GB2563562A

GB2563562A - Trolley apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2563562A
Application number: GB1705101.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Brown Michael
Original assignee: Metal & Modular Fabrication Services Ltd
Current assignee: Metal & Modular Fabrication Services Ltd
Priority date: 2017-03-30
Filing date: 2017-03-30
Publication date: 2018-12-26
Also published as: GB201705101D0

Abstract

A hand trolley 101 for moving bulk loads has a base portion 102, a first ground engaging member rotatably coupled to said base portion, and a brake assembly (603, Fig. 6a). The brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of the ground engaging members 122, 123. Operation of a handle member 122, 123 releases the brake mechanism (603) on a respective ground engaging member 114, 115, and release of the handle 122, 123 allows the brake arrangement 603 to re-engage, thus providing a "dead man's handle" arrangement. The handles 116, 117 extend vertically upwardly from the base portion 102 in use, but moved to a collapsed position. In this position, the brake cable 502 also operates to disengage the brake arrangement (603) from the respective ground engaging member 114,115. In another embodiment of the invention there is a second brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of the ground engaging members 122, 123.

Description

Trolley Apparatus

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a trolley apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a hand trolley. 2. Description of the Related Art

Trolleys are often used for moving objects that are either too heavy or too cumbersome for an individual to carry. A particular use of such a trolley is for moving bulk loads, for example, loads of building materials for building components. A typical form of trolley for use in such an environment is referred to as a flat-bed trolley, which comprises generally of a flat platform provided with four caster wheels and a fixed handle which is used to either push or pull the platform with the load on the platform. A particular use of such a flat-bed trolley might be for moving bulk loads of construction materials or equipment relatively short distances, for example, about a construction site or factory floor.

Certain problems however can be experienced when using a trolley for moving a load. A particular problem exists when using a flat-bed trolley to move a heavy load, in as much that when started moving, the inertia of the trolley and load can be relatively great, and a risk exists that an operative pushing a trolley may lose control and the moving trolley might ‘runaway’ from the operative. This poses a hazard to the safety of the operative and other operatives in the vicinity. In order to counter this problem of runaway trolleys, certain trolleys of the prior art are provided with a ‘deadmans’ braking system, that is a braking system that is biased towards an ‘on’ condition in which the brakes are engaged and the wheels are inhibited from rotating, and where a constant user input is required for example, the squeezing of a trigger, to maintain the brakes in an off condition, in which the wheels are free to rotate and therefore the trolley is free to move.

However, although generally effective in certain applications at preventing trolley runaway, trolleys of the prior art incorporating ‘deadmans’ braking systems typically encounter a problem, in as much that, in the absence of a constant user input, for example the operative squeezing a brake release trigger, the brakes always revert to the ‘on’ condition. This can be undesirable in certain circumstances, for example, during storage of the trolley, when the user input trigger may not be accessible, and so moving of the trolley in the stored condition becomes difficult. A further problem that is encountered in certain trolleys of the prior art incorporating a ‘deadmans’ braking system is that, often the trigger to release the braking system may be operated by only a single operative, or even a single operative using only one hand. In the case of some trolleys however, for example flat-bed trolleys intended for carrying very heavy loads, safe operation of the trolley may require that the trolley is attended by more than one operative simultaneously, or at least that a single Operative operates the trolley using both his hands. In the case of such trolleys, that the braking system can be released by only a single operative or even by a single operative single-handedly, presents certain risks, in as much that a single operative may still attempt lone or otherwise incorrect operation of the trolley. This is undesirable, in as much that an incorrect use of the trolley presents a danger to the operative and indeed other operatives in the vicinity. In order to avoid such danger to operatives, in many jurisdictions legislative restrictions may prohibit the use of trolleys such as those described above which may be used incorrectly by a single operative.

It is therefore desirable to provide a trolley which obviates the above mentioned problems with trolleys of the prior art. In particular, it is desirable to provide a trolley having a ‘deadmans’ braking system which may be placed in a stored condition in which the ‘deadmans’ braking system is disabled. Additionally, it is desirable to provide a trolley having a ‘deadmans’ braking system requiring more than one user input to release the ‘deadmans’ braking system to thereby prevent unsafe use of the trolley by an operative.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a trolley apparatus suitable for supporting a load, the apparatus comprising: a base portion defining an upper surface suitable for receiving a load; a first ground engaging member rotatably coupled to said base portion; a first brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said first ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said first brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said first ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said first ground engaging member is inhibited, and further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said first ground engaging member; and a first handle member coupled at a first end to said base portion; wherein said first handle member is movable between an operable condition and a collapsed condition; and wherein in said collapsed condition said first handle member exerts a force on said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly sufficient to cause said brake control mechanism to exert a force on said brake member sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

Preferably, in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion.

Preferably, in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion to a greater extent than when in said collapsed condition.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises a first handle coupling member attached to said first handle member proximal said first end and attached to said base portion, said first handle coupling member coupling said first handle member to said base portion.

Preferably, said first handle coupling member rotatably couples said first handle member to said base portion and is configured to permit rotation of said first handle member relative to said base portion between said operable condition and said collapsed condition.

Preferably, said first handle coupling member comprises a locking member operable to engage said first handle member when in said operable condition to rigidly couple said first handle member to said base portion to thereby inhibit movement of said first handle member to said collapsed condition.

Preferably, in said operable condition said first handle member extends .outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a first extent and wherein in said collapsed condition said first handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a second extent, said first extent being greater than said second extent.

Preferably, in said operable condition said first handle member extends generally orthogonally relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

Preferably, in said collapsed condition said first handle member extends generally parallel relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

Preferably, in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion and wherein in said collapsed condition said handle member extends generally parallel to said base portion.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said first handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly comprises brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

Preferably, said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatably coupled to said first handle member.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and said brake lever member of said first handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

Preferably, said brake member of said first brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliently deformable member.

Preferably, comprising a second ground engaging member rotatably coupled to a lower surface of said base portion.

Preferably, comprising a second brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said second ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said second brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said second ground engagi ng member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said second ground engaging member is inhibited, and further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to transmit a force to said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging member.

Preferably, comprising a second handle member coupled at a first end to said base portion, said second handle member being movable between an.operable condition and a collapsed condition, and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member exerts a force on said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly sufficient to cause said brake control mechanism to move said brake member towards Said disengaged condition.

Preferably, in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion.

Preferably, in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion to a greater extent than when in said collapsed condition.

Preferably, said apparatus comprises a second handle coupling member attached to said second handle member proximal said first end and attached to said base portion, said second handle coupling member coupling said second handle member to said base portion.

Preferably, said second handle coupling member rotatably couples said second handle member to said base portion and is configured to permit rotation of said second handle member relative to said base portion between said operable condition and said collapsed condition.

Preferably, said second handle coupling member includes a locking member operable to engage said second handle member when in said operable condition to rigidly couple said second handle member to said base portion to thereby inhibit movement of said first handle member to said collapsed condition.

Preferably, in said operable condition said second handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a first extent and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a second extent, said first extent being greater than said second extent.

Preferably, in said operable condition said second handle member extends generally orthogonally relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

Preferably, in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends generally parallel relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

Preferably, in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends generally parallel to said base portion.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said second handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly comprises brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

Preferably, said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatably coupled to said second handle member.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said brake lever member of said second handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

Preferably, said first handle member is movable between said operable condition and said collapsed condition independently of said second handle member.

Preferably, said first brake assembly and said second brake assembly are operable independently.

Preferably, further comprising third and fourth ground engaging members rotatably coupled to a lower surface of said base portion.

Preferably, in which said brake member of said second brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliently deformable member.

Preferably, configured as a hand trolley suitable for transporting a supported load.

Preferably, the trolley apparatus is configured as a flat-bed trolley.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a trolley apparatus suitable for supporting a load, the apparatus comprising: a base portion defining an upper surface suitable for receiving a load; first and second ground engaging members, each said ground engaging member being rotatably coupled to said base portion; a first brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said first ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said first brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said first ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said first ground engaging member is inhibited, and said first brake assembly further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging member; and a second brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said second ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said second brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said second ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said second ground engaging member is inhibited, and said second brake assembly further comprising a brake control, mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging member; wherein said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operable independently of the operation of said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly.

Preferably, said brake control mechanism of each said brake assembly comprises a brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member of said respective brake assembly towards said disengaged condition.

Preferably, said brake actuator means of said first brake assembly is operable independently of the operation of said brake actuator means of said second brake assembly.

Preferably, each said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatable about an axi s of rotation.

Preferably, said brake member of each said brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliently deformable member.

Preferably, further comprising third and fourth ground engaging members rotatably coupled to said base portion.

Preferably, configured as a flat-bed trolley.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are purely schematic and not to scale, of which:

Figures 1a and 1b show an example of a trolley according to the present invention in perspective and side elevation views respectively;

Figures 2a and 2b show the trolley in perspective and side elevation views respectively;

Figures 3a and 3b show the trolley in perspective and side elevation views respectively;

Figure 4 shows the trolley in a side elevation view;

Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d show the trolley in partial cross-sectional side views;

Figures 6a and 6b show schematic cross-sectional views of a caster wheel of the trolley;

Figures 7a and 7b show in schematic cross-sectional views the operation of the brake lever assembly of the trolley.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1a &1b

Figures 1a and 1b show an example of a trolley suitable for supporting a load according to an aspect of the present invention in perspective and side elevation views respectively. In the specific embodiment, the trolley 101 is configured as a hand trolley suitable for pushing by one or more operatives to assist in transporting a load. More particular, in the embodiment, trolley 101 takes the form of a ‘flat-bed’ type trolley, comprising a generally flat wheeled platform fitted with handles, which has a particular use in moving bulk loads of relatively heavy construction materials and equipment.

Referring to the Figures, in the specific embodiment the trolley 101 comprises a flat-bed platform in the form of a base portion (indicated generally at 102), the base portion 102 comprising principally of a generally rectangular frame 103 constructed of square-section metal tubing, the frame 103 supporting a metal sheet 104 defining an upper surface 105 on which a bulk load to be supported may be placed. Said generally rectangular base portion 102 defines generally a pair of long sides 106, 107, and relatively shorter opposed ends 108, 109. In the embodiment said base portion 102 further comprises metal tubes 111 attached to the underside thereof and configured for receiving the forks of a forklift truck to facilitate lifting of the trolley. Base portion 102 is further provided with generally U-shaped platform parts 110 attached to the frame 103 proximal the first and second ends 108, 109 and extending upwardly from the plane of the metal sheet 104. Platform parts 110 are particularly useful for supporting relatively long lengths of construction materials, for example, lengths of pipework.

As illustrated, trolley 101 is further provided with a plurality of ground engaging members rotatably coupled to the base portion 102 and configured to engage the ground surface G on which the trolley is placed to thereby allow the trolley 101 to roll along the ground surface in a manner that will be familiar to the skilled person. In the specific embodiment, trolley 101 is provided with four said ground engaging members, which in the example take the form of caster wheels 112, 113, 114 and 115 positioned proximal the four corners of the generally rectangular base portion 102 (caster wheel 115 obscured from view in the Figures). Like caster wheels 112 and 113 form a first pair each positioned proximal the first end 108 of said trolley 101, and are of a type known as swivel casters, being configured such that the wheel of the caster may swivel about a generally vertical axis relative to the base portion 102 so as to allow steering of the trolley. Like casters 114 and 115 form a second pair each positioned proximal the second end 109 of said base portion 102.

Like Casters 114 and 115 are each of a type referred to as rigid caster wheels, which are configured so as to not allow the caster to swivel relative to the base portion 102. Moreover, casters 114 and 115 are ‘braked’, that is to say they include a braking mechanism selectively operable to prevent rotation of the wheel of the caster when the brake mechanism is engaged. As will be described further with particular reference to later Figures 6a and 6b, in the embodiment each said caster wheel 114, 115 comprises an integral brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of the wheel of that caster relative to the base portion 102 so as to inhibit movement of the trolley 101 relative to the ground surface G when the brake is operated. As will be described, the braking mechanism of each said caster wheel 114, 115 is configured as a ‘deadmans’ brake, in which the brake is biased towards an ‘on’ condition in which the brakes are engaged and the wheels are inhibited from rotating, and where a constant user input is required to maintain the brakes in an off condition and allow rotation of the wheel. As will be understood, the primary advantage of such a ‘deadmans’ brake is that, in the absence of the user input, the brakes default to the ‘on’ condition, thus resisting or arresting motion of the trolley.

Referring still to Figures 1a and 1b, said trolley 101 further comprises a plurality of handle members, in the form of handle members 116, 117, 118 and 119. Handle members 116 to 119 are configured to allow one or more operatives to push the trolley 101.

Each said handle member 116 to 119 is coupled at a first end to the base portion 102 by way of a handle coupling member forming a pivotal joint between the respective handle member and the base portion 102. The pivotal connection between each handle member and the base portion 102 allows each handle member to be moved from the operable condition shown in Figures 1a to 1d in which each handle member extends generally orthogonally relative to the upper surface 105 of the base portion 102 (generally upwardly from the base portion 102 in use), and a collapsed condition (shown in later Figures) wherein each said handle member extends generally parallel relative to the upper surface 105 of the base portion 102. That is to say, each handle member 116 to 119 may be folded relative to the base portion 102 from the operable condition in which each handle member extends generally upwardly from the base portion, in which condition the handle member may be used by an operative to pus h the trolley, to a collapsed condition.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, each said handle coupling member comprises a nut and bolt pair 120 which engages the base portion 102 and to which said handle member is rotatably coupled. In the embodiment, the bolt of each nut and bolt pair 120 extends through holes in the platform 110 of the base portion 102 and through a hole in each handle member. In the embodiment, the bolt of each nut and bolt pair 120 is rotatably fixed to the base portion, and the handle member rotates about the bolt. Further, in the embodiment, each said handle member 116 to 119 is provided with a locking member in the form of pin 121 which, when each said handle member 116 to 119 is placed in the operable condition extending generally upwardly from the base portion 102, may be operated to engage the respective handle member and the base portion 102 so as to rigidly couple the respective handle member to the base portion and thereby inhibit excessive rotational movement of each said handle member from the operable condition to the collapsed condition. In the embodiment, the pin 121 passes through holes defined proximal the first end of the respective handle member and through the base portion, which holes are positioned so as to be aligned when the handle member is in the operable condition. Thus, when each said handle member is rigidly coupled in the operable condition and locked by way of said locking members 121, said trolley 101 may be moved by an operative exerting a force on any one of said handle members 116 to 119.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, said locking members 121 are configured to rigidly couple each handle member 116 to 119 in such a way as to substantially prevent any rotational movement of the handle members relative to the base portion 102 when engaged. In alternative embodiments, the locking members 121 may be adapted such that, when engaged with the base portion 102 and a respective handle member 116 to 119 to rigidly lock the respective handle member in the operable condition, a degree of rotation of the handle member relative to the base portion 102 is allowed, but rotation of the handle member fully or substantially to the collapsed condition is prevented. As an example, in an alternative embodiment it may be desirable to allow rotation of each handle member 116 to 119 through an angle of say 30-40 degrees away from orthogonal Orientation, even when the locking member is engaged and the handles are in an operable condition. Thus, reference herein to rigidly locking the handle member relative to the base portion refers to a condition in which the handle member is locked at least such that the handle member is prevented from moving completely to the collapsed condition and such that the handle member may be used to transmit force to the base portion to move the trolley, and more preferably such that substantially no movement of the handle member relative to the base portion is permitted.

As illustrated, handle members 116 and 117 are each further provided with a brake actuator assembly, which in the example take the form of brake lever assemblies 122, 123 which, as will be described with reference to later Figures, facilitate control of the braking mechanism of said caster wheels 114 and 115. More particularly, as will be described, brake lever assemblies 122, 123 allow actuation of the braking mechanism of said caster wheels 114, 115 from the default ‘engaged’ condition in which rotation of the wheels is inhibited, to the ‘disengaged’ condition in which the wheel of each caster is free to rotate.

Figures 2a & 2b

The trolley 101 is shown in perspective and side elevation views in Figures 2a and 2 b respectively.

Referring to Figures 2a and 2b, said trolley 101 is shown in a state in which a first of said handle members 116 has been rotated from said operable condition in which the handle member extends generally upwardly from the base portion 102, to the collapsed condition in which the handle member extends generally parallel to the plane of the base portion 122, the handle member 116 now generally resting on the upper surface 105 of the base member 102. As illustrated, in the operable condition the handle member extends upwardly from the base portion to a greater extent, that is to say to a greater maximum height, than when in the collapsed condition.

As will be appreciated, in order to move said handle member 116 from the operable condition shown in Figures 1a and 1b to the collapsed condition shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the respective locking pin 121 has been removed thereby allowing the handle member 116 to rotate about said nut and bolt pair 120.

Moreover, as will be described with reference to later Figures, said handle member 116 is operatively coupled to the braking mechanism of said caster wheel 114 in such a way that movement of said handle member 116 from said operable condition to said collapsed condition exerts a force on a brake control mechanism of the brake mechanism of said caster wheel 114 sufficient to cause the brake of caster wheel 114 to be disengaged thereby allowing rotation of the wheel of caster 114 relative to the base portion 102. Thus, when said handle member 116 is in the collapsed condition shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the brake on said caster wheel 114 is disengaged and th e wheel of caster 114 is free to rotate.

However, as will be described, in the embodiment the braking mechanism of said caster wheel 114 operates independently of the braking mechanism of caster wheel 115. That is to say, moving of said handle member 116 to the collapsed condition acts on the brake of said caster wheel 114, but does not act on the brake of caster wheel 115. Thus, in the condition shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the brake of caster wheel 114 is disengaged, but the brake of caster wheel 115 remains engaged.

Figures 3a & 3b

The trolley 101 is again shown in perspective and side elevation views in Figures 3a and 3b respectively.

Referring to Figures 3a and 3b, now a second of said handle members, in this case handle member 117, has been moved from the operable condition shown in Figures 1a and 1b to a collapsed condition, in which the handle member 117, similarly to handle member 116, extends generally parallel to the plane of the base portion 102 resting on the upper surface 105 of the base portion 102. Again, as will be appreciated, to" enable rotation of said handle member 117 from the operable condition to the collapsed condition illustrated in Figures 3a and 3b, said locking pin 121 has been removed thereby allowing the handle member 117 to rotate about nut and bolt pair 120.

Moreover, as will be described with reference to later Figures, said handle member 117 is operatively coupled to the braking mechanism of said caster wheel Ί 115 in such a way that movement of said handle member 117 from said operable condition to said collapsed condition exerts a force on a brake control mechanism of the brake mechanism of said caster wheel 115 sufficient to cause the brake of caster wheel 115 to be disengaged thereby allowing rotation of the wheel of caster 115 relative to the base portion 102. Thus, when said handle member 117 is in the collapsed condition shown in Figures 3a and 3b, the brake on said caster wheel 115 is disengaged and the wheel of caster 114 is free to rotate. Moreover, in the condition shown in Figures 3a and 3b in which both the handle members 116 and 117 are in the collapsed condition, the braking mechanism of both caster wheel 114 and caster wheel 115 are in the disengaged condition, and thus the wheel of each caster is free to rotate.

Figure 4

The trolley 101 is shown is a side elevation view in Figure 4.

Referring to the Figure, each of said handle members 116 to 119 has been rotated from its operable condition extending generally upwardly from the base portion 102, to its respective collapsed condition extending generally parallel to the base portion 102 and resting on the upper surface 105 thereof. As previously described, said handle members 116, 117 are operatively coupled to the braking mechanisms of casters wheels 114, 115 respectively in such a way that, when in the collapsed conditions, handle members 116 and 117 exert a force on the braking mechanisms of caster wheels 114, 115 which causes the braking mechanisms to disengage. Handle members 118, 119 are in the embodiment however not connected to the braking mechanisms of any of the caster wheels.

As will be appreciated, the primary advantage of the handle members 116 to 119 being movable between the operable and collapsed conditions is that, in the operable conditions, the handle members 116 to 119 present conveniently located hand-holds against which an operative may apply a force to thereby push the trolley, whilst in the collapsed conditions, the height of the handle members 116 to 119 above the base portion 102 is reduced. The reduced height of the handle members is advantageous primarily as it allows stacking of a plurality of like trolleys 101 one on top of another, thereby allowing a plurality of trolleys 101 to be stored when not in use in a way that minimises the area of ground occupied by the stack of trolleys.

Moreover, as described previously with reference to earlier Figures, given that handle members 116 and 117 of said trolley 101 have been moved to respective collapsed conditions, the braking system of each said caster wheel 114 and 115 has been released, thereby allowing rotation of the wheel of each caster 114, 115 relative to the base portion 102, and allowing the trolleys to roll about a ground surface. Thus, it will be appreciated that not only does folding of handle members 116 to 117 usefully allow stacking of trolleys one on top of the other due to a reduced height dimension, but it causes the ‘deadmans’ brake system of caster wheels 114 and 115 to be automatically released, that is moved to a disengaged condition, thereby allowing the stack of trolleys to be more easily moved by an operative than would be possible if the ‘deadmans’ brake feature of caster wheels 114 and 115 were engaged an d the wheels were inhibited from rotating.

Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d

The trolley 101 is shown in schematic partial cross-sectional side views in Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d.

Referring to the Figures, as previously noted, each of said caster wheels 114 and 115 is provided with a brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of the respective wheel of that caster to thereby inhibit the motion of the trolley 101 across ground surface. As will be described further with particular reference to Figures 6a and 6b, each of said caster wheels 114, 115 comprises a brake member operable to releasably engage the wheel of that caster and thereby prevent its rotation relative to the bracket of that caster. Again, as will be described, each said brake member is biased towards an engaged condition by way of a resiliently flexible biasing member, such that in default the brake member of each caster engages the wheel of that caster to thereby inhibit, and preferably substantially prevent rotation of that wheel relative to the base portion 102. Moreover, the brake assembly of each said caster 114, 115 comprises a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on the brake member of that caster sufficient to move the brake member towards a disengaged condition in which the brake member is disengaged with the wheel of that caster thereby not inhibiting rotation of that wheel relative to the bracket. As has been described, in the embodiment, the braking system of each said caster 114, 115 is operable independently of the braking system of the other caster, and indeed, in the embodiment, each caster wheel 114, 115 comprises a braking assembly including an independently operable brake control mechanism.

Each of said caster wheels 114, 115 is substantially identical, and indeed each said caster wheel 114, 115 is equipped with a substantially identical brake assembly comprising a like brake control mechanism. Therefore only the operation of the brake assembly of caster wheel 114 will be described in detail herein, on the understanding that the operation of the brake assembly of said caster wheel 115 is substantially like.

Referring in particular to Figure 5a then, in the embodiment said caster wheel 114 comprises a brake member operable to releasably engage the wheel of that caster (as will be described further with particular reference to Figures 6a and 6b), and further comprises a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on that brake member to move the brake member towards a disengaged condition. In the specific embodiment, said brake control mechanism comprises a cable assembly 501 as illustrated. In the embodiment said cable assembly 501 comprises a flexible braided steel cable 502 contained within an outer sheath 503, as is conventional of cable assemblies used for such a purpose. Said cable 502 is operatively coupled at a first end to the brake member of the caster wheel 114, and operatively coupled at a second end to the brake lever assembly 122 of the handle member 116 in such a way as to allow exchange offeree therebetween. Moreover, as has been described, in the embodiment said brake control mechanism 501 is configured such that folding of said handle member 116 from the operable condition shown in Figures 1a and 1b to the collapsed condition shown in Figures 2a and 2b exerts a force on the cable 502 of the cable assembly 501 sufficient to cause the brake member of caster wheel 114 to move towards the disengaged cond ition.

Thus, referring to the Figures, in the specific embodiment said outer sheath 503 of said cable 501 is formed in two portions, first portion 503a and second portion 503b. Said first portion 503a extends generally between the caster wheel 114 and the base portion 102 proximal the first end of handle member 116. Said second portion 503b extends generally between the first end of the handle member 116 and the brake lever assembly 122 of handle 116. Referring in particular to Figures 5b and 5d, the first portion 503a of said outer sheath terminates at its inner end at a bracket 504 rigidly fixed to the base portion 102. Further, the second portion 503b of the outer sheath terminates at its inner end at a bracket 505 rigidly fixed to handle member 116 proximal its first end. In the embodiment, said handle member 116 is provided with a cable guide 506 offset from the axis of rotation of the handle member about which the cable 502 runs. In this way, as illustrated, when the handle member 116 is in the operable condition as shown in Figures 5a and 5b in which the handle member upwardly from the base portion 102 generally orthogonally thereto, the inner cable 502 of the brake cable assembly 101 is in a relaxed condition in which it is not exerting a force on the brake member on caster wheel 114.

Referring however to Figures 5c and 5d, the brake cable assembly 501 is configured such that rotation of the handle member 116 from the operable condition to the collapsed condition about the axis defined by nut and bolt pair 120 causes the cable guide 506 to exert a force on the cable 502, thereby tensioning the inner cable 502, in such a way as to cause the inner cable 502 to exert a force on the brake member of the caster wheel 114 sufficient to move the brake member from the engaged condition to the disengaged condition.

It will of course be appreciated that, although a particular example of a brake control mechanism taking the form of a flexible cable has been described in detail, many alternative brake control mechanisms for controlling the operation of the brake member of each said caster wheel 114, 115 exist. As an example, alternatively the brake control mechanism of each caster wheel 114, 115 might take the form of rigid linkages operatively coupling the handle member 116, 117 to the braking member of the respective caster wheel 114, 115. Indeed, many alternatives forms of brake control mechanism will be apparent to the skilled person, which may be configured so as to operate as described.

Figures 6a & 6b A schematic cross-sectional view of caster wheel 114 is shown in Figures 6a and 6b.

Referring to the Figures, caster wheel 114 comprises generally of bracket part 601, wheel part 602, and brake assembly 603. Bracket 602 is fixedly secured to the underside of base portion 102 by way of nut and bolt pairs 604 such that bracket 601 is not permitted to move relative to base portion 102. Ground engaging wheel 602 is rotatably coupled to said bracket 601 about axle 605 defining an axes of rotation of said wheel 602.

As described previously with reference to Figures 5a to 5d, said,brake assembly comprises a brake member in the form of braking block 605 which is mounted within brake guide 606 and is free to move within brake guide 606 between an engaged condition, in which the braking block 605 engages the outer periphery of wheel 602 (as shown in Figure 6a), and a disengaged condition in which the braking block 606 is disengaged with the wheel 602 (as shown in Figure 6b). Moreover, as previously noted, said braking block 606 is biased towards the engaged condition shown in Figure 6a by way of resiliently flexible coil spring 607 which engages the caster 601 at a first end and engages braking block 605 at a second end, and is arranged to exert a force on the brake block 605 sufficient to cause the brake block 605 to be pushed downwardly in guide tube 606 towards the engaged condition in which the brake block 605 engages the wheel 602.

As previously described, in the embodiment a brake control mechanism in the form of cable assembly 501 is provided to allow said braking block 605 to be moved within the guide tube 606 between the engaged and disengaged conditions. Thus, as illustrated in the Figures, said first portion 503a of said outer sheath is retained by the bracket 601 at a position spaced from the braking block 605 when the braking block is in the engaged condition shown in Figure 6a. Inner cable 502 is secured to a braking block 605 as shown, such that when inner cable 502 is tensioned, by way of a force exerted on it by handle member 116 or brake lever assembly 122, the cable 502 exerts a force on the braking block 605 that causes the braking block to be drawn upwardly in the guide tube 606 against the retarding force of the biasing spring 607 towards the disengaged condition in which the braking block is not engaged with the wheel 602.

Again, it will of course be appreciated that the braking assembly of each said caster wheel 114, 115, may take an alternative form to that described in detail herein. As an example, in ari alternative embodiment the brake member of each caster wheel may take the form of a brake ‘shoe’ configured to engage the hub of the wheel in the manner of a automotive ‘drum’ brake.

Figures 7a &7b

Handle member 116 is shown in schematic cross-sectional views in Figures 7a and 7b showing the the operation of the brake lever assembly 701.

As previously described with reference to Figures 1a and 1b, in the embodiment said brake control mechanism of caster wheel 114 is provided with a brake actuator means in the form of brake lever assembly 122 mounted to handle member 116. As will be appreciated, the primary purpose of said brake actuator means 122 is to allow an operative operating trolley 101 to release the brake mechanism of caster wheel 114 whilst the handle member 116 is locked in the operable condition.

In the embodiment, said brake lever assembly 122 comprises a brake lever 701 rotatably mounted to said first handle member 116. As illustrated, an opposite end of inner cable 502 to that end which is attached to braking block 605 is coupled to an end of brake lever member 701. Brake lever member 701 is mounted to said first handle member 116 about a shaft 702 defining an axes of rotation about which the lever member 701 may pivot. As illustrated, in the relaxed condition shown in Figure 8a the inner cable 502 is not tensioned by the brake lever member 701, and thus the braking block 605 remains in the engaged condition shown in Figure 6a. However, when the brake lever member is operated, for example, by an operative applying a force to the brake lever member so as to cause it to rotate about the pivot point 702 (as shown in Figure 7b), the brake lever member 701 exerts a force on the inner cable 502, which force in turn causes the braking block 605 to be pulled upwardly in the guide tube 606 against the retarding force of the coil spring 607, such that the braking block 605 disengages the wheel 602.

Thus, in the condition shown in Figure 7b, the braking block 605 of said caster 114 is disengaged with the wheel 602 and the wheel 602 is free to rotate relative to the bracket 601 thereby allowing the trolley 101 to be moved across a floor surface. It will be understood however that, when the operative removes the force applied to lever member 701, biasing spring 607 will tend to cause the braking block 605 to move downwardly in the guide tube 606 towards the engaged condition, thus retracting the inner cable 502 and so causing the lever member 701 to return to the relaxed condition.

Further, as previously noted said handle member 117 is also equipped with a brake lever assembly 123, which brake lever assembly 123 is substantially identical in construction to brake lever assembly 122. As will be understood, brake lever assembly 123 of said handle member 117 is configured to independently operate the braking mechanism of said caster wheel 115 in a manner substantially identical to the way in which brake lever assembly 122 operates the braking mechanism of caster wheel 114.

As has been described, the operation of the braking assembly of caster wheel 114 is independent of the operation of the braking assembly of the caster wheel 115. As has been described, when both the handle members 116 and 117 are locked in respective operable conditions, the braking mechanism of caster wheel 114 may be disengaged only using lever assembly 122 mounted on handle member 116, and the braking mechanism of caster wheel 115 may be disengaged only using lever assembly 123 mounted on handle member 117. As will be understood, operation of only one of lever assembly 122 or lever assembly 123 will disengage only the braking mechanism of either caster wheel 114 or caster wheel 115 respectively. Accordingly, even if, for example, lever assembly 122 is operated, only the braking mechanism of caster wheel 114 is disengaged, the braking mechanism of caster wheel 115 remains engaged.

This independent operation of the brake assembly of caster wheel 114 relative to the brake assembly of caster wheel 115 is advantageous inasmuch that two separate user inputs are required to completely release the ‘deadmans’ brakes function of the trolley. This requirement for two separate user inputs increases the safety with which the trolley 101 is operated, inasmuch that, in the case of trolley 101, an operative can only operate the trolley when using both his hands. This reduces the risk of a ‘runaway’ trolley in the event that a careless operator attempts single-handed operation of the trolley. Moreover, in alternative embodiments a trolley according to the present invention may be intended to be operated by two operatives rather than a single operative. In this case, the brake actuators, in this case handle assemblies 122, 123, may be positioned so as to prevent a single operative from reaching both actuators simultaneously, thus ensuring that the trolley is only operated by at least two operatives.

I

Claims

Claims What we claim is:

1. A trolley apparatus suitable for supporting a load, the apparatus comprising: a base portion defining an upper surface suitable for receiving a load; a first ground engag ing member rotatably coupled to said base portion; a first brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said first ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said first brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said first ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said first ground engaging member is inhibited, and further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said first ground engaging member; and a first handle member coupled at a first end to said base portion; wherein said first handle member is movable between an operable condition and a collapsed condition; and wherein in said collapsed condition said first handle member exerts a force on said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly sufficient to cause said brake control mechanism to exert a force on said brake member sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

2. The trolley apparatus of claim 1, wherein in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion.

3. The trolley apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion to a greater extent than when in said collapsed condition.

4. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein said apparatus comprises a first handle coupling member attached to said first handle member proximal said first end and attached to said base portion, said first handle coupling member coupling said first handle member to said base portion.

5. The trolley apparatus of claim 4, wherein said first handle coupling member rotatably couples said first handle member to said base portion and is configured to permit rotation of said first handle member relative to said base portion between said operable condition and said collapsed condition.

6. The trolley apparatus of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein said first handle coupling member comprises a locking member operable to engage said first handle member when in said operable condition to rigidly couple said first handle member to said base portion to thereby inhibit movement of said first handle member to said collapsed condition.

7. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein in said operable condition said first handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a first extent and wherein in said collapsed condition said first handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a second extent, said first extent being greater than said second extent.

8. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein in said operable condition said first handle member extends generally orthogonally relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

9. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein in said collapsed condition said first handle member extends generally parallel relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

10. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein in said operable condition said first handle member extends upwardly from said base portion and wherein in said collapsed condition said handle member extends generally parallel to said base portion.

11. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said first handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

12. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly comprises brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

13. The trolley apparatus of claim 12, wherein said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatably coupled to said first handle member.

14. The trolley apparatus of claim 13, wherein said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and said brake lever member of said first handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

15. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 14 in which said brake member of said first brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliency deformable member.

16. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 15, comprising a second ground engaging member rotatably coupled to a lower surface of said base portion.

17. The trolley apparatus of claim 16, comprising a second brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said second ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said second brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said second ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said second ground engaging member is inhibited, and further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to transmit a force to said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging member.

18. The trolley apparatus of claim 16 or claim 17, comprising a second handle member coupled at a first end to said base portion, said second handle member being movable between an operable condition and a collapsed condition, and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member exerts a force on said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly sufficient to cause said brake control mechanism to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

19. The trolley apparatus of claim 18, wherein in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion.

20. The trolley apparatus of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion to a greater extent than w hen in said collapsed condition.

21. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 18 to 20, wherein said apparatus comprises a second handle coupling member attached to said second handle member proximal said first end and attached to said base portion, said second handle coupling member coupling said second handle member to said base portion.

22. The trolley apparatus of claim 21, wherein said second handle coupling member rotatably couples said second handle member to said base portion and is configured to permit rotation of said second handle member relative to said base portion between said operable condition and said collapsed condition.

23. The trolley apparatus of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein said second handle coupling member includes a locking member operable to engage said second handle member when in said operable condition to rigidly couple said second handle member to said base portion to thereby inhibit movement of said first handle member to said collapsed condition.

24. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 8 to 23, wherein in said operable condition said second handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a first extent and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends outwardly of the plane of said base portion to a second extent, said first extent being greater than said second extent.

25. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 8 to 24, wherein in said operable condition said second handle member extends generally orthogonally relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

26. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 8 to 25, wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends generally parallel relative to said upper surface of said base portion.

27. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 8 to 26, wherein in said operable condition said second handle member extends upwardly from said base portion and wherein in said collapsed condition said second handle member extends generally parallel to said base portion.

28. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 18 to 27, wherein said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said second handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

29. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 17 to 28, wherein said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly comprises brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member towards said disengaged condition.

30. The trolley apparatus of claim 29, wherein said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatably coupled to said second handle member.

31. The trolley apparatus of claim 30, wherein said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly is operatively coupled to said brake member and to said brake lever member of said second handle member to facilitate exchange of force therebetween.

32. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 18 to 31, in which said first handle member is movable between said operable condition and said collapsed condition independently of said second handle member.

33. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 17 to 32, in which said first brake assembly and said second brake assembly are operable independently.

34. The trolley apparatus of any of claim 1 to 33, further comprising third and fourth ground engaging members rotatably coupled to a lower surface of said base portion.

35. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 17 to 34 in which said brake member of said second brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliently deformable member.

36. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 35, configured as a hand trolley suitable for transporting a supported load .

37. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 1 to 36, configured as a flatbed trolley.

38. A trolley apparatus suitable for supporting a load, the apparatus comprising: a base portion defining an upper surface suitable for receiving a load; first and second ground engaging members, each said ground engaging member being rotatably coupled to said base portion; a first brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said first ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said first brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said first ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said first ground engaging member is inhibited, and said first brake assembly further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging member; and a second brake assembly selectively operable to inhibit rotation of said second ground engaging member relative to said base portion, said second brake assembly comprising a brake member operable to releasably engage said second ground engaging member, said brake member being biased in an engaged condition in which rotation of said second ground engaging member is inhibited, and said second brake assembly further comprising a brake control mechanism operable to exert a force on said brake member to move said brake member to disengage with said second ground engaging.member; wherein said brake control mechanism of said first brake assembly is operable independently of the operation of said brake control mechanism of said second brake assembly.

39. The trolley apparatus of claim 38 wherein, said brake, control mechanism of each said brake assembly comprises a brake actuator means operable to generate a force sufficient to move said brake member of said respective brake assembly towards said disengaged condition.

40. The trolley apparatus of claim 39 wherein, said brake actuator means of said first brake assembly is operable independently of the operation of said brake actuator means of said second brake assembly.

41. The trolley apparatus of claim 39 or claim 40 wherein, each said brake actuator means comprises a brake lever member rotatable about an axis of rotation.

42. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 39 to 41 in which said brake member of each said brake assembly is biased in said engaged condition by a resiliently deformable member.

43. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 38 to 42, further comprising third and fourth ground engaging m embers rotatably coupled to said base portion.

44. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 38 to 43, configured as a hand trolley suitable for transporting a supported I oad.

45. The trolley apparatus of any of claims 38 to 44, configured as a flatbed trolley.