to take action, make sure you provide it with as much information as you can. If a component can be connected in multiple ways (as a flash memory to the RP2040), state your goals clearly.
@copilot how do I connect this flash memory to the RP2040? I want to make sure I can boot from it.
If you take a close look at the final project, you'll notice that these patterns repeat over and over on the different elements. Once you get familiar with this workflow, you'll be designing at a speed only big teams were able to accomplish in the past.
It's an exciting time for PCB design. With this new feature of Flux Copilot, we're not just accelerating the design process but also opening up new possibilities for creativity and innovation. It's like having a skilled coworker by your side, ready to tackle the complex parts so you can focus on the big picture.
We're eager to see what amazing designs you'll create with Flux Copilot. This is just the beginning of a fascinating journey toward a future where AI assists in creating, imagining, and realizing incredible hardware designs. And we're thrilled to be on this journey with you.
Happy designing!
