Long Range Auto Chicken Coop Door

Project Overview

Keeping chickens safe from predators requires closing the coop door every night. This project automates that task and adds remote monitoring capabilities.

Hardware Design

The core of the system is built around the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, chosen for its processing power and low energy consumption.

• Communication: Uses LoRa SX1262 modules for long-range communication (up to several kilometers) between the coop and the house.
• Actuation: A NEMA 17 stepper motor driven by a DRV8825 driver turns a lead screw to open and close the door linearly.
• Safety: Micro switches at the top and bottom ensure the door stops at the correct positions and detects obstructions.

Software

The firmware is written in C++ using the Arduino framework, implementing deep sleep modes to conserve battery power.