Rollable wire dispensing spool rack

Abstract

A rollable dispenser for spooled wire includes equiangularly-spaced tubular braces which rigidly interconnect the frames adjacent their circular peripheral edges. One or more wire spools are retained between the platters on removable axles which span the distance between both platters at radial intervals. One or more spools may also be retained by a centrally positioned axle. For a preferred embodiment of the invention, each platter is constructed from a length of circularly-bent tubing, the ends of which are butt welded together to form a hoop. Each platter further includes a circular laminar plate that includes a circular rim, a central hub having a single axle aperture, and radial laminar spokes, each having an axle aperture, which join the rim to the hub.

Claims

1. A rollable dispenser, comprising: first and second circular platters to roll on a ground; a plurality of equiangular-spaced tubular braces which rigidly interconnect the frames adjacent their circular peripheral edges; one or more spools retained between the first and second platters on removable axles spanning both platters at radial intervals, wherein the spools are loaded as the platters are rolled and wherein the platter comprises one or more brake cavities enclosing a brake in the platter when inactive, wherein the brake swings out of the platter when deployed.

2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the one or more wire spools are retained by a centrally positioned axle.

3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein each platter is constructed from a length of circularly bent tubing and wherein the tubing ends are butt welded together to form a hoop.

4. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein each platter is constructed from rounded steel tire that accepts a rubber tire.

5. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the platter comprises curved spokes with open areas in between for lifting or access.

6. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising a center axle to accept a spool or a tool box, wherein the spool or tool box swivels around the axle when the dispenser is rolled.

7. The dispenser of claim 6, wherein the tool box is accessed through lifting holes on the platter.

8. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the platter receives a spool using a roll over loading where a spool center hole is aligned with a curved slot on the platter and the dispenser is rolled over the spool to load the spool.

9. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising a second dispenser placed adjacent to one of the platters and secured using axles extending through both dispensers.

10. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the platters are spaced apart with a width that fits door width or hallway width or passageway width.

11. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising a lock to hold an axle in place, wherein the lock has a slot at a same level as a spool center hole to insert the axle in the slot and through a spool, wherein when the dispenser is rolled the axle with the spool rolls back towards an opposite end of the slot to be automatically secured by the lock.

12. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising an axle with opposite facing end pieces that prevent removal of the axle unless aligned with a curved slot prior to removal.

13. The dispenser of claim 12, comprising an opening in the axle to receive a padlock arm to secure the axle with a spool mounted thereon.

14. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the platter comprises one or more spool loading curved slot to receive a spool while the dispenser rolls.

15. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein each platter further includes a circular laminar plate that includes a circular rim, a central hub having a single axle aperture, and radial laminar spokes, each having an axle aperture to join the rim to the hub.

16. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising: elongate cross braces are metal pipe, with a first end of each being right-hand threaded and a second end being left-hand threaded; one platter is fitted with a set of right-hand threaded couplings, the other platter is fitted with a set of left-hand threaded couplings; said sets of couplings are secured to an inner surface of their respective platter at radially-spaced locations adjacent a periphery thereof; and said platters are joined together by rotatably and simultaneously engaging one right-handed coupling and one left-handed coupling with each elongate cross brace.

17. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising multiple spokes of each platter each equipped with a radially-disposed slot having a plurality of axle securing means at different radial distances from the central axis, wherein each of said axles is a section of pipe threaded at both ends thereof and a securing device with: multiple semi-circular cutout pairs on opposite sides of each slot, each semi-circular cutout being spaced from other semi-circular cutout pairs along the same slot, each semi-circular cutout pair providing an axle securing location within that slot; and a securing nut for each end of said pipe-section axles, each securing nut having a stepped shoulder sized to engage one semi-circular cutout pair in a slot.

18. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein each of said platters is a built-up assembly comprising: a central hub; five or more spokes; a plurality of identical platter rim sections, each of which comprises an arcuate plate member, a tubular rim member welded to the arcuate plate member, and an alignment pin protruding from one end of the tubular rim member; and wherein said central hub, each of said spokes and each platter rim section is equipped with bolt holes that enable one end of each spoke to be bolted to the hub in an equally-spaced radial pattern, and the opposite end of each spoke to be bolted to an abutting pair of platter rim sections, thereby securing together each abutting platter rim section pair.

19. An electrician's dispenser for insulated metal wire conductors wound on spools, comprising: at least two parallel, coaxial, spaced-apart, generally circular platters adapted to be rolled on a surface for loading spools and for ambulation of the spools to a selected location, each platter having a generally circular rim and a framework connecting the circular rim to a central hub, the platters secured to each other by equiangularly-spaced tubular braces which rigidly interconnect the platters near their peripheral edges; a plurality of axles, each of which is removably installable between said platters at fixed locations that are either parallel or coincident with a central axis of the dispenser, which passes through a center of each hub, each of said axles intended to carry at least one conductor-wound spool, wherein said framework consists of equiangularly-spaced spokes, which emanate from the hub and connect to the circular rim; and one or more spools retained by an axle passing through the platter's central axis, wherein the spools are loaded as the platters are rolled and wherein the platter comprises one or more brake cavities enclosing a brake in the platter when inactive, wherein the brake swings out of the platter when deployed.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack;

(2) FIG. 2 is front or rear elevational view of a first embodiment 60-inch-diameter embodiment rolling spool rack having a width of 37 inches;

(3) FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter 30 rolling spool rack showing a configuration for installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools (three are shown mounted on three different, radially-spaced axles) and 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools (six are shown on different, radially-spaced axles and one is shown on a central axle);

(4) FIG. 4 is front or rear elevational view of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter embodiment rolling spool rack having a width of 37 inches showing a frontal (or rear) 5 configuration for installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools (two are shown mounted on a single axle);

(5) FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a second embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack showing a configuration for installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools (four are shown mounted on four different, radially-spaced axles);

(6) FIG. 6 is front or rear elevational view of a second embodiment 60-inch-diameter embodiment rolling spool rack having a width of 37 inches showing a frontal (or rear) configuration for installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools (two are shown mounted on a single axle);

(7) FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a 48-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling 15 spool rack, showing a configuration for installation of 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools (six are shown mounted on different, radially-spaced axles, and one is shown mounted on a central axle);

(8) FIG. 8 is front or rear elevational view of a 48-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling spool rack having a width of 34 inches, showing a frontal (or rear) configuration 20 for installation of 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools (three are shown mounted on a single axle);

(9) FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of a 24-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling spool rack, showing a configuration for installation of 7-inch-diameter, 5-inch-wide spools (six are shown mounted on different, radially-spaced axles, and one is shown 25 mounted on a central axle);

(10) FIG. 10 is front or rear elevational view of a 24-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling spool rack having a width of 23.5 inches, showing a frontal (or rear) configuration for installation of 7-inch-diameter, 5-inch-wide spools (four are shown mounted on a single axle);

(11) FIG. 11 is a plan view of a single axle and a pair of retainer nuts;

(12) FIGS. 12A-12F show details for one rollable dispenser implementation; and

(13) FIGS. 13-20 show details for one rollable dispenser embodiment.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

(14) Various embodiments of the rolling wire spool rack will now be described in detail, with reference to the attached drawing FIGS. 1 through 13. It should be understood that the drawings are not, necessarily, drawn to scale, and that they are 5 intended to be merely illustrative of the invention.

(15) Referring now to FIG. 1, a first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 100 is seen in a side view, which shows only one platter 101-A of two identical, spaced-apart circular platters 101-A and 101-B (item number 101 applies to either). Each of the platters 101 is fabricated from a peripheral hoop 102, a central disc 103, and plurality of radially-spaced spokes 104, which interconnect the central disc 103 to the peripheral hoop 102. The hoop 102 is constructed from a length of circularly-bent tubing, the ends of which are butt welded together, thereby forming the hoop 102. Each of the spokes 104 is constructed from a length of steel channel stock. The central disc 103 is, preferably, surrounded by a cylindrical wall 105, which is either formed with the disc 103 in a single stamping or welded to the periphery of the disc 103. The inner end 106 of each spoke 104 is welded to the cylindrical wall 105, with the spoke channels 107 and the cylindrical wall 105 on one side of the platter 101, which will be the outer side thereof. The outer end 108 of each spoke 104 is welded directly to the hoop 102, so that the flat major surface of each spoke (i.e., the surface behind the channel 107) is coplanar with the inner surface of the hoop 102. This configuration will enable spools of wire to be installed within the rolling spool rack without the hoop interfering with the entry thereof into the rack. An arcuate gusset 109 reinforces each section of hoop 102 between each pair of adjacent spokes 104, and is welded to the hoop 102, as well as to each of the adjacent spokes 104. Each spoke is 104 equipped with two axle apertures 110-A and 110-B, with each axle aperture on a single spoke 104 accommodating the mounting of spools of different diameters. In addition, the central disc is also equipped with a single axle aperture 110-C. Each axle aperture 110-A, 110-B, and 110-C is reinforced with a surrounding flat washer 111 that is welded to the spoke 104. It should be noted that the positions of the hidden tubular cross braces are indicated by six broken-line circles 112-A, 112-B, 112-C, 112-D, 112-E and 112-F (item number 112 applies, generally, to any of the six tubular cross braces of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling wire spool rack 100). The ends of each tubular cross brace 112 are welded to two opposing arcuate gussets 109 on opposite platters 101.

(16) Referring now to this FIG. 2, the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling 5 spool rack 100 is seen in a front or rear view, in which both platters 101-A and 101-B are visible. This particular embodiment has a width of 37 inches so that it can accommodate two 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools on a single axle. The two platters 101-A and 101-B are held together by the tubular cross braces 110-A, 110-B, 110-C, 110-D, 110-E and 110-F.

(17) Referring now to FIG. 3, this side view of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 100 shows alternative configurations for the installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools 301 on three different, equiangularly-spaced axles 302-A, 302-B and 302-C in a first circular pattern 303, and for the installation of 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools 303 on seven different axles-six radially-spaced axles 304-A, 304-B, 304-C, 304-D, 304-E, 304-F and one central axle 304-G. Referring now to FIG. 4, this front or rear elevational view of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter embodiment rolling spool rack having a width of 37 inches shows a frontal (or rear) configuration for the installation of two 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools 301 on a single axle 302-A. With two spools mounted on axles 302-A, 302-B and 302-C, this rolling spool rack 100 is capable of holding a total of six 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools 301, in addition to up to three 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools 303 on the central axle 304-A. As three 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools 303 may be mounted on each of axles 304-A, 304-B, 304-C, 304-D, 304-E, 304-F and 304-G, this rolling spool rack 100 is also capable of holding a total of twenty-one of those spools.

(18) Referring now to FIG. 5, a second embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 500 is seen in a side view, which shows only one platter 501-A of two identical, spaced-apart circular platters 501-A and 501-B (item number 501 applies to either). Each of the platters 501 is fabricated from a peripheral hoop 102, a central disc 103, and plurality of radially-spaced spokes 502, which interconnect the central disc 103 to the peripheral hoop 102. The hoop 102, the central disc 103, and the cylindrical wall 105 are identical to those of the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 100. However, as there are only four spokes rather than six, each of the spokes 502 is constructed from a length of steel channel stock that is about fifty percent wider than the spokes 104 used for the first embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 100. 5 The inner end 503 of each spoke 502 is welded to the cylindrical wall 105, with the spoke channels 504 and the cylindrical wall 105 on one side of the platter 501, which will be the outer side thereof. The outer end 505 of each spoke is welded directly to the hoop 102, so that the flat major surface of each spoke (i.e., the surface behind the channel 504) is coplanar with the inner surface of the hoop 102. This configuration will enable spools of wire to be installed within the rolling spool rack without the hoop interfering with the entry thereof into the rack. An arcuate gusset 506 reinforces each section of hoop 102 between each pair of adjacent spokes 502, and is welded to the hoop 102, as well as to each of the adjacent spokes 502. Each spoke 502 is equipped with a single axle aperture 507. Each axle aperture 507 is reinforced with a surrounding flat washer 110 that is welded to the spoke 502. It should be noted that the positions of the hidden tubular cross braces are indicated by four broken-line circles 508-A, 508-B, 508-C, and 508-D (item number 508 applies, generally, to any of the four cross braces of the second embodiment 60-inch diameter rolling spool rack 500). The ends of each tubular cross brace 508 are welded to two opposing arcuate gussets 506 on opposite platters 501. Also shown in this side view is a configuration for the installation of 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools 301 on four different, equiangularly-spaced axles 509 in a circular pattern. A central axle 510 provides an optional mounting location for smaller wire spools.

(19) Referring now to this FIG. 6, the second embodiment 60-inch-diameter rolling spool rack 500 is seen in a front or rear view, in which both platters 501-A and 501-B are visible. The two platters 501-A and 501-B are held together by the tubular cross braces 508-A, 508-B, 508-C, and 508-D. This particular embodiment has a width of 37 inches so that it can accommodate two 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools 301 in a side-by-side arrangement on a single axle, as is shown in this view. With two such spools on four axles, a total of eight spools can be mounted on this second embodiment 60-inch diameter rolling spool rack 500.

(20) Referring now to FIG. 7, a 48-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling spool rack 700 is seen in a side view, which shows only one platter 701-A of two identical, spaced-apart circular platters 701-A and 701-B (item number 701 applies to either). Each of the platters 701 is fabricated from a peripheral hoop 702, a central disc 703, and 5 plurality of radially-spaced spokes 704, which interconnect the central disc 703 to the peripheral hoop 702. The hoop 702 is constructed from a length of circularly-bent tubing, the ends of which are butt welded together, thereby forming the hoop 702. Each of the spokes 704 is constructed from a length of steel channel stock. The central disc 703 is, preferably, surrounded by a cylindrical wall 705, which is either formed with the disc 703 in a single stamping or welded to the periphery of the disc 703. The inner end 706 of each spoke 704 is welded to the cylindrical wall 705, with the spoke channels 707 and the cylindrical wall 705 on one side of the platter 701, which will be the outer side thereof. The outer end 708 of each spoke 704 is welded directly to the hoop 702, so that the flat major surface of each spoke (i.e., the surface behind the channel 707) is coplanar with the inner surface of the hoop 702. This configuration will enable spools of wire to be installed within the rolling spool rack without the hoop interfering with the entry thereof into the rack. An arcuate gusset 709 reinforces each section of hoop 702 between each pair of adjacent spokes 704, and is welded to the hoop 702, as well as to each of the adjacent spokes 704. Each spoke is 704 equipped 20 with a single axle aperture 710, as is the central disc 703. Each axle aperture 710 is reinforced with a surrounding flat washer 711 that is welded to the spoke 704. It should be noted that the positions of the hidden tubular cross braces are indicated by six broken-line circles 712-A, 712-B, 712-C, 712-D, 712-E and 712-F (item number 111 applies, generally, to any of the six tubular cross braces of the 48-inch-diameter embodiment of the rolling wire spool rack 700). The ends of each tubular cross brace 712 are welded to two opposing arcuate gussets 709 on opposite platters 701. Also shown in this side view of FIG. 7 is a configuration for the installation of 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools (six are shown mounted on different, radially-spaced axles 713, and one is shown mounted on a central axle 714).

(21) Referring now to this FIG. 8, the 48-inch-diameter embodiment of the rolling spool rack 700 is seen in a front or rear view, in which both platters 701-A and 701-Bare visible. The two platters 701-A and 701-B are held together by six tubular cross braces 711-A, 711-B, 711-C, 711-D, 711-E and 711-F. This particular embodiment has a width of 34 inches so that it can accommodate three 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools in a side-by-side arrangement on a single axle. With three such spools on 5 seven axles, a total of twenty-one spools can be mounted on this 48-inch diameter embodiment of the rolling spool rack 700.

(22) Referring now to FIG. 9, a 24-inch-diameter embodiment of a rolling spool rack 900 is seen in a side view, which shows only one platter 901-A of two identical, spaced-apart circular platters 901-A and 901-B (item number 901 applies to either). Each of the platters 901 is fabricated from a peripheral hoop 902 and a central patterned plate 903 cut from a single plate of steel stock. The central patterned plate 903 incorporates a central disc 904, a circular rim 905, and six equiangularly-spaced radial spokes 906, which interconnect the circular rim 905 to the central disc 904. The central patterned plate 903 is sized so that it can be welded to the hoop 902, with one major surface coplanar, or flush, with the inner surface thereof. It should be understood that although the platters of the larger diameter embodiments of the rolling wire spool rack 100, 500, and 700 can also be fabricated from a hope and a one-piece central patterned plate, the waste of steel is deemed excessive. In addition, for the larger diameter embodiments, the spokes fabricated from channel stock impart a desired degree of rigidity to the structure without a commensurate increase in rack weight. It should be clear that a one-piece central patterned plate, such as 903, can be cut with one of more saw tools, with laser cutter, with a high-pressure water cutter, or even milled, although laser or high-pressure water techniques are deemed to be the least expensive method. As with the other embodiments of the rolling spool rack 100, 500, and 700, the hoop 902 is constructed from a length of circularly-bent tubing, the ends of which are buttwelded together, thereby forming the hoop 902. This configuration will enable spools of wire to be installed within the rolling spool rack without the hoop interfering with the entry thereof into the rack. The circular rim 905 takes the places of the arcuate gussets of the other embodiments of the rolling wire spool rack 100, 500 and 700. Each spoke of the central patterned plate 903 is equipped with a single axle aperture 907-A. The central disc is also equipped with a single axle aperture 907-B. Each axle aperture 907 is reinforced with a surrounding flat washer 908 that is welded to its respective spoke 906. It should be noted that the positions of the hidden tubular cross braces are indicated by six broken-line circles 909-A, 909-B, 909-C, 909-D, 909-E and 909-F (item number 909 applies, generally, to any of the six tubular cross braces of the 24-inch-5 diameter embodiment of the rolling wire spool rack 900). The ends of each tubular cross brace 909 are welded to the two opposing circular rims 905 on opposite platters 901. Also shown in this side view of FIG. 9 is a configuration for the installation of showing a configuration for the installation of 7-inch-diameter, 5-inch-wide spools 910 (six are shown mounted on different, radially-spaced axles 911, and one is shown 10 mounted on a central axle 912).

(23) Referring now to this FIG. 10, the 24-inch-diameter embodiment of the rolling spool rack 900 is seen in a front or rear view, in which both platters 901-A and 901-B are visible. The two platters 901-A and 901-B are held together by six tubular cross braces 908-A, 908-B, 908-C, 908-D, 908-E and 908-F. This particular embodiment has 15 a width of 23.5 inches so that it can accommodate four 7-inch-diameter, 5-inch-wide spools in a side-by-side arrangement on a single axle. With four such spools on seven axles, a total of twenty-eight spools can be mounted on this 24-inch diameter embodiment of the rolling spool rack 900.

(24) Referring now to FIG. 11, a single representative spool axle assembly 1100 is shown, including a tubular axle 1101 threaded at both ends and a pair of retaining nuts 1102-A and 1102-B (1102, generally). As previously stated, the retaining nuts 1102 are fabricated by sawing a rigid electrical conduit couplings in half through its central axis. It should be understood that rigid electrical conduit and electrical couplings, unlike rigid water pipe and couplings therefor, have threads which are not tapered. Thus, the half-couplings function effectively as screw-on nuts. It should be understood that rigid pipe is, of course, available in different diameters, and that pipe of an appropriate diameter can be selected to accommodate spools having central aperture of a certain diameter. Likewise, rigid pipe or conduit of a desired diameter can be cut to appropriate lengths for any particular embodiment of the rolling wire spool rack. In addition, although all of the embodiments of the reliable wire dispensing spool racks are disclosed in widths that accommodate at least two spools on the same axle, other embodiments can be fabricated that accommodate fewer spools on a single axle by simply shortening each of the tubular cross braces. All other physical attributes of that particular embodiment of the rollable wire dispensing spool rack will remain the same.

(25) FIGS. 12A-12F shows details for one rollable dispenser embodiment. Referring now to the drawing labeled Spooly, this is an assembled knock-down or built-up embodiment of the Electrician's Rollable Wire Dispensing Spool Rack. Though the bolts and nuts holding the assembly together are not shown, it should be easily understood by someone having ordinary skill in the art that bolts and nuts can be used to secure the various components in a rigid integrated assembly. The knockdown design dramatically reduces shipping costs. The drawing labeled Universal Hub, Spokes, Cross Members, Spool Poles, Spool Pole Nuts, Outer Ring Sections, Tubular Rim Section Rim Pin, Rim with Welded Pin and Welded Finished Wheel Rim Section shows the various components required to make a single platter. The cross members, of course are used to interconnect both platters. The drawing labeled Hub Assembly (weld) shows the build-up of a hub from channel iron. It, of course, can be stamped from a single sheet of steel or stainless steel. The drawing labeled Wheel Assembly shows the attachment of a rim section with two spokes and the hub. Also shown in detail the slot detail of a single spoke. The drawings with the first drawing labeled Bolt on another Wheel Rim Section continues the assembly of the platter or wheel assembly. The wheel is constructed in two halves, which are then bolted together. The drawing labeled Loading the Spool shows how spools wound with wire are most easily loaded on the completed dispensing spool rack. The drawing labeled Cross Member shows two embodiments of bolt-on crossmembers. The spool rack could be built with more than two platters. However, two platter embodiments are considered the preferred embodiment. In the case of three platters, both platters would be spaced apart in a parallel, coaxial arrangement.

(26) FIGS. 13-22 show another embodiment of the rollable dispenser. In this embodiment, a rollable dispenser for spooled wire looks much like a large hose reel except that the opposing plates on the dispenser are held together by equiangular-spaced tubular braces which rigidly interconnect the frames adjacent their circular peripheral edges. One or more wire spools are retained between the platters on removable axles which span the distance between both platters at radial intervals. One or more spools may also be retained by a centrally positioned axle. For a preferred embodiment of the invention, each platter is constructed from a length of circularly bent tubing, the ends of which are butt welded together to form a hoop. Each platter further includes a circular laminar plate that includes a circular rim, a central hub having a single axle aperture, and radial laminar spokes, each having an axle aperture, which join the rim to the hub.

(27) For a preferred embodiment of the invention, the circular rim of the platter is constructed from a length of circularly-bent tubing, the ends of which are butt welded together to form a hoop. Each of the radial spokes is constructed from a length of steel channel stock. The central disc is surrounded by a cylindrical wall, which is either formed with the disc in a single stamping or welded to the periphery of the disc. The inner ends of the spokes are welded to the cylindrical wall, with the spoke channels and the wall of the central disc facing one direction, which will be the outer platter of the platter. The outer ends of the spokes are welded directly to the hoop so that the flat major surface of each spoke is coplanar with the inner surface of the hoop. This configuration will enable spools of wire to be installed within the rolling spool rack without the hoop interfering with the entry thereof into the rack. An arcuate gusset reinforces each section of hoop between each pair of adjacent spokes, and is welded to the hoop, as well as to each of the adjacent spokes. Each spoke is equipped with one or two axle apertures, which each axle aperture accommodating different spool sizes. Each axle aperture is reinforced with a surrounding flat washer that is welded to the spoke. For smaller-diameter embodiments of the invention, the entire central portion of the platter (i.e., spokes and central disc) can be stamped or cut from a single piece of steel plate stock. This can even be done for the larger-diameter embodiments, but with substantial waste of steel between the spokes.

(28) Once a pair of platters has been fabricated, they are positioned parallel to one another, with the spokes and arcuate gussets of one platter radially aligned with the spokes and gussets, respectively, of the other platter. Each end of a tubular brace is then welded to a middle region of a gusset of each radially aligned pair of gussets, thereby interconnecting the platters, yet still leaving sufficient space to insert spools into the rollable rack from the periphery thereof. The tubular braces are radially spaced so that spools containing wound wire can be placed between the platters and mounted on a removable axle which spans the distance from one platter to the other. Each axle is preferably fabricated from a length of pipe that has been threaded on both ends. Retaining nuts are most easily made by sawing a pipe coupler in a direction that is perpendicular to the coupler's central axis.

(29) The fabrication process results in a structure that can be easily rolled from one location to another, and which can be rolled up or down a loading ramp. The circular hoop on each platter serves several functions: it strengthens the outer edges of the platter, reduces rolling and turning friction, and minimizes the likelihood that the outer edges of the bobbin will cut items over which it might roll (e.g., worker's toes).

(30) The rollable, spooled wire dispenser can be prevented from rolling by locking it in place with a chock modeled after those which have been used to chock airplane wheels for nearly a century. The rollable wire/cable dispenser can be manufactured in various diameters and in various widths to accommodate wire spools of different sizes and widths. Presently preferred embodiments of the invention are built with 60-inch, 48-inch, and 24-inch outplatter diameters. A 60-inch-diameter embodiment having a width of 37 inches can accommodate up to six 23.5-inch-diameter, 16-inch-wide spools (two spools on every other radially-spaced axle) wound with up to 2500 feet of #6 insulated wire and three 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch-wide spools (three spools on the central axle) wound with up to 1000 feet of #6 or #8 insulated wire. Alternatively, the 60-inch diameter embodiment can accommodate twenty-one 15.5-inch-diameter spools (three spools on each radially-spaced axle and three spools on the central axle) wound with up to 1000 feet of #6 or #8 insulated wire. A 48-inch-diameter embodiment having a width of 34 inches accommodates up to twenty-one 15.5-inch-diameter, 9.5-inch wide spools (three per axle) wound with up to 2500 feet of #10 or #12 insulated wire. A 24-inch-diameter embodiment having a width of 23.5 inches accommodates up to twenty-eight 7-inch-diameter, 5-inch-wide spools (two per axle) wound with up to 500 feet of #14 or #16 insulated wire.

(31) With reference to FIGS. 13-22, the following items are shown and their functions are detailed below:

(32) 1. Holds Product Inside Perimeter

(33) 2. Roll Around Portable

(34) 3. Mobile Transport Unit

(35) 4. Spool Loading Curve SlotLifting ActionStraight SReduced Leverage For Ease Of Lifting

(36) 5. Special LockHolds Axle In Place 5.b Locked Position 5.c Pad Lock Design

(37) 6. Swing Out BrakeStops Mobility

(38) 7. Double Up Side by Side To Increase Capacity

(39) 8. ObstaclesDesigned to go over 24, 44, Cords, Conduit, Drywall

(40) 9. Construction Debris, Pallets

(41) 10. Difficult TerrainTravels Over Snow, Grass, Sand, Gravel, Dirt easily

(42) 11. 90 degree Opposed Axle

(43) 12. Grab Handles

(44) 13. Rounded Steel Tire

(45) 14. Minimal Contact With Ground

(46) 15. Rubber Wheels or Other Non-Mar Material

(47) 16. Roll Over Loading

(48) 17. Designed to Fit Through Interior Doors

(49) 18. Center Accessories Bin Tool Box: Materials of ConstructionWood, Steel, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Composite, Molded (Drawing)

(50) 19. Blank

(51) 20. TechniquesStandingNot Bending, Stand Up LoadingTo be described

(52) 21. Use WithWire, Rope, Tubing

(53) 22. Openings To Be Used ForLifting, Hoisting, Crane, Via Chain, Rope, Block & Tackle

(54) 23. Storage LockerOrganizes, Wire, Rope, Tubing, Tools, Connections, Stores, Locks (Drawing)

(55) 24. Minimal Ground ContactTurn On It's Own Axis, Rapid Turns, Tricky Hallways, Narrow Spaces

(56) 25. Multiple SizesSmall, Medium, Large, DoubleSize

(57) 26. Auto BrakeWrist band hooked to pin, if pulled out, brake engages

(58) 27. Use Any size tubing for wheel

(59) 28. Axle Design

(60) 29. Curved Slots for Easy Loading

(61) Referencing the above numbers:

(62) 1) The spools of wire are held inside the two disks that form the Dispenser. These spools are held 2 to 6 inches off the ground and hence away from the outer round tubular tire area and hence away from the operators hands as he rolls the dispenser.

(63) 2) One of the dispenser's functions is an onsite rollable storage unit for wire, rope, tubing, and string. It can be moved by simple rolling its entire body from place to place since the wire, rope or tubing is stored within the body of the device.

(64) 3) The Dispenser is mobile and can be moved by truck or transport either empty or with the wire or tubing loaded into it.

(65) 4) The slots in the curved arms are one of the main features that make the dispenser viable as a solution to moving wire, tubing or rope spools. Larger wire spools can weigh 600-800 pounds. In order for the Dispenser to work properly these spools must be stored inside the Dispenser and some 2-6 inches off the ground.

(66) As the operator is unlikely to lift these spools even two inches off the ground means the a solution needed to be found. If there was simple a hole in the curved arms of the dispenser the spools could be attached but not held away from the floor. This would mean the spools would hit the ground with each rotation. Each spool needs to be away from the edge and this is accomplished by having a slot in the curved arms. The operator positions the spool of wire and then rolls the Dispenser over the spool and lines up the slot with the hole in the center of the spool. (point 16)

(67) When the hole in the spool is lined up with the slot then the operator inserts a metal axle (point 28) through the slot passing it though the spool and out the other side through the other slot. This captures the spool with the axle. The operator now rolls the Dispenser back allowing the axle and spool to slide along the slot towards the center of the Dispenser. When it nears the end of the slot the axle is captured by a locking mechanism which holds it in place until the operator opens the lock and lets the axle and spool slid down the other end of the slot near the edge of the Dispenser. Removal of the axle disconnects the spool from the Dispenser.

(68) A curved slot (point 4) is used because it gives a better leverage advantage and is a more gradual slide for the axle for loading and unloading. The curve also means that you don't have to roll the Dispenser back as far to get the axle to roll towards the center of the Dispenser as you would with a straight slot. (point 29)

(69) (5) The lock is also a major feature that makes the Dispenser work where other designs fail. When the axle has been inserted thru the slot and spool and thru the opposite side slot the spool is still in contact with the ground. The axle is also free to move freely along the slots path. When the Dispenser is rolled either forward or backwards at some point the slot moves away from the ground on its way to being perpendicular to the ground and in so doing lifts the spool off the surface its resting on. As the slots moves up and around the axle due to gravity will eventually slide down the slot towards the center of the dispenser. At about 2 inches from the end of the slot closest to the center of the Dispenser a mechanical lock is located. This lock is spring loaded so as to be always closed. The lock consists of a spring, a hook, a support plate, a lock pin and five mounting bolts. The hook has a circular cut out in it that corresponds to the diameter of the axle. This circular cutout also corresponds to the circular diameter at the end of the slot. The hook also has on one end an angled face and on the other end a tapered point. The hook also has an oversized oblonged hole towards the tapered point where a bolt passes thru and attaches the hook to the lock assembly. The bolt has a standoff so it is tightened to hold the hook on but allows the hook to remain loose enough to swivel. The closed position of the lock means that the hook is down and covering or blocking the path of the slot. The tension of the spring keeps the hook in this closed position covering the slot. The front of the hook has an angle on it and this angle faces the approaching axle. When the axle comes in contact with the hook the angle on the hook is pushed back by the roundness of the axle lifting the hook up and out of the way of the advancing axle. When the axle reaches the end of the slot the circular cutout in the hook lets the hook drop back down and around the axle capturing it. The spring tension holds the hook down preventing the axle and hence the spool from moving back down the slot.

(70) (5a) When one wants to remove a spool from the Dispenser the Dispenser is rolled so as to position the spool up at the 12:00 o'clock position. This takes the weight off the lock hook. With the weight off the operator puts his finger thru the large hole in the hook and pulls the hook backwards or away from the axle. The hook is held onto the lock assembly by a single large bolt that the hook swivels around. When the operator pulls the hook backwards the bottom or tapered end comes in contact with the lock pin. When the operator exerts more pressure the hook lifts up sliding along the oblonged hole allowing the tapered point to slip up and over the lock pin. As a result of the spring tension the hook is now pulled downward and is captured by the lock pin. This capturing prevents the hook from returning to its locked or closed position in effect rendering it open. The operator now opens the lock just opposite so that the two locks that hold common single axle both reside in the open position. (5b)

(71) The operator now rolls the Dispenser forward or backwards and when doing so the axle will gently slide back down the slot towards the floor. When the spool is in full contact with the floor the operator removes the axle and rolls the Dispenser away leaving the spool on the ground.

(72) (5c) With hook in closed position securing the axle a padlock is able to be put thru corresponding holes to secure hook in locking mechanism so hook cannot be lifted and axle and spool removed. Theft protection.

(73) (6) The brake consists of a rotating block that stores inside a cavity on the large disks that make up the wheels of the Dispenser. When the Dispenser reaches its destination the operator uses either his hand or foot to rotate the block 180 degrees inline with the wheel and facing the floor. When the job is completed the operator rotates the block back 180 degrees to its storage position and is now free to roll the Dispenser away.

(74) (7) Two or more Dispensers can be daisy chained together for greater storage and job efficiency.

(75) (8) (9) (10) Because of the diameter of the Dispenser wheels the physics allows the operator to roll over most common construction debris that completely stops every other wire cart in use today. This same advantage allows the Dispenser to be taken thru grass, sand, dirt, and snow without clogging & with minimal effort.

(76) (11) Most wire carts in use today use axles or poles that are at lifted angles to prevent the spool from falling off. Dispenser uses 90 perpendicular axle configuration to give the smoothest most efficient delivery of wire

(77) (12) The design of the outer tires is accomplished by rolling a round tube into a circle and then butt welding to form a continuous ring. This smooth surface also provides the gripping, turning, and maneuvering handles for the moving of the Dispenser.

(78) (13) The use of rounded tubular steel rolled into a continuous circle means that there are no sharp or angular surfaces to cut or mar floors

(79) (14) By utilizing a round circular tube to form the wheels of the Dispenser there is minimal contact with the ground. (24) That low surface contact means that the rolling and turning resistance is very low. This allows the Dispenser to easily be turned laterally 360 degrees within its own footprint.

(80) (15) The rounded tubular wheels allows us to put a rubber shoe or sheath onto the wheels to further protect the floor

(81) (17) The Dispenser is designed for maximum spool size used in residential and commercial buildings while still maintaining its ability to pass thru interior doorways.

(82) (18) When the center axle is not needed for a spool of wire a tool bin that is so designed that it hangs below the centerline and so that it never rotates can be attached. This bin holds all the tools, fasteners and necessities for the job.

(83) (20) Because the Dispenser can be rolled this means that the wire spools can be positioned in such a way as to relief stress on the operator by adjusting the height of the spools that is most comfortable for him to work.

(84) (21) Dispenser holds and dispenses wire, rope, chain, tubing, any spooled medium

(85) (22) The triangular openings on the side of the Dispenser wheels allows the operator access into the interior of the dispenser and the spools in case of tangles etc. These openings also allow a pole or chain or cable to be passed thru enabling the Dispenser to be lifted into a truck or to elevated floors.

(86) (23) Instead of having spools laying around a shop or warehouse the Dispenser can be used as an organizer and storage device for unused inventory

(87) (23b) The dispenser can be offered preloaded with the required spools length and diameter of wire or product.

(88) (25) The dispenser can come in various sizes depending on the job requirement.

(89) (26) Auto Braking. Braking mechanism can be setup to include a tethered device that automatically engages an electronic brake that deploys immediately upon separation from operators control.

(90) (27) Wheels, disks, axles, spars, openings, slots, metal thickness, diameters, widths can be used to meet needs of various job, weight, location specifications.

(91) (28) The axle that passes thru the slot and spool hole and out the other side slot has a unique end-cap. At each end of the axle there are oval metal tabs welded so that the tab of the one side faces in opposite direction as the tab of the other side. On the non welded side of each tab a hole is drilled that corresponds to a hole in the disks of the Dispenser. When loading the Dispenser and inserting the axle into the slot the oval tab is aligned so that it can pass thru the slot. After passing thru the spool it must be aligned again to pass out the other slot on the opposite side. Once thru the slot the axle is turn such that the tab is now not aligned with the slot and therefore cannot be pulled back thru the slot. Also, the slot on the other end cannot be pushed thru the slot. To remove the axle the operator has to once again turn the axle so that the tab aligns with the slot and can be pulled out.

(92) (28b) The small hole at the non welded end of the tab that corresponds to a hole in the disk of the Dispenser allows a padlock to be placed thru it to prevent theft

(93) Although only several embodiments of a rolling wire spool rack have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those having ordinary skill in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope and the spirit of the invention as may be hereinafter claimed.