Integrated brake/tilt-release mechanism for a dolly with a pivoting carriage

Abstract

An improved roll cart that allows an individual to move and transport a large roll of paper. The roll cart includes a rolling frame that supports a pivoting carriage for holding and stabilizing a large roll of paper. The pivoting carriage is pivotally attached to a frame so that the carriage can pivot within the frame to allow a roll of paper to be rolled on to or off of the carriage with minimal effort and without lifting or damaging the roll of paper. The roll cart also includes a unique combination braking/locking mechanism and can be securely maintained stationary with respect to a surface by engaging the brake portion of the mechanism. When the brake is engaged, rolling of the device is impeded and the carriage tilts to facilitate loading and unloading of a roll by rolling the roll on to or off of the carriage. When the brake is disengaged, the device is free to roll but the carriage is restricted from tilting by a locking mechanism. This combination braking/locking feature prevents the carriage from pivoting when the device is rolling, prevents inadvertent unloading of a roll and facilitates the safe transportation or large heavy rolls of paper. The present invention also provides a method for moving a roll of paper from one raised surface to another raised surface.