This project demonstrates how to build an Arduino-based Automatic Pet Feeder that can serve food to your pet at preset times using a DS3231 RTC module for accurate scheduling. It uses a servo motor to dispense food, a 4×4 matrix keypad for setting feeding time, and a 16×2 LCD to display the date and time. The device automatically dispenses the correct amount of food based on the set schedule, making it ideal for small to medium-sized pets.
- Automatic feeding schedule using DS3231 Real-Time Clock Module
- 4×4 matrix keypad for manually setting feeding time
- Servo motor control for precise portion dispensing
- LCD display for current date and time
- 3D-printable feeder container with servo-driven gate
- Backup battery in RTC ensures timekeeping during power outages
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Arduino UNO | Main microcontroller |
| DS3231 RTC Module | Real-time clock for precise scheduling |
| 4×4 Matrix Keypad | For entering feeding time |
| 16×2 LCD | To display date and time |
| Push Button | To initiate feeding time setup |
| Servo Motor | To control container gate opening |
| Resistors | For pull-up/pull-down as required |
| Connecting Wires | For circuit connections |
| Breadboard | For prototyping |
- Timekeeping: DS3231 RTC maintains accurate time even without power.
- User Input: Feeding time is entered via the 4×4 matrix keypad and stored in memory.
- Display: The 16×2 LCD shows the current time and date in real-time.
- Dispensing: When the current time matches the feeding schedule, the servo motor rotates from its initial position (55°) to 100°, opening the container gate for food to drop into the bowl, then returns to its initial position after 0.4 seconds.
- RTC Module: SDA → A5, SCL → A4 on Arduino UNO
- Keypad: Connected to digital pins 2–9
- LCD: RS → A0, Enable → A1, D4–D7 → A2, 11, 12, 13
- Servo Motor: Signal pin → D10
- Push Button: One side → A3, other side → GND (with pull-up configuration)
The feeder container is a four-part PLA 3D-printed assembly with a servo mount.
Download STL files from Thingiverse.
| Issue | Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Servo not rotating | Check pin 10 connections, power supply, and angle values in code |
| LCD not displaying | Check RS/Enable/D4-D7 connections and contrast adjustment |
| Time not updating | Ensure RTC is initialized and battery is installed |
| Incorrect feeding schedule | Verify keypad wiring and input sequence |
| Over/under portion dispensing | Adjust servo angle range and delay duration |
- Feeding small to medium pets (cats, small dogs, birds)
- Maintaining consistent feeding schedules during owner absence
- Customizable portion control for dietary needs
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth integration for remote feeding control
- Mobile app interface for schedule setup
- Multiple feeding schedules per day
- Weight sensor for portion measurement
- Voice alerts for pets
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| MCU | Arduino UNO |
| RTC Module | DS3231 (±2ppm accuracy) |
| Display | 16×2 LCD |
| Keypad | 4×4 matrix keypad |
| Motor Type | SG90 / similar servo motor |
| Servo Angles | Default: 55° (closed), Feeding: 100° (open) |
| Supply Voltage | 5V DC |
| Container Material | PLA (3D printed) |
| Feeding Accuracy | ±1 second (RTC dependent) |
- 📖 Complete Tutorial on Circuit Digest
- 🖨️ 3D Model STL Files
- 📚 DS3231 RTC Module Library
- ⌨️ 4×4 Matrix Keypad Library
- 🧠 More Arduino Projects
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