Maker Faire Detroit was amazing!

Thanks to the Intelligent Systems Club - University of Michigan Dearborn for confirming my theory that electric motors are either powerful or inexpensive and for introducing me to the really nice Talon SRX motor controller. (Also used by FIRST robotics competitors.)

Thanks to Jim Summers from Human Electric Hybrids for taking time to talk with me about the batteries they are using. The "LiFePO4 Lithium 24V 20AH Clydesdale Edition Battery for Electric Bikes" from ElectricRider look very promising.

LiFePO4 battery technology is very interesting: "LiFePO4 batteries have somewhat lower energy density than the more common LiCoO2 design found in consumer electronics, but offers longer lifetimes, better power density (the rate that energy can be drawn from them) and are inherently safer. LiFePO4 is finding a number of roles in vehicle use and backup power." --Wikipedia (emphasis added)

And what's not to love about a 3D printer with a nine feet by four feet build area?