Tom Benedict's suggestion about steam engine with computer-controlled valves is actually something I had given a thought earlier. That's an interesting challenge and a nice excuse to use an AVR in a steam project. Probably when I master building engines to the point when they actually can do work, as in spin a generator fast enough, that may become reality.

What I really like about steam engines is their intrinsic simplicity which allows for endless variations in design - just think about all those epycycloidal or elbow engines, youtube has plenty of videos. Adding an electrical part is a complication.. But maybe a worthy one? Definitely, at least from a steampunk admirer's point of view.