The importance of caster selection and aesthetics has been mentioned in multiple blogs. But we wanted to dig a little deeper on the matter, so we talked to a Thad Hare, a representative from Tente.
Like all of our previous guest consultants, Hare first mentions the hierarchy of caster selection always begins with functionality. If you take a look at casters from 10 to 20 years ago, aesthetics were hardly taken into consideration.
"The average cart would have laminated wood with chrome wheels," says Hare. You can see an example of what the average caster would have looked like between 15 and 20 years ago on the right.
This lack of consistency has since lead us to take steps towards modernizing the look of an overall unit.
The movement to make medical carts look like cohesive devices plays a large role the in the creation and quality of medical cart families. Many families of medical carts are used within the same facility or location, so it's paramount that the branding and stylistic quality remains consistent.
Here are a few examples of what the average caster looks like now:
Function
Choose your caster based on the environment of your custom medical cart. Recently, there's been a big push for rolling resistance, which reduces repetitive strains. Casters are constantly evolving and undergoing tests in the field by surveying patients and users.
Testing and Regular Requirements
All casters must pass tests for standard quality regulations. It's important to know whether or not your casters' capabilities will stand up to any changes made through redesigns. If the application changes, it's likely that the weight will as well, so the casters may need to alter in size.
Future
Hare foresees the aesthetics of casters to follow that of medical carts: cleaner lines and fewer seams. Essentially, these attributes not only help make your custom medical cart look more visually appealing, but it also reduces cross-contamination levels and enables cleanability.
Safety
Safety is also taken into consideration when it comes to the evolution of casters. True, IEC 60601-1 3rd edition has targeted safety in regards to tipping and brakes. However, Hare mentions an interest in casters with an automatic locking system, which will further the safety initiative and reduce the risk of human error.
Have any further inquiries about casters? Comment below or contact us today! We’re happy to help.
