ESP32-CAM Based Robot for Restricted and Hazardous Area Surveillance

Abstract

The machine that is based on ESP32-CAM is, without a doubt, a simple and cheap device for remote monitoring and surveillance in dangerous, limited, or even inaccessible areas. It benefits from an ESP32-CAM microcontroller which merges video streaming, Wi-Fi connection, and basic two-directional motor movement into a tiny layout. Besides, the robot can live video feed via Wi-Fi, and, at the same time, it lets the operator control it through a web page which can be accessed by both phones and computers. As a result, the robot is able to roam and keep watch over the area without being spotted, and consequently, it can be of great assistance in chemical factories, tunnels, disaster zones, or even in just ordinary factories. The hardware is really basic and consists solely of an ESP32-CAM, an L298N motor driver, and two DC motors which not only lower the price but also make the robot simpler as compared to the ones made with Raspberry Pi or several Arduino modules. Furthermore, the system utilizes HTTP requests for moving the robot and MJPEG for video streaming. Such kind of a robot can be deployed for various purposes including safety, disaster response, defense, and learning. It is a very affordable and portable solution by the robot to provide operator security and at the same time not to lose any important functions. The present research has described the making of the ESP32-CAM robot along with its usage, pros, and possible future upgrades that could make it even better.