NutelBOT

Project Title: "2-Axis Nutella Spreading Machine"

Description:

I have designed an innovative 2-axis machine, with the aim of revolutionizing the way we enjoy our beloved Nutella on bread. The device I created uses a syringe extruder to distribute Nutella on bread in a uniform and precise manner.

The heart of the system I developed is an LED matrix that scans the shape of the bread. This technology allows the machine to adapt the movement of the extruder to the specific shape of the bread, ensuring optimal distribution of Nutella over the entire surface.
The way it works is very simple. First of all LEDs turn on, then a photoresistor mounted in front of the nozzle reads a signal, whenever the signal read is HIGH the light from the LED beneath the nozzle isn't being blocked by the bread therefore the extruder is disabled, on the other hand when the photoresistor reads LOW, the bread is obscuring the LED so the extruder is triggered.
The extruder I designed is powered by a syringe filled with Nutella. To facilitate the exit of Nutella from the extruder nozzle, I integrated a resistor that heats the Nutella to the ideal temperature. This system not only makes extrusion smoother, but also improves the consistency of the Nutella spread on the bread.

All the movements are automatic, the bot starts from the right side and then moves left until it is stopped by a limit switch that redirects it to the right where another limit switch does the same. This cycle repeats 10 times in order to cover about the length of a slice of bread.

The user has to only manage 2 buttons: one lets you start the process while the other resets al the electronic components, just in case.

For this project I used 3 Arduinos (1 Leonardo, 2 Nano). You can find the code in the project files.

1. Arduino Leonardo (named: TY; file name: DEG.ino) is the main one which runs the code that manages the cycle. It communicates with other Arduinos through the I2C Protocol (Leonardo is the Master, Nanos are the slaves).
2. Arduino Nano TXRX (named: TXRX; file name: TXRX.ino) is the board that manages the Y axis stepper motor and one of the two stepper motors that move the X axis (the conveyor belt).
3. The last Arduino Nano (named: YX; file name: YX.ino) moves the extruder and the other conveyor belt stepper motor
   For more information about the code do not hesitate to contact me.
   The project I have realized represents a perfect solution for those who, like me, love Nutella spread evenly on their bread. With my 2-axis machine, every slice of bread will be a masterpiece of sweetness and precision.

I hope you enjoy this project as much as I do! Have fun and buon appetito!

August 2024
Updates:

1. I introduced a servo motor under the nozzle that prevents Nutella from dripping when the extruder is disabled.
2. I installed a gearbox over the extruder that helps the motor extrude Nutella with a reduction ratio of 1:4. This helps having a slower axis that can generate the right amount of pression inside the syringe (before the update the motor spun to fast even while on the minimum speed setting). This also reduces the amount of Nutella on the bread and makes it better and smother.
3. I installed an O-ring inside the syringe that prevents Nutella from going up the side of the piston, as shown in "Video n.3" after using the syringe the walls are now very clean as the Nutella has been extruded from the nozzle instead of going up.

Version 2.0 coming soon!