Introduction

How about using an old CD-ROM drive to create an automatic trash can for the electronics workbench?

Let's go for it!

Arduino

Hardware

You can find the list of hardware components for version 2 in the "Components" section.

Some considerations about the components used in this project:

• Arduino Nano V3 => I chose this board because I had one available, but other alternatives can also be used.
• IR Obstacle detector => Various obstacle or proximity sensors can perform this task.
• DC Motor => The DC motor and gears used in this project are the original components from the old DVD drive.

The Arduino schematics are available in the "Schematic and Layout" section.

Software

I used the Arduino IDE to develop the Arduino code, employing the following strategy:

• Upon system initiation, the DC motor activates to close the lid, ensuring that the trash can starts its operation in a closed state.
• When the obstacle detector senses a nearby object, the DC motor activates to open the lid.
• After a specified waiting period, if the obstacle detector no longer signals a nearby object, the DC motor activates to close the lid again.
• If, during the lid-closing process, the obstacle detector detects the presence of an object, the motor immediately reverses to interrupt the closing process and open the lid again.

Trash can setup

This is the original DVD drive, totally disassembled.

1/2 - The original disassembled DVD Drive Components

2/2 - The original disassembled DVD Drive Components

The original disassembled DVD Drive Components and the external metal box

The original external metal box used as the base of the Trash Can

I built an external box for the Trash Can using some parts of MDF.

The construction of the MDF box in progress

The completed and painted MDF box

I installed all the project components. In the initial test, I discovered that the original cover was too heavy for the motor. Consequently, I crafted a thinner and lighter alternative. Additionally, I found it beneficial to include an internal compartment for storing the trash, simplifying the cleaning process.

The end result is as follows.

1/5 - The finished Automatic Trash Can

2/5 - The finished Automatic Trash Can

3/5 - The finished Automatic Trash Can

4/5 - The finished Automatic Trash Can

5/5 - The finished Automatic Trash Can

The Automatic Trash Can in action

Show time! It's time to see the Automatic Trash Can in action.

The Automatic Trash Can in action

Final considerations

This project was remarkably straightforward, encompassing both hardware and software aspects, yet the final outcome was exceptionally gratifying. The trash bin operated flawlessly and demonstrated itself as a significant game-changer for various tasks around the workbench.