david henson, an inventor from denver, has come up with an unusual idea. it involves wheels that function as engines, with the potential to completely replace the conventional drive system of cars. this project is called "surfaceplan".
this prototype uses piston-like linear actuators with rubber tips instead of spokes. these actuators penetrate the wheel rim and make direct contact with the road surface, propelling the vehicle forward. the actuators are designed to be driven by electricity, hydraulic pressure, or air pressure.
this system can reduce the vehicle weight by 50% to 75%, improve traction, and even provide a "programmable track". however, experts point out that linear force not only generates forward motion but also creates vertical lift, which reduces traction, posing a major challenge.
durability is also a concern. for example, how to protect the mechanism from dust and moisture, what to do if one of the dozens of actuators fails, and how to generate power to drive the 50-100 actuators installed on each wheel. compared with existing reliable electric hub motors, the high weight and replacement cost of the wheels are also a challenge.
