Hi there. I am interested in building an rfid - controlled selective cat feeder. Sure I could just buy one but there’s no fun in that. My first idea before coming to this site was to use a photocell - controlled circuit that would activate relays to open and close a drawer where only one cats’ collar would have a bell that would break the beam. After looking online I realized I could purchase components and an arduino board that could allow more flexibility and options. I am an auto mechanic with several years’ experience installing remote car starters and am very familiar with low voltage circuits. I am looking for suggestions as to what components to use. I’m not sure which type of board I would need to connect with an rfid reader and relay boards. Any suggestions as to what parts to use would be greatly appreciated.
Hello @derezzed1 and welcome to the RobotShop forum!
I am interested in building an rfid - controlled selective cat feeder. Sure I could just buy one but there’s no fun in that.
That’s the spirit!
Well, you are already on the right track, you’ll need a microcontroller (a great choice for beginners in the field is an Arduino), some relays to activate the motors (or motor controller) and some type of device that activates the feeder (the RFID reader and tag sound like a great idea). If you already have an Arduino you can simply get a reader and a card (you can find lots of option in the RFID section) and if you don’t you could get a kit like this:
Just make sure the range of the reader you choose seems enough for your project.
Now depending on the design you have in mind, you’ll need a specific type of motor, a nice option would be checking some commercial pet feeders to get some ideas, and then you can check this guide to choose the motor/s (I also suggest checking the rest of the series linked in the menu). After you know which motor you choose you can select the motor controller or simply get a relay and maybe consider a different type of system to remotely activate the feeder or even a timer.
I hope this information can help you out!
Good luck with your project