Directional Locking Plate for Retrofit Swivel Casters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swivel casters are difficult to retrofit with directional locks, which can impair the integrity of the caster wheel and are time-consuming to install.
Innovation Solution
A directional locking plate (DLP) that can be attached to a standard caster frame, featuring a base plate with tabs and extensions to limit rotation, and a lock pin mechanism for secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a locking mechanism is added to a swivel caster by disassembling and retrofitting, then directional locking capability is improved, but installation time increases and caster integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate modular components: a locking plate that attaches to the caster frame, a lock pin that engages with the swivel mechanism, and a retaining clip. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled without disassembling the caster, reducing installation time while maintaining integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate serves as an intermediary component that bridges the lock pin and the caster frame. It provides mounting surfaces and structural support, enabling the locking function to be added without modifying the original caster structure, thus preserving caster integrity while enabling directional locking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If material is removed from the caster frame to add a locking feature, then directional locking capability is improved, but caster strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is implemented as separate attachable components rather than being integrated into the caster frame structure. The locking plate, lock pin, and retaining clip can be added without removing any material from the original caster, preserving its structural integrity while providing directional locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate acts as an intermediary that distributes locking forces across multiple attachment points on the caster frame. This approach avoids concentrating stress at single modified locations, preventing structural weakening while enabling the locking function.
Data Source
AI summary
A directional locking plate for a caster wheel assembly to directionally lock the movement of the caster wheel by fitting on the frame of the assembly. A directional locking plate with a hollow base portion and a tab with sidewalls which lock the frame of the caster wheel assembly. A directional locking plate with one or more cutouts along at least one of the outside and the inside of the plate, in which a lock pin fits to directionally lock the caster wheel assembly. A directional locking plate with a hollow base portion and a tab, wherein the base includes a projection towards the tab which fits on the top of the frame of the caster wheel assembly and the tab includes a projection which fits under the frame of the caster wheel assembly. A directional locking plate including a lock pin and pin plate within which the lock pin fits.