Galvanik

Galvanik

It is not recommended to build this project until the current version is finalized. Don't touch that dial!

Galvanik is a galvanic (hence the name) hair electrolysis device. It is intended to provide a method of affordable, permanent DIY hair removal for those who cannot access professional electrolysis.
This repository provides schematics and PCB layouts for the device (including BOMs), firmware (TODO), build instructions (TODO), and a suggested case design which can be 3D printed.

Well-known among some communities is a very simple DIY electrolysis machine which consists of a 9V battery wired to a variable resistor of some kind (a potentiometer or even a spoon), and on the other end to a probe.
This technically works, but has major drawbacks which this device resolves. Namely, the higher voltage provided by 3 9V batteries allows faster treatment if desired, and the digital control of the treatment circuit enables constant current control, a target treatment amount (measured in Units of Lye; UL), and advanced features such as pedal-free operation.
These greatly enhance the usability and safety of the device, while still remaining affordable and accessible compared to getting professional electrolysis or purchasing vintage professional machines.

Galvanik is based around an STM32 microcontroller, and uses 3 9-volt batteries to power the treatment side of the device.
It is entirely battery operated (logic with a rechargable battery, treatment with 3x9V alkaline), and features galvanic isolation between the logic side of the device and the treatment side of the device to harden the device against unsafe failure modes.

It is worth noting that while every effort has been made to make the device safe and effective, it has not undergone any certifications of any kind, and therefore cannot be guaranteed to be safe to use. The quality of the device construction along with the skill of the operator also contribute to the safety of the device, alongside its design.
Do not use the device in a professional setting, and if you use it on someone else, ensure they understand the risks involved beforehand. The authors of this repository are not responsible for any injury or harm caused by it.

Galvanik is designed to be used with professional electrolysis F-shank probes/needles, which are sterile and single use. These can be sourced from numerous vendors, one good option in the US which does not require a license is Texas Electrolysis Supply. These probes can be connected to a cable, which on one end has a standard RCA jack (to connect to the device) and on the other end has a single female D-sub crimp pin, which snugly grips the probe when inserted.
A 3D model of a grip is provided to hold the probe end of the cable in a more ergonomic shape (TODO).