Name : kamogelo
Surname :Nonyana
Grade :11
Research plan tittle:
The smart bin-an automated trash
Dustin
Problem Statement
1
Manual handling of wastes is unhygienic and inefficient especially in public places and homes.
People often avoid touching trash bin lids ,leading to littering and unhygienic environments. A
contactless automated system could improve cleanliness and encourage proper waste disposal.
Aim
The aim of this project is to design and build an automated dustbin that opens its lid automatically
when motion detected, thereby improving and promoting a hands-free opening waste disposal.
Research Questions
-How can an automated trash dustbin improve hygiene efficiently and promote smart waste
segregation in public and domestic spaces using Arduino based technology?
-How can an Arduino based system be used to create a cost effective and reliable automated
automated trash dustbin that improves hygiene and encourage proper waste disposal.
Hypothesis
If a trash bin is equipped with automated lid opening and smart segregation features using the
Arduino ,then it will reduce the contact based waste disposals and encourage waste sorting.
Background Research
Waste management is a growing challenge , especially in urban areas. Traditional bins requires
manual contact increasing the health risks .My automation through sensors , microcontrollers
and motors offers a modern solution. Arduino ,open source platform is ideal for prototyping due to
it’s affordability and flexibility.
Variables
2
. Independent variable -distance from sensors (when a person approaches)
. Dependent variable – the lids movement (whether it opens or not)
. Control variable -types of sensors (Ultrasonic sensor eg)
-distance at which the sensor triggers
-Power supply voltage
-Size and design of the dustbin
Materials
-Arduino Uno
-Ultrasonic sensor
-Servo motor
-Jumper wires
-Battery pack
-Breadboard and plastic trash bin
Procedure
1. Connect the ultrasonic sensor to the Arduino.
2. Program the Arduino to detect proximity and control the motor.
3. Mount the servo motor on the trash bin lid.
4. Test the sensors response time and distance .
5. Secure all component on the bin.
6. Test the entire system with different distances.
7. Record observations and troubleshoot issues.
Timeline
Week Task
1 Identifying a real time problem and background research
2 Research ,Scientific Understanding and ideation
3
3 Design , planning and engineering goals
4 Reflection ,Engineering limitations and future plans
5 Report writing and final adjustments
Data Collection
-Record the distance at which the lid opens.
-Measure the time taken to respond and close.
-Collect user feedback through a short survey on hygiene and convenience.
Safety and Ethical Considerations
-Ensures all connections are insulated to prevent short circuits
-Use proper handling techniques when cutting or gluing materials
-Maintain ethical standards by collecting data anonymously and with consent