Self-adjusting caster assemblies
US11975568B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2021 |
| Grant date | May 7, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60B2200/432
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self-leveling caster assembly includes a caster frame and a castor fork which is configured to pivot relative to the caster frame. A spring or other biasing mechanism biases the caster fork away from the caster frame, to maintain contact between the ground and a wheel supported by the caster fork along a travel range of the wheel. Even if a frame supporting the self-leveling caster assembly is bent, pulling the wheel away from the ground, the biased caster fork will maintain contact between the ground and the wheel, allowing continued use of a shopping cart or other wheeled apparatus including the self-leveling caster assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.