The French manufacturer Michelin introduced the concept of airless tires, which "draw their strength from a biomimetic structure, as if they were created by nature itself". The first to see them were the participants of the world summit of Movin'On, which is taking place these days in the American Montreal.
For twenty years, Movin'On unites transport companies engaged in advanced developments that benefit the planet and the economy. The project under the name Visionary Concept is a vision of car tires of the future. The cellular structure of their tires in the company is described as "a form that mimics the natural process of growth, mineral or even animal life, for example, corals."
Created from recycled materials, they will serve as long as the car itself, and at the end of its life cycle will go for recycling. Drivers no longer have to worry about their own safety, going on the road. The tread of a unique tire adapts to the roadway and weather conditions every time it becomes necessary. In addition, each owner of the car will be able to choose and print the tread pattern for free on a 3D printer for free, spending a few minutes of his time on it.
As the executive vice president for research and development of Michelin Terry Jettis noted, the research is at an early stage and the durability of the 3D printed protector is yet to be verified. The emergence of technology to create unique tires for trucks and cars can be expected in the next two to three years. The next stage of the project will be their optimization for autonomous vehicles.
