“This is a little ROV I have designed and printed on my 3D Printer.
Because I wanted visual feedback it has the ESP32-CAM Module as the main control unit.
Because it has the ESP32-CAM Module, it can be controlled from any device that has Wi-Fi and a Web Browser.
I wanted to keep it a simple as possible, yet have it able to do something.
There was an earlier version of this that was as simple as it gets for making an ROV with an ESP32-CAM. This one has a couple of upgrades, it has a simple track system to give it some grip on uneven terrain and has an arm which can hook on to things.
There are a few like this on the web, I feel that I have made some nice improvements to what there is.
The skill set required (Some assumptions)
3D printer: You know how to use it.
Arduino: You have some experience of making and uploading Sketches. I have put links to help in the Instruction.
Supplies
As this is a 3D Printed project a 3D Printer will be needed.
I have attached all the STL Files needed.
The difference between Tread A and Tread B are the hole sizes, I wanted the screw heads all to be on the outside.
For those that don’t have a 3D Printer, I am sure that most of this can be mounted to a simple card platform. (no tracks)
Purchased parts needed are as follows:
- ESP32-CAM Module.
- FTDI Programmer. (check notes)
- Two Geared Motors. (5v DC)
- DRV8833 Module. (Motor Driver)
- Battery(s), I will be using a 1200mAh Li-Po Battery. The Battery support is designed for this, but there is room on the vehicle for other types.
- SX1308 2A DC to DC voltage level changer (Buck). This is to change the voltage of the battery to 5v.
- SG90 Micro Servo.
- Two Bearings: ID = 3mm OD = 10mm W = 4mm.
- Two Bearings: ID = 8mm, OD = 12mm, W = 3.5mm.
- A Small Weight. Width = 35mm, Length = 40mm, Height =12mm. The weight is not essential if you just want the R.O.V. to just run around, I add the weight so that the R.O.V. has some mass when opening doors with it’s hook.
- Two M3x25mm Allen Cap Head Set Screws.
- Two M3x10mm Self Tapping Screws.
- About 30 M1.7x6mm Self Tapping Screws.
- Some Self Adhesive 20mm Wide Foam Strip 2mm Thick. Not essential, just to add a little grip to the treads on smooth floors while pulling something.
- The cable I use is four or three way JR flat servo cable, There are many AWG sizes, I mostly use 22 or 26 AWG depending on the price. I find the four way is good for when I use I2C devices.
- 2.54mm Dupont Header Pins. The back side of the headers where it is soldered to the cables is insulated using UV Resin. (or cheap Ultra Violet Fingernail Lacquer)
- 2.54mm Dupont Connectors. I start with a kit and refill it as needed.”