Adjustable Caster Wheel Bracket for Tool-Free Frame Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing caster systems for furniture are either labor-intensive to assemble/disassemble and lack adjustable mounting positions, and once damaged, the entire caster unit must be replaced due to integral connections, leading to high production costs and strict strength requirements.
Innovation Solution
A caster wheel bracket with a support plate and restricting portions that securely attach to transverse and longitudinal rods of a frame without tools, allowing for easy mounting and adjustment, and made of nylon for cost-effectiveness and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If casters are detachably connected through bolts/screws, then assembly and disassembly is possible, but the process is troublesome, time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The caster assembly is segmented into separate components: the caster wheel, the bracket, and the mounting portion. This segmentation allows each part to be independently manufactured and assembled through simple snap-fit connections rather than requiring complex bolt/screw assemblies, thereby reducing assembly time and labor while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting portion features a self-service design where the bracket automatically secures to the furniture underside through elastic deformation and snap-fit engagement without requiring additional fasteners or tools. The elastic portion deforms during installation and locks into place autonomously, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations
2Strength
If casters are fixedly connected by welding, then the structure is integrated and strong, but the mounting position cannot be adjusted and replacement is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static welded joint to a dynamic, adjustable snap-fit connection. The elastic portion allows the bracket to be positioned at multiple locations along the furniture underside and secured through elastic deformation, enabling both position adjustment and secure attachment without permanent welding
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the caster assembly into replaceable components (caster wheel, bracket, mounting portion), the system enables easy replacement of damaged parts while maintaining structural integrity. The modular design allows individual components to be substituted without affecting the overall strength or requiring re-welding
3Reliability
If strict requirements for strength and service life are imposed on casters, then reliability is improved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting portion utilizes parameter changes through elastic deformation to achieve secure attachment. The elastic portion is designed with specific material properties and geometric parameters that allow it to deform during installation and maintain a strong, reliable connection without requiring expensive high-strength materials or complex manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The caster assembly is designed as an affordable, replaceable component rather than a permanent, high-cost fixture. The simple snap-fit connection and modular design enable the caster to be manufactured at low cost and replaced easily if needed, achieving reliability through ease of replacement rather than through expensive, indestructible materials
Data Source
AI summary
A caster wheel bracket, a caster and a movable container are disclosed. The movable container includes a frame and a caster. The caster includes a caster wheel bracket and a caster wheel. The caster wheel bracket includes a support plate. A first restricting portion is disposed on an upper surface of the support plate. The first restricting portion is detachably fitted to corresponding two of the transverse rods. A second restricting portion is disposed on one end of the support plate. The second restricting portion is detachably fitted to a corresponding one of the longitudinal rods. A mounting portion is connected to a lower surface of the support plate for mounting a caster wheel. The caster can be mounted and dismounted quickly and the position of the caster can be adjusted according to the actual needs.