Open MICKY

The high cost of commercial mobile robot platforms remains a significant barrier for teams entering competitive and research environments such as RoboCup@Work, particularly in regions with limited funding, such as Latin America. This barrier often restricts participation and slows down the development of new robotics solutions.

MICKY was developed to address this challenge by providing a low-cost, open-source omnidirectional mobile base designed to be modular and mechanically capable. The platform follows a design philosophy similar to other accessible robotic bases, focusing on enabling new teams and researchers to enter the field of mobile robotics.

The system adopts a modular architecture based on 40×40 T-slot aluminum extrusions combined with a Mecanum wheel drive system, enabling full holonomic motion while supporting significant payloads.

Rather than relying on expensive proprietary solutions, MICKY is built using Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components and a simplified mechanical design. This approach enables a high payload-to-cost ratio while maintaining ease of assembly, maintenance, and customization.

The platform is designed to support applications such as mobile manipulation, autonomous navigation, and robotics research, while allowing straightforward integration of sensors, actuators, and additional subsystems.

Ultimately, MICKY aims to democratize access to mobile robotics by providing a scalable, reproducible, and economically viable platform for students, researchers, and robotics teams.

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