ESP32-CAM AI Vision Mecanum Robot Car with 6DOF Arm – Omni-Directional Drive, Face/Object Tracking, Color Detection | Wi-Fi App Control, Ultrasonic Avoidance | Arduino/MicroPython STEM Robotics Kit for AI, Motion, IoT Learning

The AI Vision Mecanum Wheel Robotic Arm Car Kit merges artificial intelligence, mechanics, and IoT control into one versatile learning platform. Powered by the ESP32-CAM microcontroller, it integrates Wi-Fi connectivity and image recognition while supporting programmable motion and AI decision-making. The vehicle’s four mecanum wheels provide all-directional movement for smooth navigation, and the six-axis robotic arm allows object manipulation, sorting, and stacking. The ultrasonic sensor detects obstacles within 2–400 cm, while the camera module provides a live video feed for visual tracking and target identification.

Students can use Arduino IDE or MicroPython to write programs that combine AI image recognition, line tracking, and servo motion control. The ESP32-CAM module performs color and face detection, enabling real-time tracking using neural algorithms optimized for edge computing. Learners can explore the fundamentals of AI inference, digital image processing, and algorithmic decision logic through practical testing.

The mecanum wheel structure allows movement in every direction using vector combination control, simulating real-world robotic navigation models. Each wheel’s encoder provides feedback for closed-loop PID control, ensuring consistent motion accuracy. The robotic arm can be programmed to coordinate with the visual module, forming an “AI sees, arm acts” workflow. For instance, when the camera identifies a red object, the arm automatically grabs and relocates it—a perfect demonstration of integrated visual servoing systems.

The kit’s modular architecture supports sensor expansion via GPIO, I2C, and UART. Students can connect light, gas, sound, or temperature sensors to perform environment-aware AI tasks such as automatic obstacle avoidance or color-based sorting. The ESP32’s dual-core processor handles multitasking smoothly, making it suitable for advanced IoT experiments.

All components are designed for plug-and-play assembly, requiring no soldering. The transparent acrylic chassis and reinforced metal brackets ensure stability during mechanical operation. Working at 5 V low voltage, the system prioritizes safety, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Educational applications range from middle school to university-level robotics labs and AI programming courses.

Key parameters include:

Controller: ESP32-CAM with integrated Wi-Fi and camera

Drive System: 4 × mecanum wheels with encoder motors

Arm: 6DOF servo robotic arm

Sensors: ultrasonic distance, gesture, and AI vision module

Control: Wi-Fi, web interface, or mobile app

Programming: Arduino / MicroPython

Operating Voltage: 5 V (battery excluded)

Material: acrylic chassis + metal brackets

Functions: color tracking, obstacle avoidance, face recognition, gesture control, object pickup

The kit nurtures core competencies in robotics, programming, AI engineering, and control theory. It fosters creativity and problem-solving by bridging mechanical design, electronics, and coding. Students gain real-world insights into AI-based automation and the principles behind autonomous systems. This robot car empowers learners to explore next-generation fields like machine vision, embedded computing, and smart robotics development.

① Advanced AI Vision Recognition System

The robot integrates an ESP32-CAM module that combines Wi-Fi communication, real-time image transmission, and AI-based object detection. It recognizes faces, colors, QR codes, and moving targets while executing follow or avoidance behaviors autonomously. The onboard neural algorithm performs edge AI computation directly on the ESP32 chip, reducing latency and eliminating dependency on cloud networks. Students can conduct experiments on visual navigation, AI classification, and tracking algorithms using built-in Python or Arduino frameworks. The adjustable camera mount allows panoramic and low-angle perspectives to detect multiple targets in dynamic environments. This module trains learners in computer vision, motion detection, and image processing, bridging theory and hands-on experimentation.

② Mecanum Wheel Omni-Directional Drive System

Equipped with four high-quality mecanum wheels, the robot achieves full 360° motion—forward, backward, sideways, diagonal, and in-place rotation. This structure simulates industrial AGV and warehouse robots, enabling precise navigation and motion-vector synthesis. Each wheel is driven by an encoder motor with PWM speed control and PID feedback, providing accurate speed, torque, and stability. The omni-motion system allows students to understand mechanical kinematics, closed-loop control, and dynamic balance algorithms. With anti-slip rubber and metal hubs, the platform performs reliably on tiles, carpets, or wood floors, ensuring professional-level motion consistency during robotics labs or competition use.

③ Six-Degree-of-Freedom Robotic Arm Platform

The 6DOF robotic arm enables tasks such as grabbing, lifting, stacking, and rotating objects. Each servo motor can be individually programmed for coordinated motion sequences, supporting both manual and automated control. When combined with the AI vision system, the arm identifies and manipulates color-coded or shaped items autonomously—ideal for projects like smart sorting, warehouse simulation, or industrial robotics demonstrations. Students can experiment with inverse kinematics, coordinate transformations, and path optimization. The mechanical arm’s modular structure helps visualize robotics theories such as forward kinematics and multi-axis synchronization, reinforcing advanced mechanical and coding concepts in one system.

④ Wi-Fi, Gesture, and Web Remote Control System

The ESP32 controller supports Wi-Fi remote operation via both app and browser interface, offering dual-channel control for real-time movement, robotic arm adjustment, and camera positioning. The live video stream allows immediate feedback and precise manual steering. Gesture sensors enable intuitive commands such as forward, stop, turn, and pick-up without physical contact. The control panel runs directly through a smartphone or computer browser using HTML/JS interfaces, while developers can integrate TCP/UDP protocols for IoT experimentation. This flexible control ecosystem supports cross-platform projects and encourages students to design their own user interfaces and wireless automation systems.

⑤ Expandable IoT & STEM Education Platform

Designed for comprehensive learning, the kit supports Arduino IDE and MicroPython, providing open-source access for modification and expansion. GPIO, I2C, SPI, and UART ports are available for connecting sensors like DHT11, photoresistors, gas sensors, and flame detectors. It can evolve into a smart delivery vehicle, automatic inspection robot, or AI-based sorting system. This versatility makes it ideal for classroom teaching, competitions, or maker education. The safe 5V low-voltage design ensures student protection, while durable acrylic and metal materials withstand repeated assembly. Learners can practice circuit logic, programming, IoT data exchange, and AI robotics design—all in one platform.

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