[rocknthehawk]

If it's something your team wants to do, got for it! There will be naysayers that will give every reason not to try it, but what fun is that? Pushing yourselves to try something new, and learning in the process, can be hugely beneficial.

This was our (Team 126's) first year using mecanum wheels. I don't think anyone would have changed this decision. Our camera alignment was fantastic, with the ability to strafe. We spent a lot of time calculating gearing. We ended up with a final drive of about 17.5:1, CIM to wheel speed. Secondly, lots of drivers practice. Usually 4 days a week for 2 hours or more.

We did not run encoders on our robot. We initially made custom mounts for encoders, but ended up finding we did not need them. I don't know the programming side well enough to understand why, or what we did differently. Just that it didn't operate any differently for us not using them.

We used 8" AM wheels. They are heavy. I don't think the washer and brass bushing for the rollers is the best design possible, but it's simple and cost effective.