Korea’s Institute for Machinery and Materials this week showcased a robotic wheelchair with large, deformable wheels that can manage rocks, stairs and other obstacles. During normal operation, the wheel maintains a standard rigid circular form. When it encounters an obstacle, however, it becomes compliant, conforming to the object’s height and shape.

The system, which also appeared in ScienceRobotics, is surrounded by a “smart chain” structure attached to spokes that alter tension when the chain encounters variations in terrain. The team says the project was inspired by the surface tension properties of water droplets. No word on when – or if – such a system might be commercialized.