Shape memory alloy tires: A new technological revolution
志联
2025-04-26
On December 11, 2017, NASA announced a new non-pneumatic tire made from shape memory alloy. It is lighter, stronger, safer, and can be used on various harsh terrains. In the future, in addition to use in Mars exploration missions, it can also serve as a replacement for traditional tires on Earth.
NASA stated that this revolutionary product, called the "Superelastic Tire," was jointly developed by NASA's Glenn Research Center and Goodyear. Its inspiration comes from the tires used on the lunar rover during the Apollo program.
Using shape memory alloy as the radial material also increases the tire's load-bearing capacity. Compared to traditional tires, the "Superelastic Tire" reduces the possibility of a blowout, thus improving driving safety. Furthermore, the tire's design reduces the need for an inner frame, simplifying assembly and reducing weight. It also reduces the energy transmitted to the vehicle during operation. In addition to being installed on Mars rovers like Curiosity for space missions, this tire can also be used on various vehicles and aircraft on Earth, including military vehicles, passenger cars, heavy equipment, agricultural vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles, to adapt to various terrain needs.
Currently, the Curiosity rover's tires are made of solid aluminum. While strong, they are not sufficient to prevent punctures or tread damage. The "Superelastic Tire," however, would allow rovers like Curiosity to carry heavier equipment and explore wider areas on Mars or the Moon.
The "Superelastic Tire" is made of shape memory alloy and can travel smoothly over uneven ground. When the tire encounters a protruding object like a rock, it temporarily deforms to accommodate it, then returns to its original shape without permanent damage.
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