Smart Fish Feeder & Filtration System

Whenever our family was out of town, we faced the recurring issue of feeding the fish and ensuring the air filter was turned on—both vital for the fish's growth and the tank's hygiene. This prompted me to create a system that could schedule feeding times and tank filtration. As a mechanical engineering student, this project was an exciting new challenge. Let's delve into how I accomplished it:

- CAD Designing

- Manufacturing (via 3D printing or machining)

- Circuit Designing and Prototyping

- Assembly

- Application Development

Software -

1. Autodesk inventor
2. Tinkercad
3. Arduino IDE

Hardware -

1. Arduino UNO - Microcontroller board for overall control.
2. DS3231 RTC Module - Real-Time Clock for accurate timekeeping and scheduling.
3. HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor -For precise food level detection.
4. SG90 Servo Motor - For dispensing food.
5. 5V Relay Module - For controlling the filtration system.
6. 16x2 I2C LCD Display - For displaying time, food level, and other information.
7. 220Ω Resistors - For limiting current to the LEDs.
8. LEDs - For low food level warnings and other indicators.
9. Breadboard - For prototyping the circuit.
10. Jumper Wires - For making connections on the breadboard.
11. Power Supply - AC adapter for powering the system.
12. Battery Pack (3S 12V 2200 mAh) with BMS - For backup power supply.
13. Miscellaneous - Mounting hardware, enclosures, and connectors as needed.

Visualizing the final result is a crucial step in bringing any design to fruition. While the common designs for automatic fish feeders include the rolling drum or the worm and worm wheel mechanisms, I have opted for a unique approach. After evaluating various designs, I have selected one that aligns with my fish tank cover. You can use any CAD software like Autodesk Inventor , Solidworks etc

The design comprises the following compartments:

- Food Storage: This includes PVC pipe fittings, along with vertical and horizontal supports.

- Food Dispensing: A servo motor and its holder are used for this purpose.

- Housing: A box and cover are utilized to encase all the electrical components.

Working -

The "Smart Fish Feeder & Filtration System" is designed to automate the feeding and filtration of an aquarium, ensuring consistent care for the fish even in the absence of the owner. The system operates primarily on an AC adapter, with a battery backup to maintain functionality during power outages. Timekeeping and scheduling are managed by a Real-Time Clock (RTC) module, which ensures precise timing for feeding and filtration activities. An ultrasonic sensor continuously monitors the food level in the container, calculating the percentage of food remaining. If the food level drops below a specified threshold, an LED indicates the need for a refill.

At scheduled feeding times, the Arduino controller activates a servo motor that operates a dispensing mechanism, releasing a precise amount of food into the tank. The filtration system is controlled by a relay module, which is also managed by the Arduino according to a pre-set schedule to ensure optimal water quality. Information about the current time and food levels is displayed on an LCD screen, providing real-time feedback to the user. This integration of components creates a reliable and automated system that enhances the care of aquarium fish while providing convenience to the owner.

I will be providing the 3D files (IGES) for all these parts. The overall size of the project is ______________

The approach I suggest is 3D printing, as it guarantees no electrical conductivity. I had access to Sheet metal cutting services, so I chose that method. If you decide to follow my approach, I would strongly recommend powder coating the surface for safety. Additionally, I will provide the drafts of the parts that were sent to the service providers. The photos attached are the product without powder coating.

I used PVC Pipe and reducer assembly for my Food storage. It works well. I also used an orifice at end of reducer to control my food dispense.

I will also share the production costs at the end.

As i am a mechanical Engineering student, this was my first experience with arduino. With the help for Chatgpt I was able to understand Circuit Connections and the Arduino code. I will also provide the circuit diagram.

The Project is still under development. I will update the instructable accordingly. Thank you.