3D Printed Airless UGV Wheels: A Game-Changer for ASEAN Factories

3D Printed Airless UGV Wheels: A Breakthrough for Southeast Asian Factories \\[10pt] Ukrainian companies Print&Live and iSCALE 3D have successfully developed and tested 3D printed airless wheels for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). These innovative wheels, which have undergone rigorous field and combat trials, are now being produced in small batches and delivered to military units. The wheels, manufactured using large-format additive manufacturing, feature a rounded tread, fully enclosed sidewalls, and a patented two-piece rim. This design not only enhances durability but also significantly reduces costs, making them an attractive option for Southeast Asian factories looking to improve their UGV production. \\[10pt] ### Cost-Effective and Durable \\[10pt] The 3D printed airless wheels cost approximately €680 per set, a fraction of the €3,000-4,000 charged by overseas suppliers for similar products. This cost reduction is particularly significant for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where budget constraints often limit the adoption of advanced technologies. The wheels have been tested under extreme conditions, including winter combat, and have shown excellent performance. For instance, during a trial with the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, the wheels were used on a TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 UGV, logging 210 km on a test range and 151 km across 11 combat missions. The wheels maintained their functionality throughout, even when moving heavy cargo and evacuating wounded personnel. \\[10pt] ### Flexibility and Maintenance \\[10pt] One of the key advantages of these 3D printed wheels is their flexibility. The digital design allows for easy adjustments to stiffness, damping, and geometry, making them suitable for various UGV platforms without the need for retooling. This adaptability is especially valuable for factories in Southeast Asia, where diverse vehicle types and mission profiles are common. Additionally, the two-piece rim design simplifies maintenance, allowing operators to fit or swap the wheels with basic hand tools, eliminating the need for specialized equipment. \\[10pt] ### Implications for ASEAN Factories \\[10pt] For factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, the introduction of 3D printed airless wheels presents a significant opportunity to enhance the reliability and efficiency of their UGVs. The reduced weight and lower rolling resistance of these wheels can extend the operating range of UGVs by up to 30%, which is crucial for logistics and evacuation operations. Moreover, the lower cost and ease of maintenance make these wheels a practical choice for factories looking to optimize their production processes and reduce operational expenses. \\[10pt] ### Conclusion \\[10pt] The successful development and testing of 3D printed airless wheels by Print&Live and iSCALE 3D offer a promising solution for Southeast Asian factories. By adopting this technology, factories can improve the durability, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility of their UGVs, ultimately enhancing their overall operational efficiency. As the demand for UGVs continues to grow, these 3D printed wheels provide a competitive edge that can help factories in the region stay ahead of the curve.