Inspired by Nature
In 1950, engineer William Albee visited Alaska and observed how large animals, like caribou, moved across soft terrain without sinking. Inspired by their natural weight distribution, Albee developed an innovative tire design capable of carrying heavy loads over delicate surfaces.
The Invention of Rolligon Tires
By 1951, Albee created the first Rolligon tires. Unlike traditional tires, Rolligons were soft and used low-pressure, oversized rubber to prevent vehicles from sinking into sand, mud, or snow. The design allowed vehicles to “float” over soft ground, minimizing environmental impact.
Practical Applications in Tough Environments
The military and oil industries quickly adopted Rolligon technology. In Alaska’s oil fields, where conventional tires would damage tundra or get stuck, Rolligons proved invaluable. They allowed heavy trucks to traverse fragile landscapes, making new exploration sites accessible.
Inspired by how animals like caribou move across soft terrain, engineer William Albee invented the Rolligon tire in 1951. Observing caribou on Alaska’s tundra, he noted how they dispersed their weight, preventing them from sinking, and applied this principle to tire design pic.twitter.com/V6m1mw3giQ
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