Arduino Maker Series Under 1000: Automatic Pet Feeder

Welcome to the Arduino Maker Series Under 1000! 🐾 In this project, we will build an Automatic Pet Feeder that dispenses food at scheduled times using a servo motor. This project is perfect for pet owners, beginners, and makers looking for an affordable, practical Arduino project.

Introduction
Required Hardware
Arduino IDE Setup
Wiring the Components
Arduino Code
How It Works
Testing Your Project
Advanced Modifications
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Learning Insights
Conclusion

1. Introduction

This project automates pet feeding using a servo motor controlled by Arduino and optionally an RTC (Real-Time Clock) module for scheduled feeding. It teaches servo control, timing, and Arduino logic.

2. Required Hardware

Arduino Uno (~₹500)
Servo Motor MG996 (~₹250)
RTC Module DS3231 (~₹150)(request for auto time setting code if needed)
Breadboard & Jumper Wires (~₹100)
Power supply 5V (~₹100)
Container for pet food

3. Arduino IDE Setup

Install Arduino IDE.
Connect Arduino via USB.
Select Board → Arduino Uno.
Select COM port → (your Arduino port).
Install Servo.h and RTClib.h libraries if using RTC.

4. Wiring the Components

Servo: Signal → D9, VCC → 5V, GND → GND
RTC: SDA → A4, SCL → A5, VCC → 5V, GND → GND

5. Arduino Code

#include 
#include 
#include "RTClib.h"

Servo feeder;
RTC_DS3231 rtc;

int feedHour = 8; // Feeding hour (24h format)
int feedMinute = 0; // Feeding minute

void setup() {
  feeder.attach(9);
  feeder.write(0); // Initial position
  if(!rtc.begin()){
    Serial.println("RTC not found!");
    while(1);
  }
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  DateTime now = rtc.now();
  
  if(now.hour() == feedHour && now.minute() == feedMinute){
    feeder.write(90); // Rotate servo to dispense
    delay(2000);      // Adjust rotation time
    feeder.write(0);  // Return servo
    delay(60000);     // Prevent multiple triggers within same minute
  }
}

6. How It Works

The RTC module keeps track of the current time. Arduino checks the time continuously. When the set feeding time arrives, Arduino rotates the servo motor, which dispenses the pet food. After dispensing, the servo returns to its initial position.

7. Testing Your Project

Upload code to Arduino.
Power the Arduino and RTC module.
Set the desired feeding time in the code.
Observe the servo rotate and dispense food at the scheduled time.
Adjust servo rotation duration if needed for proper dispensing.

8. Advanced Modifications

Add multiple feeding times per day.
Display time and feeding schedule on 16x2 LCD.
Integrate Wi-Fi module for remote feeding control.
Use larger servo or stepper motor for bigger feeders.
Include a push-button to dispense manually.

9. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Servo not moving: Check connections, power supply, and code attachment pin.
RTC not responding: Verify wiring, battery, and I2C address.
Food not dispensing: Adjust servo rotation angle or timing.
Multiple triggers: Ensure delay after feeding to prevent repeat within same minute.

10. Learning Insights

Learn servo control and PWM basics.
Understand using RTC for time-based automation.
Integrate mechanical movement with electronics.
Foundation for advanced IoT pet automation projects.

11. Conclusion

This Automatic Pet Feeder is a simple, practical, and educational Arduino project under ₹1000. It teaches time-based automation, servo control, and real-world problem solving, making it perfect for beginners and hobbyists.

By Kaushal Haladi

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