This unusual-looking wheel changes shape to get over any obstacle. — Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials Project
Researchers in South Korea have developed a concept for a wheel that features variable stiffness, directly inspired by the surface tension of a liquid droplet. This means it can change shape and rigidity in real time, depending on terrain conditions and the obstacles it encounters.
This concept was developed by a team of robotics researchers from several institutions in South Korea. It takes the form of a wheel with incredible properties. On flat ground, it maintains a rigid circular shape for fast, stable movement, but it can also adapt to any obstacle.
