Rough-Terrain Adaptive Wheel

概要

It adapts automatically when encountering rough terrain, enabling easy navigation over stairs and bumps. It can be applied to various wheeled devices such as wheelchairs and robots.

経緯

The idea originated from observing wheel-based devices fail to handle everyday terrain like stairs or unpaved roads, reducing user freedom and safety. We aimed to address this gap and improve mobility in real-life environments.

機能

The wheel operates through the coordinated movement of an internal servo motor and DC motor. On flat surfaces, these motors maintain the wheel’s circular shape, allowing for normal driving. When an obstacle is encountered, the DC motor activates the internal gear system, switching the wheel into a “transformation mode.” In this mode, expandable external structures deploy, increasing the wheel’s contact area and altering its shape. The servo motor controls the movement of the DC motor to ensure precise transformation. This allows the wheel to adjust its shape according to the height of each obstacle, enabling the user to continue moving comfortably.

開発過程

In the early stages of development, we sketched and reviewed various mechanical concepts to solve the problem of limited user mobility. We then selected the optimal mechanism and proceeded with detailed design. During this process, we conducted multiple simulations and analyses to evaluate the mechanical structure and stability, incorporating improvements where needed. Our goal was to achieve both lightness and strength in the wheel design, and we performed structural analyses to verify its durability and reliability. Currently, the 3D CAD modeling is complete, and the prototype design has been finalized. We plan to fabricate the prototype and conduct performance tests in various terrain environments. Based on the test results, we will continue refining the structure to ensure optimal performance and durability through ongoing development.

差別化

Unlike other solutions requiring bulky add-ons, our wheel integrates multiple functions into one compact design. Its simplicity and adaptability offer a clear advantage.

将来の計画

Our next steps include real-environment testing, performance optimization, and commercial application to mobility aids like wheelchairs and robotic systems.

他アワードでの受賞歴