Evolution of the Wheel
The true beginnings of the wheel date back possibly as far as 15,000 to 750,000 years ago. This wheel was nothing more than a log, laid alongside others, which was placed beneath a load to be moved. Although this was a breakthrough invention back in ancient times, there were also many problems. These first wheels could not sustain long periods of travel, and also many wheels were needed to carry the loads. One theory as to how this obstacle was overcome suggests a platform, or sledge, was built with cross-bars fitted to the underside, thereby preventing the rollers from slipping out from under the load. As time passed, the overall solution to solve this problem was the invention solid wheel which had a whole going through it to be used as the axil. When wheel making became important in crafting buildings and art, measures were required to protect the wheel from damage. Protective coverings were utilized for this purpose. These covers on wheels, known today as tires, began as such simple substances as leather, iron, wood, and later, rubber. The tire serves as a buffer from damage to the wheel. Should the vehicle encounter a jagged rock, or any form of damage, the sheathing will be damaged instead of the wheel, prolonging the life of the wheel.
Iron wheels were next introduced for more durability of the wheel. With the combination of the tire, and the iron wheel, soon bicycles were introduced. With metal framing, and a protective sheathing, all that was needed now was a way to turn the wheels mechanically. With the combination of the petal, the metal wheel, and the tire, the bicycle was soon invented. Over time, it developed from one wheel, to two wheels, all the way up to four or five. The tire was used with the invention of cars, and is the basic form of transportation today in our world.
Iron wheels were next introduced for more durability of the wheel. With the combination of the tire, and the iron wheel, soon bicycles were introduced. With metal framing, and a protective sheathing, all that was needed now was a way to turn the wheels mechanically. With the combination of the petal, the metal wheel, and the tire, the bicycle was soon invented. Over time, it developed from one wheel, to two wheels, all the way up to four or five. The tire was used with the invention of cars, and is the basic form of transportation today in our world.