Development of Educational Robot Platform Based on Omni-directional Mobile Mechanism

Abstract

In this paper an omni-directional mobile robot is suggested for educational robot platform. Comparing to other robots, a mobile robot can be easily designed and manufactured due to its simple geometric structure. Moreover, since it is required to have low DOF motion on planar space, fabrication of control system is also simple. In this research, omni-directional wheels were adopted to remove the non-holonomic characteristic of conventional wheels and facilitate control system design. Firstly, geometric structure of a Mecanum wheel which is a most frequently used omni-directional wheel was demonstrated. Then, the organization of the mobile platform was suggested in aspects of mechanism manufacturing and electronic hardware design. Finally, a methodology of control system development was introduced for educational purpose. Due to an intuitive motion generating ability, simple hardware composition, and convenient control algorithm applicability, the omni-directional mobile robot suggested in this research is expected to be a promising educational platform.