Coffee Pot Sensor with Light Indicator:

Introduction

Hello, my name is Lucas Furlong at OWL Computing, and I am thrilled to introduce my Coffee Pot Sensor project. Let’s make your coffee spot more exciting and interactive! This project uses an Arduino Uno, a relay shield, and a Grove infrared reflective sensor to detect the position of your coffee pot and light up your coffee station when the pot is not properly placed.

Brief Description of the Project

This project adds a fun and functional touch to your coffee station. The system uses an infrared sensor to detect the pot’s placement and a light indicator to create an engaging visual alert when the coffee pot is out of place.

Supplies

• Arduino Uno
  
• Relay Shield
  
• Grove Infrared Reflective Sensor
• Lighting Bolt LED light (purchased from Amazon)
• Additional components such as wires and connectors

Components and Specific Parts

• Arduino Uno: The microcontroller that serves as the brain of the project.
• Relay Shield: Used to control the light as a switch.
• Grove Infrared Reflective Sensor: Detects the position of the coffee pot.
• Light: A light purchased from Amazon to signal misplacement.

How I Put It Together

1. Wiring: The wiring was straightforward but had some challenges. The light had its own power source, which was spliced so the relay could act as a switch. The infrared sensor was mounted on the coffee pot and connected directly to the Arduino.
2. Code: The code is simple. The IR sensor checks for high or low power (1 or 0), indicating whether the coffee pot is in the correct position. If the pot is out of position, the light turns on; otherwise, the light remains off.

How to Set Up Your Own Version

1. Hardware Assembly:

• Mount the Grove infrared reflective sensor on the coffee pot.
• Connect the sensor to the Arduino.
• Wire the relay shield to the Arduino and the light, ensuring the relay acts as a switch for the light.

2. Coding:

• Write a simple code to check the sensor’s status and control the relay. The code should detect the coffee pot’s position and switch the light accordingly.
  

3. Testing:

• Test the setup by placing the coffee pot in and out of position and ensure the light reacts accordingly.

GitHub Repo for the Project

GitHub Repository