Revolutionary morphing wheel technology could change mobility and robotics forever

A team of researchers from the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) has developed an innovative “morphing” wheel that adapts to different terrains and offers potential solutions to mobility problems. This technology allows the wheel to overcome obstacles up to 1.3 times the height of its radius, allowing smooth navigation over curbs, bumps and even stairs.

The wheel, designed with flexibility inspired by the surface tension of water droplets, transitions between solid and liquid states when it encounters obstacles. Applications for the technology range from wheelchairs that navigate uneven terrain to unmanned vans that can climb stairs, making it a groundbreaking tool for accessibility and automation. The team also envisions its integration into robotics, especially for machines that require stable movements in industrial environments.

Technology overview and testing

The morphing wheel design includes a chain-like outer ring and spoke wires connected to a hub. A sensor system adjusts the stiffness of the spokes, allowing the wheel to adapt in real time based on terrain conditions. Current testing has shown that the device is capable of climbing 7-inch steps while transporting a life-size dummy in a wheelchair prototype. Devices equipped with these wheels have also reached speeds of up to 30 km/h.

Dr. Song Sung-hyuk, chief researcher at KIMM, stated that efforts are being made to improve the steering’s capabilities for speeds up to 100 km/h, comparable to that of average cars. He marked while it is comparable technologies Just as non-pneumatic tires provide flexibility, they lack the obstacle-overcoming ability of the morphing wheel.

Potential impact and applications

The research team foresees broad applications for the morphing wheel. Two- and four-legged robots, which are often hampered by limited efficiency and vibration sensitivity, could benefit from these advances. Industrial robots that transport loads over uneven surfaces can also see significant improvements in stability and performance.

The morphing wheel gained recognition when it appeared on the cover story of Science Robotics in August 2024. Its potential to reshape mobility technologies underlines the ongoing innovation efforts at KIMM. style>.embed-container { position: relative; filling bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; maximum width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }