Compression loaded collapsible wheel

Abstract

Portable collapsible spokeless wheels are formed with a rotating circular wheel rim element defining a full circle and without a central axle, hub, or spokes. The wheel rim element is formed around its outer periphery with a land portion or tread portion for bearing against the ground. The wheel rim element fits within a fender rim element which defines only a portion of a circle but greater than a half circle. At least three sets of rollers or casters are distributed around the inner surface of the fender rim element for bearing against and within a groove formed around the wheel rim. The rollers or casters are complementary with the groove portion of wheel rim element and are spaced apart to define an arc greater than a half circle. The fender rim element is further provided with braces which tie the ends of the fender rim element together and constrain the wheel rim element into a circular arch for bearing the weight of a load in compression rather than in suspension or tension. The portable collapsible wheel is used in recreational and utilitarian applications such as carts, carriers, and wheelbarrows.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.