Caster Concepts has developed the first all-in-one motorized industrial caster, an invention it believes will reduce the chances that an injury occurs at the workplace.
The Michigan-based company publicized the release of the “Drive Caster” in a Wednesday press release.
The Drive Caster combines an electric motor with an industrial caster, making it easier for workers in a number of industries to move heavy loads, literally taking the weight off of them. Less pushing and pulling means the workers aren’t put in as many situations where they could injure themselves due to overexertion or improper lifting technique. After implementing the invention to something like a cart or rack, operators can turn the caster with the flip of a switch.
“Sure there are motors that can be added to casters and carts, but we are the first to put them together into one unit for industrial applications,” said Caster Concepts CEO Bill Dobbins.
There are two different variations of the Drive Caster, one with a quarter horsepower and one with a half horsepower motor. Bother types include a control model, which the company said helps to make certain that the caster is properly used. A single Drive Caster can help an item to transport up to 6,000 pounds at up to five miles per hour. A unit with two Drive Casters has double the load capacity and can be handled like a tank, with each caster carrying the load in an opposite direction during a turn.
“Basically, this is a retrofit. Companies don’t have to go out and buy a new cart. Our motorized casters have the weight capacities equivalent to an automated guided vehicles at a lower cost,” Dobbins said. “Essentially, we can put a Drive Caster on anything that uses an industrial caster.”
Filed Under: Industrial automation