LEGO MINDSTORMS Pet Feeder Version 2.0

Introducing the new LEGO MINDSTORMS Pet Feeder Version 2.0! This creation is an improvement to its predecessor. It's the same device you know and love, but now it is better then ever! What's new you ask? Let's take a look!

What's New:

• Improved Internal Mechanisms
• Improved Exterior Design
• Improved Software Adjustments
• Performance Enhancements
• Button Stability
• Hinged Flip Open Cover Makes Loading Food Easier
• Easier Access To Batteries
• Doesn’t Clog As Easily

The device still works the same and is made entirely out of LEGO bricks and uses 1 servo motor, 1 touch sensor and 1 EV3 intelligent brick. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

Software Needed:

LEGO Digital Designer Software (Free)

LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Software (Free)

Files Needed:

Pet Feeder V2.0 Instructions

Pet Feeder V2.0 LEGO Digital Designer File

EV3 Pet Feeder V2.0 Program

You will also need a LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Kit as well as these parts.

Before starting, you will need to be sure you have the necessary pieces to build this. Refer to the "Lego Pet Feeder Parts List" PDF to be sure you have the necessary pieces. You will also need a LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Kit.

The "LEGO MINDSTORMS Pet Feeder V2.0 Building Instructions" PDF provides the step-by-step building instructions for this LEGO creation. If you would like animated 3D instructions, you should download the "Lego Pet Feeder V2.0.lxf" file. This file can be opened with "LEGO Digital Designer", which is available free for download here. The LDD (LEGO Digital Designer) file provides 3D, animated building steps. After you have made sure you have all of the necessary LEGO pieces, you may begin assembling the feeder as described in LDD file or the PDF. Then connect the motor to "Port A" and connect the touch sensor to "Port 1" using the cables included in the LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 Kit.

To add the pet feeder program to your EV3 Intelligent Brick:

1. Install the EV3 software which is available free for download here.

2. Download the "Pet Feeder Program V2.0.ev3" file from this step.

3. Plug in your EV3 Intelligent Brick to your computer.

4. Open the "Pet Feeder Program V2.0.ev3" file with the EV3 software.

5. Download the "Pet Feeder Program V2.0.ev3" to your EV3 Intelligent Brick.

This method requires that your pet already knows the "paw" command (putting his/her paw in your hand when you say "paw"). Before proceeding make sure that your LEGO MINDSTORMS Pet Feeder is working properly and is filled with pet food. (To load the pet feeder, take the black cap off of the machine and fill with food). Below the cap are white walls that conceal the pet food, if you would like the feeder to hold more food, you can build the white walls up higher.

Training your pet:

1. Hold your hand next to the button while giving the paw command.

2. Make sure your pet is hitting the button and your hand.

3. Repeat as necessary slowly transitioning your pet's paw to the button instead of your hand.

4. After you have done this a few times, your pet should be aware that when he/she presses the button he/she will be rewarded with food (being dispensed from the pet feeder).