Project Details

Upper Level Block Diagram

Controller Diagram

R/C-Scout Diagram

Signal Injector Diagram

Executive Summary

This project centers on the design and implementation of RF-Scout, a mobile robotic system equipped with multi-sensor and RF-based technology for environmental data collection and wire detection. The system combines various modules to collect, store, and wirelessly transmit environmental, positional, and RF data.

The robot is powered by both an ESP32 and an Arduino Uno, which handle processing and communication tasks. Key hardware includes a camera module for visual monitoring, gas and temperature sensors for environmental measurements, and a GPS module for location tracking. The system also integrates RF and Wi-Fi modules, enabling both short- and long-range communication. Real-time transmission is handled through Wi-Fi and RF protocols, while a microSD card module ensures local data logging for redundancy.

Visual feedback is provided via LED indicators, which reflect system status and data transmission activity. RF technology plays a dual role: enabling wireless communication and acting as a tool for wire tracing, especially in scenarios where traditional sensors are ineffective due to obstructions or underground placement.

The robot’s modular structure includes DC motors controlled by an L298N driver, a servo-mounted ultrasonic sensor for obstacle avoidance, and a robust power supply using series-connected lithium-ion batteries. Its design emphasizes scalability, durability, and adaptability, making it suitable for complex environments.

Applications range from infrastructure inspection and field surveying to environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and smart agriculture. With features like remote programmability, wireless control, and environmental awareness, RF-Scout is a practical and innovative solution for real-world challenges in mobile sensing and robotics.

 Introduction

This project introduces the development of RF-Scout, a multi-sensor mobile robot designed to collect, transmit, and store environmental and positional data in real time. Built for robust performance in challenging environments, the system combines RF technology with modern sensing and communication modules to expand the capabilities of traditional wire-tracing devices.

At its core, the system utilizes both an ESP32 and an Arduino Uno to manage and coordinate components such as a camera module, temperature and gas sensors, GPS, and ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection. Data is locally stored on a 32GB microSD card while also being transmitted wirelessly through Wi-Fi, with additional support for Bluetooth and RF modules (315 MHz and 433 MHz), ensuring reliable communication across varying conditions.

A standout feature is the use of RF signal detection to trace wires and detect hidden signals underground or in obstructed areas—something conventional sensors often struggle with. The robot also incorporates LED lighting for low-light navigation and system status indication, enhancing operational visibility and user feedback.

Powered by series-connected lithium-ion batteries, and driven by L298N motor drivers, the RF-Scout is designed for modularity, efficiency, and field adaptability. Its applications include infrastructure inspection, field surveying, environmental monitoring, and search and rescue, offering a scalable and innovative solution for data collection in dynamic environments.

 

Motivation

The primary objective of this project is to design and implement a mobile robotics system capable of efficient data collection, storage, and wireless transmission in a variety of environments. To achieve this, the system is built with the following specific goals:

●     Multi-Sensor Integration: Combine environmental and navigation sensors, including a camera module, temperature sensor, and obstacle avoidance sensors, to enable comprehensive data collection.

●     Dual Microcontroller Management: Utilize both an ESP32 and an Arduino Uno for optimized sensor control, data processing, and communication management.

●     Reliable Data Storage and Transmission: Store sensor data locally using a microSD card while simultaneously transmitting real-time data to a remote server via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and RF communication protocols.

●     Enhanced Detection Capabilities: Employ RF technology to detect wires or hidden signals in areas that are otherwise difficult or impossible to access manually.

●     Low-Light Operation: Integrate LED lighting to illuminate dark or low-visibility environments, enhancing the effectiveness of the camera module and overall navigation.

●     User Feedback and Monitoring: Use LED indicators to provide visual feedback on system status, communication activity, and operational alerts.

●     System Flexibility and Scalability: Design the platform to be adaptable for future expansion, allowing the addition of new sensors or communication modules based on evolving needs.

Through these objectives, the project aims to deliver a robust, versatile, and autonomous mobile system capable of supporting complex field operations in real-world conditions.

 

 

 

 

System Overview

The mobile robotics data collection system is designed as a compact, self-contained platform that integrates sensing, control, data storage, and wireless communication capabilities. The system architecture combines both hardware and software elements to ensure reliable operation in various field conditions.

At the core of the system are two microcontrollers: the ESP32 and the Arduino Uno. The ESP32 handles wireless communication tasks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and RF transmission, while the Arduino Uno is responsible for interfacing with critical sensors and managing basic navigation and control operations.

A variety of sensors are installed on the mobile robot, including:

●     Camera Module: Captures visual data for monitoring and mapping purposes.

●     Obstacle Avoidance Sensors: Detects and prevents collisions with nearby objects.

●     Temperature Sensor: Measures and records ambient environmental conditions.

●     RF Detector Module: Identifies the presence of hidden wires or signals in inaccessible areas.

To address both data storage and transmission needs, the system utilizes a microSD card for local data logging and employs Wi-Fi communication to stream real-time data to a remote server for immediate access and analysis.

LED lighting is incorporated into the system for two main functions:

1.    Area Illumination: Enhancing visibility for the camera and sensors in dark or poorly lit environments.

2.    System Status Indication: Providing real-time feedback to users on communication states, battery levels, and operational alerts.

All components are mounted on a mobile platform equipped with a power management system, ensuring long operational periods in the field. The robot's modular design allows for easy upgrades, making the system highly adaptable for a wide range of applications including environmental research, infrastructure inspection, and rescue missions.