Variable Tyre Pressure Wheelset

[JohanDiv]

Well then, didn't think it was possible, but they created something I never knew I needed this much!

 

I wonder if it will actually work in practice..

 

 

 

https://www.news24.com/ride24/news/variable-tyre-pressure-wheelset-is-a-mountain-biking-breakthrough-20210125?fbclid=IwAR1z8WRMogG8-otDkViSqQ99-R95zuqLRNw8-qe8odGse7D_zf1YiDU_Lts

 

 

Edited January 26, 2021 by JohanDiv

[lechatnoir]

looks great! Can I have that with an internally-geared rear hub and a power meter? 

[MajG]

Let's see the costing and actual weight of it, then durability of it getting hard hits and still being able to work

 

Very nifty invention

Edited January 26, 2021 by MajG

[ChrisF]

Around 2005 Cape Technikon was doing practical research on similar units for long distance trucks.

 

 

Prototype units were built from scratch, fitted to trucks and data recorded ....  I know the design and construction materials underwent lots of refinement.  Unfortunately dont know how the research project concluded.  (will reach out to some of the retired staff and try to find out ....)

 

 

 

Doing all of that on such a small scale, to fit in a bike hub, is seriously impressive !!

[Shebeen]

i've had this idea rolling in my head for a while.

 

but would only be front wheel, aircanister  to be filled by the compression of your fork

[DieselnDust]

Great idea. This Gravaa unit probably uses a simple rotary vane pump or a roots type pump inside the hub shell.

It's going to require some power to drive it since nothing is for nothing.

downhill your weight could drive the inflation but on the flats and climbs that power has to come from your legs.

 

Designed something similar back at CPUT for our SAE Mini Baja amphibian. But that had an engine to drive the inflation of the floatation device.

[madmarc]

We use similar system on our tractors - Works exceptionally well.

[ChrisF]

Great idea. This Gravaa unit probably uses a simple rotary vane pump or a roots type pump inside the hub shell.

It's going to require some power to drive it since nothing is for nothing.

downhill your weight could drive the inflation but on the flats and climbs that power has to come from your legs.

 

Designed something similar back at CPUT for our SAE Mini Baja amphibian. But that had an engine to drive the inflation of the floatation device.

 

Which year was this ?

 

Did you join the teams that took part in America with the Baja's ?

[Frosty]

looks great! Can I have that with an internally-geared rear hub and a power meter?

Add in a belt drive system to your list, to eliminate the need to clean and lube the chain, and I’m all ears.

[DieselnDust]

Which year was this ?

 

Did you join the teams that took part in America with the Baja's ?

No we were the first team. I think it was in 2000

 

We ended up with a complicated screw drive for the water propulsion that came in 80kg heavier than it should because the bloke designed it in stainless steel rather than the aluminium we requested. It had to work a few times but I reckon its still pumping water on Trappies Du Toits farm out near swellendam

Edited January 27, 2021 by DieselnDust