The world is currently facing a pandemic that has affected every aspect of our lives. From the way we work, study, and even interact with others, COVID-19 has drastically changed our daily routine. Amidst all these changes, one thing that has become an essential part of our routine is hand sanitizers. Hand sanitizers have become one of the most crucial items in our everyday lives. They help us stay safe by eliminating germs and bacteria that could potentially harm us. However, with the rise of the virus, the demand for hand sanitizers has increased, making it challenging to find them in stores. As a graphic designer, I decided to take matters into my own hands and craft an automatic hand sanitizer dispenser. In this article, I will share my experience and guide you on how to make your very own automatic hand sanitizer dispenser.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of crafting an automatic hand sanitizer dispenser, let's first understand why it's essential to have one. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective way to protect yourself from COVID-19. However, when soap and water are not available, the CDC recommends using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Additionally, hand sanitizers are an effective way to eliminate germs and bacteria that could potentially harm us. It's crucial to have a hand sanitizer dispenser that is easily accessible and automatic to ensure that everyone who comes in contact with it can use it safely.
Materials Needed
The first step in crafting your automatic hand sanitizer dispenser is to gather all the materials you'll need. You'll need the following:
1. Soap Dispenser
You'll need a soap dispenser that you can easily refill. You can purchase a soap dispenser online or find one in your local store. Ensure that the dispenser has a nozzle that can accommodate the thickness of hand sanitizer.
2. Ultrasonic Sensor
The ultrasonic sensor is what makes the dispenser automatic. The sensor detects when a hand is placed under the nozzle and triggers the dispenser to dispense the hand sanitizer.
3. Microcontroller Board
The microcontroller board is the brain of the dispenser. It controls the ultrasonic sensor and the dispenser motor. You can use an Arduino board or any other microcontroller board that you're comfortable working with.
4. Motor
The motor is what dispenses the hand sanitizer. Ensure that the motor you choose is compatible with the voltage of your microcontroller board.
5. Power Supply
You'll need a power supply to power your microcontroller board and motor. You can use a battery or a power adapter. Ensure that the power supply you choose is compatible with the voltage requirements of your board and motor.
Assembling the Dispenser
Now that you have all your materials, it's time to assemble your automatic hand sanitizer dispenser. Follow the steps below:
1. Mount the Ultrasonic Sensor
Mount the ultrasonic sensor above the soap dispenser nozzle. Ensure that the sensor is facing downwards and is at a distance of about 3-4 inches from the nozzle. The distance can be adjusted based on the size of your dispenser.
2. Connect the Ultrasonic Sensor to the Microcontroller Board
Connect the ultrasonic sensor to the microcontroller board using jumper wires. Ensure that the connections are secure and in the correct pins.
3. Connect the Motor to the Microcontroller Board
Connect the motor to the microcontroller board using jumper wires. Ensure that the connections are secure and in the correct pins.
4. Connect the Power Supply to the Microcontroller Board
Connect the power supply to the microcontroller board using jumper wires. Ensure that the connections are secure and in the correct pins.
5. Program the Microcontroller Board
Program the microcontroller board using the Arduino IDE or any other programming software that you're comfortable working with. The code should read the distance measured by the ultrasonic sensor and trigger the motor to dispense the hand sanitizer when a hand is detected.
6. Test the Dispenser
Test the dispenser by placing your hand under the sensor. The motor should dispense the hand sanitizer. Adjust the distance and code if necessary.
Maintaining the Dispenser
Now that you have your automatic hand sanitizer dispenser, it's essential to maintain it properly. Here are a few tips:
1. Refill the Dispenser
Ensure that the dispenser is always refilled with hand sanitizer. It's crucial to keep the dispenser filled to ensure that it's always ready for use.
2. Clean the Dispenser
Clean the dispenser regularly to ensure that it's hygienic. Use a damp cloth to wipe the dispenser and remove any residue.
3. Test the Dispenser
Test the dispenser regularly to ensure that it's working correctly. Place your hand under the sensor to check if the motor dispenses the hand sanitizer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having an automatic hand sanitizer dispenser is essential in these times. It's an effective way to ensure that everyone who comes in contact with it can use it safely. The process of crafting an automatic hand sanitizer dispenser may seem daunting, but with the right materials and a little bit of patience, it's achievable. Additionally, maintaining your dispenser is crucial to ensure that it's always ready for use. I hope that this article has been informative and has inspired you to craft your very own automatic hand sanitizer dispenser. Stay safe!
| Materials Needed | Steps to Assemble the Dispenser | Maintenance Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Soap Dispenser | 1. Mount the Ultrasonic Sensor | 1. Refill the Dispenser |
| 2. Ultrasonic Sensor | 2. Connect the Ultrasonic Sensor to the Microcontroller Board | 2. Clean the Dispenser |
| 3. Microcontroller Board | 3. Connect the Motor to the Microcontroller Board | 3. Test the Dispenser |
| 4. Motor | 4. Connect the Power Supply to the Microcontroller Board | |
| 5. Power Supply | 5. Program the Microcontroller Board |