Instructables Tutorial:https://www.instructables.com/Hand-Sculpted-Digital-Totem-ARCANA-Capsule-ESP32-C/
Demo Video:
Project Overview:
Purpose: The ARCANA Capsule was born from a personal habit developed over the last two years: drawing a daily tarot card to guide my decisions. In our digital age, while mobile apps make tarot accessible, they often lack the soul and tactile connection of a physical ritual.My goal was to design a “Digital Amulet”—a wearable device that bridges the gap between digital convenience (AI interpretation) and physical ceremony (the act of drawing a card).
Form & Function:Inspired by blind-box culture and the Y2K “Magical Girl” aesthetic, the device takes the form of a stylized trophy cup.
The Interaction: The user presses the metallic “wing” on the right side of the device.
The Feedback: This physical action triggers the LED matrix to display the drawn card’s symbol (e.g., The Star, The Sun) while simultaneously sending data via Bluetooth to a mobile interface for a detailed AI reading.
The workflow & structure
My design process moved between two different software tools to get the best results.
1. Rhino (Phase 1): First, I used Rhino to design the internal layout. I measured the electronics and created a basic structure to make sure everything would fit inside.
2. Nomad Sculpt: Then, I imported the model into Nomad Sculpt. I used it to model the exterior because Nomad is much better for making organic, trendy curves and shapes compared to Rhino.
3. Rhino (Phase 2): Finally, I brought the model back into Rhino. I “shelled” the casing (made it hollow) and added the internal details, like the screw posts and the holding brackets for the circuit board.
The Wing Design: For the interaction, I designed a spring structure on the wings. This allows the wing to bend and click when you press it.
Finally, because of the 3D printer issue, I can’t printed the exterior part, so I transfer to use clay.
The Electronics Challenge:
I originally planned to put a battery inside so the device could be portable. However, I realized buying a new battery online would arrive too late for the deadline.
So, I tried to be creative. I disassembled a discarded disposable vape (Geek Bar) because I wanted to harvest its lithium battery and charging circuit. I soldered the wires to my Arduino board.
The Outcome: Unfortunately, when I connected everything, it didn’t work as expected. Although the idea was sound, the connection failed. For this presentation, I am powering the device via USB cable.