Football feeder machine

A portable automatic soccer ball launcher has been designed and built to enhance individual and team training. The system utilizes two drive wheels that transfer energy to the ball at high peripheral speeds, allowing for the regulation of launch velocity. For a straight launch, the wheels spin at equal speeds, whereas to achieve lateral spin (curl), the speed of one wheel is reduced relative to the other, thereby imparting the desired rotation to the ball. Control is managed via an Arduino Mega microcontroller and a wireless PlayStation controller, enabling the user to easily adjust launch power and select the direction of the spin. The system also includes a hopper with a mechanism for feeding balls one at a time. The design’s unique features include a combination of portability, speed regulation, the ability to generate ball spin, and simple remote control operation. Potential applications include goalkeeper training, passing, ball control, reaction drills, and general soccer skill development.