Researchers at South Korea’s Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) have introduced a game-changing “morphing” wheel. Designed to overcome challenging terrains like stairs, curbs, and rough surfaces, this wheel could redefine wheelchair mobility. Inspired by the way water droplets adjust to surfaces, the morphing wheel aims to reshape mobility devices and support various robotic applications.
A Wheel for All Terrain Types
Traditional wheelchairs often struggle on steep or uneven ground. Most are restricted by rigid, fixed wheels that cannot adapt to obstacles like steps, humps, or rugged pathways. KIMM’s morphing wheel addresses these issues with a design that adjusts itself based on the surface it encounters. When the wheel meets an obstacle, its structure changes—becoming softer or firmer as needed. This flexibility allows the wheelchair to tackle barriers up to 1.3 times the wheel’s radius, which is a significant improvement over standard mobility devices.
An innovative sensor system powers this morphing ability by monitoring the terrain and adjusting the wheel’s stiffness. Unlike airless or non-pneumatic tires that aim for durability, these wheels actively adapt in real time. This unique flexibility makes them ideal for various environments, both indoors and outdoors.
How the Morphing Wheel Works
The wheel includes an outer hoop, made from a chain, and spoke wires attached to a hub. Sensors within the wheel detect obstacles and terrain shifts, changing the tension in the spokes. This real-time adjustment allows the wheel to soften or harden as needed, similar to how water changes shape around objects. Recent demonstrations showed the wheelchair smoothly climbing 18-centimeter steps, a feat achieved through this dynamic structural change.
KIMM principal researcher Song Sung-hyuk and his team have tested the wheel at speeds of up to 30 kilometers per hour (kph). With further advancements, they hope to reach 100 kph, which could unlock a broader range of applications, including delivery robots.
Video Credits : Reuters.com->
Potential Beyond Wheelchairs
The morphing wheel could benefit more than just wheelchair users. KIMM envisions its use in unmanned delivery vehicles, enabling these robots to climb stairs and cross curbs to deliver goods directly to customers’ doorsteps. The wheel could also serve robots in industrial or military settings, allowing them to handle rough terrain while transporting heavy loads.
This technology could also improve two- and four-legged robots, which often struggle with instability on uneven ground. Adding stability to these robots could improve efficiency in places like factories, construction sites, and outdoor locations with demanding conditions.
A Major Step Forward in Robotics
The morphing wheel brings a fresh solution to the robotics and mobility fields. Existing flexible wheel technologies, like non-pneumatic tires, have limited ability to overcome high obstacles. KIMM’s approach combines adaptability and strength, which makes it suitable for robots operating in unpredictable or hostile environments. For example, reconnaissance robots in military operations could use these wheels to navigate rough terrain and gather information effectively.
Transforming Accessibility for Wheelchair Users
For wheelchair users, this technology marks a significant improvement in independence and accessibility. Stairs and uneven surfaces, which often present obstacles, would be far easier to navigate with a morphing-wheel-equipped wheelchair.
In the future, the morphing wheel could inspire similar designs in other mobility aids, like walkers and scooters. As the technology becomes more advanced and cost-effective, high-mobility devices could become more affordable and accessible for people around the world.
Toward Smarter Mobility Solutions
South Korea’s morphing wheel highlights the potential of robotics and AI in practical problem-solving. While KIMM’s team still aims to reach the 100 kph target, this breakthrough shows how smart mobility technology is evolving.
We could soon see similar technologies in consumer robotics, public transportation, and other sectors needing adaptable mobility. By merging adaptability with cutting-edge sensor technology, South Korea’s morphing wheels may pave the way for a new generation of flexible, smart, and accessible mobility solutions.
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