OrcBoard: an open-source robotics controller platform

Hi everyone,

Just a quick note to let you know that the robotics controller used in
MIT's 6.186 robotics competition (http://maslab.csail.mit.edu ) and in
MIT's cornerstone two-term robotics classwork has its own website.

http://www.orcboard.org

The OrcBoard project is completely open-source, from schematics,
firmware, to user libraries.

Unlike other many other robotics controllers, this one is designed to
be a slave to a laptop or embedded PC. This way you program in your
favorite language and environment, and aren't constrained by limited
CPU power/memory.

Here's a brief feature list:

        * USB or serial connectivity to host computer
        * Four high current (>2A), bi-directional motor drivers, each
          with a dedicated enable, and current sensing capability.
        * Two channels of quadrature phase decoders
        * 12 A/D ports, most 14 bits, with programmable low-pass
          filters
        * 12 fully programmable digital I/O (including programmable
          pull-ups)
        * Built-in Analog Devices iMEMS Gyro integrator
        * SRF04-compatible sonar compatibility (two channels)
        * 4 Futaba-style servo controllers, two with current sensing
          capability (up to 8 with special firmware)
        * Two 100kbps I2C expansion ports, implementing a host-to-I2C
          bridge.
        * OrcPad Connector
        * Designed to support in-system battery recharging using
          inexpensive, standard 12V lead-acid batteries.
        * Supports single power supply (one battery for both motors
          and logic)
        * Supports input voltages from 10V-24V. Has internal 5A, high
          efficiency 5V switching power supply.
        * Fully reprogrammable, customizable, open-source firmware
        * Measures 4.5" x 3.125" x < 0.75"

The OrcPad is a key accessory to the OrcBoard, providing a user
interface:

        * 128x64 monochrome graphical LCD with backlight
        * 2-axis analog joystick
        * Three push buttons, including an "Emergency Stop"
        * Fully reprogrammable, customizable, open-source firmware
        * Measures 4.5" x 2" x < 1"

We don't have a commercial manufacturer, but there's a community
group-ordering effort; whenever we get enough orders for a batch, we'll
do a production run.

We welcome new users! Or if you have any comments, please feel free to
use the wiki (http://www.orcboard.org ), or send me an email:
eolson@mit.edu

-Edwin Olson