A STEERING OR LIFTING MECHANISM

摘要

The invention provides a mechanism suitable for lifting an appliance, particularly a domestic appliance. The mechanism (2) comprises a generally cylindrical body (8) having a wall (50) and a longitudinal axis (16) which extends in an upward direction. At least one rolling support member (20) is rotatably mounted on an axle (100) beneath the body (8). A housing (6) having a generally cylindrical socket portion (200) with an inner surface (208) receives the body (8). The wall (50) and the inner surface (208) incorporate opposing camming surfaces (62) (210) such that when the body (8) is rotated about the axis (16) with respect to the socket portion (200), the camming surfaces (62) (210) co-operate. The housing (6) is moved axially with respect to the body (8) and away from the at least one rolling support member (20). The mechanism (2) lifts the appliance (400) from a resting position and into an elevated position ready for manoeuvring. The invention further provides a mechanism (2) suitable for steering an appliance (400).Th e mechanism (2) comprises a housing (6) and a body 88). The body (8) is connected to the housing (6) so as to allow relative rotation therebetween about a vertical axis (16). At least one rolling support member (20) is mounted on a horizontal axle (100), the axle (100) being mounted on the body (8) and located so as to intersect the vertical axis (16). A handle portion (10) is connected to the body (8) and extends radially outwardly from the vertical axis (16). This arrangement allows the consumer to steer the appliance (400) in an elevated position, in a range of directions, including but not limited to forwards and backwards.