Arduino Trash Bin with Waste Level Detection

Summary

In this tutorial, the creator demonstrates how to build a smart waste bin using an Arduino Uno, a servo, and two ultrasonic sensors. The process begins with assembling the bin, followed by setting up the sensors and servo. One sensor is mounted on the side to monitor waste levels, while the other is placed on the top to detect the bin's fill. The project is connected to an Arduino Uno, and the creator plans to integrate an LED strip for displaying the waste level. The current waste level can be monitored through a serial interface on the Arduino IDE.

Takeaways

• 😀 The project demonstrates how to build a smart bin with waste level detection.
• 😀 The bin used for the project is a simple one from Ikea.
• 😀 An Arduino Uno, a Servo, and two ultrasonic sensors are used for this project.
• 😀 The outer ultrasonic sensor is drilled and connected to the bin's circuit.
• 😀 The sensor and its wires are fixed in place after installation.
• 😀 The servo is taped to the inside of the bin, positioned to lift the bin's lid.
• 😀 The second ultrasonic sensor is placed on top of the bin to detect the waste level.
• 😀 All wires are connected to the Arduino Uno for functionality.
• 😀 The schematic diagram is shown for a better understanding of the setup.
• 😀 The code is developed in the Arduino IDE, with the link to the code provided in the description.
• 😀 Initially, the waste level will be displayed on the serial interface, with future plans to add an LED strip for visual display.

Q & A

What is the purpose of this project?

The project demonstrates how to build a smart bin with waste level detection using an Arduino Uno, a servo motor, and ultrasonic sensors.

What type of bin is used in this project?

The bin used in this project is a simple one from Ikea.

What components are needed for this project?

The components required for this project are an Arduino Uno, a servo motor, two ultrasonic sensors, and a bin.

How is the ultrasonic sensor attached to the bin?

A hole is drilled into the bin to connect the outer ultrasonic sensor, which is then fixed in place with wires.

Where is the servo motor attached in this project?

The servo motor is taped to the inside of the bin at a position where it can lift the top of the bin.

How is the second ultrasonic sensor positioned?

The second ultrasonic sensor is fixed to the top of the bin to detect the current waste level inside the bin.

What is the purpose of the ultrasonic sensors in this project?

The ultrasonic sensors are used to measure the waste level in the bin by detecting the distance to the waste inside.

What programming environment is used to develop the code for the project?

The code for the project is developed using the Arduino IDE.

What does the code display initially?

Initially, the waste level is shown on the serial interface of the Arduino IDE.

What feature will be added in the future to improve the project?

In the future, an LED strip will be added to display the current waste level visually.