Mission Description
- Context: City waste bins overflowing create litter issues. Implement a Trash Bin Fill-Level Alert to notify when a bin is almost full, so it can be emptied timely – a smart city solution.
- Task: Take an ultrasonic sensor and mount it on top of a model trash bin looking downward (similar to the water tank project but for trash). Program the Arduino to measure the distance to the top of the trash pile. When the distance gets small (meaning the bin is nearly full), trigger an alert: perhaps light a red LED on the bin and send a simulated notification (you can output to serial or an LCD “Bin Full at Location A”). If the bin is less than half full, maybe show a green LED to indicate all is fine. Optionally, use a LoRa or Wi-Fi module to send data if available, but basic indicators are fine.
- Expected Output: A smart trash can monitor. In demonstration, as you fill the model bin with material (or move an object upward inside it), once it passes a threshold (say 80% full), the device reacts – a buzzer beeps or red LED turns on, showing “Bin Full” message. When you empty the bin (distance increases), the alert turns off and maybe a green “OK” light is on. This mission addresses a community cleanliness problem and illustrates the concept of IoT in waste management.
Student Goal
Take an ultrasonic sensor and mount it on top of a model trash bin looking downward (similar to the water
tank project but for trash). Program the Arduino to measure the distance to the top of the trash pile. When the
distance gets small (meaning the bin is nearly full), trigger an alert: perhaps light a red LED on the bin and send a
simulated notification (you can output to serial or an LCD “Bin Full at Location A”). If the bin is less than half full,
maybe show a green LED to indicate all is fine. Optionally, use a LoRa or Wi-Fi module
to send data if available, but basic indicators are fine.
Mission Information
Status
Open
Deadline
December 31, 2025
Category
School
Grade
G10 — Senior Robotics Missions
Rewards
Recognition, Internships, Prizes
Presented by
Ready to Join This Mission?
Take on the challenge and make a difference with Trash Bin Fill-Level Alert.