PewfectFeed

Overview

PawfectFeed is a fully automated pet feeder designed to deliver precise meal portions at scheduled times using a custom mechanical and electronic system. Built around a dual-PCB control architecture, the feeder uses a load cell, sensors, and a stepper-driven auger to dispense accurate food amounts while preventing jams and ensuring consistent operation.

The system includes a real-time clock for scheduling, a clear LCD interface for user input, and a transparent hopper for easy visual monitoring. A custom-designed enclosure and 3D-printed internal mechanics enable smooth food flow, while software logic ensures the motor stops exactly when the correct amount of food is dispensed.

This project demonstrates the ability to integrate mechanical engineering, electronic design, firmware development, and rapid prototyping into a complete, turnkey device. PawfectFeed provides peace of mind for pet owners by ensuring their pets never miss a meal. even when they’re not home.

Key Features

Precision Portion Control using a load cell and motor-position feedback
Custom Dual-PCB System for compact electronics integration
Scheduled Feeding with internal RTC timing
Jam Detection to prevent incomplete feeding cycles
Low Food Detection through sensor feedback and software logic
LCD Display Interface for easy configuration
Smooth Auger Mechanism designed in SolidWorks for reliable dispensing
3D-Printed Enclosure & Components optimized for prototyping
Safe Motor Control with automatic cutoff after target weight is reached
Quiet Operation for home environments

Challenge

The main challenge was to create a compact and reliable feeding mechanism capable of dispensing consistent, accurate portions from different sizes of dry pet food. The auger needed to rotate smoothly without clogging, while the electronics had to fit into a small enclosure. Additionally, the system required precise timing, jam detection, and a simple interface for users, all while staying low-cost and fully prototype-friendly.

Solution

We engineered a mechanism supported by a stepper motor and metal coupler to deliver smooth, controlled rotation. A load-cell feedback loop ensured accurate weight dispensing, and the dual-PCB design separated power/control functions to save internal space and simplify wiring. A real-time clock provided dependable scheduling, while firmware logic handled jam detection, motor control, and meal-size calibration. The prototype was fabricated using 3D printing for the enclosure and mechanical parts, enabling fast iteration and refinement. The final system combines mechanical precision, electronics reliability, and intuitive user control.