Eccentric Preload Swivel Caster for Defined Rotational Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing castor designs often have limited rotational alignment options, with only one preferred position or two positions offset by 180 degrees, which can restrict the flexibility and stability of transport vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The castor design incorporates slidably arranged pretensioning parts with cylinder compression springs that ensure constant contact with alignment projections, allowing for defined rotational alignment regardless of the fork's position relative to the holding part, with the pretensioning force acting eccentrically to pivot the fork into preferred positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only one or two preload elements are used on bolts, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of maintaining constant contact with alignment projections may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The preload elements are made slidable on the bolts rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position to maintain constant contact with the alignment projections throughout the rotational range. This dynamic adjustment ensures reliable alignment while keeping the structure simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system is segmented into multiple discrete alignment projections distributed around the rotational path, with preload elements that can independently contact different projections. This segmentation allows reliable alignment at multiple positions without requiring a complex continuous guidance mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If preload elements are made slidable on bolts with spring loading, then the adaptability to maintain contact across all rotational positions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded preload elements automatically self-adjust to maintain constant contact with the alignment projections throughout rotation. The springs provide continuous preload force that ensures the preload elements remain engaged with the alignment projections without requiring external control mechanisms, achieving adaptability with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The same spring-loaded slidable preload element mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides constant contact force, allows rotational movement, maintains alignment across different positions, and compensates for manufacturing tolerances. This multi-functionality achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the preload force acts eccentrically on the alignment projection, then the ability to define preferred rotational positions is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment projections are deliberately positioned asymmetrically relative to the bolt axes, creating eccentric preload force application points. This asymmetric geometry defines specific preferred rotational positions where the preload elements contact the projections. The asymmetric design is achieved through simple geometric features that can be manufactured and assembled without high precision requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design provides reliable and easy assembly, enabling multiple defined rotational alignment positions, including those offset by 180 degrees, enhancing the stability and maneuverability of transport vehicles by ensuring consistent alignment and directional stability.
Implementation Method 1
each spring-loaded in the direction of the central axis of rotation by means of a cylinder compression spring
Implementation Method 2
the spring that essentially provides the preload force
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a steering wheel (1) for transport equipment in particular, for example pallet trolleys, with a running wheel (4) mounted in a fork (3), wherein the fork (3) is rotatable about an axis of rotation (x) relative to a fixed retaining part (2), wherein a preloading part (8, 8') is further provided which, for the purpose of aligning the running wheel (4) relative to the retaining part (2) in a preloading direction, cooperates with an alignment projection (9, 9') arranged non-rotatably to the fork (3) or the retaining part (2).In order to provide a user-friendly and easy-to-manufacture swivel caster of the type in question, the invention proposes that the preload element (8, 8') acts on the alignment projection (9, 9') with a preload force directed perpendicular to the axis of rotation (x) with respect to a projection, wherein the action is eccentric except in at least one rotational position of the fork (3) relative to the axis of rotation (x), wherein the preload element (8, 8') has a spring (15) guided on a bolt (13) for transmitting a compressive force to the alignment projection (9, 9').