Atmel AVR Based Robot Controller

I am in the beginning stages of developing a custom robot controller for eventual use in SA and any future robotic projects.

Proposed Specs:
- Compatible with the Arduino IDE.
- Dual serial ports. One dedicated to the Xbee wireless radio and the second free for use with separate motor and servo controllers such as the Lynxmotion SSC-32.
- Four digitally switched relays.
- Two adjustable switching regulators.
- Servo style headers on digital I/O and analog inputs providing signal, power and ground connections

Meet Second Amendment The Quadruped Mech

Second Amendment (SA for short) is a Quadruped Mech being designed and built for the Mech Warfare competition at the 2010 RoboGames.



SA's Specs:
Mechanical
- A mix of Lynxmotion SES parts and custom machined aluminum parts.
Electronics
- Lynxmotion SSC-32 Servo Controller
- Xbee Wireless Communication Kit
- TRENDnet Wireless Internet Camera Server (TV-IP110W)
Software
- Python Programming Language
Weapon
- Modified CyberGun Defender Electronic Full Auto SoftAir BB Gun

Updates:
SA's previous updates have been documented in the Trossen Robitcs community forums in this thread.

Videos:
A few videos of SA can be viewed in my YouTube channel.

I will continue to post small updates in the Trossen Robotics thread and periodically update this blog with posts detailing major advancements.

Mech Warfare!

What is Mech Warfare?
Mech Warfare is a robotic competition whos goal is to recreate robotic combat similar to what is found in the video game series MechWarrior.

The basic premise of Mech Warfare is fighting custom walking robots equipped with airsoft style weapons and piloted remotely through the view of a wireless camera mounted on the robot.

For more information and the full rule set please visit the following links:
Official Mech Warfare Website
Mech Warfare Draft Rules
Mech Warfare Discussion

Below is a highlight video of the first Mech Warfare competiton held at the 2009 RoboGames.