Remote IR Igniter.

Build an Infrared remote ignitor for model rocket testing and launching!

This guide will show you how to build and program the project, if followed step by step you will have a working igniter by the end. This project requires soldering and is not recommended for beginners. Apart from the required components, you'll need a powerful battery capable of creating ignition. A few examples:

1. 2x 18650 Batteries connected in series, Soldering the batteries is extremely dangerous and is absolutely not recommended. If you are thinking of using these, you'll have to connect them via simple battery holders.

A 12V car battery

1. A 4V big Non-rechargable battery.

Out of these I use and recommend using 2x 18650 batteries for conformity.

Assembling:

The PCB contains a white footprint indicating where every component must be placed. After placing every piece in its hole, the next step is soldering. The hardest part to solder will be the D1 Mini because of its many pins, but after a while you'll get comfortable enough.It is recommended to program the board before soldering.To program the board you'll need to add the esp8266 core to the Arduino IDE. Here is a great tutorial on how to do it.On the Arduino IDE you must copy the code (which is below) and upload it to the board. The code built for this project uses any IR remote to launch. This code can be modificated to use the wifi module on board the D1 Mini.

Operating:

To use the igniter, a power source (as mentioned before) must be connected to the Relay module. A secondary power source must be used to power the board, this may be a power bank or any 5v current connected to the 5V and GND pins to the D1. After that, an electric match or rocket igniter has to be connected via the relay and the big battery. To launch just point and press an Infrared remote (like a tv remote) and ignition will be generated.

Created by @Coloitu.

Please ask if you have any doubt, I'm here to help!

EXPANDED TECHNICAL DETAILS

High-Current Triggering

The Remote Igniter is a safety-critical project designed for fireworks, model rockets, or pyrotechnics.

• Ignition Element: Uses a small piece of high-resistance Nichrome wire or a commercial electric match. The Arduino triggers a high-current MOSFET (like the IRFZ44N) to dump energy from a Li-Po battery into the wire, causing it to glow white-hot instantly.
• Wireless Link: Typically paired with a 433MHz RF module or an NRF24L01 to allow the operator to stand at a safe distance (30-50 meters).

Mechanical Integrity

• 3D Printed Housing: The case is designed in CAD with a "Safety Switch" compartment to prevent accidental firing.
• User Interface: Includes a "Continuity Check" LED; if the igniter wire is broken or disconnected, the Arduino detects the open circuit and prevents the firing sequence, ensuring mission reliability.