Description

Smart Dustbin

 

AIM: To design and develop an automated smart dustbin that opens the lid when it detects the presence of waste or a person nearby using sensors, ensuring touchless operation and improved hygiene.

PURPOSE: Traditional dustbins require users to open the lid manually, leading to hygiene issues, especially in public areas. A smart dustbin automates the process by detecting when waste is near, and opening the lid automatically. This reduces the need for physical interaction, promoting hygiene and convenience.

DESCRIPTION:

This project uses Arduino, ultrasonic sensors, and servo motors to create a touchless dustbin. The ultrasonic sensor detects objects (like a person’s hand or waste) within a certain distance, and the servo motor is used to open the lid automatically. Once the object is removed or the distance exceeds a set threshold, the lid closes.

Key Components:

1.    Arduino Uno: The microcontroller processes sensor data and controls the servo motor for lid operation.

2.    Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04): Measures the distance between the sensor and the object (waste or hand) to determine when to open the lid.

3.    Servo Motor: Controls the movement of the lid, opening it when an object is detected and closing it when the path is clear.

4.    Battery/Power Supply: Powers the Arduino and the servo motor. A 9V battery or a DC power supply is used.

5.    Jumper Wires: For connecting components to the Arduino.

WORKING:

1.    Object Detection: The ultrasonic sensor constantly measures the distance to the nearest object. If the distance is less than a set threshold (e.g., 20 cm), it signals the Arduino to open the lid.

2.    Servo Motor: Once the object is detected, the Arduino triggers the servo motor to rotate, opening the lid of the dustbin.

3.    Lid Closure: After a set time or when the object is no longer detected, the Arduino sends a signal to the servo motor to close the lid, ensuring the bin is sealed.

4.    Hygienic Operation: This system reduces the need for physical contact with the dustbin, making it ideal for use in hospitals, offices, or public spaces where hygiene is crucial.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Hardware:

·      Microcontroller: Arduino Uno

·      Ultrasonic Sensor: HC-SR04

·      Servo Motor: For controlling lid movement

·      Power Supply: 9V battery or DC adapter

·      Wires and Connectors: For wiring all components

• Software:

·      Arduino IDE: Used to write and upload the code that controls the sensor and motor.

WORKING EXPLANATION:

• The ultrasonic sensor continuously measures the distance between the dustbin and any object in its detection range.
• If an object is detected within the threshold range (e.g., 20 cm), the Arduino activates the servo motor to open the dustbin lid.
• After a few seconds, or when the object is no longer within range, the servo motor closes the lid, keeping the system hygienic and efficient.
  
  

BLOCK DIAGRAM:

1.    Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04): Measures the distance to detect an object.

2.    Arduino Uno: Controls the servo motor based on the ultrasonic sensor's input.

3.    Servo Motor: Opens and closes the dustbin lid automatically.

4.    Battery: Powers the system.

APPLICATIONS:

• Public Spaces: Ensures hygienic waste disposal in parks, hospitals, and malls by reducing direct contact.
• Home Use: Convenient for kitchen bins where users don’t need to touch the lid.
• Smart Cities: Can be integrated into waste management systems for automated trash collection and monitoring.
  
  

ADVANTAGES:

• Touchless Operation: Promotes hygiene by eliminating the need to touch the lid.
• Energy Efficient: Only opens when needed and stays closed when idle.
• Easy to Implement: Based on widely available, low-cost components.
  
  

By using Arduino to automate the dustbin’s lid opening mechanism, this system enhances hygiene and convenience in waste management, making it a practical solution for both home and public use.