Automatic Dog (or cat) Treat Dispenser with Arduino | Science Project

Summary

This video tutorial demonstrates how to construct an automatic dog treat dispenser using an Arduino. It can be programmed for timed treat release, sensor-based interaction, or button-press training. The dispenser operates by rotating pre-loaded treat compartments over a hole, allowing treats to slide down a ramp into a tray. The project uses a Servo motor and real-time clock, with potential for customization using various sensors. Viewers can find a detailed parts list and circuit diagram in the description for those interested in building this at home.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ The video demonstrates building an automatic dog treat dispenser using an Arduino, which can be programmed for various functions.
• ⏰ The dispenser uses a real-time clock to track time and can be set to dispense treats at specific times of the day.
• 🔧 The mechanical design includes a hopper with compartments that rotate over a hole, allowing treats to slide down a ramp into a tray.
• 📦 For practical use, the dispenser should be made of sturdy, washable materials or placed out of the pet's reach to avoid damage from slobber.
• 🔩 The circuit includes components like a potentiometer for the LCD screen, a reset button, and optional LED and buzzer for alerts.
• 📝 The Arduino code provided can be customized for different behaviors, such as dispensing treats at set times or responding to sensors.
• 🔍 Arduino's compatibility with various sensors allows for customization, such as motion detectors or magnet sensors for pet interaction.
• 🔑 The script includes a detailed explanation of the code, including the use of libraries, setting up the real-time clock, and the loop function for treat dispensing.
• 🔄 The servo motor is programmed to rotate the compartments in increments, ensuring smooth movement and treat delivery to the tray.
• 🔒 The code includes a safety feature that requires a button press to reset the dispenser after all treats have been dispensed.
• 🔗 Additional resources such as tutorials for different sensors and a parts list are available through links in the video description.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the automatic dog treat dispenser project?

The main purpose of the project is to build an automatic dog treat dispenser using an Arduino, which can be programmed to dispense treats at certain times of the day, react to sensors that detect the dog's presence, or even train the dog to push a button.

How does the treat dispensing mechanism work in the device?

The treat dispensing mechanism works by preloading the food or treats into compartments in a hopper. A servo motor rotates the compartments one at a time, and as each compartment rotates, it goes over a hole allowing the treats to slide down a ramp into a tray at the front.

Why is the cardboard prototype not suitable for a real pet environment?

The cardboard prototype is not suitable for a real pet environment because the slobber from the pet would quickly ruin the paper, making it unsuitable for direct use.

What are the alternatives if one wants to use the dispenser at home for their pet?

The alternatives include placing the dispenser high on a counter or shelf where the pet can't reach it, allowing treats to drop below, or building a more robust and washable version of the dispenser.

What is the role of the potentiometer in the circuit?

The potentiometer is used to adjust the contrast on the LCD screen, which is necessary if one wants a readout of time and instructions.

What are the additional components that could be used to enhance the dispenser's functionality?

Additional components like a reset button, LED, and buzzer can be used to enhance functionality, such as alerting the pet with a sound when a treat has been dispensed.

How can the dispenser be customized to train or reward certain behaviors?

The dispenser can be customized to train or reward certain behaviors by using a variety of sensors compatible with Arduino, such as motion detectors, distance sensors, or magnet sensors that can detect a magnetic tag on the pet's collar.

What is the significance of the real-time clock in the Arduino for this project?

The real-time clock in the Arduino is significant as it keeps track of the time, allowing the device to dispense treats automatically at certain times of the day.

How can one modify the code to dispense treats at different times of the day?

One can modify the code by changing the conditions in the if statement to match the desired times of day when the treats should be dispensed, using the hour, minute, and second variables.

What is the purpose of the angle increment variable in the code?

The angle increment variable determines the angle by which the servo rotates with each step, which corresponds to the number of compartments in the hopper. It needs to be adjusted based on the number of compartments to ensure the servo rotates correctly.

How does the code handle the end of the treat dispensing cycle?

The code handles the end of the treat dispensing cycle by resetting the servo to its initial position and displaying a 'press button to restart' message on the LCD screen, waiting for the user to press the button to start the next cycle.