Automated Pet Feeder
📘 Introduction
An Automated Pet Feeder is a smart device designed to dispense food for pets at scheduled times or on-demand via remote control. It uses a microcontroller (like ESP32 or Arduino), a motor to release food, and an optional real-time clock (RTC) to maintain accurate feeding times. The system can be enhanced with Wi-Fi connectivity for app-based control, weight sensors to monitor food quantity, and even a camera to watch your pet during feeding. This project helps ensure pets are fed consistently and on time, making it ideal for busy or frequently traveling pet owners.
🎯 Project Objective
To build a pet feeding machine that:
- Dispenses dry food in measured amounts
- Works on a preset schedule or via remote command
- Optionally includes a camera, voice output, or weight sensors
- Can be controlled via smartphone (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)
🔧 Key Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller (ESP32 / ESP8266 / Arduino + RTC module) | Controls timing, food dispensing, and optional Wi-Fi control. |
| Servo Motor or Stepper Motor | Controls the opening mechanism or rotating container to release food. |
| Real Time Clock (RTC) Module | Keeps accurate feeding schedule even if power resets. |
| Food Container & Dispenser Mechanism | A funnel or screw-based rotating system to drop food. |
| Load Cell (Optional) | Measures the weight of dispensed food for precision. |
| Buzzer / LED | Alerts for feeding status. |
| OLED / LCD Display (Optional) | Shows time, next feed, or settings. |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth Module (e.g., built-in on ESP32) | For app or web-based remote control. |
| Power Supply or Battery Pack | Powers the electronics and motor (can include solar panel for remote use). |
⚙️ How It Works
- Scheduling (Automatic Mode):
- The Real-Time Clock (RTC) keeps track of time.
- At set intervals (e.g., 7 AM, 6 PM), the microcontroller activates the servo or motor to open a gate or rotate a wheel, releasing a portion of food.
- Manual Mode (Remote Feeding):
- The user can send a command via a mobile app or web interface using Wi-Fi.
- Upon receiving the command, the system dispenses food immediately.
- Weight Control (Optional):
- A load cell underneath the food bowl measures how much food is dispensed.
- The microcontroller stops the motor once the correct amount is released.
- Feedback:
- LED or buzzer provides audio/visual confirmation of feeding.
- Display shows remaining food level or next scheduled time.
📲 Smart Features (Optional)
- Mobile App Control: Use apps like Blynk or custom apps to trigger feeding remotely.
- Camera Module (ESP32-CAM): Monitor your pet while feeding.
- Voice Notification: Add a speaker to play your voice before or after feeding.
- Cloud Logging: Track feeding times and quantities.
✅ Benefits
- Ensures pets are fed on time even when you’re away.
- Reduces overfeeding or underfeeding.
- Great for managing diet for pets with health concerns.
- Smart connectivity gives peace of mind.
🧠 Project Expansion Ideas
- Integrate face recognition for pets (e.g., only feed specific animals).
- Add temperature and humidity sensors to keep food fresh.
- Implement Alexa or Google Assistant voice control.
- Use solar power for outdoor feeders.
🏡 Applications
- Cats, dogs, birds, and small animals with dry food diets.
- Pet shelters or clinics to automate feeding routines.
- Farms with animals requiring scheduled grain dispensing.