Final Project Worklog
Student Name: Parampreet
Project Name +
Description/Purpose This project focuses on building an automatic trash can
system that operates seamlessly and promotes cleanliness.
The Smart Trash Can automates lid operations using an
ultrasonic sensor, servo motor, and LEDs.
Key features include:
1. Touch-Free Operation:
○ The ultrasonic sensor detects the presence of
a hand or object within a certain range and
automatically opens the lid.
○ The lid closes after a short delay, minimizing
exposure to waste and preventing odors from
escaping.
2. Safety and Power Control:
○ A kill switch allows users to manually
disable the system when needed, such as
during cleaning or repairs.
○ When the kill switch is activated, the system
turns off all motion, and a red LED indicates
that it is off.
○ When it's on, a green LED signals that the
system is active and ready for use.
3. Applications:
● To promote a hands-free experience for trash
disposal.
● To provide a cost-effective solution to improve
hygiene in daily waste management.
● To serve as a foundation for future smart waste
disposal technologies.
Components used/needed
Arduino Uno 1
Ultrasonic 1
Sensor
Servo Motor 1
Push-button Switch 1
Green LED 1
Red LED 1
Resistors (220Ω, 10kΩ) 3
Breadboard 1
Power Supply 1
Trash 1
Can
Jumper wires
Date Describe your work Insert pictures/links of work finished
completed
Jan 10, 2025 I researched my topic and RFID door lock access control sy…
found various different
videos. I decided to choose
an automatic trashcan
opener.
Jan 13, 2025 Getting all the parts and
trying to assemble them
together.
Jan 14 Finishing assembling the
parts and getting the code
in to test it.
Jan 15 I tested the circuit but didnt
work due to some code
issues and also had to
change my servo motor.
Jan 16 I had changed the code
three times. But the circuit
still wasn't working.
Jan 17 I finally made the circuit
work and the kill switch also
started working.
Jan 20 I started putting the whole
circuit in the trashcan. I
made some holes in the
trashcan for the wires and
the ultrasonic sensor.
Jan 21 Finally trying to assemble in
the trashcan. I glued the
servo motor behind the
trash can. I had to use 2
motors because 1 wasn't
getting enough power to
pull the lid.
Jan 22 I reverted back to using 1 [Link]
motor, added some E
cardboard to the front so
the lid doesn't fully close
and also needed less
power to pull the lid. I also
changed the code so the
servo spins 180 degrees
instead of 90. I finished my
product and did the
conference.