Mini Refridgeration System

Technologies and Libraries: Arduino, L293D Motor Driver, PID Control Loop (Software)

Project Overview:

This project involved leading my team in the Senior Design Challenge at Ryerson's Engineering Competition. The task was to build a portable fridge capable of cooling its internal temperature from 25°C to 5°C within 25 minutes using provided materials. Our team emerged as the runner-up.

Project Goals and Leadership:

• Portable Fridge Design: Construct a functional mini fridge within a tight timeframe.

• Temperature Control: Achieve a significant temperature drop (25°C to 5°C) within 25 minutes.

• Team Leadership: Lead the team with a focus on electronics and programming aspects.

Design Challenges and Solutions:

• Air Leak Prevention: The most significant challenge was preventing air leaks, especially around the fridge door. Our team addressed this by designing a plug door with a tight interference fit.

• High Insulation: We prioritized thorough insulation using foam board, Styrofoam, and salvaged bubble wrap on all sides.

Advanced Functionality (My Contribution):

• PID Control Loop: I implemented a PID control loop using a temperature sensor, LCD display, and potentiometer. This enabled users to set a desired internal temperature and monitor the current temperature.

• Fan Speed Control: The PID controller adjusted fan speed through an L293D motor driver connected to the Arduino.

Project Outcome and Learnings:

• Runner-Up Finish: While our fridge achieved the fastest cooling time (5°C in 25 minutes), our focus on functionality slightly impacted the presentation score.

• Technical Expertise Displayed: The project showcased my skills in:

  • Electronics Integration: Interfacing temperature sensor, LCD display, and motor driver with an Arduino.

  • Programming: Implementing a PID control loop for user-controlled temperature management.

  • Teamwork: Leading a team to achieve a challenging engineering objective within a limited timeframe.

Skills Demonstrated:

• Project Leadership: Effectively led a team towards achieving the project goals.

• Problem-Solving: Identified and addressed the air leak challenge with a well-designed door.

• Innovation: Implemented advanced features (PID control, user interface) beyond the basic requirements.

• Electronics Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency in integrating various electronic components.

• Programming Skills: Utilized Arduino programming to implement a PID control loop.