Final-project_group 3 Ite
Final-project_group 3 Ite
Project Overview
Objective: Design a simple electronics project that addresses a real-world engineering problem aligned with a
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). This project will apply core concepts from the course and demonstrate
the engineering design process.
Objectives:
Design and implement an Arduino-based automated waste segregation system that classifies waste
into biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and recyclable categories to improve waste management efficiency
and promote sustainable practices.
1. Develop an automated system to accurately sort waste using sensors (e.g., infrared sensors and metal
detectors) and mechanical components such as conveyor belts and robotic arms.
2. Minimize human intervention and errors in the waste sorting process by automating the
categorization of materials, improving waste segregation accuracy.
3. Promote sustainable waste management practices by encouraging proper recycling and reducing
environmental impact through more efficient waste handling systems.
● Methodology
Design Approach
To develop the ECOSORT: Automated Waste Segregation System, the following key steps were
taken, using various tools and components to build the system:
An Arduino-based system for automating waste segregation into metals, non-metals and wet
categories.
Tools:
Prototype Assembly:
○ An Arduino was arranged onto a plywood base, while necessary tools like the stepper motor, sensors,
and others were securely attached to the plywood. Then, it had to connect the wiring while
maintaining proper connections between Arduino, stepper motor, IR sensor, proximity switch, servo
motor, among other elements. With the system assembled, the stepper motor was attached and
aligned to control the conveyor belt mechanism, while the sensors were positioned for waste
detection. Everything was properly secured and connected to prepare the system for testing to ensure
that it functioned properly and sorted the waste accurately.
Programming:
○ Developed code to control the motors based on sensor inputs, using Arduino IDE.
○ Integrated sensor logic to activate sorting based on material type, and the buzzer for feedback.
○ Conducted tests to ensure accurate waste sorting, adjusting sensor sensitivity and motor movements
as needed.
Prototype Description:
For the ECOSORT: Automated Waste Segregation System project, we will create a high-fidelity
prototype. The Arduino-based automated waste segregation system is designed to efficiently sort waste into
metal. non-metal and wet categories. The system integrates sensors, such as infrared and metal detectors,
to identify and classify waste based on its material composition. Once detected, a mechanical arm or
conveyor system directs the waste to the appropriate bin. This automated process reduces reliance on
manual segregation, minimizes sorting errors, and promotes proper disposal practices. By combining
hardware components with programmed algorithms, the system ensures accurate and sustainable waste
management, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved waste handling efficiency.
The ECOSORT: Automated Waste Segregation System prototype successfully met the main
objectives outlined in the project.
The system was able to efficiently classify waste into metal, non-metal, and wet categories using a
combination of infrared and metal detectors. The integration of these sensors allowed the system to
accurately identify and sort materials based on their composition, achieving the goal of automating waste
sorting. Additionally, the mechanical arm or conveyor system effectively directed waste into the appropriate
bins, minimizing human intervention and errors, which directly addressed the objective of reducing manual
sorting and improving waste segregation accuracy.
However, there were some challenges encountered during the development. One of the difficulties
was calibrating the sensors for accurate material detection, as the system sometimes had difficulty
distinguishing between similar materials, particularly in cases where the waste objects were small or not
clearly defined. Additionally, ensuring the reliability of the mechanical sorting mechanism, such as the
conveyor belt and arm, proved to be a complex task, requiring adjustments to the system to enhance
movement precision and efficiency.
Despite these challenges, the prototype demonstrated significant progress toward promoting
sustainable waste management practices. By automating the sorting process, the system encourages proper
recycling and reduces the environmental impact of improper waste disposal. This aligns with SDG 12:
Responsible Consumption and Production, as it promotes more efficient waste handling and encourages
responsible waste segregation and recycling, contributing to a cleaner environment and supporting
sustainable communities. The project also indirectly supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
by offering a practical solution to improve urban waste management systems.
Project Deliverables
● Project Documentation (as stated above).
● Low-Fidelity Prototype:
Create a basic model showcasing your design's core functions using simple, accessible materials.
For those aiming for a higher grade, create a more detailed, functional model to showcase
advanced aspects of your design.
● Video Presentation (3 minutes): Record a brief video describing your project’s purpose and
demonstrating the functionality of the prototype. Upload this video to YouTube and provide the link
as part of your documentation.
● Elevator/Idea Pitch (1 minutes): Present a live, concise pitch during our gallery walk, summarizing
your project’s problem, solution, and SDG alignment.
● Gallery Walk Presentation: Display your prototype during the gallery walk to engage with peers
and receive feedback.
TOTAL