Remote Control of Gangway System Using ESP32 and MQTT

Abstract

This study aims to design and implement an automated gangway control system based on the ESP32 microcontroller and the MQTT communication protocol, enabling remote operation via a mobile application and real-time visual monitoring using the ESP32-CAM module. The system was developed to enhance operational efficiency and safety in port environments, where gangways are still commonly operated manually. An experimental approach was employed, consisting of hardware and software design, prototype assembly, and system performance testing. The testing focused on evaluating the stability of the DC motor voltage across various PWM values, the gangway's operational speed based on RPM and duration, and the communication range of the MQTT-based remote control. The results show that the system operates optimally at a PWM value of 165, achieving a motor speed of 46.7 RPM with safe operational timing. Motor voltage remained stable between 2.1 V and 10.9 V across PWM variations. The system maintained reliable remote control functionality up to a distance of 15 meters, beyond which the connection began to fail. In addition, the ESP32-CAM provided real-time visualization of the gangway's condition. The novelty of this research lies in the integration of control, communication, and visual monitoring systems into a single ESP32- and MQTT-based prototype, a combination rarely applied specifically for gangway automation in port operations. This system demonstrates strong potential for implementation in industrial automation scenarios requiring remote control and efficient visual monitoring.