Introduction: Automated Cat Feeder With Web Interface
This is an auger-based automatic cat feeder. Several pounds of cat food are stored in the reservoir above the auger, and the feeder is programmed to automatically dispense 1/4-cup of food in the morning and in the evening.
The main features of the feeder are:
- automatically dispenses an exact amount of dry cat food twice a day
- has a webcam which monitors the food dispensing process
- contains a web interface that allows us to see the webcam feed, to ensure that the cat ate when he was supposed to
- a separate web interface providing direct control of the feeder’s timer and motor configuration
The feeder is housed in a wooden box and is completely cat-proof (our curious kitty can only access the bowl with food, and no moving or electrical parts).
All of the parts have been commercially-sourced with the exception of the auger coupler, which was manufactured on a 3D printer. However, by using a different auger than the one used here, you may be able to find a different coupler elsewhere.
The auger is powered by a servo, which in turn is controlled by a microcontroller (Arduino Uno). All of the code and software details (as well as the mechanical assembly) are available here: https://sites.google.com/site/barleycat1