Caster wheel locks generally work by simultaneously preventing both the wheel from turning and the swivel raceway from rotating. The locking mechanism engages to stop movement in two places.
According to the provided reference, certain caster wheel locks offer a "total lock," meaning with one motion, the user can lock both the wheel and the raceway, preventing any movement of the caster.
Here's a breakdown of how these locks function:
- Simultaneous Locking: One lever or mechanism controls the locking of both the wheel's rotation and the swivel raceway.
- Wheel Immobilization: The lock physically obstructs the wheel's ability to turn, often using a friction pad or a pin that engages with the wheel itself.
- Raceway Immobilization: Simultaneously, the lock prevents the swivel raceway from rotating, fixing the direction the caster is facing. This ensures the entire caster assembly remains stationary.
