An Anti-Dog Warning System for Your Trash Can
MN Makeer's Arduino setup automatically scolds his dog when rummaging through the garage.
YouTuber MN Maker has a beagle named Bugsy that likes to get into the trash can. It’s a rather clever animal, and pushes the lid open with its nose to access whatever “treats” are inside. Bugsy does get out of the garbage when scolded, so in order to keep refuse secure, MN Maker implemented an Arduino-powered automatic scolding rig.
The new setup adds a microswitch to the can, which when released means it's open, and Bugsy is potentially snooping around. After a short delay, the Arduino triggers various dog-disturbing phrases via a microSD card and LM386-based speaker assembly. The delay is presumably so humans can quickly throw garbage into the can without being reprimanded, while telling the dog to get down when it’s been fishing around with its snout for several seconds.
Various phrases and sounds are tried on Bugsy in the video above, along with its reaction. “Bugsy get out of there” seems to work well, as do the sounds of air horns and an invitation to go to the vet. Threats from an IRS robo-call, however, seem to be largely ignored, and it seems to have even figured out that there’s no scolding if it gets its head in and out quickly. Apparently the trash can battle will continue on, but hopefully MN Maker will eventually get the upper hand.
