FLOOR WHEEL CONFIGURATION
Unlike traditional wheels or casters, omni wheels offer a range of configurations which can deliver an optimised ride quality and performance by changing the orientation of the wheels.
THE STANDARD: 4 wheels arranged in line and parallel to one another as most wheels are when fitted to a cart, pallet or other type of platform.
This configuration is the most common. It is easy to mount on common axles and delivers great primary rolling direction stability, which also makes steering by turning effective, as with every additional degree the new direction is directionally supported.
THE SHALLOW ANGLE: 4 wheels arranged in line but slightly (in this case 15º) turned in.
This configuration can not be mounted on a common axle and provides less directional stability in the primary rolling direction.
However, the ride quality, rotation and lateral movement are all incrementally improved.
This suits platforms with more lateral movement requirements.
THE 45º: 4 wheels arranged at 90º toward one another and 45º toward the platform.
This configuration can not be mounted on a common axle and provides no directional stability in the primary rolling direction.
However, the ride quality, rotation and lateral movement are optimised.
This suits platforms without a primary direction and optimal multi-directional needs.
THE CONCENTRIC 6-WHEEL: This is a non-traditional configuration in support of a payload.
This set-up is ideal for movement across gaps of up to approximately 1/3 the platform size.
At any one time 3-4 wheels remain in contact with the floor, supporting the load and a steady centre of gravity. This is not attainable with other wheels such as swivels or fixed casters.
That said, a long 6-wheeled cart can cross gaps.
THE CIRCUMFERENTIAL 6-WHEEL: A variant of the last configuration sees the wheels mounted in line with the circumference. The platform can still move in any direction, but is particularly efficient rotating.
This is ideal in support of rotating structures as unlike traditional casters the wheels do not scrub due to differential diameters.
This is especially valuable in support of structures such as rotating stages and similar payloads.
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