Folks,
I want to start a new open project. I know that after I write about it, most of you will say that there are other (maybe even too many) UAV projects out there but, here's what I want to do which is not out there:
Small versatile glueless board (as small as can be) with
- as low as possible power consumption
- top of the line GPS, accelerometers and gyros
- up to 8 motor controls
With extensions to:
- IR sensors (6x)
- Video IO (2x)
Maybe some low profile board-to-board extension connectors (not the huge jumper type found in all of today's solutions. Basically, I want it to look like a sleek, small glueless hi-tech finished product yet be super versatile.
I can design schematics, board layout and even 3D cad files.
Would need help with identifying what the Mboard should host and maybe definition of a convenient form factor. Would also need help with the firmware which is too much for me alone to take on. I'm throwing in free hardware to the first 4 who would be willing to help with firmware.
Of course, both the hardware and firmware are to be open source.
Does this interest anyone?
Cheers,
Gilles
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PS: I am BSEE w/ 15+yrs experience in both hardware design and firmware development.
Replies
Interest but no where near the skill needed.
I'd try to do a prototype not dissimilar to the APM setup in that you have a controller board, an sensor board and a peripheral board. That way your fault finding will be easier and you can update the board with less cost until the design is 90% down. Once you've got it 90% sorted you can do the form factor part.
The reason I say this is I have been designing something (that I have now shared with Chris and Jordi) and the idea was simple but fitting it all together in the form factor was quite literally impossible. After some mail chat I went back to the drawing board and restarted with a redefined goal and succeeded to create exactly what I want in the right form factor but I needed the design sorted. Unfortunately mine uses a ATMega2560 which has contacts to close together for BatchPCB to do and best price for a full prototype is over £70 before parts.
No Replies? Is there anyone out there?...
Any suggestions on how I can gain interest/momentum on this project?
Appreciate any input. Thanks folks!