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