Caster Base Braking Assembly with Single-Switch Multi-Wheel Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wheeled seats with individual brake applications on caster wheels require users to separately lock and unlock multiple wheels, which is cumbersome and inefficient, as applying brakes to only one wheel may still allow the seat to move or pivot, necessitating individual identification and disengagement of each locked wheel.
Innovation Solution
A braking assembly that includes a switch arm and pushrod mechanism coupled to a cross member, allowing simultaneous application of brakes to multiple caster assemblies via a single switch, with a catch mechanism to maintain the engaged position, ensuring the seat is securely locked in place by applying braking force to at least two caster assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If brakes are applied to only one caster wheel, then the brake operation is simple, but the seat can still move or pivot around the locked wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple brake operations into a single brake pedal action. The linkage mechanism transmits the force from one brake pedal to multiple brake assemblies simultaneously, merging what would otherwise be separate operations into one unified action that achieves effective seat immobilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The single brake pedal serves multiple functions by simultaneously engaging brakes on multiple caster wheels. This multi-functional design allows one control element to perform the work of multiple individual brakes, achieving both operational simplicity and reliable immobilization.
2Reliability
If brakes are applied to multiple caster wheels individually, then the seat is securely locked, but the user must separately identify and disengage each lock
Solution Approach 1:
The release operation is merged into a single action through the same linkage mechanism. Pressing the brake pedal once for engagement and once for disengagement controls all multiple brakes simultaneously, reducing the complex task of managing individual brakes to simple unified operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's single brake pedal input and the multiple brake assemblies. This mediator distributes the control signal uniformly to all brakes, eliminating the need for the user to directly manage each individual brake or identify their locations.
3Ease of operation
If a linkage mechanism connects multiple brake assemblies, then a single switch can apply brakes to multiple wheels, but the mechanism structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is segmented into modular components including linkages, levers, and connection points that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the complex function to be achieved through simple, repeatable structural units rather than a monolithic complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having multiple independent brake controls, the patent inverts the approach by having one control element (brake pedal) that passively transmits force through the linkage to multiple brakes. This inversion simplifies the user interface while the linkage structure, though present, follows straightforward mechanical principles.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
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AI summary
A caster braking assembly that has a base section, a first caster assembly coupled to the base section and having at least one wheel, a second caster assembly coupled to the base section and having at least one wheel and a brake switch pivotally repositionable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. When the brake switch is in the engaged position at least one wheel of both the first caster assembly and the second caster assembly are substantially restricted from rotating.