Arduino Cup-Flipping Robot Prototype
Budget: $30 – $250 USD
I’m building a small, self-contained Arduino gadget that can roll up to a standard cup, sense when it’s in position, and flip the cup over—all without any human input once it’s switched on. To keep things streamlined the control loop must be fully automated; no remote handsets or manual toggles in the workflow.
Detection method
A photocell sensor is my preferred way to recognise the cup’s presence. As soon as light reflection or shadow change confirms the cup is directly ahead, the device should halt, trigger the actuator, and tip the cup.
Power and footprint
Everything needs to run off a rechargeable battery pack so the design stays portable. Please size the motors, driver, and any voltage regulators accordingly and include advice on capacity versus run time.
What I expect from you
• Clean, well-commented Arduino sketch handling sensor input, movement logic, and actuator control
• Circuit schematic (Fritzing, Eagle, or equivalent) plus a concise bill of materials that’s easy to source online
• Mechanical design for the flipping mechanism—simple servo arm, geared lever, or any compact approach you think best
• Short assembly guide or photos so I can reproduce your build
Acceptance check
When I upload the sketch and follow your wiring guide, the robot should:
1. Drive forward on a tabletop.
2. Detect a cup with the photocell and stop within roughly 2 cm.
3. Activate the mechanism and flip the cup 180°.
4. Reset itself to be ready for the next run after a brief delay.
If you already have a prototype or relevant video demo, include it in your bid—it will weigh heavily in my decision.
Detection method
A photocell sensor is my preferred way to recognise the cup’s presence. As soon as light reflection or shadow change confirms the cup is directly ahead, the device should halt, trigger the actuator, and tip the cup.
Power and footprint
Everything needs to run off a rechargeable battery pack so the design stays portable. Please size the motors, driver, and any voltage regulators accordingly and include advice on capacity versus run time.
What I expect from you
• Clean, well-commented Arduino sketch handling sensor input, movement logic, and actuator control
• Circuit schematic (Fritzing, Eagle, or equivalent) plus a concise bill of materials that’s easy to source online
• Mechanical design for the flipping mechanism—simple servo arm, geared lever, or any compact approach you think best
• Short assembly guide or photos so I can reproduce your build
Acceptance check
When I upload the sketch and follow your wiring guide, the robot should:
1. Drive forward on a tabletop.
2. Detect a cup with the photocell and stop within roughly 2 cm.
3. Activate the mechanism and flip the cup 180°.
4. Reset itself to be ready for the next run after a brief delay.
If you already have a prototype or relevant video demo, include it in your bid—it will weigh heavily in my decision.