Abstract: A lock system for a tool box is disclosed wherein locking is achieved with a lock which is located in a recessed portion along the front wall of the tool box in order to prevent tampering. A latch rod is slidably disposed adjacent a front wall of the box. The lock and the latch rod are disposed such that the lock body blocks the longitudinal movement of a lock engager and maintains the latch rod in the latched position when the lid of the tool box is in the closed position and the lock is locked. When the lock is unlocked, the lock engager is allowed to move past the lock to move the latch rod to the unlatched position thereby allowing the lid of the tool box to be opened. The lock system may be used for a horizontal or a vertical tool box.

Abstract: A lifting mechanism for a toolbox contained in a truck box is provided. The lifting mechanism may include an outer truck box having a cover, an inner toolbox, and a tray that supports the inner box. A connecting link is coupled to the cover and to the tray for guiding the inner box between an elevated position and a lowered position. A lift assist, such as a gas spring, is coupled to the cover for lifting the inner box when the cover is opened and lowering the inner box when the cover is closed. In another embodiment, the lifting mechanism may comprise an L-shaped slotted link mounted to the cover and to the tray for guiding the inner box between the elevated position and the lowered position.

Abstract: The truck box is provided with a reduced clearance cover and a 90 degree cover opening. The mounting arrangement for the cover is offset from the back wall of the box. Thus, less clearance is required to accommodate the cover of the box in its open 90 degree position. The truck box is also provided with an access for electrical cord passthrough in one of its walls through which an electrical cord can be fed. As a result, power can be safely and easily provided to equipment positioned on the box.

Abstract: A storage cabinet having a latching mechanism that can be unlatched by the use of either an upper actuator or a lower actuator is provided. The upper actuator may comprise a hand knob while the lower actuator may comprise a foot pedal. Thus, if an operator has his arms full and wants to open the doors of the cabinet, he can simply do so by actuating the foot pedal. Alternately, the doors of the cabinet may be opened by actuating the hand knob. This design affords the operator much flexibility in accessing the storage cabinet. A storage cabinet with a latching mechanism that is protected from damage under abusive conditions is also provided.