SkyGaze: Real-Time Helmet-Controlled Drone Camera System using ESP32

Overview:

This project features an innovative drone-mounted camera system that tracks helmet movement in real-time, similar to Apache helicopter targeting systems. The setup uses ESP32 microcontrollers, MPU6050 IMU, pan-tilt servos, and a live video feed streamed wirelessly to a TFT display.

What I Did:

• Designed and programmed a 3-ESP module system using ESP-NOW and WebSocket
• Integrated MPU6050 sensor for real-time head tracking
• Controlled pan-tilt servo motion based on sensor data
• Streamed live camera feed from ESP32-CAM to a 2.8” TFT display
• Ensured low latency and smooth operation
• Created real-time demo with helmet-mounted control

Technologies Used:

ESP32 Dev Module, ESP32-CAM, ESP32-S3, MPU6050, TFT Display, ESP-NOW, WebSocket, Arduino IDE

Key Features:

✅ Wireless head-tracking control
✅ Real-time camera feedback
✅ Fully embedded system (no PC required)
✅ Precise servo response using IMU input

Skills Demonstrated:

ESP32 Programming, IMU Integration, Wireless Communication, Embedded System Design, Real-Time Data Handling, Servo Motor Control