Automatic fish feeder

🐠 Automatic Fish Feeder - DIY & Smart 🛠

✨ Overview

Never worry about forgetting to feed your fish again! This automatic fish feeder keeps your aquarium well-fed whether you're on vacation or just a bit forgetful.

➡ Compatible with Arduino & ESP32, making automation easy.
➡ Powered by a NEMA 17 stepper motor for precise food dispensing, whether you're using flakes or pellets (small or large).
➡ Built with 608ZZ ball bearings, eliminating plastic-on-plastic friction, ensuring longer durability and smooth operation.

🔧 Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and smart aquarium automation!

📦 Required Materials

🛠 Electronics

• 1 NEMA 17 stepper motor
• Arduino or ESP32

🔩 Hardware & Fasteners

• 3 M3 heat-set inserts (optional)
• 3 M3 x 10mm screws
• 6 M3 x 6mm screws
• 2 M3 hex nuts
• 2 608ZZ ball bearings

🎨 Printing Settings

🌀 Auger Screw
✔ Orientation: Vertical
✔ Supports only on the horizontal face (avoid supports along the entire length)
✔ Large brim for better bed adhesion

🏗 Main Block
✔ Orientation: Vertical
✔ Requires supports, but this ensures clean circular surfaces for optimal fit

🔧 Assembly Instructions

💡 Heads up: Assembly may require some force, but once set up, it's rock solid!

1 Insert the ball bearings ⚙

• A hammer or vise may help to fit them properly.

2 Install the M3 inserts (optional) 🔥

• Use a soldering iron to set them in place securely.

3 Mount the motor ⚡

• Attach the NEMA 17 stepper motor to its mount.

4 Assemble the main block 🔩

• The screws are deliberately tight, not for strength but to keep the design compact and avoid unnecessary bulk.

5 Install the auger screw 🌀

• Press firmly until you get an initial movement, then pause to let trapped air escape.
• Repeat the process in steps until the auger is fully inserted.
• ⚠ Be careful not to break it! The fit is tight to prevent play, ensuring a secure and precise rotation.

6 Attach the closing piece 🔒

• Secure it with 3 screws, and you're done!

💾 Code & Customization

The code is not included… because it’s more fun to program it yourself! 😏

💡 Need modifications?
If this model doesn't quite fit your needs, feel free to ask in the comments or remix it!

✅ Why Choose This Model?

✔ Ball bearings for zero wear
✔ Tight fit for precise operation
✔ Compatible with different food sizes
✔ Compact & optimized design
✔ Never worry about feeding your fish again!

🔹 No more guilt about forgetting to feed your fish! This feeder works with any type of fish food and ensures reliable feeding. And if you, like me, enjoy watching your fish eat, nothing stops you from treating them manually every now and then. 😉

Happy printing, and bon appétit to your fish! 🐟🐠