Grooved Elastomeric Caster Suspension for Impact Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel casters fail to adequately absorb impact forces and provide a smooth ride when moving over uneven terrain, leading to potential damage and disorganization of contents in movable objects.
Innovation Solution
A caster design incorporating an elastic member with grooves positioned between pivotable portions, which absorbs impact forces by allowing adjacent portions to flow into the grooves, enhancing the absorption of forces and providing a smoother ride.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If coil springs are used for suspension, then the caster can move over uneven terrain, but the impact forces are not adequately absorbed and the ride is not smooth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the suspension system by using an elastomeric material with specific properties (durometer 30-70 Shore A) and incorporating grooves with specific dimensions (0.125-0.5 inches deep, 0.0625-0.25 inches wide). These parameter changes enable the material to deform and absorb impact forces effectively, providing both smooth ride quality and reliable impact absorption that coil springs fail to achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining the elastomeric material with embedded grooves that may contain different materials or structures. This composite approach creates a multi-functional suspension element that provides both cushioning and structural support, resolving the contradiction between ride smoothness and impact absorption capability.
2Strength
If a rigid suspension system is used, then the structure is simple and strong, but it cannot absorb impact forces and provides a rough ride over uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the suspension system from rigid to flexible by selecting elastomeric material with appropriate durometer ratings (30-70 Shore A). This parameter change in material flexibility allows the structure to maintain strength while simultaneously providing impact absorption and ride smoothness, eliminating the need to choose between structural integrity and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior to the suspension system through the elastomeric material that can deform and recover. The grooves embedded in the material enhance this dynamic response by allowing controlled deformation patterns. This dynamic capability enables the structure to adapt to varying terrain conditions while maintaining strength, providing both durability and ride quality.
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
The elastic member effectively absorbs impact forces, resulting in a smoother ride for movable objects like carts or roll cabinets, reducing the risk of damage and disorganization over uneven terrain.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric material, such as rubber or polyurethane, having a durometer of from about 30 to about 70 Shore A
Data Source
AI summary
A caster with an elastic member that absorbs impact forces during use. The elastic member can be placed between first and second portions pivotable with respect to each other about a pin. The elastic member can absorb impact forces between the first and second portions when in use. The elastic member can further include grooves that allow portions of the elastic member adjacent the grooves to flow into the grooves during impact, further absorbing impact forces.