This automated system helps take care of your pet while you’re away.
For those of you with pets, you’ve all been there: Your bags are packed, you’re all set to head out on a weekend getaway, and then suddenly, your petsitter bails. Or, much more likely, your vacation is planned yet there’s no one around to care for Fido while away. Whichever the case, you’re in luck thanks to a new DIY project designed by Maker and cat lover “prnet:” the Croccolino Feeder.
As its name would suggest, the device is an automated system that is capable of feeding a pet when an owner is outside of the house for an extended period of time. The contraption can be programmed to facilitate eight scheduled feedings (enough for a long weekend), choose a serving size for each meal, as well as maintain a constant water level.
The project is based on an Arduino Yún (ATmega32U4), which with some coding, enables the device to be connected to Wi-Fi and controlled via the Internet. The feeder features an audio/recording module that lets users record their voice and call a pet when it’s time to eat. This sound, of course, is emitted through an amplified speaker. What’s more, a series of micro-buttons allow a user to adjust the time and select scheduling, while a functional display reveals current food and water levels.
In order to bring this idea to life, the Maker employed several other components including an internal clock, a microSD card to store the information, a pair of recycled scales, a weight sensor module, a 5V relay module, a 9V stepper motor and driver, a mini water pump, an amplifier module, and some spare cables.
In the future, prnet hopes to include a webcam and a soft ball launcher as well, which would make the Crocolino Feeder an all-on-one petsitting system. Have a furry friend at home? You can get started on one of your own by checking out its official Instructables page here.
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