Overview
An RFID-enabled vending machine for tea dispensing with automated payment, ingredient monitoring, and user feedback. Built using Arduino Mega, RC522, ultrasonic sensors, and a servo-controlled dispensing mechanism.
This project is a fully functional prototype of a smart automated tea vending machine. It is designed to provide tea to users based on RFID verification and ensure automatic deduction of balance, cup presence detection, and ingredient level monitoring. The system also alerts operators via GSM when supplies are low.
Key Features
- RFID card-based access control
- 4x4 Keypad input for drink type and quantity
- Ultrasonic sensors for ingredient level and cup detection
- Servo motor controls liquid dispensing valve
- LCD user interface for instructions, balance, and feedback
- SMS alerts to operators on low supply (GSM Module)
System Architecture
- Arduino Mega 2560 as main controller
- RFID MFRC522 module for ID reading
- Servo motor to push mechanical switch on the Nescafe machine
- LCD 16x2 for UI
- Python socket server on Raspberry Pi for remote command handling
Impact
This vending machine eliminates the need for cash handling, operates 24/7, and can easily be deployed in universities, offices, and industrial spaces. The system was built with cost-efficiency in mind, maintaining accuracy and robustness in operation.
Project Demo
Project Articles
In this post, we walk through our design process for building an RFID-based automated tea vending machine using Arduino, ultrasonic sensors, and servo motors.
We integrated a Python-based socket server on Raspberry Pi for remote control and GSM alerts in our smart tea vending machine. Here’s how it works.