5. Selected design - I-div-2025-26-Even/Repo-09 GitHub Wiki

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1. Storage and Dispensing Mechanism

​The top section of the machine handles the raw material storage and the initial release of items. ​Acrylic Hopper: A multi-compartment transparent bin allows for visual inventory tracking. It is divided into four separate sections to hold different ingredients. ​Linear Sliding Tray Dispenser: Positioned at the base of the hopper, this mechanism uses a horizontal sliding motion to open or close the gravity-fed outlets. ​How it works: When the ESP32 sends a signal, an actuator (likely a servo or stepper motor) pulls the tray to align a hole with the hopper outlet, allowing a specific volume of material to drop into the mixer.

​2. Mixing Mechanism

​Once ingredients are dispensed, they fall into the secondary chamber for homogenization. ​Rotating Mixing Bowl (Baffle Drum): This is a semi-spherical or cylindrical drum equipped with internal baffles (fins). ​Action: As the drum rotates, the baffles lift the ingredients and drop them back into the center, ensuring a consistent mix without crushing the items. This is a common industrial technique used in cement mixers or seed coaters to prevent "layering."

​3. Output and Orientation System

This is the most complex mechanical part of the design, allowing for controlled delivery of the final mix. ​Two-Axis Motor Gimbal: The mixing bowl is mounted on a gimbal system. This allows the bowl to not only rotate for mixing but also tilt forward or sideways to pour the finished product into a secondary container or bowl. ​Mechanical Stopper: This is a safety and precision feature. It acts as a physical limit switch to ensure the gimbal or sliding mechanisms do not over-travel, preventing damage to the frame or motors during a calibration error. ​

4. Electronic Control System

​The "brain" of the machine manages the timing and coordination of the motors. ​ESP32 Control Board: A powerful microcontroller with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It processes the logic for how much of each ingredient to dispense and for how long the mixer should run. ​12V DC Power Adapter: Provides the necessary current to drive the high-torque motors required for the gimbal and the sliding trays. ​App Control (IoT): Because the ESP32 is used, the system is designed for remote operation. A smartphone app sends commands (e.g., "Make Mix A") to the board via a wireless network. ​Technical Summary Table