Hey everyone,
I created a little board I called a 'Motorduino' a while back (since then someone else has created something else with the same name - different thing though). I'm now working on an upgrade. The target is small braitenberg-like vehicles or any little device with two wheels. In a nutshell:
- tiny form factor (2.35" x 1.65") - obviously not compatible with standard arduino shields
- atmega 168 or 328 (haven't decided yet)
- Motor driver - previously the L293dd (SMT) but that may change
- Likely an onboard Lithium charging circuit...so it could all run off one cell and charge automatically via USB - LiPoly batteries would help keep the form factor of the whole package small
- USB via FTDI just like a Diecimila/Duemilanove
- A ground pin for every digital or analog pin (a ground rail parallel to those ones) for adding components without needing a shield to breakout the ground pin
The main reason for making this is that otherwise to create something like this (which I've done many, many times), you need a full Arduino + motor shield which is bulky and expensive (compared to having it all one one board).
Now, my question to all you Arduinites is whether or not this is something you'd find useful. If not many people would use it, I'll just prototype one or two for myself. If not, I may just produce a batch of them and try to sell a few off.
Yay or nay?
Thanks!