TEST: Rock'n'Roller

 Always an experience, always a torture. We all know it: if you don't have the benefit of a backliner due to your economic status, who not only looks after and maintains your personal equipment, but also sets it up and, above all, dismantles and loads it AFTER the show, you have to put yourself through this drudgery at every show.

Even though a lot has happened in terms of weight in recent years, a minimum level of physical effort is required for almost every group of instruments in the area of ​​guitar, bass, drums or even sound. This is where a very simple transport device called the Rocknroller comes into play, which we have the RocknRoller R12 version for testing.

The role itself

Not really groundbreaking, the test device presented to us here, one or two people might ask themselves, and at first glance they are right. Starting with the stroller to the last assignment with pallbearers, we or something of ours is always being pushed somewhere on wheels. However, the structure of the mobile transport trolley and in particular its design in terms of flexibility and tire quality is crucial for its area of ​​application.

Let's take the classic in the form of a 4x12 cabinet. Manufacturer X kindly includes 4 small plug-in castors and the inclined artist is happy about the seemingly limitless mobility of his box. Yes, and exactly as long as he is on a completely flat, clean and flawless parquet floor. Even small bumps or grooves bring the trolley to a standstill, not to mention cobblestones, grass or even grit. In this case, vigorous use only leads to the castors breaking off or even the screw anchors breaking out.

Here the RocknRoller R12 relies on a simple but completely transport-oriented construction, which can also be adapted to the respective size thanks to the extendable base frame. The trolley is guided by two curved pull or push rods, which can be straightened up after bending. The two front castors are braked and can be blocked when tilted.

You can also purchase several accessories such as floor pads, handlebar pads or PC shelves. More details can be found on the German distributor's website at http://b4-distribution.com/de/carts/rnr-rmh1.

Processing

Even if the simple concept shines through its high practicality, the best principle can only be implemented through good, or at least solid, processing. This is where you should let the product made in Malaysia go as soon as you look at the RocknRoller R12 in detail.

After assembly, the product shines through its good stability, but various weld seams are moving close to a slag heap and the supplied split pins should also be replaced with slightly more stable versions if necessary. If you can generously overlook these points, which can mostly be described as cosmetic defects, you get a functional system that works very well in its simplicity.

Practice

Let's get down to business! To make things really difficult for the torque in terms of bending, I pulled the cart apart and screwed it together. Then I placed 2 massive 4x12 cabinets, each weighing almost 26 kilograms, and an additional cable case weighing around 10 kilograms on the cart. With this weight, we ventured over the following surfaces:

Asphalt: As expected, no problems. The front and rear push rods have a little play in the longitudinal axis due to their design, but the weight can be transported both straight ahead and crosswise without much effort.

Concrete slabs, rough: Here you can feel the solid plastic design of the tires. The cabinets bounce a little due to the minimal damping, but everything stays within the green zone as long as you don't exceed walking speed.

Grass, stubbly: A real challenge for any type of transport roller. Although the rollers partially sink into the grass, the tire size allows for comparatively good guidance. The effort required is of course greater than on a flat surface, but this is limited for the heavy ground.

10 cm of split: Absolute horror, all the wheels sink into the split and are not allowed to dig into the layer. It's hard to believe, but the RocknRoller R12 can handle even this horrible surface. You do have to use all your strength and you get much better progress by pulling than by pushing, but the wheels move and don't eat into the split. Respect.

Conclusion

With the Rocknroller R12 you get a transport cart that is way ahead in terms of flexibility and simplicity. Due to its design, it is far superior to a classic roller board, and can handle even the worst surfaces, right down to medium-sized split beds. If you can generously overlook rough welds and jagged splinters, you get a transport cart with extremely high practical suitability.

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Additional Informations:

The trolley, also known as a cart or a hand truck, has become an indispensable tool in various aspects of daily life and industry. From supermarkets and airports to warehouses and hospitals, trolleys facilitate the movement of goods and materials, making tasks more efficient and less labor-intensive. This article explores the origins and development of trolleys, tracing their evolution from simple wooden carts to sophisticated, purpose-built devices that meet the demands of modern society.

## Ancient Beginnings

### Early Wheel Technology

The invention of the wheel, one of humanity’s most significant technological advancements, dates back to around 3500 BCE in Mesopotamia. Initially used for pottery, the wheel's application soon expanded to transportation, revolutionizing the way goods and people moved. The first wheeled vehicles were likely simple wooden platforms mounted on rollers or solid wooden wheels.

### Early Carts and Wagons

As societies developed, so did their transportation needs. The first carts, simple wooden frames on wheels, emerged in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. These early carts were typically drawn by animals like oxen and horses, enabling the transportation of heavier loads over longer distances. By the time of the Roman Empire, wheeled carts and wagons had become essential for trade, construction, and agriculture, with more sophisticated designs incorporating features like suspension systems and iron-rimmed wheels for durability.

## The Middle Ages and Renaissance

### Innovations in Cart Design

During the Middle Ages, carts and wagons continued to evolve. The development of the pivoting front axle allowed for improved maneuverability, especially on narrow or winding roads. This period also saw the use of larger, sturdier wheels, often made of wood with iron bands, which could withstand rough terrain and heavy loads.

### Handcarts and Barrows

In addition to animal-drawn carts, the Middle Ages saw the rise of handcarts and wheelbarrows for smaller, more manageable loads. These single-wheel devices were particularly useful in construction, agriculture, and marketplaces. The wheelbarrow, believed to have been independently invented in China around 200 CE and later in Europe, allowed a single person to transport loads that would otherwise require multiple people, greatly increasing efficiency in labor-intensive tasks.

## The Industrial Revolution

### The Rise of Mechanization

The Industrial Revolution, beginning in the late 18th century, brought profound changes to transportation and material handling. The advent of steam power and the development of factories and railroads created a need for more efficient ways to move goods within industrial settings. Trolleys, now made from stronger materials like steel and iron, were designed to meet these needs.

### Rail Trolleys

One significant innovation of this period was the rail trolley. These small, wheeled platforms ran on tracks and were used to move heavy materials within factories, mines, and construction sites. Rail trolleys were often powered by steam engines or, later, electric motors, significantly reducing the physical effort required to transport heavy loads.

## The 20th Century: From Manual to Motorized

### Early 20th Century

The early 20th century saw further innovations in trolley design. Hand trucks, featuring two wheels and a metal frame, became widely used in warehouses and delivery services. These trolleys allowed a single person to move heavy boxes and crates by leveraging the load over the wheels.

### Supermarket Trolleys

A significant development in the consumer sector was the invention of the supermarket trolley. In 1937, Sylvan Goldman, the owner of a supermarket chain in Oklahoma, invented the first shopping cart to help customers carry more items and thus increase sales. His design featured a folding chair frame mounted on a set of wheels, with a wire basket placed on top. This innovation transformed the shopping experience, making it more convenient and encouraging bulk purchases.

### Airport and Hospital Trolleys

With the growth of air travel in the mid-20th century, airports needed efficient ways to handle increasing amounts of luggage. This led to the development of airport trolleys, sturdy, wheeled carts designed to carry suitcases and bags. Similarly, the healthcare industry saw the introduction of specialized trolleys for transporting medical supplies, equipment, and patients, enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.

### Motorized and Electric Trolleys

The latter half of the 20th century saw the introduction of motorized and electric trolleys, particularly in industrial and warehouse settings. These powered trolleys, equipped with electric motors and battery packs, could carry heavier loads over longer distances with minimal human effort. Forklift trucks, a type of powered trolley with lifting capabilities, became essential in logistics and manufacturing.

## Modern Innovations

### Ergonomics and Safety

Modern trolley design places a strong emphasis on ergonomics and safety. Understanding the impact of repetitive strain injuries and workplace safety, manufacturers have developed trolleys with features like adjustable handles, improved wheel designs, and braking systems. These enhancements help reduce physical strain on users and minimize the risk of accidents.

### Specialized Trolleys

Today, there are trolleys designed for specific tasks and industries. Examples include:
- **Laundry Trolleys**: Used in hotels and hospitals for collecting and transporting linens.
- **Catering Trolleys**: Designed for the foodservice industry to transport meals and supplies.
- **Library Trolleys**: Used in libraries to move books efficiently.
- **Warehouse Trolleys**: Equipped with various attachments for handling different types of goods.

### Technological Integration

The integration of technology into trolley design continues to advance. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs), essentially robotic trolleys, are now used in warehouses and manufacturing plants to transport materials without human intervention. These AGVs follow pre-programmed paths and can be integrated into larger automated systems, increasing efficiency and reducing labor costs.

### Sustainable Materials

As environmental concerns become more prominent, there is a growing trend towards using sustainable materials in trolley manufacturing. Recycled metals and plastics are increasingly being used to produce trolleys, reducing the environmental impact of their production and disposal.

## The Global Impact

### Enhancing Productivity

The evolution of trolleys has had a profound impact on productivity across various sectors. By reducing the physical effort required to move goods, trolleys have enabled faster and more efficient workflows, from warehouses and factories to retail stores and hospitals. This increased efficiency translates into cost savings and improved service delivery.

### Supporting Global Supply Chains

In the context of global supply chains, trolleys play a critical role in material handling and logistics. Whether it's moving components within a manufacturing plant or handling goods in a distribution center, trolleys facilitate the smooth flow of products from producers to consumers. The ability to move goods quickly and safely is essential for meeting the demands of modern commerce.

### Improving Quality of Life

Beyond their industrial applications, trolleys have also improved the quality of life for individuals. From shopping carts that make grocery trips more convenient to luggage trolleys that ease the burden of travel, these simple yet effective tools enhance daily activities and contribute to greater comfort and convenience.

## Conclusion

The history of the trolley is a testament to human ingenuity and the ongoing quest for efficiency in material handling. From ancient wooden carts to modern automated systems, trolleys have evolved in response to changing needs and technological advancements. Today, they are an essential part of everyday life and industry, demonstrating how a simple concept can have a profound and lasting impact on society. As technology and materials continue to advance, the future of trolleys promises even greater innovations, ensuring their relevance and utility for generations to come.