The Ultimate Guide to Wheels, Casters, and Features in Robotics

In this blog, we’ll look at the components that drive robotic movement, provide an exploration of robotic wheels and casters, coupled with an examination of the features influencing robotic mobility performance. Whether you are a robotics mobility expert or a newcomer to the field, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge needed for understanding robotic systems mobility.


Rolling Elements Used Across Robotic Applications

  • Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)

Autonomous Mobile Robots rely on a combination of technologies to navigate and function independently. Rolling elements, particularly drive wheels and stabilizing wheels, are integral components contributing to their seamless mobility and balance.

  • Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV)

Automated Guided Vehicles, designed for efficient material handling in industrial settings, utilize rolling elements to facilitate controlled movement, ensuring precision and safety.

  • Automated Tug and Towing Equipment

In applications where automated towing is essential, rolling elements such as caster assemblies with spring designs play a vital role in shock absorption, maintaining stability during towing operations.

  • Collaborative Robots (COBOTS)

Collaborative Robots, designed to work alongside humans, require specialized rolling elements that prioritize safety and adaptability. Dual/single wheel caster assemblies with a focus on support become crucial in these scenarios.


Types of Rolling Elements

  • Dual/Single Wheel Caster Assembly for balancing/support

These caster assemblies are pivotal for maintaining balance and support in robotic platforms, ensuring stability during various movements.

  • Dual/Single Wheel Spring Design Caster Assembly for shock absorption

In applications where shock absorption is critical, caster assemblies with spring designs become essential, preventing damage to delicate payloads.

  • Traction Wheels

Traction wheels are the driving force behind the movement of robots, providing the necessary grip and power for smooth navigation.

  • Stabilizing Wheels

Stabilizing wheels contribute to the overall balance and stability of robotic platforms, preventing unnecessary tilting or swaying.

  • Rotational Configurations for Guidance or Cushioning

Rotational configurations are employed to guide or cushion the vehicle, ensuring precise movement and mitigating the impact of uneven terrains.


Critical Features in Design/Application of Robotics Rolling Elements

In the intricate world of design and application, considerations extend beyond mere payload capacity. Designers must factor in maneuverability, balance, and adaptability to diverse environments to create a well-rounded robotic system. The constraints posed by the design envelope of casters necessitate careful deliberation to minimize load height. This, in turn, reduces the overall height of the robotic platform without compromising its performance capabilities.

Selecting the optimal bearing element design is critical for ensuring round-the-clock operation without being burdened by significant Total Preventive Maintenance (TPM) requirements. Equally important is the choice of wearable material for wheel treads, catering to specific application requirements and considering both environmental conditions and the interaction with surfaces to prevent marking or additional wear patterns.


In the realm of robotics, Colson stands as a beacon of support, drawing upon years of experience to provide not only standardized solutions but also tailored, customer-specific innovations. By understanding the intricate needs of different applications and the nuances of rolling element design, Colson empowers the robotics industry to reach new heights of efficiency and performance.

INTRODUCING: DEFENDER D4 STAINLESS STEEL CASTERS

INTRODUCING: Defender D4 Stainless Steel Casters Introducing the Defender D4 Series, our strongest and latest advancement in 2″ wide stainless steel kingpin casters. Featuring a robust 3/4″ kingpin construction, Defender D4 rigs outlasted traditional 5/8″ kingpin rigs by up to 2x in internal durability testing—making the Defender D4 your best protection in corrosive environments! The D4…

NEW 2 SERIES MODELS ADDED TO WORLD’S LARGEST CASTER CAD MODEL LIBRARY / PRESS RELEASES, NEW PRODUCTS

Colson has helped expand Colson Group‘s world’s largest computer-aided design (CAD) model library with the addition of three Colson brand product series: the 2-Series LoPro, 2-Series Stainless, and 2-Series Stainless Steel Precision. Customers can now quickly configure part numbers and download or deliver 2D/3D CAD models and interactive 3D PDF datasheets for these new additions.

NEW COLSON CATALOG AVAILABLE ONLINE / NEW PRODUCTS

Colson’s newest full-line catalog is now available online, available here. At this link, you can view the full catalog, various caster categories, and even individual pages. Additionally, an interactive, digital catalog is available to use online.

COLSON WHEEL PLANT SAVES ENERGY / PRESS RELEASES

The Colson wheel plant in Monette, AR receives $29,063 from Entergy Arkansas for Energy Savings. MONETTE, Ark. – Energy efficiency incentives from Entergy Arkansas, Inc. are helping Colson Group USA save money by reducing the amount of electricity required for operation. “Entergy Arkansas offered Colson Group USA a financial incentive to upgrade our facility, and…

COLSON INTRODUCES NEW PERFORMA ROUND WHEEL SIZES / NEW PRODUCTS

2″-wide Performa wheels are now offered in 4″ and 5″ diameters. View the Performa Catalog Page (PDF)

COLSON INTRODUCES NEW ENCORE 4 SERIES STAINLESS CASTERS / NEW PRODUCTS

Colson proudly announces the new addition of stainless 2″ wide casters to our Encore line of economy, quality casters. View the Encore Stainless Steel Flyer

COLSON GROUP USA LAUNCHES CASTER APP / PRESS RELEASES

Colson Group USA introduces its new app for iPhone and iPad: Caster CAD 3D. As the global leader in caster and wheels, Colson Group USA offers the most complete product line in the world. Caster CAD 3D offers interactive 3D product catalogs for each of Colson Group USA’s brands and available product series. App users…