Print&Live and iSCALE3D have unveiled revolutionary 3D printed airless wheels known as Arkan, specifically engineered for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) involved in casualty evacuation, ammunition transport, and logistics. These wheels are designed for challenging off-road environments, employing a sophisticated lightweight lattice structure, rounded tread, and enclosed sidewalls to ensure performance and ease of maintenance.
3D Printed Airless Wheels: Advanced Construction for Robust Performance
The Arkan wheels are crafted from robust elastomers and polymer composites, providing a durable and load-bearing solution. Their airless design eliminates the need for inflation, and features like enclosed sidewalls and rounded treads minimize debris accumulation from mud, stones, and ice. This innovative design reportedly boosts vehicle range by up to 30% compared to existing airless alternatives, optimizing rolling resistance and reducing battery usage. Weighing between 32 and 56 kg, these wheels are significantly lighter than Western models, which weigh between 88 and 144 kg.
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The two-piece rim design allows for quick field replacement using basic tools, bypassing the need for specialized equipment. Additionally, wheel characteristics such as stiffness and geometry can be digitally configured to suit various vehicle weights and mission objectives. A complete set is priced around €680, in stark contrast to the $3,000–4,000 cost of international alternatives.
Proven Success in Military Trials
The Arkan wheels have successfully completed rigorous field and combat assessments with Ukrainian Defence Forces. Testing on a TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 vehicle covered 210 km on a test range and 151 km across 11 winter missions, supporting a load of 1,825 kg and executing a casualty evacuation flawlessly. Despite tread wear, the wheels maintained functionality, and in trials with the Rys Pro UGV, they demonstrated resilience by retaining structural integrity while navigating challenging terrains with heavy loads. These attributes make them ideal for use in military vehicles.
Deployment and Manufacturing Expansion
Following the completion of the research and development phase, the wheels are now being produced in limited quantities to equip combat units. Print&Live and iSCALE3D are working to increase their production capabilities in response to growing demand from UGV manufacturers and military forces. This pioneering project merges additive manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and polymer science, addressing the demanding mobility and maintenance needs of ground operations in tough environments.
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Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is unique about the Arkan airless wheels?
The Arkan wheels feature a sophisticated lightweight lattice structure, rounded tread, and enclosed sidewalls to ensure performance and ease of maintenance. Their airless design eliminates the need for inflation and reduces battery usage while optimizing rolling resistance. They are crafted from robust elastomers and polymer composites, making them durable and load-bearing.
How do Arkan wheels compare with Western models?
Arkan wheels weigh between 32 and 56 kg, which is significantly lighter than Western models that weigh between 88 and 144 kg. They are also priced around €680, much lower than the $3,000–4,000 cost of international alternatives.
How successful have Arkan wheels been in military trials?
The Arkan wheels have successfully completed rigorous field and combat assessments with Ukrainian Defence Forces on a TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 vehicle. Testing covered 210 km on a test range and 151 km across 11 winter missions, supporting a load of 1,825 kg and maintaining functionality despite tread wear.