Pet Feeder

Project Overview

This project presents an automatic pet feeding system developed with an STM32 microcontroller. The device is designed to provide a simple and efficient solution for automatic food dispensing, helping pet owners manage feeding schedules and reduce the need for manual feeding.

The system combines embedded control technology, sensor detection, and actuator control to create an intelligent feeding device suitable for small pets such as cats and dogs.

Hardware Architecture

The core controller of this project is an STM32 microcontroller, which is responsible for processing sensor signals and controlling the feeding mechanism.

The main hardware components include:

• STM32 Microcontroller: The main control unit that executes embedded C firmware, processes input signals, and controls external modules.
• Servo Motor: Used as the feeding gate actuator. The STM32 generates PWM signals to control the servo angle, allowing the food outlet to open and close accurately.
• Ultrasonic Sensor: Detects the presence of a pet near the feeding area and triggers the feeding process when the pet approaches.
• Power Supply Module: Provides stable voltage for the MCU, sensor, and servo motor.
• Mechanical Food Storage Structure: A customized container and dispensing channel are designed to store and release pet food smoothly.

Working Principle

The STM32 continuously monitors the ultrasonic sensor data. When a pet enters the detection range, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller.

After receiving the trigger signal, the STM32 processes the input information and outputs a PWM control signal to the servo motor. The servo rotates to open the food gate, allowing a certain amount of food to fall into the feeding tray. After a preset delay, the servo returns to its original position and closes the dispensing channel.

This automatic control process improves feeding convenience and demonstrates the application of embedded systems in daily life products.

Software Design

The firmware is developed using C language based on the STM32 embedded development environment. The software mainly includes:

• GPIO configuration and peripheral initialization
• Ultrasonic sensor signal processing
• PWM generation for servo motor control
• Timing control using STM32 timers
• System state management

A modular software structure makes the system easy to expand with additional functions such as scheduled feeding, LCD display, WiFi communication, or mobile app control.

Application Value

This STM32 automatic pet feeder is an excellent example of embedded system implementation. It combines microcontroller programming, sensor applications, motor control, and mechanical design into a practical smart device.

The project provides valuable experience for engineers and students learning STM32 development, embedded C programming, and intelligent hardware product design.

Future Improvements

Future versions can integrate IoT connectivity, weight sensors, cloud monitoring, and AI-based pet recognition to create a more advanced smart pet care system.