With autonomous vehicles becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in off-highway applications, the need for innovative wheel and tire designs is critical. To address this, wheel technology specialist Moveero has developed new, patented wheel technologies to meet the unique demands of AVs.
Traditional wheel and rim designs are often inadequate for the performance requirements of AVs, which typically require wheels that offer enhanced durability, strength and longevity.
AGVs are extensively used in port environments and operate non-stop, handling extreme loads in demanding conditions. A single AGV failure can significantly disrupt operations, making reliability, safety and long-life performance important in wheel and tire design. Moveero’s R&D team, in collaboration with OEMs, tire manufacturers, and port authorities, has developed solutions tailored to these challenges.
Manufactured through a hot induction forming (HIF) process, the company’s Infini-Forge wheels offer superior strength and a lifespan twice that of conventional multi-piece wheels, Moveero says.
The Infini-Forge’s manufacturing process enables greater design freedom and precision, placing material only where necessary. This results in increased rim strength without a significant weight increase.
However, the application of AVs and their wheel requirements in sectors like agriculture presents a different set of challenges. The varied terrain and less predictable environment of farms, coupled with differing operational patterns, necessitates a distinct approach to wheel and tire design.
Moveero is considering the potential use of AVs in agriculture, possibly in tractors or specific operations like harvesting. This adaptation could address labor shortages and improve efficiency in agricultural practices.
