We had a bit of an argument over what would be an efficient way to control a mecanum bot. I have realized many teams attempt compete with mecanum bots, but don't always take full advantage of their maneuverability.
Let's be clear:
Please do not turn this into another mecanum vs. 6wd discussion, this is about controlling mecanum bots easily and efficiently.
I suggested a 2 joystick approach. This could either be 2 Logitech Attack joysticks, or a PS2-like gamepad.
The left joystick would move forward, backwards, and strafe, while the right joystick would control rotation.
I feel like this would give the maximum amount of control. It is somewhat similar to a first-person-shooter video game. However, a concern has been brought up about 2 joysticks being too complicated and unnecessary.
Another suggestion was to use only 1 joystick and have a "mecanum mode" switch, where the robot would drive like a 'regular' bot until a button is pressed. Enabling the button would then allow it to temporarily strafe, until the button is released.
This eliminates the need for 2 joysticks, but limits the movement of the robot to either strafing or rotating; it can never do both at once.
I feel this defeats the purpose of having a mecanum drive, as it is being looked at as a 'regular' drive with optional strafing ability.
Then there is also the option of getting a 3-axis joystick, but all of us seem to dislike that idea.
What do you guys think? Or do you have any other suggestions?