Non-pneumatic tire designs suitable for fused filament fabrication: an overview

Abstract

The inherent structural properties of traditional Pneumatic Tires (PT) are the result of a complex production process that causes easy puncturing and the need for frequent air pressure maintenance. Besides trying to deal with these issues, Non-Pneumatic Tires (NPTs) could potentially have interesting performance advantages. Research has been showing that functional design by geometric manipulation of NPTs is a fruitful path to pursue. As an example, when compared with PTs, the ground pressure of NPTs is relatively small, therefore reducing energy losses, and improving tire efficiency. A typical NPT has an annular type of conception. Some of its structural components can consist of a hub, flexible spokes, and an outer shear ring. Contrary to PTs, which damping and stiffness behavior are deeply related to the air pressure inside, in NPTs, this behavior is linked to the geometrical structure of its spokes and shear ring. Tireless wheel concepts are already present in commercial solutions, even so, researchers and engineers are still debating issues such as how to address trapped debris within the spokes, what is the best way to evenly distribute weight and consistently transmit loads, or how to predict the collapse of NPTs. Considering this, endeavors are related to a search for optimal functional designs, most often very complex and feasibly demanding. The geometrical design freedom offered by additive manufacturing technologies highlights their adequacy to produce such complex geometries. This research is focused on reviewing how authors have been addressing the mechanical design of NPTs. In the end, a qualitative analysis of the suitability of such designs to be additively manufactured by fused filament fabrication is made.