Robots!

http://gamma.sitelutions.com/~toucans/aspcr/index.html

HW Selection: Target cost under 1k USD

Parallax GPS Receiver Module Price: $89.95

Single-wire 4800 bps TTL Serial interface Provides either raw NMEA0183 strings
Simple/raw mode selectable via I/O control. Single +5VDC supply @ 115 mA (typical)
http://www.parallax.com/Store/Sensors/CompassGPS/tabid/173/CategoryID/48/List/0/Level/a/ProductID/396/Default.aspx?SortField=ProductName%2cProductName

Compass/Tilt/Heading:

Acceleration:

IR :

Ultrasonic:

Encoders:

Motor:

Motor Drive:

Batteries/Charger: app 75 USD

Communication/Wireless:

Data Storage:

Vision:

Embedded
Gumstick
Windows CE Kit /eBox-4300 Cost: 295 USD
http://www.roboticsconnection.com/p-79-icop-ebox-4300-jump-start-kit.aspx

Car Platform
Tamiya 1/10 Toyota Land Cruiser Kit: CR01/Scorpion AX10 Rock Racer1/10 RTR 320/300 USD
http://www.hobby-sports.com/cart/catalog.php?catrange=215-224

Traxxas

User interface

The Journey Robot and the DPRG Outdoor Robot Challenge

The Journey Robot

http://www.geology.smu.edu/~dpa-www/robo/jbot/index.html

The DPRG Outdoor Robot Challenge

http://geology.heroy.smu.edu/~dpa-www/robo/challenge/

Mechatronics Mechanical System Control - It's the Software! -Google Talks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ly3Hk-kybJA

Definition of Mechatronics: "The application of complex decision-making to the control of physical systems" 53:55 min