last modified: October 23, 2025
Posted on 2021-04-03— 3D Printing, Projects
I walk through the sensor board I designed for the pet feeder, explaining the position sensor, four fill sensors, and why component choices (like the 100kΩ resistor) matter. I keep the design simple and practical — read the full post for schematics, measurements, and ordering details.
Posted on 2021-04-02— 3D Printing, Build
I solved stray light hitting my pet-feeder's fill sensors by filling 3D-printed slots with black, low-viscosity epoxy. Using a syringe I achieved a nearly flush, cleanable surface that keeps measurements accurate. Read the full post for materials, step-by-step photos, and a short demo video if you'd like to try it.
Posted on 2021-03-31— 3D Printing, Fail, Projects
I ran into unexpected problems testing the fill-sensor panel: light was travelling through the printed turntable and confusing one sensor. I walk through how I diagnosed the issue, which fixes failed, and two practical approaches I’m testing — read on for the full troubleshooting and print updates.
Posted on 2021-03-27— 3D Printing, Projects
I updated my pet-feeder's drive with a TMC2209 SilentStepStick and a 17HS19 stepper to get near‑silent operation and run from 5V. I built a simple Pico-based controller, adjusted gearing for speed, and tested sensors. Read the full update for photos, choices and test notes.
Posted on 2021-03-22— 3D Printing, Build
I show how to adapt a MicroMaTch SMD connector to a breadboard using a striped prototyping board in under five minutes. I walk through cutting, scraping copper, and soldering a pin header so you can quickly test or swap modules—read the full post for step-by-step photos and tips.
Posted on 2021-03-21— 3D Printing, Projects
I tested the pet feeder’s turntable position sensor and share my measurements, circuit details, MicroPython test code, and a short video of the controller in action. Read on for calibration tips, resistor choices, and next steps for compartment sensors if you want the full tests and sources.
Posted on 2021-03-15— 3D Printing, Common
I've assembled the new input boards for the pet feeder and I'm testing the sensors—940nm IR LEDs paired with phototransistors. I share photos of the board top and underside, the turntable mounting, and revision notes. Please read on if you'd like to see the test results and next steps.
Posted on 2021-03-14— 3D Printing, Build
I migrated several servers into a compact 19-inch rack and reworked my Arduino Uno fan controller to fit a 1U RND enclosure. I show choosing the case, adding a rotary encoder and filter circuits, testing signals, and 3D-printing panels. Read the full post for STL files and build notes.
Posted on 2021-02-27— 3D Printing, Projects
I designed a decorative, sturdy modular box built from 3D-printed parts, 5mm plywood and wood screws. The post guides you through cutting, printing, assembly and a simple part calculator to scale sizes in 60mm steps. If you enjoy hands-on projects, read the full tutorial to build and customize one.
Posted on 2021-02-18— 3D Printing, Projects
In Part 6 I walk you through the input panel for my 3D-printed pet feeder: the rotary encoder, LEDs, knob and the example PCB with wiring, filters and level shifting. I include printable files, Gerbers and ordering tips — read the full post for downloads, schematics and testing notes.
Posted on 2021-02-10— 3D Printing, Build
I needed a robust way to reuse a 14-pin header on different breadboards, so I designed a simple two-part 3D-printed enclosure, soldered a ribbon cable, and set the header in epoxy. Read on for my quick step-by-step guide and the downloadable design files if you'd like to try it.
Posted on 2021-01-30— 3D Printing, Projects
In this fifth installment I print the turntable and walk through my back-panel options, sensor slots, and recommended print settings. I share filament tips, Fusion360 and STL choices, and simple assembly notes. If you're following the series, read on for files, settings, and practical guidance.
Posted on 2021-01-24— 3D Printing, Projects
In part 4 I show how I insert the insets, assemble the enclosure panels, and print and assemble the lids and knobs. I also cover the front panel (fits Adafruit 20×4 or can be customized), LED covers, and recommended PETG print settings. Please read the full post for files and steps.
Posted on 2021-01-19— 3D Printing, Projects
I've released a set of 500 3D-printable boxes decorated with smileys, each with two lid options and clear part-numbering to pick inner dimensions. I share printing tips, material recommendations, and a GitHub link for STL downloads—please read the full post for files and printing guidance.
Posted on 2021-01-17— 3D Printing, Projects
I created a set of 500 printable boxes with a random line pattern—each box unique, sized 35–120 mm with two lid fits per size. I cover part naming, printing tips, and where to download the STLs. If you use 3D printing, please read the full post for files and guidance.
Posted on 2021-01-13— 3D Printing, Projects
In Part 3 I print three enclosure panels and the rotary turntable for my 3D-printed cat/pet feeder. I share the STL files, PETG print settings, and notes on warping and difficulty. If you're following the series or planning your own print, read the full post for detailed tips and links to the turntable guide.
Posted on 2021-01-11— 3D Printing, Projects
I tried parametric design and published a set of heart-decorated 3D-print boxes in 500 sizes (35–120 mm). I explain part numbering, two lid fits, and printing tips, and I've shared the STLs on GitHub. Read the full post to find the exact size and download files for your printer.
Posted on 2021-01-05— 3D Printing, Projects
I walk you through assembling the gearbox for my 3D-printed cat feeder, step by step. I cover inserting insets, bearings, grub screws, and fitting the NEMA17 motor so the turntable runs smoothly. If you printed the parts from Part 1, follow along — read the full post for photos and testing tips.
Posted on 2021-01-04— 3D Printing, Fun
I experimented with embedding whole PCBs, batteries and coils inside 3D prints to seal electronics invisibly in PETG parts. I explain pausing prints to insert components, then resuming, and share pros, cons and practical tips. Read the full post if you'd like step-by-step ideas and precautions.
Posted on 2021-01-02— 3D Printing, Projects
I'll walk you step-by-step through printing the mechanical parts of a fully functional, programmable cat/pet feeder. I share STL files, material and printer recommendations, and parts lists — all open-source on GitHub. If you have a 3D printer and want a challenging build, read the full post to get started.