Using Additive Manufacturing to Reinvent the Wheel: Non-Pneumatic Tire
Date
2024
Authors
Nguyen, Celina
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Victoria
Abstract
Additive manufacturing techniques were employed to initiate the research and development of four distinct spoke geometries for non-pneumatic tires: Hexagon, Graded Hexagon, Tweel, and Polydomain. The Hexagon structure served as the reference for consistency across all tires. The Graded Hexagon and Tweel structures were replicated from pre-existing spoke configurations for the purpose of testing and comparison. The Polydomain design, inspired by Dr. Bosco Yu's research on 5-7 defects in hexagonal honeycomb structures, was incorporated. The tires underwent compression testing, aiming for consistent stiffness and energy loss throughout their rotation to meet the criteria of an ideal tire. However, it is important to note that the current experimental data has limitations, as inconsistent print qualities throughout the wheel were discovered, leading to variations in tire compliance.
Description
Keywords
Engineering, R&D, tire, NPT, additive manufacturing