Patent ID: 8714580
Filing Date: 2014-05-06
Classification: B62B

Abstract:
1. A kit for modifying a wheeled apparatus having a main frame and a load support structure attached to the main frame at a first end portion thereof such that the load support structure extends forward of a front side of the main frame, the kit comprising: a set of caster unit mounts each having a caster unit mounting structure and a main frame engaging structure attached to the caster unit mounting structure, wherein the main frame engaging structure is configured for being secured to at least one of the main frame and the load support structure; a set of caster units each having a mounting portion configured for being secured to the caster unit mounting structure of a respective one of the caster unit mounts such that a first-size wheel thereof is rotatable about of a rotational axis thereof and pivot about a pivot axis thereof, wherein the pivot axis extends substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis; a subframe mounting structure configured for being secured to the main frame; and a subframe having a first end portion thereof pivotably attached to the subframe mounting structure and a second end portion thereof having a second size wheel mounting structure integral therewith; wherein each one of the caster unit mounts and each one of the caster units are jointly configured such that, when the each one of the caster unit mounts is secure to the main frame and each caster units is secured to a respective one of the caster unit mounts, the pivot axis of each one of the caster units extends in a substantially skewed orientation with respect to a load support surface of load support structure; wherein each one of the caster unit mounts, each one of the caster units, the subframe mounting structure and the subframe are jointly configured such that, when the subframe mounting structure is secured to the main frame, each one of the caster unit mounts is secure to the main frame, and each caster units is secured to a respective one of the caster unit mounts, a first wheelbase length defined between the caster units and the second size wheel mounting structure of the subframe is provided when the subframe is in the first subframe position thereof; wherein each one of the caster unit mounts, each one of the caster units, the subframe mounting structure and the subframe are jointly configured such that, when the subframe mounting structure is secured to the main frame, each one of the caster unit mounts is secure to the main frame, and each caster units is secured to a respective one of the caster unit mounts, a second wheelbase length defined between the caster units and the second size wheel mounting structure of the subframe is provided when the subframe is in the second position thereof; and wherein the second wheelbase length is greater than the first wheelbase length.