Project Goal: TauLab is testing a new method for our company to collect IoT data using CAN. The goal of this project is for students to design and build a working prototype that collects CAN data from a vehicles OBDII port, processes it locally, and as a bonus, transmits it wirelessly using LTE for further analysis.

This project will be completed remotely and will involve multiple stages, including:

• Understanding the CAN protocol and how it applies to vehicle/industrial data collection.
• Developing a simple hardware and software prototype that can collect and transmit CAN data.
• Testing the prototype using simulated or remotely accessible environments.
• Iterating and refining based on feedback.

Project Tasks (Scoped for 60 Hours, Remote Work): By the end of the project, students should demonstrate:

1. Understanding of CAN communication (10 hours): Researching and learning how CAN data is structured, transmitted, and interpreted in vehicle or industrial applications.
2. Proficiency in ESP32 integration (10 hours): Setting up the ESP32 to communicate with a CAN transceiver.
3. Prototype development (15 hours): Writing firmware to collect, process, and transmit data securely.
4. Testing and validation (10 hours): Ensuring reliable data collection and transmission using remote testing environments or simulations.
5. Iteration and improvement (5 hours): Making optimizations based on testing results.

Bonus steps (if time allows):

• Integrating LTE for data transmission
• Implementing edge processing to reduce transmitted data volume.
• Adding security measures such as encryption and authentication.

Final Deliverables:

• Codebase for ESP32 firmware and data transmission.
• A functional prototype that demonstrates end-to-end data collection and transmission (remotely tested).
• A technical report detailing the technologies used, challenges faced, testing outcomes, and recommendations for further development.

Project Support: Students will receive mentorship from our team, with support on topics such as:

• Understanding the CAN protocol and its applications.
• Working with ESP32 and communication platforms.
• Debugging hardware and firmware issues.
• Best practices for prototyping, testing, and iteration.

All work can be conducted remotely, with resources provided for testing via simulations or remote tools where necessary. This project provides hands-on experience in embedded systems and IoT, preparing students for real-world applications in industrial and automotive technology.

1. Initial Guidance: Provide an overview of the company's data management infrastructure, highlighting key challenges and opportunities for improvement.
2. Technical Support: Assign experienced developers as mentors to assist students throughout the integration process, offering guidance on best practices, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing performance.
3. Feedback and Review: Regularly review project progress, provide constructive feedback on implementation approaches, and suggest improvements to ensure alignment with company standards and objectives.
4. Networking Opportunities: Facilitate interactions between students and relevant stakeholders within the company, enabling them to gain valuable insights and expand their professional network in the industry.