Systems and methods for caster obstacle management
US8910344B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 16, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 21, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60B33/0068
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In various embodiments, a caster assembly may include a wheel rotatably coupled to a caster housing and a deflector tab pivotably coupled to the caster housing and offset from an outer wheel circumference for use in moving or traversing obstacles encountered during wheel movement. In some embodiments, the deflector tab may include at least one retaining element configured to hold the deflector tab in a pusher position or allow movement of the deflector tab into a ramp position. In the pusher position, the deflector tab may push a mobile obstacle in front of the wheel motion. In the ramp position, the deflector tab may facilitate moving the wheels over a fixed obstacle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.