Design and Development of an ESP32-Based Autonomous Office Logistics Robot

Abstract: This paper presents the design, development, and implementation of a cost-effective, autonomous indoor mobile robotic platform developed for intra-office logistics and material handling. Built around the high-performance ESP32 microcontroller, the system integrates infrared (IR) reflectance sensors to perform real-time path tracking over a predefined high-contrast indoor track. To ensure operational safety and collision avoidance within a dynamic workplace environment, a front-mounted IR obstacle detection sensor is paired with an active audible buzzer alert framework. The robot features dual-core processing capabilities and establishes stable Wi-Fi connectivity to integrate with the Blynk IoT cloud platform, allowing seamless transitioning between autonomous line-following mode and remote manual override control via a web or mobile application dashboard. Power regulation is managed through an efficient LM2596 step- down buck converter to supply steady voltage levels from a rechargeable lithium-ion battery package. Experimental evaluation demonstrates robust line detection, stable torque control via an L298N motor driver, and reliable hazard mitigation, showcasing a highly viable solution for modern automated office workflows.

Keywords: Autonomous Mobile Robot, ESP32 Microcontroller, Office Automation, Path Tracking, Internet of Things (IoT), Obstacle Avoidance.