Mecanum Wheels

Bengt Ilon invented this type of wheel while working for the Swedish company Mecanum AB. The Mecanum-style drive base uses 4 wheels, including 2 right wheels and 2 left wheels. One right and left is on each side of the robot. Each wheel is driven independently. For more information on Mecanum drive methods, see the Wikipedia site on Mecanum wheels.

Structure

The AndyMark version of the Mecanum wheel utilizes 2 bent sheet metal plates and rubber rollers.

We offer 8" wheels and 6" wheels, and will soon have 10" wheels.

All of these wheels have the rollers positioned at 45 degree angles. This design enables the wheel to propel a vehicle forward, backward, and directly sideways.

The load capability for each wheel is as such:
6" Wheel: 40 kg (80 pounds)
8" Wheel: 40 kg (80 pounds)
10" Wheel: 200 kg (440 pounds)

The 6" Mecanum wheels utilize 16 rollers positioned between 2 steel plates. Each wheel weighs 1.3 pounds.

The 8" Mecanum wheels utilize 12 rollers, positioned between 2 aluminum side plates. Each wheel weighs 2.5 pounds. These wheels are delivered in kit form, unassembled.

The 10" Mecanum wheels utilize 12 rollers, positioned betwen 2 steel plates. Each wheel weighs 10 pounds.

Secification sheet for AndyMark Mecanum wheels