ARWIMS

Can ARWIMS wheels be made of flexible rubber?

Of course, because the housings of the retractable paddles can be attached only to the tread and not hinder its deformation.

Originally, the project was made for airless tires, which allow the paddles to be placed between the elastic connections between the wheel hub and the tread, but we quickly found ways to use inflated tires.

The mechanical means for releasing the paddles are in this case soft, for example a cable or a pusher in a sheath.

What about the essential balancing of the entire wheel?

This question only concerns tires with paddles that are deployed in only part of the cycle, and not the "smart" tires that should remain balanced in all circumstances.

The speed limit can be increased by reducing the weight of the paddles and their mechanical parts, which can also be very light in relation to the wheel’s weight of the wheel because the force required to deploy and retract them is low, as these movements occur before and after ground contact.

Isn't the presence of recesses in the tread likely to affect its resistance in the event of sudden braking or tight turns?

The tire casing structure must be adapted.

One solution may be to place a circular reinforcement in the median plane and on the sides of the tread, and radial and diagonal cables crossing over this reinforcement. This allows for areas without reinforcement where recesses for paddles deployment can be accommodated.

Solving this problem also makes it possible to use the paddles to turn airplane wheels before landing, saving rubber and eliminating the need for regular runway stripping. This issue is even more critical in this case due to the high forces on the tire carcass during braking.

Are ARWIMS wheels likely to gradually replace most tracked systems?

Yes! for the following reasons

• Cost-effectiveness: ARWIMS technology is less expensive to produce and maintain compared to tracked systems, which are known for their high acquisition and maintenance costs.
   
• Versatility: ARWIMS wheels can adapt to various terrains and conditions, including water, providing functionality similar to tracks but with added amphibious capabilities.
   
• Energy efficiency: ARWIMS wheels offer superior energy efficiency compared to tracks, potentially leading to significant fuel savings.
   
• Durability: The ARWIMS system is designed to be more resistant to wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
   
• Compatibility: ARWIMS technology can be integrated into existing wheel-based vehicles, making the transition easier for manufacturers and users.
   
• Performance: The adaptive nature of ARWIMS wheels allows for optimized performance across different environments, potentially surpassing the capabilities of traditional tracks in many scenarios.
   
• Weight reduction: ARWIMS wheels are likely lighter than tracked systems, improving overall vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

These advantages position ARWIMS as a compelling alternative to tracked systems, potentially leading to their widespread adoption across various industries and applications.

What are the most promising industrial sectors for ARWIMS technology?

They include:

• Marine industry: Pleasure boats, rescue vessels, and military amphibious vehicles.
   
• Automotive: Off-road vehicles, SUVs, and emergency response vehicles.
   
• Agriculture: Tractors and irrigation vehicles.
   
• Construction: Construction machinery and material transport vehicles.
   
• Recreation and sports: Amphibious recreational vehicles and ATVs.
   
• Military: Combat vehicles and transportable heavy equipment.
   
• Toys: Remote-controlled models of all types of land and water vehicles

Is the ARWIMS technology protected by patents?

A first patent application has been filed, enriched several times since the start of the study, and a PCT application will be filed in early 2025.

A very extensive prior art search has been carried out, which leads to the belief that the solutions described will be considered novel and inventive.

Do you intent to grant licenses?

Licenses will be granted for wheels and tires where equipped vehicles do not have the necessary means to use the technology (retractable paddle wheels), and for vehicles themselves in the opposite case (dynamic tread adaptation).

There will therefore be licenses for wheels or tires that could be segmented according to architecture (dynamic tread adaptation or retactable paddle wheels), vehicle weight, material (e.g. rubber or plastics) or intended use. Licenses will be available for specifically defined land, water and air vehicles, as well as for toys.

We aim to secure a long-term partner who will work with us to organize these licenses globally and advance the technology.