I think I could use a toilet paper dispenser.
The main outline of my idea is to build a case that holds the roll of paper. This case will dispense a predetermined length of paper that is enough to get the job done based off of preset user profiles. Possibly used for potty training or to keep a toddler from wasting the roll.
Additional things such as automatic roll changing, finger print recognition, and an empty roll warning would be great additions to this project.
How I thought about doing it: Use a micro controller connected with a keypad for passcode input, using a DC motor that operates until an IR sensor (located lower down the wall) is activated at the required length. But if the person grabs the paper too soon, they could get more than needed before the sensor was activated. I think binding would be an issue, if the paper started winding around the push motor's shaft. Attaching the motor to the roll holder could prevent these problems, but how do you accurately measure rotations equivalent to length? Maybe a sensor that keeps track of the diameter of the roll and can calculate the length on the fly??
Message was edited by: Terence King
