I have a robot that I will be constructing that will have fairly large motors and quite a few sensors (Kinect, ultrasonic, LIDAR, camera, GPS, etc.). I was considering using a computer with Python and a small Arduino to control this robot. I could use the Arduino to read some of the sensors, pass information to the computer, and use the computer to do the heavy computational lifting. I could also use the Arduino to interface to a motor controller, relays, etc. The computer will be an Intel i5, so it has the horsepower necessary.
I'm also aware of the Robotic Operating System (ROS), but this seems fairly complex to learn. I understand I could also use LabView (expensive hardware) or Matlab.
Given that I already know some Python and how to program an Arduino, should I stick with these, or go with something a little more robust? I'm not afraid to learn, I just don't want to go down the wrong path.
What language or software should I use?