Page 68 - Toucpad robotics C11

Castor Wheels
Description: A non-powered wheel mounted in a swivelling yoke.
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It can roll in any direction and automatically align itself with the
direction of motion.
Characteristics: Often used in tri-wheel robots (one or two castor
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wheels with two standard drive wheels) to provide stability and
free-rolling support.
Advantages: Provides stability to the robot and simplifies turning.
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Disadvantages: It cannot be driven, and controlling it precisely can be difficult.
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Mecanum Wheels

Description: These wheels are a special type of omnidirectional wheel. The
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wheel’s rim is fitted with a series of smaller rollers at a 45-degree angle to the
wheel’s axis.
Characteristics: By controlling the speed and direction of rotation of each
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wheel independently, a robot can move in any direction (forward, backward,
sideways, or diagonally) without needing to turn its body.
Advantages: Exceptional manoeuvrability, allowing the robot to operate in tight spaces.
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Disadvantages: Mechanically complex, more expensive, less efficient on uneven surfaces due to the rollers.
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Omni Wheels

Description: Similar to Mecanum wheels, these are omnidirectional wheels.
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The wheel’s rim is fitted with rollers that are perpendicular to the wheel’s axis.
Characteristics: They allow a robot to move sideways by spinning some wheels
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while others roll freely.
Advantages: Provides excellent manoeuvrability, can move sideways, and is
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mechanically simpler than Mecanum wheels.
Disadvantages: Not as flexible as Mecanum wheels for diagonal movement
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and can be prone to slippage.

21 st
VIDEO SESSION Century #Digital Literacy
Skills
Scan the QR code or visit the following link to watch the video:
Types of Robotics Wheels

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhRUgpJr1_4
After watching the video, answer the following questions:
1. List the types of robotic wheels discussed in the video.

2. Which wheel would you use for your robot, and why?

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Touchpad Robotics - XI