Print&Live and iSCALE3D Unveil Arkan 3D Printed Airless Wheels for Military Ground Robots
Print&Live, in collaboration with iSCALE3D, has introduced Arkan, a new type of 3D printed airless wheels designed specifically for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) utilized in casualty evacuation and logistical operations. These wheels are engineered for rugged terrains, featuring a lightweight lattice design and a two-part rim that facilitates easy maintenance in the field. Constructed from elastomers and polymer composites, they do not require inflation and resist mud build-up. Arkan can enhance vehicle range by as much as 30% and weighs between 32–56 kg, significantly lighter than the 88–144 kg of Western counterparts. Priced around €680, they are a cost-effective alternative to US$3,000–4,000 foreign options. Ukrainian Defence Forces have successfully tested Arkan, achieving 210 km in trials. The initiative, spearheaded by Vasyl Honar, is ramping up production to satisfy growing demand.
Key facts
- Print&Live and iSCALE3D developed Arkan, 3D printed airless wheels for unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs).
- Arkan wheels are designed for casualty evacuation, ammunition transport, and logistical support in off-road conditions.
- The wheels use a lightweight lattice structure, rounded tread, enclosed sidewalls, and a two-piece rim.
- The design can increase vehicle range by up to 30 percent compared with existing airless alternatives.
- A set weighs 32–56 kg, compared with 88–144 kg for the Western airless alternatives cited by the developers.
- A set costs approximately €680, compared with US$3,000–4,000 or more for the overseas alternatives cited by the developers.
- Arkan has undergone field and combat trials with Ukrainian Defence Forces units.
- A TARGAN 3K 244 EVO 1 vehicle covered 210 km on a test range and 151 km across 11 winter combat missions, carrying 1,825 kg of cargo and successfully evacuating a wounded person.
- The wheels have completed the research and development phase and are being produced in small batches for combat units.
- The lead designer is Vasyl Honar.
Entities
Artists
- Vasyl Honar
- Christina Vergopoulou
Institutions
- Print&Live
- iSCALE3D
- Ukrainian Defence Forces
- designboom
Locations
- Ukraine