The Ohio-based Smart Tire Company has unveiled its shape memory airless bicycle tires called METL, utilizing cutting-edge technology originally developed by NASA.
These never-go-flat airless tires are crafted from a shape memory alloy called Nitinol, a material that combines rubber's flexibility with titanium's strength. This innovation promises a seamless ride similar to conventional pneumatic tires while ensuring an extended lifespan for the vehicle.
All About the NASA-Inspired METL Airless Bicycle Tires
The Kickstarter campaign of this product claims that traditional airless tires often fall short in delivering a comfortable riding experience, as they tend to be rigid and can lead to increased pedaling effort due to higher rolling resistance.
However, the METL tires overcome these drawbacks through the integration of Nitinol, offering unparalleled shock absorption, elasticity, and durability. Notably, this modern material exhibits the highest energy return of any previously used in tire production, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing rolling resistance.
The internal structure of the METL tires is designed to withstand the vehicle's entire lifespan, making it a long-lasting and sustainable choice. This development is poised to revolutionize the cycling industry, providing a virtually indestructible tire.
Eliminating flats, the need for air pressure checks, and the requirement for various maintenance accessories represent a significant advancement in cycling technology.
The SMART Tire Company's introduction of Shape Memory Alloy Radial Technology (SMART) marks a significant milestone in the tire industry, presenting a transformative solution for both on-road and off-road vehicles.
Initially conceived by NASA for extraterrestrial application, this technology now finds practical use on Earth. The specialized advanced material, NiTinol+ (nickel titanium), brings together the rubber's resilience and the titanium's durability, offering a tire that is not only airless but also incredibly robust.
NiTinol initially deforms when placed under pressure but eventually returns to its original shape, providing a smooth ride after the tire gently compresses and rebounds.
NASA's Martian Missions
This development is particularly significant for NASA's Martian missions, where extreme conditions and the absence of conventional roads pose unique challenges.
The SMART Tire Company's adaptation of this technology for terrestrial use signifies a new era in tire manufacturing, with the potential to revolutionize transportation options worldwide.
"METL tires are powered by an inner skeleton made from a modern material called Nitinol, a shape memory alloy. It's a lightweight, highly flexible 'superelastic' metal that stretches like rubber, but is strong like titanium will always instantly snap back into its original shape," the Kickstarter campaign reads.
"Until now, you needed to work for NASA, a high-end biomedical manufacturer, or maybe the military (sssshhhhh) to find superelastic Nitinol performing its magic. Rolling out SMA to consumer markets is a little like discovering carbon fiber for the first time, and cycling is poised to get the first benefits," it added.
It is also worth noting that this superelastic tire was made out of the extreme challenges NASA faced on Mars, where there are no roads, temperatures can reach -100°C and tire performance is mission critical.
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