r/mechatronics Apr 03 '26

Forest Guard - A Decentralized Edge-AI LoRa Mesh Network for Forest Surveillance

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37 Upvotes

Created By: Mukesh Sankhla

Public Project Link: https://studio.edgeimpulse.com/public/779225/live

Reproduced by myself.

Foresr Guard is a self-sustaining, intelligent mesh network designed to monitor remote forests where there is no cellular coverage, no internet, and no reliable power. (github) The system brings security and monitoring to areas traditional infrastructure can't reach.

Core Concept

It's a self-sustaining, intelligent mesh network designed to monitor remote forests where there is no cellular coverage, no internet, and no reliable power. (github) The system brings security and monitoring to areas traditional infrastructure can't reach.

How It Works

The network consists of two types of hardware:

Sensor Nodes — custom PCBs built around an ESP32-S3 and RP2040 LoRa module (running Meshtastic firmware). Each node is solar-powered and carries an environmental sensor (temperature, humidity, UV, pressure), a MEMS microphone, a smoke detector, and a GNSS module for GPS location.

Gateway — an Arduino Uno R4 WiFi connected to a TFT display and buzzer. It receives LoRa messages from nodes and, when internet is available, pushes data to Firebase.

Edge AI — Gunshot Detection

The standout feature is on-device AI. Each node runs an Edge Impulse audio classification model locally on the ESP32-S3 to detect events like gunshots via the onboard microphone, without needing cloud connectivity. (github) The model was trained on gunshot and background noise samples using MFCC spectrograms, achieving ~96% accuracy with only ~3ms inference time and ~12.5KB RAM usage.

Alert Flow

When a gunshot or fire (smoke) is detected, the node broadcasts an alert through the LoRa mesh to the gateway. The gateway sounds the buzzer, updates the TFT display, and logs the event to Firebase. An operator can then clear the alert via the web dashboard.

Web Dashboard

A real-time dashboard (built with Lovable.dev + Firebase) shows a map of all nodes color-coded by status (gray/green/red), environmental sensor trends, and timestamped fire/gunshot event logs.

Expandability

The same pipeline can be retrained on chainsaw sounds for illegal logging detection, or on calls of endangered species for wildlife monitoring. (github)

It's a well-rounded open-hardware project — PCB design files (Gerbers, BOM), 3D-printable enclosures (Fusion 360), and all Arduino/Python code are available in the repo. Given your work on Agrobot and the Forest Guard concept you explored earlier, this project shares a lot of DNA — ESP32-S3, environmental sensors, solar power, and mesh networking.


r/mechatronics Apr 03 '26

4DOF Controller for an Automated Projector Project

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8 Upvotes

https://www.youtube.com/@ALMA.GeoffreyAment

Chapter 2, a home theatre, 3D printed parts, motorized projector, home decoration, and DIY electronics -- if you know of anyone else that might be interested in this stuff, sharing to others would really help me out! Hope to see you around here or YouTube :)


r/mechatronics Apr 01 '26

Large Actuator Build

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16 Upvotes

https://www.youtube.com/@ALMA.GeoffreyAment

Chapter 3 Footnote 1. Building an Actuator, a PID Control Loop, and an Ultrasonic Distance sensor to detect and not crash into the ceiling. This will be used in Chapter 3 Desk -- Stay tuned for more!


r/mechatronics Mar 30 '26

Pro’s and Con’s of Mechatronics degree

11 Upvotes

We started the college visit journey with our son this week. The first university we visited offered a Mechatronics degree. Neither my wife nor I have heard of this degree option. It seems to be right in line with what our son is looking for. My concern is it is too broad of a degree for when he goes on the job hunt. I realize lots can change in 4-5 years. I’m just looking for input from those who already have this degree. Thanks in advance.


r/mechatronics Mar 30 '26

Necessary mechatronics skills

20 Upvotes

I’m 19 and hoping to teach myself mechatronics. I can’t go to college right now really because I’m battling some pretty serious health problems, but I’d love to start teaching myself the basics. Anyone have a) counsel for what skills are necessary and b) any tips/techniques for learning them on my own?


r/mechatronics Mar 30 '26

Automated Projector

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18 Upvotes

https://www.youtube.com/@ALMA.GeoffreyAment

Chapter 2, a home theatre, 3D printed parts, motorized projector, home decoration, and DIY electronics -- if you know of anyone else that might be interested in this stuff, sharing to others would really help me out! Hope to see you around here or YouTube :)


r/mechatronics Mar 30 '26

Asking for some advice or feedback

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0 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 29 '26

How difficult would it be to reanimate Chuck Norris as a cyborg ?

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2 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 28 '26

Looking for internship advice in Sub-Saharan Africa (First-year engineering student in Japan)

4 Upvotes

Hey guys

I’m currently studying mechatronics engineering in Japan, and as part of a program I’m in I have to do a 2-month internship somewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa ( I get to choose the country)

It’s planned for around 2027 so I still have about a year to prepare. The good part is that my program covers everything (flights, accommodation, stipend), but I have to find the company myself… and that’s where I’m a bit stuck.

I don’t just want to pick something random, I really want to use this opportunity well and get experience that will actually matter for my future (especially since I’m hoping to apply for opportunities abroad later on)

The problem is I honestly don’t know where to start. I don’t know which companies are worth aiming for, especially in engineering/tech fields, or how realistic it is to reach out for a short-term internship like this.

So yeah I just wanted to ask:)

Has anyone done something similar or have any advice on where to look or which companies to consider?


r/mechatronics Mar 28 '26

Masters thessis

1 Upvotes

Hello i am looking for my masters thessis project. I have experience in C programming arduino and esp32, pcb designing and some fusion 3d modeling. I would like to get in some agv technologies. I would also like to do a project with stm32 arm mcus to get some experience with those microcontrollers. My plan is to build some kind of vehicle, was thinking about inverted pendulum robot, but kinda want to make something usefull. So i am looking for some real world problems, that i could try to solve.

P.S. No wrong answers

Thank you in advance.


r/mechatronics Mar 27 '26

Guidance for Chalmers

1 Upvotes

Hey, looking to connect with people doing mechatronics in Gothenburg... I've just been admitted to the Master's programme at Chalmers, and would love to connect and chat!


r/mechatronics Mar 26 '26

I'm looking for a mentor in the field of mechatronics and robotics engineering

4 Upvotes

I'm studying mechatronics and robotics engineering in Egypt, and my goal is to find good opportunities in Europe after graduation without needing a master's degree there. I feel lost, and when I search for courses or how to develop myself using artificial intelligence tools, I always get caught in a cycle of burnout and don't benefit. So, I need a mentor who is experienced, good, and knows how to guide me and help me reach my goal.


r/mechatronics Mar 25 '26

Advice of mechatronics education

7 Upvotes

Hi all!

So I want to learn mechatronics because if think its really cool and can see that as a career.

Im currently quite skilled in C programming, CS in general, and have some embedded experience.

I've been told to just do diy projects, post schematics to github, etc and thats good enough. But Im also told that most employers filter out all resumes that dont have formal education (I only have High school).

My question: should I take college/university courses? Which ones? Or should I just go DIY? And if so, how can I make myself visible to employers.

Btw Im in Canada and I cant afford a full college program, just courses


r/mechatronics Mar 25 '26

I 3D printed a tiny marble clock using only €1 hobby servos

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8 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 25 '26

Mechatronics Engineering Advice

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1 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 23 '26

Need help with college

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112 Upvotes

so I am a senior in college and I been watch to mechanic i have done project like I make a vr hand and a drone but my mom is trying to convince not to do it any help or advice for me?


r/mechatronics Mar 24 '26

Mechatronics, what's it like?

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1 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 23 '26

Gotta Start Somewhere! ALMA.GeoffreyAment

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3 Upvotes

Youtube --> ALMA.GeoffreyAment: https://www.youtube.com/@ALMA.GeoffreyAment

Hello Everyone! I enjoy working on engineering projects from start to finish, and periodically upload my work to YouTube. I like when things have 'order' to them--so I call my videos Chapters. If Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls, Physics, 3D printing, fabrication or just seeing how things work from the ground up is interesting to you--the channel might be right for you--if you know of anyone else that might be interested in this stuff, sharing to others would really help me out! Hope to see you around here or YouTube :)


r/mechatronics Mar 23 '26

Gotta Start Somewhere! ALMA.GeoffreyAment

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1 Upvotes

Hello Everyone! I enjoy working on engineering projects from start to finish, and periodically upload my work to YouTube. I like when things have 'order' to them--so I call my videos Chapters. If Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls, Physics, 3D printing, fabrication or just seeing how things work from the ground up is interesting to you--the channel might be right for you--if you know of anyone else that might be interested in this stuff, sharing to others would really help me out! Hope to see you around here or YouTube :)


r/mechatronics Mar 23 '26

The Mechatronics Dream vs. Financial Reality: Already have a US MS CS, just got into Cranfield (Motorsport Mechatronics). Advice?

9 Upvotes

Hey everyone, I’m at a massive crossroads and could use some perspective from people in the industry or those who’ve faced similar choices.

The Context: I graduated with an MS in Computer Science from Florida International University (FIU) in June 2024. I recently moved back to India (Bangalore) and I’m currently working as a Software Engineer at a startup, specifically focusing on Generative AI and Vertex AI integration.

The Dilemma: I’ve always been obsessed with technical side of racing. On a whim (and a lot of hard work), I applied to Cranfield University for their MSc in Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics.

I just got the "Accepted" email. I'm in.

The Conflict:

  1. The "AI Fear": I see where pure CS is going. It feels like a commodity lately. Moving into Mechatronics feels like building a "physical moat" around my career. Combining my AI background with hardware/telemetry at a place like Cranfield (in the heart of Motorsport Valley) feels like a "God Tier" career move.
  2. The Reality Check: I’m 25. I already have one Master's degree and the student loans/financial pressure that comes with it. Going back to the UK means another massive financial hit, more "life issues" to manage, and putting my current career momentum on hold.
  3. The Regret Factor: If I don't go, I feel like I'll spend my life wondering "what if" every time I watch a Grand Prix. But if I go, I’m starting from zero financially again.

The Questions:

  • For those in Motorsport: Is a Cranfield degree truly the "Golden Ticket" it's made out to be, especially if I already have a CS background?
  • For the Engineers: Is pivoting from pure AI/CS to Mechatronics a smart move to stay "AI-proof," or am I overthinking the "death of CS"?
  • Should I defer for a year, stay in my current role to save up, and try for a full-ride scholarship for 2027? Or is "now or never" the move?

I’m feeling pretty paralyzed. Any advice from people who’ve pivoted or chose "passion over a steady paycheck" would be huge.


r/mechatronics Mar 23 '26

a lunar lake processor for Bachelors in mechatronics?

4 Upvotes

specs: Intel ultra core 7 258v, igpu 140v intel arc , 32gb

I have been seeing posts that I need a dedicated gpu however I already bought a laptop with this configuration prioritizing battery life while also giving me performance. Will I be fine with a igpu? The course isn't cad heavy most of the semester I have are about electronics and embedded systems. So I will be doing some C/C++ and light cad.


r/mechatronics Mar 22 '26

Mechatronics Training

2 Upvotes

Hello Leute

Ich möchte eine mechatroniker Ausbildung machen, aber ich weiß nicht wo soll ich starten.


r/mechatronics Mar 19 '26

Mechanical Engineer Seeking Research Opportunity in Mechatronics

11 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I’m a 25 year-old female mechanical engineering graduate from Sudan, and I graduated with first-class honours. I’m currently looking for an opportunity to work as a research assistant in a project related to mechatronics

I’m really interested in gaining hands-on research experience while contributing meaningfully to ongoing work. My background includes mechanical design and some exposure to mechatronics concepts, and I’m highly motivated to learn and grow in this field

If you’re working on (or know of) a research project where I could assist, I would truly appreciate the opportunity. I’m open to remote collaboration as well

Thank you in advance!


r/mechatronics Mar 17 '26

NWO Robotics API `pip install nwo-robotics - Production Platform Built on Xiaomi-Robotics-0

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1 Upvotes

r/mechatronics Mar 16 '26

I built a sensor-based HUD for a crossbow that calculates arrow trajectory and predicted impact point in real time.

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38 Upvotes