Roller for mobile load carriers

Abstract

The invention relates to a roller for mobile load carriers (1). A roller (1001) having a flange-mounted wheel brake (2001) for industrial shuttles is typically used in applications in which precise braking and control of shuttle trains is required. The roller comprises a wheel (1003), which is generally manufactured from robust materials such as steel or special industrial plastic, and an integrated brake unit (2001), which is flange-mounted on the wheel axle. The aforementioned combination makes it possible to not only move the shuttle train but also controlledly slow it down or stop it, which is decisive for safety and control in the industrial field.

Description

[0001] Wulf Höflich

[0002] Patent attorney

[0003] Caster for mobile load carriers

[0004] The invention relates to a roller for mobile load carriers according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a mobile load carrier.

[0005] In industrial plants, pallets and other stackable containers are used to transport and supply semi-finished and finished products between production sites, warehouses, and processing machines. For example, wire mesh containers are used to safely transport even heavy parts such as engine blocks. These containers are frequently exchanged in internal freight transport between supplying and receiving production sites.

[0006] Pallets are of great importance in transport logistics, enabling the fastest and most efficient handling of goods. To accelerate this process, WO 98 / 58849 and GB 960 768 specify the use of wheels on the underside of pallets, allowing them to be moved with or without cargo. To enable automated pallet transport, the wheels on a pallet according to WO 98 / 58849 can be retracted. A locking mechanism is provided to secure the wheels in position; this mechanism must be released to allow the wheels to be extended or retracted independently. To prevent unintentional movement of the pallet, the wheels must first be unlocked, then retracted, and finally locked again – a more complex process.The individual pallets can be connected to each other via couplings to form a pallet train and, when the wheels are released, transported away simultaneously one after the other in a row.

[0007] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 In DE 1 943 854 A and W02009036750A2 a similar train-like transport frame for carrying pallets is known, which can be automatically removed from the ground as high as possible on supports arranged in the corners of the transport frame by a single transport trolley projecting over it.

[0008] Casters, especially swivel and fixed casters, are used to mobilize transport containers, pallets, and load carriers in transport logistics and conveying equipment for production facilities. The casters are attached to the bottom of the transport container and allow the mobilized container to be moved manually or by external force, e.g., by a towing vehicle.

[0009] The two types of casters differ in their configuration and intended use. Swivel casters, as disclosed, for example, in US 2021 / 0237789 A1, DE10256626A1, and EP0364732A1, differ from fixed casters in that they can rotate vertically and are thus used to steer the transported goods. In contrast to swivel casters, fixed casters do not rotate; they are directionally stable and allow for directional rolling. Depending on the application, both types of casters can be used, and the design is adapted to meet the specific operating conditions. Depending on the requirements, casters are equipped with a locking or operating brake.

[0010] Wheel brakes are either standard disc brakes (https: / / de.wikipedia.org / wiki / Scheibenbremse) or, for special purposes, electromagnetically actuated wheel brakes have been developed, as disclosed, for example, in DE102011112957A1. Further disc brakes are disclosed in DE 20 2010 015 034 U1 and DE 10 2013 008 873 A1, but their integration into swivel casters leads to bulky solutions.

[0011] Various types of pallets have been developed for diverse applications in transport logistics. Stackability is a key characteristic of pallets, enabling them to be stored in the smallest possible footprint. This is particularly important on truck loading platforms. Transport containers are widely used in automotive manufacturing, where the cargo is...

[0012] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025: Delivered either directly from the truck or from an intermediate storage facility to the assembly line, the cargo is then sequentially removed from the transport container according to the individual configuration of each car being assembled. Space on the assembly line is usually very limited, meaning the transport containers must be unloaded in a very confined space.

[0013] An example of a customized transport container configuration is described in DE 196 05 594 C2, which discloses a stackable transport container with a pallet-like base structure made of welded square profiles that define a flat base or support frame. Several support arms made of polygonal profile tubes are attached to the base structure, arranged parallel to each other in one or more container levels. Each support arm has a longitudinally displaceable extension. A telescopic boom with a clamping element for securing cargo is attached to the extension. Both the extensions and the clamping elements are displaceably arranged within the base structure of the transport container, which defines the installation space, via rail guides.When loading and unloading the transport container, the outriggers are pulled out from inside the container and protrude beyond its footprint. In confined spaces, especially on assembly lines, this can hinder loading and unloading, and the protruding extensions must also be taken into account with regard to workplace safety.

[0014] Based on this, the object of the invention is to provide a generic wheel that, on the one hand, serves for the cost-effective mobilization of transport containers and load carriers and, on the other hand, can be universally equipped with high-performance types of wheel brakes. Furthermore, a mobile load carrier that enables a high degree of mobilization is to be provided.

[0015] According to the invention, the problem is solved by a roller with the features of claim 1. With regard to the mobile load carrier, the problem is solved by the features of claim 14.

[0016] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 A wheel with a flanged-on wheel brake for industrial shuttles is typically used in applications requiring precise braking and control of shuttle trains. It consists of a robust wheel, usually made of durable materials such as steel or special industrial plastic, and an integrated brake unit flanged directly to the wheel. This combination allows the shuttle train not only to be moved but also to be decelerated or stopped precisely, which is crucial for safety and control in industrial environments.

[0017] The flanged design ensures a compact construction and direct transmission of braking forces. It can be hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically operated, depending on requirements. A robust wheel offers high load-bearing capacity and resistance to abrasion and stress in harsh industrial or commercial environments. Various profiles and rubber coatings are available to increase traction and minimize vibrations. The type of tread is crucial when selecting the right wheel. The design and tread material must be chosen according to the required load-bearing capacity, operating conditions, and ground conditions.

[0018] The steering and brake control can also be equipped with an integrated steering system to optimize the shuttle train's handling. The bearing design of the swivel casters is of particular importance in swivel bearing systems. Its design varies and is usually dependent on the load capacity. Some bearings are sealed against splashing water. Easy swiveling is crucial for the convenient handling of the transport equipment, especially in confined spaces. It is particularly suitable for tight spaces and curved routes.

[0019] Spring-applied brakes are mostly designed as holding brakes with an emergency stop function. They are suitable for use in a wide variety of industrial applications such as automation and robotics, machine tools, packaging and conveyor technology, storage systems, production lines, and renewable energies.

[0020] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 Spring-applied single-disc brakes are designed for both A-side and 13-sided integrated mounting. To release the braking force generated by compression springs, the electromagnetic principle is used by generating a magnetic field. The brakes are closed in the de-energized state and open when a DC voltage is applied. The brakes are constructed with a flange and are securely bolted in place. To increase performance, the air gap tolerance is minimized to just a few hundredths of a millimeter through a special manufacturing process.

[0021] Typical applications for the wheels are

[0022] • Internal transport within production facilities,

[0023] • Automated storage and shuttle systems and

[0024] • Rail-guided and rail-bound shuttle trains in logistics centers.

[0025] The use of flanged wheel brakes allows shuttle trains to be precisely controlled and braked, significantly increasing the efficiency and safety of transport processes.

[0026] The service braking system is used to slow down and bring the vehicle to a standstill during normal operation. It must be adjustable and act on all wheels of the vehicle.

[0027] Disc brakes are available as floating caliper or fixed caliper brakes. Disc brakes are characterized by high, consistent braking performance at a low weight. The disc brake is a type of friction brake. In the partial disc brake design, deceleration is generated by a brake disc mounted on the wheel hub and the brake pad with brake lining located in the brake caliper. A disc brake consists of a brake disc connected to a wheel or wheelset and the brake carrier to which the brake caliper is attached.

[0028] In a special design of a wheel, a swivel caster usually consists of one or two pivoting wheels mounted on the object to be moved, with an additional pivot axis oriented vertically. Crucially, the wheel axis must not align with the vertical pivot point.

[0029] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 axis intersects (skewness), but that they have a certain spatial distance, also called caster, to each other, so that the rollers are dragged.

[0030] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in claims 2 to 13.

[0031] The invention can be understood even better by referring to the following figures.

[0032] They show:

[0033] Fig. 1a a perspective sketch of a wheel with a flanged wheel brake, looking towards the wheel,

[0034] Fig. 1b a perspective sketch of a wheel with a flanged wheel brake, looking towards the wheel brake,

[0035] Fig. 2a is a perspective sketch of a wheel fork shown in isolation.

[0036] Fig. 2b is a perspective sketch of an isolated wheel axle.

[0037] Fig. 3 shows a schematic sketch of a wheel brake designed as a disc brake in the braked state,

[0038] Fig. 4 shows a perspective sketch of an electromagnetically actuated MRF brake,

[0039] Fig. 5 is a partial, perspective sketch of a mobile load carrier with a view towards the wheel,

[0040] Fig. 6a a perspective sketch of a mobile load carrier and

[0041] Fig. 6b is a perspective sketch of a mobile load carrier with coupled goods carriers.

[0042] Figures 1 to 6b show exemplary embodiments of the impeller according to the invention and a mobile load carrier 1 from various views and perspectives, both in overall view and by highlighting particular individual parts. For the terminology, reference is made to the enclosed list of reference numerals.

[0043] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 The invention shown in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b is a brakeable swivel caster 1001 for mobile load carriers 1. The design comprises a sophisticated mechanism to both facilitate the movement of the load carrier 1 and ensure a precise braking function. The wheel brake 2001 is implemented here as a disc brake, which brakes the wheel 1003, guided in a wheel fork 1002, directly at the wheel axle 1004.

[0044] The 1001 swivel caster is particularly well-suited for applications requiring the secure holding, steering, and braking of heavy loads or heavily laden load carriers. A detailed description of the components and their function follows. Design features include:

[0045] 1. Wheel brake:

[0046] The wheel brake 2001 is shown in Figs. 1a and 1b as a solid disc brake with a brake disc 2002. Figs. 1a and 3 show an embodiment of the wheel brake as a fixed caliper brake. The brake disc 2002 is attached to the right end of the wheel axle 1004 and is rotationally fixed to a brake flange 2003 for the transmission of braking torque. The brake caliper (also brake caliper) 2004, which is screwed to the right end of the wheel fork 1002, surrounds the brake disc 2002; it carries the brake pads 2005 and the brake pistons 2006, which press the brake pads 2005 axially against the brake disc 2002.

[0047] Using a disc brake allows for precise adjustment of the braking force, enabling controlled deceleration.

[0048] In Fig. 1b, the wheel brake 2001 is designed as an electromagnetically actuated MRF brake. Further details of this embodiment are described with reference to Fig. 4.

[0049] The wheel fork 1002 shown in Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 2a serves to precisely guide the wheel 1003 and transfer the load from the wheel 1003 to the load carrier 1.

[0050] 2024HE351wop 09 / 17 / 2025 2nd wheel fork:

[0051] The wheel fork 1002, made from formed sheet steel, serves to receive and guide the wheel 1003. It secures the wheel axle 1004 on both sides. For this purpose, the wheel fork 1002 has a U-shaped fork section for mounting and guiding the roller. Three fork sections are each provided with parallel flange surfaces 1005 for attaching the wheel 1003 on one side and the wheel brake 2001 on the other. On the side of the wheel fork 1002 and the U-shaped fork section facing the wheel 1003, there is a further flange surface 1005', which serves to attach the roller to the load carrier 1. This flange surface can also be used to connect to a swivel bearing 1006 to implement the steering function. The wheel fork 1002 is made of reinforced, galvanized sheet steel.

[0052] 3rd wheel axle:

[0053] Another component of the steering wheel 1001 is the wheel axle 1004 shown in Figs. 1a, 1b and 2b. The wheel 1003 is non-rotatably connected to the wheel axle 1004 in order to transmit the braking force directly to the connected wheel 1003. At the end of the axle 1004 is a brake flange 2003, which transmits the braking torque to the brake disc 2002.

[0054] 4th wheel

[0055] When selecting a suitable wheel (1003), several factors related to the floor surface must be considered. These include unevenness of the floor, sharp door thresholds, and obstacles. The wheel diameter should be large enough to easily overcome obstacles and uneven surfaces. The larger the wheel diameter, the easier the transport equipment will move. Twin-wheel transport casters are available for heavy loads.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b, a wheel 1003 has a rotationally symmetrical wheel body 1007 and a running surface 1008 surrounding the wheel body on its circumference and fixed to it in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0057] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 Suitable material options are listed below: Wheels made of Atlas-site. Wheels with a soft rubber covering offer the best protection for good floors, but their load-bearing capacity is limited. A soft rubber-covered wheel 1003 can never carry the same load as an iron wheel or a wheel 1003 made of hard material of the same size. Iron wheels 1003 are used where floors are rough and floor protection is not essential. High-quality polyurethane elastomers with a hardness of 75 Shore A are suitable for treads 1008. Canaphin wheels are pressed from phenolic resin with nylon reinforcement under high pressure. They are characterized by very high strength, are oil and grease resistant, and are also resistant to strong organic acids. They are largely insensitive to heavy impacts and have a high load-bearing capacity, almost like that of iron wheels, but run more quietly and are gentler on the floor.Canaphin wheels are temperature resistant from -30 °C to +150 °C, and for short periods up to 165 °C.

[0058] Polyamide plastic wheels also exhibit high load-bearing capacity, good running characteristics, and smooth rolling. They are vibration-damping, largely abrasion-resistant, and wear-resistant. Polyamide plastic wheels have the following properties: high load-bearing capacity, good running characteristics, smooth rolling, vibration-damping, largely abrasion-resistant and wear-resistant, break-resistant, and have a long service life. They are maintenance-free, corrosion-free, non-flammable, hygienic, resistant to oil, grease, gasoline, chlorine-free alkalis and cleaning agents, and resistant to most organic acids and alkalis. They are heat-resistant and cold-resistant and exhibit high elastic resistance as well as low specific gravity.

[0059] Elastic polyurethane treads are suitable for heavy loads and roll smoothly. Polyurethane possesses excellent properties for wheels: they are particularly suitable for heavy loads. Their smooth, quiet, and elastic running is valued in noise-sensitive environments. They are characterized by low rolling resistance. They are completely floor-friendly and leave no visible marks. Furthermore, they are resistant to oil, grease, gasoline, ozone, and most chemical products, as well as being age-resistant and abrasion-resistant.

[0060] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 have a long service life. Elastic polyurethane treads have a Shore A hardness of 75, thus offering low rolling resistance.

[0061] They are robust, abrasion-resistant, and cut-resistant against metal shavings.

[0062] Baco wheels consist of a 1007 hard rubber wheel body with vulcanized, high-quality soft rubber treads (1008). They are particularly gentle on floors and are characterized by smooth and quiet operation.

[0063] Pneumatic tires offer good shock absorption and low rolling resistance on rough surfaces. Depending on the wheel type, the rims are made of sheet steel or plastic. Solid rubber tires protect the transported goods, run quietly and smoothly, and have low rolling resistance on smooth surfaces, even lower than pneumatic tires.

[0064] Electrical conductivity refers to the ability to dissipate electrostatic charges. This conductivity is measured as the discharge resistance, expressed in ohms (Q). Standard casters, being non-conductors, have a resistance of 10¹¹–10¹² ohms. Therefore, static electricity can build up on non-conductive surfaces.

[0065] Some rollers can also be fitted with electrically conductive wheels. These have a discharge resistance of less than 1040 ohms, thus preventing static build-up.

[0066] 5. Wheel bearing

[0067] As shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the wheel axle 1004 is mounted on the wheel fork 1002 via two wheel bearings 1009 for smooth running and optimal load-bearing capacity. Each wheel bearing 1009 is screwed onto the flange surfaces 1005 of the wheel fork 1002. This means that the wheel 1003 is fixed to the wheel axle 1004 via the wheel body 1007 and therefore has no axial play.

[0068] For heavier weights, roller bearings allow for easier pushing and rolling of transport equipment. They reduce rolling resistance.

[0069] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 to a minimum. The load capacity of the 1003 wheels is not increased when using roller bearings. Wheel bearings with Hyatt precision roller bearings or with ball bearings are recommended.

[0070] Tapered roller bearings are designed for use in heavy-duty wheels and under high loads. They are highly load-bearing. The bearing clearance is adjustable.

[0071] Roller bearings are robust, durable, and largely maintenance-free. They have low bearing friction and therefore lower rolling resistance, even under high loads. They are shock-resistant. Permanent lubrication is ideally suited for low speeds.

[0072] Plain bearings are simple, largely maintenance-free bearings. They are shock-resistant and offer the most economical bearing design. They are suitable for low speeds.

[0073] Precision ball bearings or deep groove ball bearings are characterized by good running properties even under high loads and speeds. They are well suited for continuous use.

[0074] The starting and rolling resistance of the 1001 swivel caster is determined by the force required to move a load. These forces depend on the wheel size, the thickness of the wheel cushion, the tire material, the tire temperature, the storage conditions, the load, and the road surface. Measured on a level road surface, for a 1003 wheel with a diameter of 200 mm, the starting force and rolling resistance, expressed as a percentage of the load, are: 1.8% for polyamide, 3.5% for solid rubber, 1.1% for Easy-roll solid rubber, and 0.9% for polyurethane.

[0075] The advantages of the 1001 swivel caster are as follows:

[0076] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 • Safe braking: The rotationally fixed connection between brake flange 2003 and brake disc 2002 ensures that the braking torque is transferred to the wheel 1003 without loss.

[0077] • Flexibility in use: The design can be easily adapted to different load carriers 1 or swivel bearings 1006.

[0078] • Compact design: Despite the integrated brake, the size is relatively small, which allows for use in confined spaces.

[0079] • Precise control and steering: In conjunction with a swivel bearing 1006, the swivel caster 1001 can be easily controlled even in tight spaces.

[0080] The illustrated embodiments of the 1001 swivel caster offer numerous suitable application examples: industrial trolleys and transport platforms where safe stopping under load is important, automated shuttle systems or conveyor systems with integrated braking systems, and use in production environments where heavy load carriers must be maneuvered in a controlled manner. The invention provides a robust and versatile solution for industrial transport applications where safety and control are paramount.

[0081] Figures 1b and 4 show an embodiment of the wheel brake 2001 as an electromagnetically actuated MRF brake. Figure 4 shows two components movable relative to each other and rotationally symmetrical about the wheel axle 1004: the stator housing 2011 and the rotor 2012. For this purpose, the stator housing 2011 is made, at least partially, of a highly permeable material. The stator housing 2011 carries an annular concentric electromagnet 2013, while the rotor 2012 is flanged to the wheel axle 1004. An annular, rotationally symmetrical gap 214 is formed between the stator housing 2011 and the rotor 2012, which is filled, at least partially, with a magnetorheological fluid, forming a shear gap. This fluid solidifies when the brake is actuated.Under the influence of the magnetic field of the electromagnet 2013, the magnetorheological fluid in the shear gap solidifies, resulting in a force transmission between the stator housing 2011 and the rotor 2012 across the shear gap.

[0082] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 By applying a DC voltage U to the coil of the electromagnet 2013, a magnetic field is induced in the magnetorheological fluid. This changes the viscosity, and consequently the shear stress required to break up the magnetized particle strands, depending on the applied field strength. The braking torque is generated by shearing the aforementioned particle strands between the rotor and the stator housing, or between the wheel axle 1004 flanged to the rotor 2012. When the DC voltage is removed, the fluid returns to its original state and the wheel brake 2001 is released.

[0083] A magnetorheological fluid (MRF) is a suspension of magnetically polarizable particles (carbonyl iron powder) finely dispersed in a carrier fluid. The particles become polarized and form chains along the magnetic field lines. As the field strength increases, the suspension becomes more viscous due to the alignment of the particles. Thus, an MRF can be drastically, rapidly, and reversibly altered in a magnetic field.

[0084] Using magnetorheological fluids (MRF), wheel brakes can be implemented in 2001 where the transmissible torque is continuously adjustable via the magnetic field strength. A significant advantage lies in the low-wear transmission principle, as no fixed clutch or brake discs rub against each other. The MRF transmission medium also has a damping effect.

[0085] The no-load torque (I = 0 A) is primarily dependent on the applied rotational speed and the temperature of the magnetorheological fluid. The following simplified principle applies: The viscosity of the fluid decreases with increasing temperature and increases with decreasing temperature. This means that the MRF becomes less viscous (thinner) when heated and more viscous (thicker) when cooled.

[0086] Figures 5, 6a and 6b show exemplary embodiments of the steering castor 1001 according to the invention and its application in a mobile load carrier 1 from various views and perspectives, both in overall view and by highlighting particular individual parts. Figures 5a and 5b, in particular, show...

[0087] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 an excerpt on the load carrier with a focus on the installation situation of a swivel caster 1001.

[0088] Figure 5 shows the embodiment of a steerable roller 1001, called a steering roller, and its attachment to the frame of a load carrier 1. The roller 1001 is equipped with a pivot bearing 1006. This bearing 1006 allows the roller 1001 to pivot about a vertical pivot axis S. The pivot axis S is oriented perpendicular to the wheel axis 1004, which means that the roller 1001 can not only rotate about its own axis but can also pivot about a vertical axis S. The wheel fork 1002, which holds the roller 1001, is connected to the pivot axis S on the side of the wheel 1003. This means that the wheel fork 1002 itself is part of the pivoting mechanism. The wheel fork 1002 also has an axle link 1010 that projects radially from the pivot axis S. This axle link 1010 is a lever arm that extends radially away from the pivot axis S.The axle link 1010 is coupled to a push rod 1011, which is used to pivot the roller 1001 about the pivot axis S. This means that when the push rod 1011 is actuated along its longitudinal axis A, the push rod movement is converted into a pivoting movement of the roller 1001. This means that moving the push rod 1011 enables the roller 1001 to rotate or change direction.

[0089] Overall, this arrangement describes a mechanism that allows a roller 1001 to be pivoted in a specific direction by transmitting force to the axle link 1010 of the wheel fork 1002 via a push rod 1011. Such systems are often used in the steering mechanisms of vehicles, machines, or transport equipment to enable changes in direction.

[0090] Figure 6a shows trolley 5, which represents the outer carriage 9, without the inner, insertable carriage 104, which represents the load carrier 100. Trolley 5 and load carrier 100 together form the load carrier 1. The load carrier 100, in its basic form together with trolley 5, is shown in Figure 6b, onto which standard transport containers can be screwed, in particular via the mounting boards 108, 110.

[0091] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 Figures 6a and 6b show the trolley 5, which essentially consists of a chassis 7 and represents the outer carriage 9 of the transport system, in a side view. The side view is chosen so that the first lateral insertion opening 27, located on the left in the direction of travel, can be viewed from the front.

[0092] The trolley 5 consists of a front part 67 and a rear part 69, which are connected by a U-shaped trolley frame 15 that is inverted and points downwards, i.e., towards the ground. The trolley frame 15 comprises a first support 19 for the front part 67 and a second support 21 for the rear part 69 of the trolley 5, and a trolley longitudinal brace 17. In its lower part, the trolley forms a platform 11, in particular by means of transverse braces below the trolley frame 15, which is almost identical to the trolley platform 13. The trolley frame 15 is essentially angular in shape, constructed of rectangular profile tubes, with a first longitudinal brace guide 23 and a second longitudinal brace guide 25 forming the transition between the supports 19, 21 and the trolley longitudinal brace 17.The longitudinal strut guides 23, 25 are designed so that the trolley 5 is telescopic in its distance between the front part 67 and the rear part 69.

[0093] Both the front section 67 and the rear section 69 of the chassis or trolley 5 are equipped with swivel casters 1001. The swivel casters 1001 of the front section 65 are connected to the drawbar 39 via a mechanical coupling and can be steered by pivoting or steering the drawbar 39. The swivel casters 1001 of the rear section 69 are coupled to the swivel casters 1001 of the front section 65 via a mechanical synchronizer integrated into the trolley handle 15. This allows simultaneous and unidirectional steering and results in excellent tracking stability when driving and steering the load carrier 1, whether alone or in combination with another vehicle.

[0094] Furthermore, the longitudinal strut guides 23, 25 are designed such that the trolley handle 15 can be adjusted to a variable trolley handle height 73. The trolley drawbar 31, which includes the trolley coupling rod 39 with the coupling rod eye 41, is arranged at the front below the trolley platform 13. The trolley handle 15 maintains its contact with the ground via swivel casters 1001. The swivel casters 1001 are guided in double-plate caster holders 55. In the factory's quality control...

[0095] In traffic, rollers 1001, which could be solid rubber rollers in particular, have proven effective. A trolley 5 can be coupled to another trolley (not shown) via the trailer coupling formed by the trapezoidal sheet metal coupling 43 and the trolley coupling rod 39 to form a towing vehicle system. On the inside of the trolley arm 15 is a locking bolt 57, which serves as part 65 of the locking mechanism and can be operated manually via a lifting pin 63.

[0096] Figure 6b shows a load carrier or industrial shuttle, typically used in production facilities or warehouses to efficiently transport goods or components. Here are some summarized features in the context of the load carrier:

[0097] A load carrier 1 is specifically designed to transport goods or workpieces safely and efficiently. It serves as a kind of platform or frame on which various types of loads can be stored and moved. The load carrier 1 shown consists of a stable frame with a U-shaped trolley handle 15, which provides a tall vertical structure. This structure can be used to hold larger or heavier loads that might be tall and unstable if placed on a flat platform.

[0098] The load carrier 1 is characterized by high mobility. Thanks to the rollers 1001 on the underside of the carriers 1, they can be easily moved, either manually or using pulling or pushing devices.

[0099] An industrial shuttle, consisting of coupled load carriers, is an autonomous or semi-automated transport system used in manufacturing or logistics processes. It moves along predefined paths, for example, on rails or freely on the floor, to transport goods between workstations or warehouses. Two or more interconnected units are typical of modular shuttle systems. Such configurations can be used in industry to transport larger loads over longer distances or to be integrated into an automated material flow. These shuttles could be used in automated production lines or in large logistics centers.

[0100] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 will be used to transport loads autonomously, possibly under control by a central control system.

[0101] Load carriers and industrial shuttles increase efficiency in production and logistics by enabling faster and safer material handling. Their robust construction enhances safety during transport, especially for bulky or heavy loads. The ability to couple multiple shuttles or carriers provides flexibility and adaptability to different loads and requirements. These systems are widely used in highly automated environments because they help reduce labor costs and optimize material flow.

[0102] Several load carriers 1 can be coupled together to form a trolley train. This enables fully automated transfer of the load onto wheeled load carriers 100. The trolley train is characterized by high tracking stability and is very maneuverable, even with large loads.

[0103] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 Reference List

[0104] 1 transport container

[0105] 2 2a, 2b lower and upper support frame

[0106] 3. Organizational Structure

[0107] 4 profile bars

[0108] 5 Container feet

[0109] 6 container posts

[0110] 7

[0111] 8 loading levels

[0112] 9 Conveyor belt

[0113] 10 Transport strap

[0114] 11 11a, 11 b, 11c, 11d deflection pulley

[0115] 12 12a, 12b wave

[0116] 13 axle bearings

[0117] 14 Untertrum

[0118] 15 Obertrum

[0119] 16 16a, 16b Fixing rail

[0120] 17 17a, 17b recess

[0121] 18 bars

[0122] 19 load carriers

[0123] 1001 Swivel caster

[0124] 1002 Wheel fork

[0125] 1003 wheels

[0126] 1004 Wheel axle

[0127] 1005, 1005' flange area

[0128] 1006 swivel bearings

[0129] 1007 wheel bodies

[0130] 1008 running surfaces

[0131] 1009 wheel bearings

[0132] 1010 axle links

[0133] 1011 Push rod

[0134] 2024HE351wop 09 / 17 / 2025 2001 wheel brake

[0135] 2002 brake disc

[0136] 2003 brake flange

[0137] 2004 brake caliper

[0138] 2005 brake pad

[0139] 2006 brake piston

[0140] 2011 Stator housing

[0141] 2012 Rotor

[0142] 2013 Electromagnet

[0143] 2014 Separation gap

[0144] 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025

Claims

Patent claims 1. Brakeable castor wheel, in particular a steering castor wheel (1001), for mobile load carriers (1) with at least one wheel (1003), a wheel brake (2001), a wheel axle (1004) and a wheel fork (1002) for supporting and guiding the wheel (1003), wherein • the wheel (1003) is mounted in the wheel fork (1002), • the wheel brake (2001) is designed as a full or partial disc brake with brake disc (2002) or brake rotor (2012), • the wheel axle (1004) has a brake flange (2003) at the end furthest from the wheel (1003), which is non-rotatably connected to the brake disc (2002) or brake rotor (2012) for the transmission of braking torques, and • the wheel fork (1002) on the side of the wheel (1003) is designed with a flange surface (1005) for attaching the roller (1001) to the load carrier (1) or to a swivel bearing (1006), characterized in that • the wheel fork (1002) has a U-shaped fork section for bearing and guiding the roller (1001).

2. Roller according to claim 1, characterized in that the wheel fork (1002) has a brake carrier spaced in the axial direction for the rotationally fixed reception of the wheel brake (2001).

3. Roller according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the wheel (1003) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a wheel axle (1004) which is mounted in the wheel fork (1002).

4. Roller according to one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the wheel fork (1002) has at least three fork sections, each with a parallel- 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 has nander oriented flange surfaces (1005, 1005') for fastening the wheel (1003) and the wheel brake (2001).

5. Roller according to claim 4, characterized in that the flange surface (1005') of the fork section for receiving the wheel brake (2001) is designed universally for mounting a floating caliper brake, fixed caliper brake or an electromagnetically actuated wheel brake (2001).

6. Roller according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the roller (1001) is provided with a pivot bearing (1006), wherein the pivot axis S is oriented perpendicular to the wheel axis (1004) and is connected to the wheel fork (1002) on the wheel side.

7. Roller according to claim 6, characterized in that the wheel fork (1002) has an axle link (1010) projecting radially from the pivot axis S, which is coupled to a push rod (1011) for pivoting the roller (1001).

8. Roller according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the wheel fork (1002) is connected at least at one of the wheel-side fork sections to a wheel bearing (1009) for rotary bearing of a wheel (1003) and the wheel bearing (1009) is preferably designed as a rolling bearing.

9. Roller according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wheel brake (2001) is designed as a floating caliper or fixed caliper brake with brake caliper (2004), wherein brake blocks (2005) guided in the brake caliper (2004) act axially against the brake disc (2002) during braking.

10. Roller according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the wheel brake (2001 ) is designed as an electromagnetically actuated wheel brake (2001 ).

11. Roller according to claim 5, characterized in that the wheel brake (2001) has a rotor (2012) and a stator housing (2011) which are connected to the wheel axle (1004) in a rotationally fixed manner and which form a coaxial shear gap (2014) which is filled with magnetorheological fluid, 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 wherein an electromagnet (2013) preferably mounted coaxially on the stator housing (2011) causes a solidification of the magnetorheological fluid in the shear gap (2014) when the brake is actuated.

12. Roller according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wheel (1003) has a coaxially designed wheel body (1007) and a running surface (1008) made of elastomer formed on the circumference of the wheel body.

13. Roller according to claim 12, characterized in that the wheel body (1007) is made of an elastomer, steel or an aluminium alloy.

14. Mobile load carrier characterized in that the load carrier (1 ) is equipped with rollers (1001 ) according to one of the preceding claims.

15. Mobile load carrier with a trolley (5) and with at least one load carrier (100) which can be detachably connected to each other via a coupling (65, 154), wherein • the trolley (5) and the load carrier (100) are each provided with a chassis (7, 7') which has rollers (1001) for moving on a roadway, • the chassis (7) comprises a front and rear chassis part (67 and 69 respectively) equipped with rollers (1001), • the front and rear chassis parts (67 and 69, respectively) are connected via a trolley handle (15) in such a way that the load carrier (100) can be inserted into a free space between the front and rear chassis parts (67 and 69, respectively) from both sides, • the rollers (1001) of the front and rear chassis parts (67 and 69 respectively) are steerable and • the rollers (1001 ) of the front and rear chassis parts (67 and 69 respectively) are coupled to each other for synchronous steering, characterized in that the rollers (1001 ) are designed according to one of claims 1 to 13. 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025 16. Mobile load carrier according to claim 14, characterized in that the load carrier (1 ) has a front and rear chassis part (67 or 69) with respect to the direction of travel, each of which is provided with pivotable steering wheels (1001 ) for steering the load carrier (1 ), wherein the running wheels (1001 ) of the front and rear chassis part (67 or 69) are coupled to each other for synchronous steering. 2024HE351wop 17.09.2025

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