British YouTuber James Bruton has taken the world of personal transportation by storm with his groundbreaking invention: an electric bike that is not only driveable and self-balancing but also omnidirectional and equipped with mecanum wheels. This revolutionary creation, which combines off-the-shelf parts and 3D printing, showcases Bruton’s remarkable engineering skills and creative thinking.
Bruton’s previous project, where he developed a self-balancing omni-wheel using mecanum wheels, served as the inspiration for this remarkable electric bike. The earlier vehicle lacked the ability to move forward or backward, but Bruton ingeniously integrated mecanum-styled wheels into his design, making it a game-changer.
Unlike traditional wheels, mecanum wheels have rollers mounted at diagonal angles on the outer edge, allowing for free-spinning while driving the vehicle. With four strategically positioned mecanum wheels, the bike can effortlessly maneuver in any direction or spin in place by controlling the speed and direction of the wheels.
To accomplish his ambitious project, Bruton designed and 3D-printed his own set of four mecanum wheels with a diameter of 14.2 inches (360 mm). He also used a combination of timber parts and readily available components, such as ball bearings, to ensure stability and balance.
The wheels, powered by electric motors connected to toothed rubber belts, can operate in both forward and backward directions. With the addition of rigid handlebars, a bench seat, and an adorable headlight, Bruton’s creation, affectionately named the Screw Bike, was ready to hit the road.
When activated, the bike impressively maintains its balance and stability, similar to a Segway. By leaning left or right, riders can initiate movement in their desired direction. Separate controls allow for driving the bike forward, backward, or spinning it in place.
While the bike lacks suspension and is not suitable for long rides, its novelty and fun factor make it an exciting ride nonetheless. Bruton has generously released the CAD designs and code for the Screw Bike, enabling enthusiasts to recreate and experience this remarkable invention firsthand.
Bruton’s electric bike represents a paradigm shift in personal transportation, showcasing the possibilities of combining innovative technology, off-the-shelf components, and 3D printing to create unique and game-changing vehicles. With his ingenuity and open-source approach, Bruton has paved the way for new possibilities in the world of electric mobility.
