Rover-001b
A modular RC rover platform built around Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and 2020 aluminum extrusion. Designed as a clean, serviceable robotics platform and future mobile node for Project Vapor.
Purpose-Built for Experimentation
Rover-001b is the second-generation VaporWare Labs rover platform. It begins as a robust RC-controlled rover and evolves into a mobile robotics testbed for autonomy, computer vision, Home Assistant integration, and autonomous docking.
Architecture
- Arduino Nano Every
- RadioMaster Boxer + ER4 receiver
- TB6612FNG motor driver
- TT gear motors
- Raspberry Pi 5 (planned)
- 2020 aluminum extrusion frame
- 3D printed mounting brackets
Current Status
Hardware bring-up is underway. Motor wiring, RC receiver, and Arduino control software are being validated. Next milestone: stable RC control and power-system refinement.
Engineering Priorities
- Clean, modular, serviceable wiring
- Reliable RC control baseline
- Separation of real-time and high-level computing
- Camera and computer vision support
- Home Assistant and Project Vapor integration
- Future autonomous docking and charging
Next Milestones
- Complete RC control testing
- Install robust 5V power system
- Integrate Raspberry Pi 5
- Implement Pi-to-Arduino telemetry link
- Add camera and vision processing
- Home Assistant integration
- Autonomous docking experiments
A Mobile Vapor Node
Rover-001b combines embedded systems, robotics, mechanical design, power electronics, and software integration into one evolving platform. It serves as a practical engineering sandbox and a stepping stone toward a fully autonomous mobile assistant.