Smart Trash Bin System with IoT Integration

An Arduino-based smart trash bin system with automatic lid operation, fill-level monitoring, and IoT capabilities using ESP32.

This project automates waste disposal and monitoring by combining sensor technology and IoT connectivity. The system detects user proximity to open and close the lid automatically using a servo motor, ensuring hands-free operation for improved hygiene. Dual ultrasonic sensors measure both external proximity and internal bin fill levels, providing accurate and real-time monitoring.

The ESP32 microcontroller enables WiFi connectivity, allowing the system to send instant email notifications when the bin reaches a predefined fill threshold. An OLED display presents live status updates, including fill percentage and connection status, directly on the device.

With modular, configurable code, the system can be adapted for various bin sizes and environments. It’s suitable for smart homes, offices, or public spaces seeking automated, contactless waste management and remote monitoring.

Features

• 👥 Proximity detection using HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor
• 🚪 Servo-controlled automatic lid opening/closing
• 📊 Real-time fill level monitoring
• 📺 OLED display for system status
• 📧 Email alerts via Gmail integration
• 📶 WiFi connectivity using ESP32

Hardware Components

Component	Quantity
ESP32 Development Board	1
HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor	2
SG90 Micro Servo Motor	1
0.96" OLED Display	1
330Ω Resistor	2
Jumper Wires	-
5V Power Supply	1

Circuit Diagram

Coming Soon

Pin Connections:

Component	ESP32 GPIO
External Trig	GPIO5
External Echo	GPIO18
Internal Trig	GPIO19
Internal Echo	GPIO21
Servo Control	GPIO13
OLED SDA	GPIO4
OLED SCL	GPIO15

Installation

1. Clone repository:

   git clone https://github.com/Customize5773/SmartTrashBin-Arduino.git

2. Install Arduino IDE (1.8.x or newer)
3. Add ESP32 board support:
   • Add URL to Preferences: https://dl.espressif.com/dl/package_esp32_index.json
   • Install ESP32 package via Boards Manager
4. Install required libraries:
   • ESP32Servo
   • NewPing
   • Adafruit SSD1306
   • ESP Mail Client

Configuration

1. Update WiFi credentials in TrashBin-Code.ino:

   #define WIFI_SSID "your_wifi_ssid"
   #define WIFI_PASSWORD "your_wifi_password"

2. Configure email settings:

   #define AUTHOR_EMAIL "your_email@gmail.com"
   #define AUTHOR_PASSWORD "your_app_password"  // Use Gmail App Password
   #define RECIPIENT_EMAIL "recipient@email.com"

3. Adjust system parameters as needed:

   #define BIN_HEIGHT_CM 40        // Actual bin height
   #define FILL_THRESHOLD_PERCENT 80
   #define PROXIMITY_THRESHOLD_CM 30

Calibration

1. Measure actual bin height from internal sensor to bottom
2. Update BIN_HEIGHT_CM with measured value
3. Test proximity detection range with PROXIMITY_THRESHOLD_CM
4. Generate Gmail App Password if using 2FA:
   • Visit: https://myaccount.google.com/apppasswords

Usage

1. Power on the system
2. Approaching within 30cm triggers lid opening
3. OLED displays real-time fill percentage
4. Email alert sent when fill level ≥80%
5. Lid automatically closes after 5 seconds

Troubleshooting

Issue	Solution
WiFi connection failed	Verify credentials, check router
Email not sending	Use App Password, check SMTP
Sensor inaccuracies	Calibrate bin height, clean sensors
Servo jitter	Ensure stable power supply

Contributing

1. Fork the repository
2. Create feature branch: git checkout -b feature/new-feature
3. Commit changes: git commit -am 'Add new feature'
4. Push to branch: git push origin feature/new-feature
5. Submit pull request

License

MIT License

Acknowledgements

• NewPing library by Tim Eckel
• Adafruit for SSD1306 library
• ESP Mail Client library