Motor choice and coupling

Using Arduino Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
1

Hello,

I would like to create an automated dispenser (think automated cat feeder). I would like to take a stepper motor (most likely with 5mm shaft) and connect it to this dispenser. I have two questions:

  1. Should I use a DC Motor or a Stepper Motor (it seems that servos are not good for this particular application)?

  2. How do I connect the motor to the dispenser. Any suggestions?

Any input is welcome.

Thanks,
Alexander

2

I think a stepper motor is a poor choice if you intend to have it permanently powered up - very wasteful of power - all you need is a suitable
gear-motor with a reduction ratio great enough to give you control via duration of powering the motor - rest of the time everything can go to sleep.

3

if the dispenser is the type that need to be turn 360* b4 it can dispense than a Hobby servo may or may not be the rite one for you but mybe this one could be your choice
http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/522 it does simplify alot of the setup you may need and the prgraming part might just be easy enough

4

This dispenser looks like it will work if you turn the handle back and forth and not necessarily in a continuous rotation. Assuming that's true then an RC servo would be perfect for it; the servo could be mounted on the side of the dispenser with a couple pull rods on the top/bottom of the handle.

5

Cats aint stupid - they'll soon work out how to hack the system :fearful: