XRP Project: Adding Mecanum Wheels and How Mecanum Works
Mecanum wheels are fascinating - see how the XRP community has added Mecanum wheels to the XRP; we also reference some fun resources to learn more about Mecanum wheels - how they work and applications.
Mecanum wheels! So cool. The XRP community has been undertaking some impressive projects; one that is of particular interest across the board is the addition of Mecanum wheels to the XRP. If you have ever wanted your robot to slide sideways like a crab or do diagonal moves, the tutorials below will help you. We’ll also point you to some insightful resources that break down the mechanics behind Mecanum wheels, so you can see (or teach) how they work and how they are used. In terms of STEM, career paths, and workforce development, this is definitely an XRP project that can connect to future professions.
"Enhancing XRP Functionality with a Mecanum Wheel Design" from Travis Foss @ DigiKey
In this tutorial, Travis Foss discusses how to expand the functionality of the XRP by incorporating a Mecanum wheel design. He shares his experience of designing and assembling a frame for the XRP that can be printed in one piece using a LulzBot TAZ6 printer. The tutorial covers the design process, software setup, and assembly tips to enhance the robot's functionality. Foss also provides detailed instructions on modifying the software to accommodate the new Mecanum wheel setup. This is a more advanced tutorial; it may be beneficial to have some experience with electronics, 3D Printing, and coding before attempting.
"An XRP Mecanum Wheel Robot" from @KillianPA on Instructables
@KillianPA, a middle school science teacher and FTC Robotics coach, put together this awesome, 30-step Instructables project: The Corginator 9.0! KillianPA shares their journey of designing and coding the robot, providing a step-by-step guide with pictures. The blog covers the entire process, from copying the chassis in Tinkercad to making final cuts for wires and printing the chassis. This is a great expansion project for your XRP and is ideal for all skill levels, including beginners.
"Omni XRP Robot" from Jacob Williams @Experiential
If you are a 3D-printing enthusiast, Jacob Williams at Experiential (the organization behind the XRP robot) has provided Onshape and Printables (wheels and chassis) files that will enable anyone to print a modified chassis and fully printed holonomic robot wheels, transforming the standard XRP hardware into a Mecanum robot. The design clicks together - following the general ethos of the XRP robot. You will also need an XRP DIY Kit and a pair of hobby motors. If you are an educator or a FIRST Ⓡ team, do not forget to apply for an educator account so you can receive discounts across the SparkFun store!
How Mecanum Wheels Work
There are some great resources out there that explain how Mecanum wheels work - here are a couple that walk through how Mecanum wheels work and some industry applications.
"The Mecanum Wheel is So Weird, It is Genius. How It Works." by Jeremy Fielding
"The Brilliant Engineering of Mecanum Wheels"by Sabin Civil Engineering
