Mecanum Wheels

Mecanum wheels are a type of wheel that is designed to provide omnidirectional movement for a mobile platform, such as a robot or a vehicle. They consist of a central hub with a number of rollers arranged around the perimeter, each of which is mounted at an angle to the axis of the wheel. When the wheel rotates, the rollers allow the wheel to move in any direction, including sideways, diagonally, and even backwards.

Mecanum wheels are often used in robots and other mobile platforms that require a high degree of maneuverability and versatility, such as search and rescue robots, inspection robots, and military robots. They are also used in some types of material handling equipment, such as conveyor belts and AGVs (automated guided vehicles).

Mecanum wheels have several advantages over traditional wheels. They allow a mobile platform to move in any direction, rather than just forwards and backwards, which can be especially useful in tight or crowded spaces. They also provide a smooth and stable ride, as the rollers help to distribute the load evenly across the surface of the wheel. Additionally, Mecanum wheels are relatively simple and inexpensive to manufacture, making them a cost-effective choice for many applications.

Overall, Mecanum wheels are a useful and versatile type of wheel that is well-suited for a wide range of mobile platforms and applications that require omnidirectional movement.

External Resources and Guides

Andy Mark - How Do I Position Mecanum Wheels?

goBILDA - Mecanum Wheels Tips & Tricks

What Does a Mecanum Wheel Look Like