Surveillance Bot

A compact, versatile surveillance robot designed for monitoring in challenging environments—tight spaces, low-light conditions, and areas inaccessible to static cameras. Features live video streaming, night vision capability, onboard recording, and remote navigation control via Arduino with DC motor drivers.

Core Concept & Objective

• Goal: Create a mobile surveillance platform that extends monitoring coverage to narrow spaces, dark areas, and remote locations where traditional fixed cameras cannot reach.
• Key Features:
  • High-resolution camera with night vision for 24/7 operation
  • Onboard recording capability (SD card) for offline areas
  • Remote navigation via RF/Bluetooth teleoperation
  • Compact, agile chassis for tight maneuverability

Technical Design

• Mobility System:

  • Arduino-controlled DC motors with motor drivers (L298N or equivalent)
  • Differential drive for tight turning radius
  • Lightweight chassis optimized for narrow spaces (<20cm width)

• Vision System:

  • High-resolution camera module with live streaming capability
  • Night vision via IR illuminators or low-light camera sensor
  • Onboard SD card recording for areas without network connectivity

• Control System:

  • Arduino microcontroller handling motor PWM, sensor fusion, and telemetry
  • RF/Bluetooth receiver for remote operation commands
  • Optional ultrasonic/IR sensors for obstacle avoidance

• Power System:

  • Rechargeable LiPo battery pack
  • Separate power rails for motors vs. electronics to reduce noise

Project Structure

├── src/ │ ├── bot_control.ino # Main Arduino firmware (motors + telemetry) │ ├── camera_stream.cpp # Video streaming and recording │ └── rf_teleop.cpp # Remote control receiver ├── hardware/ │ ├── chassis_design.pdf # Mechanical layout and dimensions │ └── wiring_diagram.png # Motor driver + camera connections └── docs/ ├── operation_manual.md # Remote control and deployment guide └── test_scenarios.md # Low-light and narrow space validation

Key Capabilities

Feature	Implementation	Performance
Live Video	Camera module + serial/WiFi streaming	320x240 @ 15fps
Night Vision	IR illuminators + low-light sensor	Effective in complete darkness
Recording	MicroSD card (onboard)	2+ hours continuous
Remote Range	RF/Bluetooth teleoperation	50-100m line-of-sight
Maneuverability	Differential drive chassis	<30cm turning radius

Operational Scenarios

1. Narrow Space Monitoring: Robot navigates ventilation ducts, under furniture, or between machinery
2. Night Security Patrol: IR night vision provides clear imaging in total darkness
3. Remote Inspection: Operator controls navigation while viewing live feed
4. Offline Evidence Collection: Records video to SD card in areas without network

Hardware Stack

Arduino Uno/Nano ├── L298N motor driver (2x DC motors) ├── OV7670/ESP32-CAM (video) ├── HC-SR501 PIR (motion detection) ├── HC-SR04 ultrasonic (obstacle) ├── NRF24L01 RF module (teleop) └── MicroSD module (recording)

Skills Demonstrated

Arduino programming • DC motor control (PWM/L298N) • Camera integration and streaming • RF communication (NRF24L01) • Sensor fusion (PIR + ultrasonic) • Compact mechanical design • Power system design • Remote teleoperation systems