Michelin debuted the concept tire, dubbed Vision, at the summit; it’s actually a wheel integrated with a tire, or tweel. The project was launched by Michelin’s Corporate Innovation Board this past fall, and according to Tire Review, Michelin said that the goal of the 3D printed Vision was to make a tire that “represents the mobility of the future as well as being both sustainable and intelligent.”
It’s not the first time we’ve seen 3D printed tires, but they certainly don’t look anything like this one. The customizable Vision tire is airless, connected, rechargeable, and completely organic – some of the recycled, bio-sourced materials used to 3D print the tire include cardboard and tin cans, used metals, plastic waste and e-waste, bamboo and paper, tire chips, natural rubber, and even orange zest.
Terry Gettys, the Executive Vice President of Research and Development for Michelin, said, “It’s inspired by nature with a very light, efficient structure.”
The honeycomb-like design for the tire mimics the structure of coral: it features a stiff center that gradually softens as it gets closer to the outer edge. This design is possible thanks to the alveolar interior architecture of the tire, which helps it support the vehicle, remain solid, and also guarantees safety and comfort. The structure was developed using advanced modeling, and since it’s airless, the 3D printed Vision is puncture-proof, so it can’t blowout or explode.
In order to lower its thickness, the rechargeable tread design for the tire is both optimized and depth reduced, making the use of materials, production, and operation more efficient. The tread can also be adapted for specific mobility needs, such as a seasonal change or the existing treads wearing down.
You won’t be seeing the 3D printed Vision tire on the roads anytime soon, as it is only a concept, and Michelin says that there are currently no plans for production yet, though it does offer a non-pneumatic airless tweel for golf carts, riding mowers, and skid steer loaders. Discuss in the Michelin forum at 3DPB.com.
[Sources/Images: Tire Review, CCJ News, Fox News]