Caster yoke for manufacture of a set of wheeled caster assemblies

A caster yoke for use in the manufacture of a set of wheeled caster assemblies wherein each caster assembly of the set of caster assemblies is capable of having unique functional capabilities relative to each other caster assembly of the set arising from different combinations of caster components (selected from a set of pre-determined of caster components) being mountable on each respective caster yoke of the set of wheeled caster assemblies. To this end, the caster yoke is provided with all of the mounting features necessary to selectively mount all of the respective caster components of the pre-determined set on the caster yoke, such that the same form of caster yoke may be used without modification as a mounting frame to create a set of caster assemblies having different functionalities, significantly reducing design, production and inventory costs for the set of caster assemblies.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to the field of caster assemblies and more particularly to a caster yoke that can be used to manufacture a set of caster assemblies with selected members of the set having different caster components mounted on the yoke to provide for different functional capabilities without the need to modify the structure of the caster yoke or of the different caster components mounted thereon.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Caster assemblies are generally well known in the art. Such wheeled casters are attached to a base or to the bottom of an object such as a bed, a stretcher, a gurney, a chair, a large piece of medical diagnostic equipment, a palette, a wagon, a cart, and the like. Caster assemblies typically have a single wheel or paired dual wheels and are configured to provide translation (rolling movement) of the object along a surface or the ground (once attached to the object). In some configurations, the wheel(s) of the wheeled caster assembly may be fixed in a single orientation relative to the attached object to provide motion in a single forward and backward direction. In other configurations, the caster assembly includes a swivel brake lock that allows the caster assembly to rotate about a vertical axis. If all caster assemblies attached to the object are of this configuration, the object to which the caster assembly is attached is able to move in a lateral as well as a forward and backward motion. Different configurations are also well known with combinations of fixed and swivel-enabled caster assemblies attached to a single object.

Wheel brake lock and swivel brake lock assemblies for casters are also well known and have been provided in a variety of forms for many years. A wheel brake lock assembly is typically used to stop the motion of the wheel(s) of a wheel assembly, such that the wheel(s) is/are no longer able to rotate about a respective wheel axis. Wheel brake lock assemblies are often engaged when a user wishes the object to remain in a fixed position. If the caster assembly has a swivel brake lock function, the object may still be able to rotate about the wheel-braked locked caster assembly eventhough the wheel(s) themselves is/are not able to rotate.

Similarly, swivel brake lock assemblies have been designed to lock a swivel-enabled caster assembly in a fixed orientation about its vertical swivel axis, such that the caster assembly is unable to swivel about that vertical axis. Swivel brake lock assemblies are commonly used when a user wishes to translate the object in a fixed direction, such as forward or backwards relative to the object, without having to exert the additional effort to steer in that direction. As only the swiveling about the vertical axis is locked when a swivel brake lock is engaged, the wheel(s) of the caster assembly is/are still free to rotate about the wheel axis. Furthermore, objects having fixed caster assemblies oriented in the same direction will generally travel in a straight line.

Additionally, a combination of a wheel brake lock and swivel brake lock assemblies in a caster assembly are known to simultaneously engage a wheel brake lock and a swivel brake lock using a single stopping actuator. With such a single actuator, the user is able with a single motion able to arrest the rotation of the caster assembly's wheel(s) about the horizontal wheel axis and to stop the rotation of the swivel about the vertical swivel axis.

While various combinations of these wheel and swivel brake assemblies and their associated functionalities are required in the art, each combination typically presents a challenge to combine together into a caster assembly that meets the space, actuation and service requirements of modern equipment manufacturers who incorporate caster assemblies into their products. As a result, it is required, in many cases, to custom design the various components of a caster assembly to meet the unique functional requirements of such manufacturers. That is, for example, a wheeled caster assembly required to have both a wheel brake lock assembly and a swivel brake lock assembly will, in the prior art, be structured differently from a caster assembly having only a wheel brake lock assembly, or only a swivel brake lock assembly. This is particularly problematic in relation to the yoke of the caster assembly, which yoke is the central support frame of a caster assembly on which most, if not all, of the other components of the caster assembly are mounted. To effectively carry out these support and mounting functions, most caster yokes used for heavy duty equipment applications, such as X-ray machines and CT scanners, are themselves typically large and robust, often being constructed as a monolithic metal fabrication or casting. As such, changing the design of a caster yoke in response to the need to mount more, or different, caster components thereon typically results in significant re-design and re-tooling costs.

Further, prior art caster assemblies, particularly larger caster assemblies such as mentioned in the previous paragraph, often have a molded plastic trim cover assembly mounted on, or over, the caster yoke to improve its aesthetic appearance and/or to ease its maintenance and/or cleaning requirements. Accordingly, performance requirement changes made by equipment manufacturers to the caster assemblies they order for their equipment may not only require significant changes to the structural parts and components used to manufacture the caster assemblies, but may additionally require significant re-design of the associated trim cover assemblies to accommodate their mounting on a revised caster assembly, which, in turn, may result in significant additional re-design and tooling costs.

One prior art wheeled caster assembly having caster components used to construct a unique caster configuration having a wheel brake lock assembly, a fixed-direction swivel lock assembly, and a full-directional swivel lock assembly is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,424,158 (Steenson), which patent is hereby incorporated by reference. The wheeled caster assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,424,158 includes a caster yoke and a cam assembly operable in at least three operational (functional) states (modes). The cam assembly may include an actuating mechanism for operating the cam assembly, a swivel lever mechanism and a brake lever mechanism in communication with a cam. When in a first operational (functional) state (mode), the wheel rotates freely and the caster yoke swivels freely. When in a second operational (functional) state (mode), a first swivel brake is engaged by the swivel lever mechanism to lock the caster yoke in a predetermined orientation while the wheel is allowed to rotate freely. When in a third operational (functional) state (mode), a wheel brake lock is engaged by the brake lever mechanism to stop the wheel from rotating freely, and a second swivel brake lock is simultaneously engaged to stop the caster yoke from swiveling. While operatively effective in its various operational (functional) states (modes), it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the Steenson prior art caster assembly is both complex and expensive to manufacture. Most importantly, such high levels of complexity and expense cannot be justified for many applications where less operational (functional) states (modes) are required. Moreover, the Steenson prior art caster assembly is not readily adaptable to the production of caster assemblies having less operational (functional) states (modes) without extensive redesign of the various caster components utilized therein, including the caster yoke, and of the associated tooling, facilities and other resources necessary to produce assemble and inventory such components. As a consequence, in order for a caster manufacturer to be able to offer its customers a full model line (set) of casters capable of offering all of the three different operational (functional) capabilities described above in their various combinations and permutations, it would be necessary for such manufacturer to construct and inventory as many as 9 different unique caster models, each having a plurality of parts, including caster yokes, that are potentially unique to each model of the line (set).

Reducing the cost of designing and manufacturing caster assemblies having different functionalities and inventorying the numerous different caster components used in their production represents an ongoing challenge for manufacturing efficiencies in response to continuing customer demands for reduced costs. Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for improved caster assemblies that may be produced in sets with different members of the set having different functional capabilities and without the need to re-design the various caster components to accommodate such differences in functionality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is thus provided, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a caster yoke that may be used to manufacture a set of caster assemblies wherein each wheeled caster assembly of the set is adapted and otherwise configured to have all available caster components selectively mounted thereon, either alone or in various combinations with one another, so as to lend variable functional capabilities to each caster assembly of the set, without the need to alter the form or structure of the caster yoke, or of said available caster components selectively mounted thereon.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a set of caster assemblies for attachment to the base of an object to facilitate movement thereof. Each caster assembly of the set has a caster yoke which forms a unitary type of support frame for each respective caster assembly of the set. Each caster yoke has mounted thereon a pivot assembly extending between an upper end and a lower end and defining a vertical axis extending therebetween. Each pivot assembly is attachable adjacent its upper end to the base of the object, and is attachable adjacent its opposite lower end to the caster yoke to permit swiveling movement of the caster yoke about the vertical axis. One or more wheel assemblies are attachable to the caster yoke for free rotation about a horizontal axis that is transverse to the vertical axis. One or more caster components are selected from a group of caster components consisting of a swivel brake lock assembly, a wheel brake lock assembly, and a trim cover assembly and each such caster component is mountable after such selection on a respective caster yoke of the set, such that the one or more caster components selected and mounted on at least one of the caster yokes may be different than the one or more caster components selected and mounted on at least one other of said caster yokes of the set. In this manner, the same form of caster yoke may be used to form caster assemblies having differing caster components and respectively different functionalities.

In accordance with a yet further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plurality of identical caster yokes in a set of an equal plurality of wheeled caster assemblies. Each one of said plurality of caster assemblies comprises: i) a respective one of said plurality of caster yokes; ii) a pivot assembly being attachable to the respective one caster yoke for swiveling movement of the respective one caster yoke about a vertical axis; iii) one or more wheel assemblies attachable to said respective one caster yoke for free rotation about a horizontal axis transverse to said vertical axis; and, iv) one or more caster components selected from a group of caster components consisting of a swivel brake lock assembly, a wheel brake lock assembly, and a trim cover assembly, with the one or more caster components selected and mounted on the respective one caster yoke being different than the one or more caster components selected and mounted on at least one other of the plurality of caster yokes of the set.

Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of several non-limiting embodiments and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described hereinbelow.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, but well-understood, elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims. For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a”. The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. It should be understood that the invention is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims, and that the invention is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described.

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1Cdepict views of embodiments of a set of caster assemblies having a first wheeled caster assembly300(depicted inFIG. 1A), a second wheeled caster assembly400(depicted inFIG. 1B), and a third wheeled caster assembly500(depicted inFIG. 1C).FIG. 1Adepicts a perspective view.FIG. 1Bdepicts a perspective view.FIG. 1Cdepicts a perspective view. Each of the caster assemblies ofFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1Chave different functional capabilities from one another by reason of there being different caster components (selected from a common pool of mountable structural components) selectively mounted on a caster yoke112member that is common to all 3 embodiments.

The first wheeled caster assembly300, the second wheeled caster assembly400, and the third wheeled caster assembly500are members of a set of caster assemblies300,400and500that are each attachable to the base114of an object116by known fastening means and modalities to facilitate movement of the object116, which base114and object116are for ease of illustration only depicted inFIG. 3B.

Each of the first wheeled caster assembly300, the second wheeled caster assembly400, and the third wheeled caster assembly500includes a caster yoke112, depicted in each one ofFIGS. 2A to 2E. The caster yoke is preferably formed (from a metal alloy, for instance) as a unitary central support frame for the caster assembly and the various caster components mounted thereon, as described more fully below. Thus, the caster yoke112is an important common element of (deployed in) each one of the caster assemblies that forms a set of caster assemblies. A technical effect (result or benefit) of using the same type of caster yoke112to form a set of caster assemblies is a reduction, at least in part, in the cost of manufacturing any one of the first wheeled caster assembly300, the second wheeled caster assembly400, and the third wheeled caster assembly500for use as a set of caster assemblies wherein each caster assembly may have different functionality, as compared to using different caster yokes which require differently constructed caster yokes and caster components for mounting thereon to provide for different caster assembly functionalities, as is the custom in the prior art.

It will be appreciated that by allowing different wheeled-caster components to be selectively mounted on a single iteration of caster yoke112, selected types of caster components having corresponding caster functions may be selectively mounted on any one of the caster component assemblies in a set of caster assemblies, thus lending significant design flexibility to the set of caster components as a whole, and at significantly lower design and build cost. Such types of caster components may include, without limitation, a wheel brake lock assembly700to stop the rotation of the wheel(s)303of the caster assembly on which it is mounted about its rotational axis, being horizontal axis “B”, a swivel brake lock assembly600to allow the caster assembly on which it is mounted to selectively rotate about a vertical axis “A” and to be held at one or more selected swivel positions, and a trim cover assembly503, which trim cover assemblies are mounted on the caster yoke112to improve the overall appearance thereof and to prevent dust and other contaminants from entering the interior of the caster assembly so as to facilitate cleaning and maintenance of the caster assembly.

Thus, by using utilizing the same caster yoke112for constructing different types of caster assemblies, the cost of manufacturing and making available all of these different types of caster assemblies (such as, the first wheeled caster assembly300depicted inFIG. 3A, the second wheeled caster assembly400depicted inFIG. 4A, and the third wheeled caster assembly500depicted inFIG. 5A) may be reduced (at least in part), since these caster assemblies share the same form of caster yoke112and common caster components. By deploying the same form of caster yoke112and common caster components in each of the different caster assemblies, each of the caster assemblies does not need a separately designed, constructed and stocked caster yoke, which caster yoke is a key component in the construction of caster assemblies and potentially the largest, heaviest and most expensive to manufacture component of each such caster assembly. Accordingly, the improved caster yoke112disclosed herein permits unique functional capabilities for different sorts of caster assemblies (depending on the functionality desired for a particular wheeled caster assembly). In this manner, the caster yoke112of the present invention may be deployed to construct a set of caster assemblies that has a relatively large number of possible wheeled-caster configurations and related functionalities. Moreover, these various types (models) of caster assemblies can be advantageously mixed in a set of caster assemblies to be attached to the base of an object (equipment) to facilitate movement thereof in a controlled manner as specified (required) by the manufacturer of the object (equipment).

The first wheeled caster assembly300, the second wheeled caster assembly400and the third wheeled caster assembly500are each configured for attachment in a conventional manner (either directly or indirectly) to the base114of an object116(being conventional equipment that is only partially depicted inFIG. 3B, only). In this manner, the first wheeled caster assembly300, the second wheeled caster assembly400and the third wheeled caster assembly500are each configured to enable the object to be moved (along a working surface). Embodiments of the object include (and are not limited to) a bed, a stretcher, a gurney, an office chair, large medical diagnostic equipment, a palette, a wagon, a cart, and the like.

The first caster assembly300, the second caster assembly400, and the third caster assembly500preferably each have unique functional capabilities relative to each other. For example: the first caster assembly300has a wheel brake lock assembly700mounted on the caster yoke112for locking and unlocking rotation of the wheel assemblies303about a horizontal axis B under the control of brake pedal322; the second caster assembly400has a swivel brake lock assembly600selectively mounted on the caster yoke112for locking and unlocking swivelling rotation of the caster assembly400about a vertical axis “A” under control of the swivel lock pedal406; and the third caster assembly500has a trim cover assembly503mounted on the caster yoke112for improving its appearance and maintenance requirements.

As seen inFIGS. 2A to 2E, the caster yoke112is for construction of a set of caster assemblies (as depicted in, for example,FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The set of caster assemblies includes (and is not limited to) the first wheeled caster assembly300ofFIG. 1A, the second wheeled caster assembly400ofFIG. 1B, and the third wheeled caster assembly500ofFIG. 1C. Each caster assembly of the set utilizes some form of the caster yoke112, and at least one member of the set of caster assemblies has different functional capability relative to each other member of the set. The caster yoke112includes mounting features (such as, a first mounting feature101, a second mounting feature102and a third mounting feature103, etc.). The mounting features of the caster yoke112are substantially identical as between the various caster yokes112included in the different caster assemblies of the set, and are configured to mount with respective caster components of the caster assemblies300,400,500as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B, and1C, respectively. These caster components consist of the following group of caster components: a swivel brake lock assembly (designated by the general reference numeral700); a wheel brake assembly (designated by the general reference numeral600); and, a trim cover assembly (designated by the reference numeral503). Any one or more of these caster components may be selected, either alone or in combination, from the aforesaid group of caster components for mounting on a respective caster yoke112of the caster assemblies300,400and500to impart unique functional capabilities to the respective caster assembly.

Referring to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3B, a first mounting feature101of the caster yoke112is configured to selectively mount a first caster component301of the first wheeled caster assembly300, being part of the wheel brake lock assembly700.

Referring to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 4B, a second mounting feature102of the caster yoke112is spaced apart from the first mounting feature101. The second mounting feature102is configured to selectively mount a second caster component402of the second wheeled caster assembly400, being part of the swivel brake lock assembly600.

Referring to the embodiment depicted inFIG. 5B, a third mounting feature103of the caster yoke112is spaced apart from the first mounting feature101and is also spaced apart from the second mounting feature102. The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively mount a third caster component503of the third wheeled caster assembly500, being a part of the trim cover assembly.

Referring to the embodiments depicted inFIGS. 2A to 2E(in general terms), each of the mounting features101to111of the caster yoke112is configured to selectively mount (interface, receive, interact with) a selected component of any one of the caster assemblies300,400,500(depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, respectively).

Specifically, the caster yoke112includes (provides) mounting features that are spaced apart from each other. The mounting features of caster yoke112include (and are not limited to): a first mounting feature101, a second mounting feature102, a third mounting feature103, a fourth mounting feature104, a fifth mounting feature105, a sixth mounting feature106, a seventh mounting feature107, an eighth mounting feature108, a ninth mounting feature109, a tenth mounting feature110, and an eleventh mounting feature111.

It will be appreciated that the first mounting feature101may be utilized (or not) by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The first mounting feature101is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(as depicted inFIG. 3B). For instance, the first mounting feature101includes a pivot assembly (also called a pin extension, a protuberance, etc.), and any equivalent thereof, extending from the caster yoke112. The first mounting feature101extends across opposite sidewalls of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the second mounting feature102may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The second mounting feature102is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3B). The second mounting feature102is configured to selectively mount a component of the second wheeled caster assembly400(FIG. 4B). For instance, the second mounting feature102includes a hole (a shaped void), and any equivalent thereof, defined on (formed in) opposite lateral sidewalls of the caster yoke112at a lower section of the caster yoke112. The second mounting feature102is configured to receive a pin (a rod, a pin extension, etc.), and any equivalent thereof, provided by the component of any one of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3A) or the second wheeled caster assembly400(FIG. 4A).

It will be appreciated that the third mounting feature103may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3C). The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively mount a component of the second wheeled caster assembly400(FIG. 4B). The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively mount a component of the third wheeled caster assembly500(FIG. 5B). For instance, the third mounting feature103includes a slot, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112(at a front portion of the caster yoke112). The third mounting feature103is positioned at a frontal section of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the fourth mounting feature104may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The fourth mounting feature104is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3B). For instance, the fourth mounting feature104includes a hole, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The fourth mounting feature104is formed on opposite sidewalls of the caster yoke112in a middle zone of the caster yoke112. The fourth mounting feature104extends across opposite lateral sidewalls of the caster yoke112. The fourth mounting feature104is configured to receive a pin (rod, pin extension), and any equivalent thereof.

It will be appreciated that the fifth mounting feature105may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The fifth mounting feature105is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3B). For instance, the fifth mounting feature105includes a hole, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112(at a middle zone of the caster yoke112). The fifth mounting feature105extends between opposite lateral sides (the opposite lateral sidewalls) of the caster yoke112. The fifth mounting feature105is configured to receive a pin (a rod), and any equivalent thereof.

It will be appreciated that the sixth mounting feature106may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The sixth mounting feature106is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3C). For instance, the sixth mounting feature106includes a pivot assembly, and any equivalent thereof, extending from the opposite lateral sidewalls of the caster yoke112at a frontal portion of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the seventh mounting feature107may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The seventh mounting feature107is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3C). For instance, the seventh mounting feature107includes an elongated slot, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The seventh mounting feature107is defined along an arched portion along a top section of the caster yoke112. The seventh mounting feature107is configured to receive a pin (a rod, a pin extension), and any equivalent thereof. The seventh mounting feature107is located above the sixth mounting feature106.

It will be appreciated that the eighth mounting feature108may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The eighth mounting feature108is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3C). For instance, the eighth mounting feature108includes a hole, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The eighth mounting feature108is located along a bottom rear section of the caster yoke112on the opposite sidewalls thereof. The eighth mounting feature108is configured to receive a pin (a rod, a pin extension), and any equivalent thereof. The eighth mounting feature108is located rearward of the fourth mounting feature104along a lower rear zone of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the ninth mounting feature109may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The ninth mounting feature109is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3C). The ninth mounting feature109is configured to selectively mount a component of the second wheeled caster assembly400(FIG. 4B). For instance, the ninth mounting feature109includes a slot, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The ninth mounting feature109is located between a pair of pivot assemblies extending from a lower rear section of the caster yoke112. The ninth mounting feature109is located behind the fourth mounting feature104along a lower rear zone of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the tenth mounting feature110may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The tenth mounting feature110is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3D). For instance, the tenth mounting feature110includes a notch, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The tenth mounting feature110is provided at a lower frontal section of the caster yoke112. The tenth mounting feature110is located below the sixth mounting feature106along a lower edge of the caster yoke112.

It will be appreciated that the eleventh mounting feature111may be utilized by any one of the caster assemblies (as depicted inFIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C). The eleventh mounting feature111is configured to selectively mount a component of the first wheeled caster assembly300(FIG. 3D). The eleventh mounting feature111is configured to selectively mount a component of the second wheeled caster assembly400(FIG. 4B). The eleventh mounting feature111is configured to selectively mount a component of the third wheeled caster assembly500(FIG. 5B). For instance, the eleventh mounting feature111includes a cavity, and any equivalent thereof, defined by (formed in) the caster yoke112. The eleventh mounting feature111is defined at a rear lower section of the caster yoke112. The eleventh mounting feature111is located above the ninth mounting feature109.

FIGS. 3A to 3Ddepict views of embodiments of the first wheeled caster assembly300ofFIG. 1A. The first wheeled caster assembly300includes the caster yoke112of any one ofFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E.FIG. 3Adepicts an exploded view.FIG. 3Bdepicts a side view.FIG. 3Cdepicts a frontal perspective view.FIG. 3Ddepicts a rear perspective view.

The first wheeled caster assembly300includes a first caster component301(as depicted inFIGS. 3A and 3B). The caster yoke112includes the first mounting feature101(as depicted inFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 3B) configured to selectively mount the first caster component301of the first wheeled caster assembly300.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the components of the first wheeled caster assembly300further include the first caster component301, a second caster component302, a third caster component303(such as, a wheel or a pair of wheels mounted on a common axle330), a fourth caster component304, a fifth caster component305, a sixth caster component306, a seventh caster component307, an eighth caster component308, a ninth caster component309, a tenth caster component310, an eleventh caster component311, a twelfth caster component312, a thirteenth caster component313, a fourteenth caster component314, a fifteenth caster component315, a sixteenth caster component316, a seventeenth caster component317, an eighteenth caster component318, a nineteenth caster component319, a twentieth caster component320, a twenty-first caster component321, a twenty-second caster component322, a twenty-third caster component323, a twenty-fourth caster component324, a twenty-fifth caster component325, a twenty-sixth caster component326, a twenty-seventh caster component327, and a twenty-eighth caster component328.

For instance, the first caster component301may include a main-cam pin. The first caster component301is configured to selectively mount the first mounting feature101of the caster yoke112. For instance, the second caster component302may include a top plate assembly. For instance, the third caster component303may include a wheel assembly. The fourth caster component304may include a trim cover assembly. The fourth caster component304is configured to selectively mount the eleventh mounting feature111of the caster yoke112. For instance, the fifth caster component305may include a bushing assembly. For instance, the sixth caster component306may include a flanged-bushing assembly (for the eighth caster component308). For instance, the seventh caster component307may include a brake-arm pin. For instance, the eighth caster component308may include a brake-arm assembly. The eighth caster component308is configured to selectively mount the tenth mounting feature110of the caster yoke112. The ninth caster component309may include a pin assembly. The ninth caster component309is configured to selectively mount the fifth mounting feature105of the caster yoke112. The tenth caster component310includes a flanged bushing. The eleventh caster component311includes a main cam. The eleventh caster component311is configured to selectively mount the fifth mounting feature105of the caster yoke112. The twelfth caster component312may include a center-locking cam. The thirteenth caster component313includes a brake cam. The fourteenth caster component314may include a center-lock bushing. The fifteenth caster component315includes a center-locking pin. The fifteenth caster component315is configured to selectively mount the eighth mounting feature108of the caster yoke112. The sixteenth caster component316may include a center-locking spring. The seventeenth caster component317includes a torsion spring. The eighteenth caster component318may include a brake-system frame. The eighteenth caster component318is configured to selectively mount the fourth mounting feature104of the caster yoke112. The nineteenth caster component319may include a push cam. The twentieth caster component320includes a push-cam spring. The twenty-first caster component321may include a push-cam pin. The twenty-second caster component322may include a wheel brake pedal. The twenty-second caster component322is configured to selectively mount the seventh mounting feature107of the caster yoke112. The twenty-third caster component323includes a connector (a bolt). The twenty-fourth caster component324includes a washer. The twenty-fifth caster component325may include a locating washer. The twenty-sixth caster component326may include a bearing assembly. The twenty-seventh caster component327may include a retainer (retaining ring). The twenty-eighth caster component328may include a center-lock bracket.

FIGS. 4A and 4Bdepict views of embodiments of the second wheeled caster assembly400ofFIG. 1B. The second wheeled caster assembly400also includes the caster yoke112of any one ofFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E.FIG. 4Adepicts an exploded view.FIG. 4Bdepicts a side view.

The second wheeled caster assembly400includes a second caster component402(as depicted inFIGS. 4A and 4B). The caster yoke112includes the second mounting feature102(as depicted inFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 4B) spaced apart from the first mounting feature101. The second mounting feature102is configured to selectively mount the second caster component402of the second wheeled caster assembly400.

The components of the second wheeled caster assembly400further include a first caster component401, a second caster component402, a third caster component403(being a trim cover assembly), a fourth caster component404, a fifth caster component405, a sixth caster component406, a seventh caster component407, an eighth caster component408, a ninth caster component409, a tenth caster component410, an eleventh caster component411, a twelfth caster component412, and a thirteenth caster component413and a swivel brake lock assembly600, with the latter being comprised of the caster components402to413, inclusive.

The first caster component401comprises a pivot assembly extending between an upper401aand a lower401bend to define a vertical axis A extending therebetween. The pivot assembly402is attachable adjacent its upper end401aby any conventional means to the base of an object to be made transportable by attachment of the set of casters to its base, and is attachable adjacent its lower end401bto the caster yoke112for swiveling movement of the caster yoke112about the vertical axis A. The second caster component402may include a spring pin assembly. The second caster component402is configured to selectively mount the second mounting feature102of the caster yoke112to provide a means for mounting the sixth caster component, which is swivel lock pedal406, on the caster yoke112. In this manner, the second caster component402is configured to selectively mount the ninth mounting feature109of the caster yoke112. The third caster component403may include a cover assembly. The third caster component403is configured to selectively mount the eleventh mounting feature111of the caster yoke112. The fourth caster component404may include a bearing assembly to assist in mounting the pivot assembly401as aforesaid. The fifth caster component405includes a wheel assembly. The seventh caster component407includes a lower bushing assembly to assist in mounting the pivot assembly401as aforesaid. The eighth caster component408may include a retaining ring. The ninth caster component409may include a brake arm. The tenth caster component410includes a nut. The eleventh caster component411may include a washer. The twelfth caster component412includes a set screw. The thirteenth caster component413may include a spring assembly.

FIGS. 5A and 5Bdepict views of embodiments of the third wheeled caster assembly500ofFIG. 1C. The third wheeled caster assembly500includes the caster yoke112of any one ofFIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E.FIG. 5Adepicts an exploded view.FIG. 5Bdepicts a side view.

The third wheeled caster assembly500includes a third caster component503in the form of a trim cover assembly (as depicted inFIGS. 5A and 5B). The caster yoke112may include the third mounting feature103(as depicted inFIGS. 2A, 2C, 2D and 5B) spaced apart from the first mounting feature101and from the second mounting feature102. The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively mount the third caster component503of the third wheeled caster assembly500for retention on the caster yoke112.

The components of the third wheeled caster assembly500further includes a first caster component501, a second caster component502, a third caster component503, a fourth caster component504, a fifth caster component505, a sixth caster component506, a seventh caster component507, an eighth caster component508, a ninth caster component509, a tenth caster component510, and an eleventh caster component511.

The first caster component may include a pivot assembly501, which includes an upper bearing assembly512. The second caster component may include a wheel assembly502having two wheel members rotatable about common axle member530operatively mounted on the caster yoke112. The third caster component503may comprise a trim cover assembly. The third caster component503is configured to be selectively mounted on/over the caster yoke112. The third mounting feature103is configured to selectively fit with and to selectively mount a selected component of any one of the caster assemblies300,400,500. The fourth caster component504may include a set screw. The fifth caster component505may include a washer. The sixth caster component506may include a nut. The seventh caster component507may include a set screw. The eighth caster component508may include a brake arm.

The ninth caster component509may include a lower bushing/bearing assembly. The tenth caster component510may include a retaining ring. The eleventh caster component511may include a set screw.

In use, after installation of a set of caster assemblies upon the base114of an object116, a user is able to brake the rotation of the wheel assemblies303of the first embodiment of caster assembly illustrated inFIGS. 3A, 3Bhorizontal about axis B by depressing the brake pedal322, which in turn activates the wheel brake assembly700to cause the components thereof (314to321) to move to a first configuration wherein they are in locking engagement with the wheel assemblies303. A second depression of the brake pedal322causes the wheel brake assembly700to move from locking engagement with the wheel assemblies303to a second configuration, in which the wheel assemblies303are again free to rotate about axis B.

In use, after installation of a set of caster assemblies upon the base114of an object116, a user is able to brake the swiveling movement of the caster yoke112about the pivot assembly401of the first embodiment of caster assembly as illustrated inFIGS. 4A and 4babout vertical axis A by downwardly depressing (pivoting) the free end of the swivel lock pedal406, which in turn causes the remaining components of the swivel lock assembly600(407to413) to move upwardly to a first configuration wherein they arrestingly engage the lower end401bof the pivot assembly401to restrain same from swiveling movement relative to the caste yoke112. Subsequent upwardly directed return movement of the free end of the swivel brake pedal406causes the remaining components (407to413) of the swivel wheel brake assembly to move from said arresting engagement to their original configuration, wherein the pivot assembly401is again free to perform swilling movement relative to the caste yoke112about the vertical axis A.

It may be appreciated that the assemblies, components, and modules described above may be connected with each other as required to perform desired functions and tasks within the scope of persons of skill in the art to make such combinations and permutations without having to describe each and every one in explicit terms. There is no particular assembly or component that may be superior to any of the equivalents available to the person skilled in art. There is no particular mode of practicing the disclosed subject matter that is superior to others, so long as the functions may be performed. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood that the scope of the present invention is limited to the scope provided by the independent claim(s), and it is also understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to: (i) the dependent claims, (ii) the detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments, (iii) the summary, (iv) the abstract, and/or (v) the description provided outside of this document (that is, outside of the instant application as filed, as prosecuted, and/or as granted). It is understood, for this document, that the phrase “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising.” The foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.