Smart AI Dustbin Using ESP32-CAM for Automated Waste Management

📌 Project Overview

The Smart AI Dustbin is an intelligent waste management system designed to improve cleanliness and efficiency in smart cities, campuses, and public spaces. This project uses an ESP32-CAM module combined with AI-based image recognition to automatically detect the type of waste being disposed and control the dustbin mechanism accordingly. By reducing human contact and improving waste segregation, the system promotes hygienic and environmentally friendly waste disposal.

🎯 Problem Statement

Traditional dustbins require manual operation and lack waste segregation, leading to unhygienic conditions and inefficient recycling. In public places, improper waste disposal increases pollution and health risks. This project addresses these issues by introducing an automated, AI-powered dustbin that can detect waste and respond intelligently without human intervention.

💡 Proposed Solution

The Smart AI Dustbin uses a camera-based AI system to analyze incoming waste in real time. Once waste is detected:

The ESP32-CAM captures an image

AI logic processes the image to identify waste type

A motor mechanism is activated to open the appropriate bin section

The lid closes automatically after disposal

This ensures touch-free, smart, and efficient waste handling.

🧠 System Working Principle

The ESP32-CAM continuously monitors the waste entry area.

When an object is detected, an image is captured.

AI-based logic classifies the waste (basic classification).

The ESP32 sends control signals to a motor driver.

The dustbin lid opens automatically for disposal.

After a short delay, the lid closes to maintain hygiene.

🧰 Hardware Components Used

ESP32-CAM (AI Thinker) – Camera and main controller

Arduino Uno – Motor and control interface

ULN2003 Motor Driver – Drives stepper motor safely

Stepper Motor – Controls dustbin lid mechanism

Power supply and connecting wires

💻 Software & Tools Used

Arduino IDE for microcontroller programming

Python (for AI model testing and logic development)

PyCharm for software development

Open-source libraries for camera and motor control

🌍 Applications

Smart city waste management systems

Public places (stations, parks, malls)

Educational institutions

Residential smart homes

Environmental monitoring projects

🌱 Environmental & Social Impact

This project supports:

Clean and hygienic surroundings

Reduced human contact with waste

Improved waste segregation

Promotion of recycling and sustainability

It aligns with smart city initiatives and environmental protection goals.

🔓 Open-Source & Learning Value

The project is designed as an open-source educational initiative. All schematics, code, and PCB files will be shared to help:

Students

Hobbyists

Educators

IoT beginners

learn about AIoT, embedded systems, and smart automation.

🚀 Future Improvements

Advanced AI waste classification (dry/wet/plastic/metal)

Cloud-based waste monitoring dashboard

Mobile app integration

Solar-powered operation

Smart bin fill-level monitoring

📢 Project Documentation & Sharing

This project will be:

Documented with step-by-step explanation

Demonstrated through a YouTube video

Shared with the maker and open-source community

PCBWay support will be acknowledged in the documentation and video.