WALKING GEIGER COUNTER WITH GPS MAPPING

Introducing the Walking Geiger Counter, a fully custom-built portable radiation detector with integrated GPS logging and real-time mapping. This project combines common maker hardware with a sleek, 3D printed design and a powerful custom-developed mobile app for comprehensive radiation data capture and visualization.

HOW IT WORKS:

1. Hardware & Core Components:

• CAJOE Radiation Detector Module: The central sensing element, detecting beta and gamma radiation using an SBM-20 Geiger-Müller tube.
• ESP32-C3 Mini Development Board: The project's brain. It's programmed with firmware that listens for each pulse signal from the CAJOE module. For every pulse, it sends a simple, immediate serial response via its USB-C port.
• Custom 3D Printed Case: A durable, ergonomic enclosure (available here) that houses all components, with a clear window for the Geiger tube and accessible ports.
• Smartphone: Connects via USB-C to receive the serial data and run the user interface.
• M3 threaded inserts (4.5 mm OD) - can be found HERE
• M3 screws

2. Wiring instructions:

• ESP32-C 5V connects to CAJOE Module 5V
• ESP32-C GND connects to CAJOE Module GND
• ESP32-C Pin 3 connects to CAJOE Module VIN

3. Custom Mobile App (WalkingGeiger):

Developed specifically for this project, the WalkingGeiger app (developed by me) acts as the display, processor, and data logger:

• Real-time Calculations: It takes the simple serial pulses from the ESP32-C and instantly calculates both Counts Per Minute (CPM) and your current Sievert dose rate (µSv/h).
• GPS Logging: The app utilizes your phone's GPS to log your precise location alongside every radiation measurement.
• Interactive Mapping: This is the best feature! The app generates a real-time, color-coded heat map directly in the interface, showing your recorded CPM values on a map of your location. Instantly visualize radiation hotspots as you walk.

KEY FEATURES:

• [**] Real-time CPM and Sievert display.
• [**] Seamless GPS position logging with all data points.
• [**] Integrated CPM heat map on a live map.
• [**] Standard maker components (CAJOE & ESP32-C3 Mini) for easy sourcing.
• [**] Portable, durable, and unique design.

GET THE FILES:

Find the code, design files, and instructions below:

• ESP32-C3 Mini Code: Download the lightweight code from HERE.
• WalkingGeiger Mobile App: Get the app for your phone HERE.
• 3D Printable STL Files: Included here for download.

IMAGE GALLERY:

• Project app: Photo showing the WalkingGeiger app interface.
• Open and Closed Detailed Views: The original photos of the project, including a close-up of the internal PCB layout and a top-down view of the assembled device.

Build this unique tool and explore the invisible world around you! Share your heatmaps and feedback below.