Build an ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car: Remote-Controlled and Budget-Friendly

In this project, we'll guide you through building an ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car—a great way to delve into remote-controlled and ESP32-based projects. This project harnesses the flexibility of the ESP32 camera module, providing a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and straightforward solution. With its simplicity and practicality, this project is perfect for beginners looking to explore web controls and the WiFi capabilities of the ESP32.

To build the DIY ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car, you'll require the following components:

ESP32 Camera Module x 1

CH340K USB-UART Controller x 1

TP4056 Li-ion Charger IC x 1

MX1508 Motor Driver Module x 1

AO3401 P-MOSFET x 1

Type C USB Connector (16Pin) x 1

LiPo Battery x 1

N20 Motors x 4

44mm N20 Motor Wheels x 4

SMD resistors and capacitors

SMD LEDs

Slide Switch

Connectors

Custom PCB

Mounting screws

Other tools and consumables

The estimated cost breakdown for building the ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car is as follows:

Components: ₹100.00

ESP32 Cam: ₹450.00

MX1508 Motor Driver Module: ₹40.00

N20 Motors + 44mm Wheels: ₹200.00

Battery: ₹100.00

PCB: ₹100.00

Total: ₹990.00

Study the provided circuit diagram, which is designed with simplicity in mind. Understand the different sections, including the USB type C port, battery charger circuit, programming circuit with CH340K chip, and motor driver module placement.

Utilize the custom-designed PCB to interconnect all modules and components. The PCB also acts as the chassis for the car. Follow the schematic and assembly instructions to solder the SMD components and connect modules and connectors.

Configure the ESP32 camera module using the setupCamera() function. This function initializes the camera during booting, setting up parameters like pin assignments and frame size.

Set up the motor control pins as outputs and initialize them to prevent accidental activation on startup.

Install the ESP32 core for the Arduino IDE and required libraries (AsyncTCP and ESPAsyncWebserver). Upload the provided Arduino code to the ESP32 module. The code handles web controls and the video stream, allowing remote operation of the car.

After PCB assembly, attach all other required components such as motors, wheels, and battery to the PCB. Secure motors and battery using provided mounting holes and cable ties.

Once assembled, power on the ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car. It will create a WiFi access point (SSID: circuitdigest, Password: circuitdigest). Connect your smartphone to this network and open a browser to navigate to 192.168.4.1. Here, you can view the live video stream and control the car's movement using the on-screen buttons.

By following these steps, you'll successfully build an ESP32 Cam Surveillance Car—a versatile and affordable project that explores ESP32 capabilities in remote-controlled applications. Experiment further by customizing controls, adding features, or integrating additional functionalities. Happy building!