Scientists are literally trying to reinvent the wheel
South Korean researchers have developed a “morphing” wheel that can navigate stairs and obstacles up to 1.3 times its radius, potentially revolutionizing mobility devices and robotics.
The wheel, created by the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), features a chain-based outer hoop and sensor-controlled spoke wires that adjust stiffness based on terrain. Inspired by water droplet mechanics, it transitions between solid and fluid states when encountering impediments.
But also terrifying with the rider sitting so high up and completely relying on the machine to keep it upright on two wheels alone.