Weekend projects: Chicken Squisher 3000
19 hours ago
- #DIY
- #Chicken Coop
- #Automation
- Built a walk-in chicken coop designed to withstand grizzlies, mountain lions, and harsh winters.
- Coop features include double walls, double-pane windows, electric outlets, and an electric fence.
- Regretted not initially including an automatic inner door for the nesting area.
- Developed a DIY automatic door system using a worm gear motor and simple electronics.
- Motor operates at 12V, 30 RPM, with 35 kg·cm stall torque, coupled to an 8 mm stainless steel rod.
- Control circuit includes a photoresistor for light sensing and a microcontroller for operation.
- Microcontroller adjusts motor speed to avoid startling chickens and ensures reliable operation.
- System uses a Texas Instruments DRV8231 motor driver for current sensing and safety.
- Light sensing triggers door opening at dawn and closing at dusk with hysteresis to prevent erratic behavior.
- No position sensing; door has physical limits to prevent damage.
- Addresses concerns about chickens getting stranded, dirt obstruction, and safety features.