I'm in the process of scoping out a new project that is in the realm of robotics. It involves one wireless controller that a person would use to turn and drive four wireless "pod" systems. Each of the four pods simply receives communication from the wireless controller and turns/drives a wheel. This will be used to move large objects of different dimensions, so the pods will be mounted in different distances from each other depending on the scenario.
Some requirements:
- One wireless controller directs four wireless "pod" systems
- Pod functions: forward, reverse, turn left, turn right
- Pods can operate independently so the wireless controller can send specific commands to individual pods
- Pods do not need to communicate with each other or back to the controller (open loop)
- Max range is around 20 feet
I feel like this is very similar to a robotics chassis application, so there has to be some off-the-shelf development systems that would fit this application well. Any suggestions for microcontroller platform and wireless protocol?
FWIW, I have experience programming in C with Microchip PICs and Nordic bluetooth SOCs.