Before starting, most of the credits are going to Thomas Krichbaumer who provide me the CAD files for his cat feeder design (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3623148).
For some real code to use with this device, head over to https://github.com/ultrara1n/dualcatfeeder-esp32
s The electronics are based on an ESP32 microcontroller, a L298N driver and two DC-Motors (relativeley high torque and low rpm).
Beside standard tinker equipment (soldering iron, breadboard, cable etc.) there are some components I especially bought for this project:
Component | Amount | Source | Price |
---|---|---|---|
ESP32 | 1 | AliExpress | 5$ |
DC12V 18RPM Motor | 2 | AliExpress | 16,12$ |
L298N motor driver | 1 | AliExpress | 1,40$ |
6mm rigid flange coupler | 2 | AliExpress | 2,02$ |
DC Power Socket Screwable | 1 | AliExpress, Amazon, Banggood | 1,83€ |
DC12V 2A power supply | 1 |
Make sure that the size of your power socket and the provided plug of the power supply are matching! In this case both are 5,5mm*2,1mm.