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I wonder if you can 3d print a rubber tire shape someday. You might be able to engineer a shape that might be hard to make otherwise and solve some of the issues not having air.


I'd be interested to know how well layers of 3d printing holds up to that much rotational mass, lateral forces, and vibration at freeway speeds. I have my doubts at this point of its feasibility.


A 3D printer could be used to create the mold for the rubber perhaps.


You can easily do a lost-wax process with a 3D printer.

(Although getting the precision may be difficult.)


Some folks have already moved on to a lost PLA casting process. I've seen some pretty decent results.

http://3dtopo.com/lostPLA/


NinjaFlex is a new type of material that some people are printing for rubber-like things, including little toy tires. Don't think it's ready for a car yet, but it's fun to play with.




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