Summary of Automated Cocktail Drink Machine
Summary: This project builds an automated mixed-drink (cocktail) machine using motorized rails, multiple stations (muddle, slicer, dispensers), multiple Arduinos, and a 10.1 inch tablet for control via serial connection. Drinks move between stations on a sliding rail and recipes determine station actions. The project combines hardware and software and is presented with 3D models and GIFs showing station operation.
Parts used in the Automated Mixed-Drink Machine:
- Motorized sliding rail (for transporting drink between stations)
- Automated mint, sugar, and lime muddle mechanism
- Automated lime slicer and dispenser
- Automated mint and sugar dispenser
- Automated liquid dispenser
- Multiple Arduinos (for process control)
- 10.1 inch tablet (control interface via serial connection)
- 3D printed or machined enclosure and internal mounts (implied by 3D model and photos)
- Power and wiring components (implied for electronics and motors)

In this instructables I want to show you how to build your own automated mixed-drink maker to satisfy all your liquid (and alcohol 😉 )needs.
For a while now, I have been satisfying my thirst and taste-buds with pre-made concentrates from sodastream. The unit allows you to easily carbonate water and add flavoring to it. However, where it exceeds in easy of use, it lacks in quality. After nearly 4 months of research and planning, I can finally say that i have built my own solution that goes above and beyond anything currently on the market. Having gone through all the steps, this project is great for those who want to build a full-tier product, involving both software and hardware. This project has been a great starting point for the exploration of arduino and manufacturing.
With that being said, Follow along to build your own Automated Mixed-Drink Machine..
Take a look at the 3D model below, this is an outline of what the final product should like once your done.
(If you can’t see the interactive 3D model below, its probably because you’re not using a WebGL – enabled browser, or your using the instructables app))
However, Before we get any further, its a good idea for you to know what you are going to build, so take a look at these wonderful beauty shots. (yes there is a top, but the internals look cool for the photos 😀 )
Below are GIFs of each station. As the drink is being constructed, it is transported to each station on the a motorized sliding rail. Depending on the recipe, the drink may or may not need to move in different patterns.
Stations Include:
- Automated Mint, Sugar, and Lime Muddle for releasing all the flavors
- Automated Lime Slicer and Dispenser
- Automated Mint and Sugar Dispenser
- Automated Liquid Dispenser
Additionally all these processes are controlled by multiples Arduinos and 10.1″ tablet via a Serial Connection. (Refer to coding steps)
WOW!!!!
(This looks even better in real life. If you guys want more photos, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments – i will be happy to upload more :D)
Source: Automated Cocktail Drink Machine
- What does this project build?
An automated mixed-drink (cocktail) machine that moves drinks between stations to prepare recipes. - What stations are included?
Stations include an automated mint, sugar, and lime muddle; an automated lime slicer and dispenser; an automated mint and sugar dispenser; and an automated liquid dispenser. - How are the processes controlled?
Processes are controlled by multiple Arduinos and a 10.1 inch tablet connected via a serial connection. - How does the drink move between stations?
The drink is transported on a motorized sliding rail and may move in different patterns depending on the recipe. - Is software involved in the project?
Yes, the project involves both software and hardware; coding steps reference control via Arduinos and the tablet. - Are 3D models or photos provided?
Yes, a 3D model outline and photos/GIFs of each station are provided to show the final product and operations. - Can this machine handle carbonation or concentrates like SodaStream?
The project is presented as a superior custom solution compared to pre-made concentrates and carbonation units, focusing on mixed-drink automation. - Is this project suitable for learning Arduino and manufacturing?
Yes, the author states it is a great starting point for exploring Arduino and manufacturing and building a full-tier product.
