This may seem like a silly question to some, but I just got to thinking about building on the Arduino platform. As I design my project in my head, I'm thinking it might take 3-4 Arduino boards. This won't be a permanent project so it will get torn down after a while.
In cases like this, would you just build your components on platforms so they can be easily removed and then replaced later if you wish? I'm guessing this would be more beneficial than plugging everything into the Arduino board and then having to manually remove everything.
I would build your Arduino in a modular fashion where each section of the Arduino can be easily torn down and replaced with new modules or used on other projects.
For example the Arduino OS should be one module while the motive drive systems such as wheels would be another module.
The best way to go about this would be to use LEGO slabs where the LEGO Nubs can be sanded down and the Arduino placed in the sanded out area. The remaining nubs would then used to attach the other Arduino modules to that way you could have a modular design that could be broken down in minutes and made into something new.
dryson:
I would build your Arduino in a modular fashion where each section of the Arduino can be easily torn down and replaced with new modules or used on other projects.
That is exactly what I thought. I will build them on a platform that will plug right on top of the Arduino that way they can be easily broken down. I got to thinking about it after watching that video on your post about the Backyard Project and seeing that 'rover' with all the boards stacked on it.
"I'm guessing this would be more beneficial than plugging everything into the Arduino board and then having to manually remove everything."
Another option is to make up some cable assemblies that terminate at bundles that plug into the arduino and are easily plugged in and removed.
I use crimp connector housings like this all the time
with wire like these
to make up "harnesses" to go from arduino to my external electronics.
I keep bags of different sizes and wires in different lengths handy.
(don't forget to grab some free back issues of elektor magazine when your order.
add coupon code ELEKTORyymm, you can add a bunch of issues to your order.
The July/August issue is the Project issue, lots of interesting things).