Innovative 3D-Printed Airless Wheels Enhance UGV Capabilities
A breakthrough in unmanned ground vehicle technology has emerged with the introduction of Arkan, a novel series of 3D-printed airless wheels. Developed through a collaboration between Print&Live and iSCALE3D, these wheels are tailored for UGVs engaged in vital missions, including transporting supplies, evacuating casualties, and providing logistics. Their innovative design incorporates a lightweight lattice framework, a curved tread pattern, fully enclosed sidewalls, and a two-piece rim assembly, all contributing to superior resilience against damage and simplifying maintenance in the field. Constructed from durable elastomers and polymer composites, these airless wheels eliminate the need for inflation, significantly reducing the risk of punctures. The sealed sidewalls and contoured tread actively prevent the accumulation of debris such as mud, rocks, and ice, ensuring consistent performance. Initial assessments suggest that this design could extend vehicle operational range by up to 30% compared to existing airless alternatives, thanks to reduced rolling resistance and optimized battery usage. Additionally, the wheels boast a remarkable weight advantage, weighing between 32–56 kg per set, a considerable reduction from the 88–144 kg of comparable Western-made options. The modular two-piece rim design facilitates swift tire installation or replacement with standard tools, requiring no specialized equipment. This adaptability extends to customizable stiffness, damping, and geometry, allowing for digital adjustments to suit diverse vehicle loads and operational demands. With a price point of approximately €680 per set, Arkan wheels offer a cost-effective solution compared to overseas alternatives, which typically range from US$3,000 to $4,000 or more.
These advanced airless wheels have undergone rigorous evaluation, including extensive field and combat assessments with Ukrainian Defence Forces. During these trials, a TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 vehicle, equipped with Arkan wheels, successfully traversed 210 km on a test range and completed 11 winter combat missions covering 151 km, carrying 1,825 kg of cargo and successfully evacuating an injured individual. Despite observable tread wear, the wheels maintained their full operational capacity. Similarly, tests with the Rys Pro UGV demonstrated that Arkan wheels retained their load-bearing integrity, showing no signs of delamination or structural compromise even when operating on challenging boggy and frozen terrains under substantial loads and while towing another vehicle. Having successfully completed the research and development phase, these wheels are now being manufactured in limited quantities for active combat units. Print&Live and iSCALE3D are actively scaling up their production capabilities to meet the growing demand from both UGV manufacturers and military organizations. This initiative exemplifies a multidisciplinary approach, integrating additive manufacturing, mechanical engineering, polymer science, and robotics to address the critical mobility and maintenance needs of ground vehicles operating in the most demanding environments.
The successful development and deployment of Arkan wheels signify a substantial leap forward in military and humanitarian logistics. This innovation not only enhances the operational effectiveness and safety of unmanned ground vehicles in hazardous zones but also demonstrates the transformative potential of advanced manufacturing techniques. By fostering continuous improvement and embracing forward-thinking solutions, we can empower our defense and aid organizations to navigate complex challenges with greater efficiency and a commitment to preserving life and promoting stability globally.