Building a Webserver-Controlled Spy Car with ESP32-Cam: A Step Guide

Introduction

In the world of IoT, creating smart devices that can be controlled remotely is both exciting and rewarding. One such project is the Webserver Controlled Spy Car using the ESP32-Cam module. This camera-equipped module allows you to stream live video and control your car's movements through a simple web interface. If you're interested in exploring the world of remote surveillance, this project is for you! Follow the detailed steps below to create your own spy car and gain hands-on experience in embedded systems.

Step 1: Components You’ll Need

- ESP32-Cam Module

- FTDI Programmer (for uploading code to ESP32)

- L298N Motor Driver

- DC Motors with Wheels (4 for car movement)

- Chassis for the Car (any basic car chassis works)

- LiPo Battery or Adapter (for powering the car)

- Jumper Wires (for connections)

- Breadboard (optional for easy connections)

Step 2: Setting Up ESP32-Cam for Web Server

The ESP32-Cam module can stream video and control the car via a webserver. First, we’ll set up the ESP32-Cam to stream live video over Wi-Fi.

1. Install ESP32 board on Arduino IDE:

- Open Arduino IDE.

- Go to File > Preferences and in the Additional Board Manager URLs field, paste the following link:

```

https://dl.espressif.com/dl/package_esp32_index.json

```

- Next, go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager and search for ESP32. Install it.

2. Connect the FTDI programmer:

- Connect the GND of the FTDI programmer to GND of the ESP32-Cam.

- Connect VCC to 5V, RX to U0T, and TX to U0R.

- Set the IO0 pin to GND (this puts the ESP32 into programming mode).

3. Upload the code for video streaming:

- Use the following sample code to set up the camera streaming:

4. Check video stream:

- Once the code is uploaded, open the Serial Monitor and note down the IP address of the ESP32-Cam.

- Enter this IP address into a web browser to view the video stream.

Step 3: Assembling the Spy Car

1. Motor Driver Connections:

- Connect the L298N Motor Driver to the DC motors for car movement.

- The IN1, IN2, IN3, and IN4 pins of the L298N should be connected to any 4 GPIO pins on the ESP32-Cam module (for controlling the direction).

- Connect the 12V input of the L298N to the LiPo Battery for power.

2. ESP32-Cam Pin Configuration:

- Assign GPIO pins to control the motors:

- `GPIO12` for IN1,

- `GPIO13` for IN2,

- `GPIO14` for IN3,

- `GPIO15` for IN4.

Step 4: Setting Up the Web Server for Car Control

In addition to streaming video, we want to control the movement of the car using buttons on a web interface. Here’s how to modify the code:

Test the car movements:

- Once the code is uploaded, open the web interface by visiting the ESP32-Cam’s IP address.

- Click the buttons to move the car in different directions while viewing the live video feed

Step 5: Powering and Testing

Once all the connections are made:

- Power the car with a LiPo battery.

- Test the car’s movement and camera stream by accessing the web server from your smartphone or laptop.

Conclusion

You’ve now built your own webserver-controlled spy car using the ESP32-Cam! This project combines the power of IoT and real-time control, providing a great way to explore remote monitoring. Make sure to visit Skill-Hub by EmbeddedBrew for the Arduino Master Class, where you’ll dive even deeper into microcontroller programming and automation.