ESP32-CAM & VL53L0X Smart Security System
a reliable, compact visual security module, named eCam, utilizing the ESP32-CAM and a VL53L0X Time-of-Flight
An IoT-based hardware and firmware development project delivered by Elcoan Lanka. The goal was to create a reliable, compact visual security module, named eCam, utilizing the ESP32-CAM and a VL53L0X Time-of-Flight (ToF) IR distance sensor for highly accurate intrusion detection and image capture.
This project focused on eliminating the false positives common with standard PIR sensors by using precise laser-ranging to trigger security alerts.
Key Features
ESP32-CAM vision core providing local image capture and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant remote monitoring and cloud-based security alerts
VL53L0X ToF IR distance sensor utilized for millimeter-accurate proximity detection, highly immune to the ambient light changes and thermal variations that often cause false triggers
Event-driven security logic designed to instantly activate the camera, capture a photo, and send a network notification the exact moment a physical object crosses a defined distance threshold
Compact, discreet form factor engineered specifically for localized security monitoring at entry points, doorways, or restricted enclosures
What We Delivered
We handled the complete system integration, hardware design, and embedded programming:
Custom PCB design: Engineered a compact carrier board to seamlessly integrate the ESP32-CAM module, the VL53L0X sensor, and stable power regulation for the camera flash and optics
Specialized firmware development: Wrote optimized embedded code to monitor the IR distance sensor in real-time and rapidly trigger the camera's frame buffer upon detecting a physical breach
IoT & alert integration: Configured the wireless network stack to securely transmit captured images and push notifications to a remote server or mobile app over Wi-Fi
3D enclosure design: Designed and 3D printed a discreet, camera-optimized housing with precise cutouts that properly mount the ToF sensor to prevent internal IR reflection and glare
This project demonstrates Elcoan Lanka's ability to combine embedded vision systems with precise Time-of-Flight sensor technology to create smart, highly reliable, and false-alarm-resistant security edge devices.