Low Profile Rolling Support Assembly for Minimal Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for lifting loads above surfaces with low clearance often interfere with underlying structures due to their lateral support members, which can limit positioning and maneuverability, especially in healthcare and manufacturing settings.
Innovation Solution
A low profile rolling support assembly featuring a caster assembly with a pivotally mounted wheel that transfers weight to the floor, allowing the load bearing member to extend laterally while maintaining a low profile, reducing interference with structures of low clearance height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If traditional support structures with lateral support members are used, then the load can be supported above surfaces, but the lateral support members interfere with underlying structures when clearance is minimal
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure transitions from a traditional four-legged design to a caster-based design where the support members are concentrated at discrete points (caster locations) rather than extending laterally. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the load to be supported while minimizing the vertical profile and eliminating interference with underlying structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into discrete caster units rather than continuous lateral support members. Each caster assembly acts as an independent support point, allowing the structure to achieve support functionality while reducing the overall lateral extent and profile height that would interfere with low-clearance environments.
2Stability of the object's composition
If laterally extending support members are used to support the load, then the structure is stable, but the support members cannot be positioned beneath low clearance structures
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure replaces extended lateral members with caster assemblies that concentrate support functions at discrete locations. This reconfiguration maintains structural stability through proper caster placement and load distribution while dramatically reducing the vertical profile to enable positioning beneath low-clearance structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure incorporates caster wheels that provide dynamic support capabilities, allowing the support members to adapt to surface variations and maintain stability through rotational movement rather than rigid lateral extension. This dynamic approach achieves stability with minimal profile height.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the support structure has a low profile to fit under low clearance structures, then interference is reduced, but the structural support capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple discrete caster units distributed across the base. Each caster handles a portion of the total load, and the segmented configuration allows the structure to achieve both low profile and adequate load support capability through proper distribution of support points.
Solution Approach 2:
The caster assembly merges multiple functions (support, mobility, adjustment) into a single integrated unit. By combining these functions at each caster location, the structure achieves comprehensive load support capability while maintaining a low profile that prevents interference with underlying structures.
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
Enables the support of loads above surfaces with minimal clearance without interfering with underlying structures, enhancing positioning and maneuverability in applications like patient lifts and manufacturing equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating wheel configured to transfer weight resting on the load bearing member to the floor through the wheel
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a low profile rolling support assembly useful for supporting loads above a supporting surface where at least one end of the rolling support assembly is positionable beneath a structure having minimal clearance above the supporting surface. The rolling support assembly includes a load bearing member and a caster assembly containing a wheel where the load bearing member extends laterally away from the caster assembly at substantially the same height or less as the caster assembly.