Innovative 3D Printed Airless Wheels Enhance UGV Performance
Written with artificial intelligence.
Print&Live and iSCALE3D have introduced Arkan, a set of 3D printed airless wheels designed for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) used in various military operations. Their lightweight construction and field-replaceable design aim to improve mobility and reduce operational costs.
Development of Arkan Wheels
Print&Live and iSCALE3D have created Arkan, a set of airless wheels tailored for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) utilized in casualty evacuation, ammunition transport, and logistical support. These wheels are specifically engineered for off-road conditions, featuring a lightweight lattice structure, rounded tread, and enclosed sidewalls that enhance mobility even after sustaining damage.
Key Features and Advantages
The wheels are manufactured from load-bearing elastomers and polymer composites, eliminating the need for inflation. Their innovative design helps prevent the accumulation of mud, stones, and ice, potentially increasing the vehicle's range by up to 30% compared to existing airless options. The weight of a set ranges from 32 to 56 kg, significantly lighter than Western alternatives that weigh between 88 and 144 kg.
The unique two-piece rim allows for easy installation or replacement in the field using standard tools, removing the necessity for specialized equipment. Additionally, the wheels can be digitally adjusted for stiffness and geometry to suit different vehicle specifications and mission needs. A complete set is priced around €680, a stark contrast to overseas alternatives costing between US$3,000 and $4,000.
Field Performance and Trials
Arkan wheels have been tested by Ukrainian Defence Forces, demonstrating their effectiveness in both field and combat scenarios. For instance, a TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 vehicle successfully covered 210 km on a test range and 151 km across 11 winter combat missions, transporting 1,825 kg of cargo and facilitating the evacuation of a wounded individual. The wheels maintained functionality even after tread wear.
Further trials with the Rys Pro UGV confirmed that the wheels sustained load-bearing capacity without delamination or structural issues, even in challenging boggy and frozen conditions while towing another vehicle. With the research and development phase completed, Print&Live and iSCALE3D are now producing these wheels in small batches for military units, with plans to scale up production to meet increasing demand from UGV manufacturers.