Rotacaster – Which way do you want to go?

I like the thinking behind this invention, a wheel inside a wheel. By adding small wheels to the larger wheel it allows you to move in any direction. Good one…

The Rotacaster wheel was a show-stopper at the 2007 ProMat Expo in Chicago.

The exhibition drew 35,000 visitors to inspect the wares of the materials handling market.

Tuncurry designer Graham Guile’s creation was hailed “the most innovative product at the show.”

Company CEO Peter McKinnon described the prospects of Rotacaster Wheel Limited, currently being assessed by US consultants, as “very positive.”

“The response has been very encouraging, and now we’re finalising negotiations for larger premises and additional machinery in Tuncurry.”

The little gadget at the centre of all the fuss is a fixed wheel that uses dozens of embedded rollers to move in all directions, including directly sideways.

This does away with the traditional swivel mounting, like those on disobedient shopping trolleys.

“It takes the load off the trolley axel, that’s one big difference [from a conventional swivel wheel].

“It’s also easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces, and easier on peoples’ arms.”

The concept of the prototype was first sketched by Graham Guile’s father Henry.

Henry’s curiosity was piqued by a Bible passage’s description of ‘the Ezekiel Wheel;’ ‘one wheel within another wheel.’ He designed and developed prototypes.

Graham continued his father’s work by redesigning, testing and eventually manufacturing the wheel in a small Tuncurry factory leased in 2002 with the help of local investors.

“We’re proud to be a public company,” Rotacaster chairman Roger Lynch said.

In town to lend support to the local manufacturer, as well as the re-election prospects of Paterson MP Bob Baldwin, was Federal Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources Ian Macfarlane.

“Some of the best local products like this one need support to encourage further expansion,” he said.

Mr Baldwin agreed.

“Clever inventions don’t just come from the city. They’re in the country as well.”

The Rotacaster factory in Tuncurry makes about 2000 wheels every week, a number set to explode as curiosity buzzes around the world.

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