Mini AI Camera Module

Project Description

The Mini AI Camera Module is a compact platform based on the ESP32-S3, combining a standard visible-light camera with a LiDAR sensor. The module is designed as a low-cost solution for implementing simple AI algorithms, image recognition, and basic 3D depth perception.

This project includes:

• OV5640 visible-light camera (5 MP)
• VL53L5CX LiDAR camera with an 8×8 pixel depth map

(A future hardware revision is planned to include the VL53L9CX sensor featuring a 54×42 pixel resolution.)

Key Features

1. Compact size: 25×25 mm
   The module includes mounting holes for easy installation, e.g., in mobile robots.

2. Two complementary imaging systems

   • OV5640 – 5 MP visible-light camera
   • VL53L5CX – 8×8 pixel LiDAR sensor

3. Low production cost

   • Uses popular and cost-effective electronic components
   • PCB designed with simple manufacturing requirements
   • Complete JLCPCB production files included

4. Ideal for autonomous and IoT projects
   Suitable for robotics, autonomous vehicles, perception systems, and IoT devices.

5. Wireless connectivity
   With the ESP32-S3, the module supports:

   • WiFi
   • Bluetooth
   • ESP-NOW

6. Convenient USB and UART interfaces

   • Vertical USB-C port allows direct mounting to a robot chassis
   • SBU1 and SBU2 lines are exposed as UART, enabling easy integration with external devices

7. Easy to use and based on open-source libraries
   The project is designed to be simple to integrate and develop with. It relies on well-maintained open-source libraries (including SparkFun drivers) as well as built-in components from the ESP-IDF framework.

8. Open-source project (Apache 2.0 License)
   The entire project is fully open-source and released under the Apache 2.0 license, allowing both personal and commercial use with minimal restrictions.

Repository Contents

• Technical documentation
• Schematics and PCB design
• JLCPCB fabrication files
• Example firmware for Arduino