Tie Down Patents (Class 248/499)
  • Patent number: 11575343
    Abstract: A roof mounting system for the attachment of an article to a roof, the system comprising a plurality of PV modules each having at least one corner and a frame member, a flashing member having a top surface; an upstanding sleeve attached to the top surface of the flashing member; an elevated water seal having a borehole formed therethrough, the elevated water seal further comprising at least one screw for providing a waterproof seal between the article and the roof structure; and whereby the plurality of PV modules are interlocked in a way to provide a corner-to-corner coupling arrangement supported above the roof through the frame members of the plurality of PV modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Quick Mount PV
    Inventors: Claudia Wentworth, Stuart Wentworth, Alex Morano
  • Patent number: 11362262
    Abstract: A mounting pad system and method for an HVAC outdoor unit that includes providing a lightweight fillable pad shell containing a gelling material and having securing slots extending from an underside surface to an upperside surface of the shell. The shell is filled with water through a port at its upper surface. Prior to leveling the filled pad on the soil at the site and installation of the outdoor unit, securing straps are inserted into the slots from the underside surface of the shell so as to extend through an upper surface thereof. The filling port is covered when the HVAC unit is placed on top of the pad. One or more securing anchors can be used to anchor the pad to the ground, which are also covered when the HVAC unit is place on top of the pad and an anti-theft cable can be employed to further prevent theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: Mainstream Engineering Corporation
    Inventors: Elliott Sting, Robert P. Scaringe
  • Patent number: 11322678
    Abstract: A mounting pad system and method for an HVAC outdoor unit that includes providing a lightweight fillable pad shell containing a gelling material and having securing slots extending from an underside surface to an upperside surface of the shell. The shell is filled with water through a port at its upper surface. Prior to leveling the filled pad on the soil at the site and installation of the outdoor unit, securing straps are inserted into the slots from the underside surface of the shell so as to extend through an upper surface thereof. The filling port is covered when the HVAC unit is placed on top of the pad. One or more securing anchors can be used to anchor the pad to the ground, which are also covered when the HVAC unit is place on top of the pad and an anti-theft cable can be employed to further prevent theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: Mainstream Engineering Corporation
    Inventors: Elliott M. Sting, Robert P. Scaringe
  • Patent number: 11292382
    Abstract: The present invention is a securement apparatus and method of use. The securement apparatus comprises a spring E-fitting device connected to a strap device. The securement apparatus is preferably releasably attached to a section of E-track that is preferably fastened to a head wall of a pickup truck bed or a trailer and is useful in quickly and easily securing objects thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Inventor: Corey B. Johnson
  • Patent number: 10961762
    Abstract: The door control system includes a baseplate configured to interface with a surface adjacent to a door. The baseplate is removeably fastened to the surface oriented above to the door. The system includes at least one door ram coupled to the baseplate. The door ram includes a ram arm. The ram arm is configured to extend or retract from the door ram. The system includes at least one door actuator coupled to the baseplate. The at least one door actuator comprises an actuator arm. The actuator arm is configured to extend or retract from the door actuator. The door control system comprises at least one biasing device coupled to the baseplate and the at least one door actuator. The door control system also includes a controller in communication with the at least one door ram and the at least one door actuator configured to actuate an opening motion or a closing motion by the at least one door ram and the at least one door actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: Jack Botu
  • Patent number: 10736768
    Abstract: In order to create a simple device for immobilizing the human body or parts of the body in a manner that is gentle on the patient, in particular for arranging medical targeting devices, markers or surgical instruments for image-guided, minimally invasive surgery, said device having at least one immobilization element (1) which can be positioned on the surface of the body, the immobilization element (1) is made of a bonded nonwoven fabric (2) which can be fastened by means of a micro hook-and-loop fastener (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Inventor: Michael Vogele
  • Patent number: 10569691
    Abstract: A cover assembly for a cargo lashing fitting having a substantially planar cover plate which can be readily installed/uninstalled to and from the fitting, which connects to the fitting in an impact-resistant manner, which can resist the forces incurred when subjected to loading from on-deck vehicles and equipment, and which provides a long lasting watertight seal of the socket cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Peck & Hale, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Richard Belkin, John L. Szeglin
  • Patent number: 10435128
    Abstract: A high strength safety tether adapted to restrain motor flipping in the event of an underwater strike between the motor and an underwater object. In one embodiment the tether is sized to generally surround the exhaust housing of the motor. The free ends of the tether are adapted to be bolted to the transom of the boat. In another embodiment a second leash is attached to a first leash so that the first leash surrounds the steering arm assembly and the second leash surrounds the exhaust housing of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: The Leash, LLC
    Inventor: Roy John Grohler
  • Patent number: 10336238
    Abstract: A load securement apparatus for a vehicle incorporating a cargo bed and a tailgate movable between a raised configuration and a lowered configuration to open and close the cargo bed. The load securement apparatus includes at least one tie-down engagement structure connected to another portion of the vehicle in a position located such that a tie-down member is engaged with the tie-down engagement structure by extending a portion of the tie-down member into a gap formed between an end of the cargo bed and the tailgate when the tailgate is in the lowered configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Paxton S. Williams, Scott L. Frederick
  • Patent number: 10246308
    Abstract: An object-connecting device includes an engaging member having a perforation, a first sleeve having a first axial hole, a first abutting surface, and a first recess, a second sleeve passing through the perforation, a bolt passing through the first axial hole and the second axial hole, and a retaining ring. The second sleeve has a second axial hole, a second abutting surface, and a second recess, wherein the second axial hole communicates with the first axial hole. The second abutting surface abuts against the first abutting surface. The second recess matches with the first recess to form a receiving groove. The retaining ring is disposed in the receiving groove and is fastened on the bolt. With the aforementioned design, the bolt could be prevented from disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: YOKE INDUSTRIAL CORP.
    Inventor: Po-Hsiu Lin
  • Patent number: 10240356
    Abstract: A lifting insert, particularly for embedment in the edges of thin concrete elements is disclosed. The insert has a head at one end which has a through aperture for the connection of a co-operating lifting link and another end for embedment within the concrete. The head of the insert has an interior region bounded on each side by an exterior region which extends to the longitudinal edges of the insert. The exterior region is thicker than the interior region and the boundary between the two regions defines an abutment surface. The thickness and width of the interior region is dimensioned to allow the lifting link to be connected to the head of the insert and the thickness of the outer region is dimensioned so as to restrict the rotation of the lifting link when a load is applied normal to the axis of the insert, and to effectively transfer the load by a couple developed across the full cross-section of the insert e.g. when tilting the concrete element from a horizontal position to a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Rodney Mackay Sim
    Inventor: Rodney Mackay Sim
  • Patent number: 10177708
    Abstract: A wire-tensioning system can be used to maintain tension in power wires extending from components of solar panels. A tensioning component attached to the frame of the solar panel and attached to the power wires can be used to maintain tension in the power wires, both when the power wires are unconnected to power wires of adjacent solar panels, and after the power wires are connected to the power wires of adjacent solar panels. Some attachment structures may be configured to be easily removable and re-attachable to the frame of the solar panel, while other attachment structures may be configured to penetrate or dig into the frame of the solar panel to form a more permanent attachment therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Paul Martin Cruz
  • Patent number: 10012329
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein describe systems and methods for a pipeline bracket with a lug sleeve and link, wherein the link is configured to couple with the lug sleeve and a tie-down strap via removable bolts. The tie-down strap may be configured to distribute the forces caused by movement of the pipeline to the pipeline bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: LDS LAND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
    Inventors: Garrie Stephen Cox, Neale Johannesson
  • Patent number: 9994142
    Abstract: An apparatus for an amusement park includes a mounting device for use in a transportation vehicle in the amusement park, wherein the mounting device is configured to retain a personal electric vehicle (PEV). The apparatus for the amusement park also includes a base assembly of the mounting device configured to secure the mounting device to a floor of the transportation vehicle. The apparatus for the amusement park further includes an arm of the mounting device including a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the arm is pivotally coupled to the base assembly via a hinge assembly and the second portion of the arm is coupled to a retaining assembly of the mounting device configured to retain the PEV, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are coupled to one another at a joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: UNIVERSAL CITY STUDIOS LLC
    Inventor: John Rugg
  • Patent number: 9816298
    Abstract: The present anchor device provides a support for holding a security anchor within a hole, such as a grommet hole, formed through a work surface, such as a table top, a shelf, or other board or sheet. The security anchor has a loop for attaching a lock or receiving a cable lock wrapped about the loop and a cross member to prevent the withdrawal of the security anchor from the grommet hole. The anchor device has a cross member with a dipped portion that supports the loop of the security anchor. The present support device prevents the security anchor from falling down through the hole, while holding the loop of the security anchor just within the hole and within easy grasp of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Inventor: Jay S. Derman
  • Patent number: 9771136
    Abstract: A high strength safety tether adapted to restrain motor flipping in the event of an underwater strike between the motor and an underwater object. In one embodiment the tether is sized to generally surround the exhaust housing of the motor. The free ends of the tether are adapted to be bolted to the transom of the boat. In another embodiment a second leash is attached to a first leash so that the first leash surrounds the steering arm assembly and the second leash surrounds the exhaust housing of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: THE LEASH, LLC
    Inventor: Roy John Grohler
  • Patent number: 9422957
    Abstract: A clamp includes an upper portion, lower portion, screw and nut. The upper portion may include first and second rectangular shaped members, a first projection extending from the first and second members, and a first central opening located between the first and second members. The lower portion may include third and fourth rectangular shaped members, a second projection extending from the third and fourth members, and a second central opening located between the third and fourth members. The screw may extend from the upper portion through the first and second central openings. The nut may be integrally connected to the lower portion and includes threads to receive corresponding threads from the screw. Lower surfaces of the first and second members and upper surfaces of the third and fourth members define an opening located adjacent the first and second projections in which a component to be clamped is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International LLC
    Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 9406425
    Abstract: A magnetic decoupling unit that is capable of magnetically releasing several types of magnetically releasable antitheft devices may include a magnet assembly. The magnet assembly may be placed inside a magnet housing with a cover that has an aperture and insert for receiving portions of a magnetically releasable antitheft device. The magnet assembly may include a first magnet with a vertical magnetic orientation which is surrounded by adjacent magnets with magnetic orientations that are orthogonal to the vertical magnetic orientation. Additionally, the magnet assembly includes one or more additional magnets oriented in the vertical and orthogonal directions. The resulting magnet assembly may be capable of magnetically releasing single clutch, double clutch, and electronic media type antitheft devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: CHECKPOINT SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventor: Felix B. Sheflyand
  • Patent number: 9254987
    Abstract: A mounting tool for use in safely lifting a heavy object such as a wind tower segment. Mounting tools may be provided in a kit that includes a tool that is especially adapted for attachment to the top of the object, and a tool that is especially adapted for attachment to the bottom of the object. Both the top and bottom mounting tools include a mounting bracket for removably mounting the tool to a mounting ring on a heavy object. To accommodate different bolt patterns in mating holes in the objects, the mounting bracket has a slotted mounting hole and two generally annular mounting holes extending therethrough. These mounting holes are arrayed along a common axis. A hoist ring assembly is mounted to the mounting bracket and includes a bail adapted for swiveling and pivoting movement to define a generally hemispheric envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: MJT Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Tony J. Alba
  • Patent number: 9241539
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for tightening laces of an article of clothing. The method may include the steps of receiving an input code; determining if the input code matches a stored code; and if the input code matches the stored code, actuating a tightening device to tighten the laces. A system is disclosed for tightening laces of an article of clothing. The system may include a controller and a tightening device configured to engage the laces. The tightening device may be operatively coupled to the controller. The controller may place the tightening device in one of a plurality of configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jeffrey Keswin
  • Patent number: 9144321
    Abstract: A highchair system enables removable attachment of objects to a tray of the highchair and protects the highchair from food and liquid spills. A flexible slipcover is removably attachable to the highchair tray so as to extend over at least an upper surface thereof. A permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material is associated with the slipcover. Objects, such as a dish or a toy, are held in place on the highchair tray by magnetic attraction forces. Tethered utensils may be removably attachable to the dish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Kelly Ann Melo
  • Patent number: 9127698
    Abstract: An anchoring device for a deck or dock or similar structure comprising an anchoring member, a holding plate, and a fastener. First, the fastener is threaded through the holding plate and ring assembly. Then, the holding plate and fastener is inserted through an opening in the support structure, e.g., a narrow slot between the boards on the deck or patio, and, finally, the fastener is pulled outward in relation to the anchoring member to securely affix the anchoring member and the holding plate against two opposing sides of the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Inventors: Richard Brull, Brian Allen Hager, Robert Michael Coulston, Curtis Robert McMillan, Stanton Wayne Fernald, Dale J. Crook
  • Publication number: 20150122966
    Abstract: A system for use with a locker door having an upper divider and a lower divider, the system including a strap including a first portion, a second portion, and a body portion extending an entire length therebetween. The first portion of the strap is adapted to be secured to the upper divider of the locker door, and the second portion of the strap is adapted to be secured to the lower divider of the locker door. A component is included that is adapted to be releasably coupled to the body portion of the strap while the first portion of the strap is secured to the upper divider of the locker door and the second portion of the strap is simultaneously secured to the lower divider of the locker door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: ACCO Brands Corporation
    Inventors: Chelsea F. McLemore, James G. Lee
  • Patent number: 8973884
    Abstract: An improved lower anchor strap tension adjusting mechanism for varying tension in a restraint connected to a vehicle. The mechanism comprises first and second adjuster ends and a length of web spanning therebetween. One end of the web is attached to one of the adjuster ends. A guide is provided on one or both adjuster ends enabling the web to be looped around the guide(s) and between the ends in multiple passes. A web lock device is connected one of the ends to engage the web and allow the length of the web spanning between the first and second adjuster portions to be fixed. The number of loops of web spanning between the adjuster ends determines the mechanical advantage in the tension force applied to the anchor strap by the adjuster compared to the tension applied to the free end, improving ease and security of safety seat installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventors: Joshua D. Stuckey, Michael L. Longenecker
  • Publication number: 20150060629
    Abstract: A clamp includes a mounting base, a clamp arm, and an adjustable device. The mounting base includes an attachment device for securing the mounting base to a surface. The clamp arm is moveably attached to the mounting base. The adjustable device is moveably attached to the clamp arm. The adjustable device is configured to extend the clamp arm and to retract the clamp arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Schmier, II, Curtis R. Estevo, JR.
  • Publication number: 20150053837
    Abstract: A teething assembly for a spherically mounted retroreflector is disclosed in which the assembly comprises a wire having a central portion having a first end forming a first loop with the first end being secured to the central portion and a second end forming a second loop with the second end being secured to the central portion, a spring clip attached to the first loop, and a clip device attached to the second loop, the spring clip attaching onto the collar of a SMR.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Charles D. Graham
  • Publication number: 20150026930
    Abstract: A closure device for a cable sling which is placed around a line for securing purposes. The closure device has a clamping sleeve together with a locking sleeve, both cable portions of the sling being lockable in the locking sleeve in a non-displaceable manner. In order to lock the cable sling on the line in a non-displaceable manner, the closure device is designed such that the cable sling can be tightened, wherein the distance between the clamping sleeve and the locking sleeve can be increased by a screwing process for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Hartmut Schmitz
  • Patent number: 8939425
    Abstract: A mounting device for mounting a fan includes a base board and two fixing assemblies. The fan includes two opposite boards. The base board forms four rods. Each fixing assembly includes a receiving member and an engaging member. The receiving member includes a first pole capable of extending through a corresponding one of the boards and a first block abutting against an outer surface of the board. The engaging member includes a second pole capable of extending though the other one of the boards to be engaged in the first pole, and a second block abutting against an outer surface of the other board. Each of the first and second blocks defines a fixing hole through which a corresponding one of the rods is capable of extending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: ScienBiziP Consulting (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zheng-Heng Sun
  • Patent number: 8936163
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to the field of mounting systems used to secure, organize and protect electronic equipment in commercial and industrial settings. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods, systems, and devices for mounting non-uniform components in an organized and easily modifiable structure. Of particular interest are mounting systems for electronics components comprising: a) one or more flexible and elastic plastic mesh securing members; and b) one or more elongated support bars comprising: (i) a planar upper support member; (ii) opposing anterior and posterior flanges disposed at right angles to the upper support member; and (iii) a plurality of protrusions integral to or fixedly connected to the flanges which are operably configured for releasable engagement with the mesh.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: CCS-Inc.
    Inventor: Donald M. Fleischer
  • Patent number: 8888064
    Abstract: A coil retainer is configured for securing a metal coil to a support surface using tension lines. The coil retainer includes a core insert extending about an arc and configured to be inserted into a hollow core of the metal coil so that an exterior of the core insert supports an inner surface of the coil along a portion of the inner surface. A coil side containment wall extends along the arc of the core insert and projects radially outward from the core insert. The coil side containment wall is configured to support a flat side of the metal coil. A cross beam extends across the arc of the core insert. Attached to the cross beam is at least one chain guide configured to guide a tension line over the cross beam and at least one chain mount configured to secure a tension line to the coil retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Jerry Skorupa
  • Publication number: 20140291471
    Abstract: A hook, a hold down strap and a method for holding down an underground tank. The hook includes a base portion connectable to the hold down strap; a curved portion extending from the base portion and defining a concave receiving area having an entrance sized and configured for receiving an anchor element. The hook includes at least one hooking aid member being a flexible member or an extension member. The flexible member extends across the entrance of the concave receiving area and is sized and configured to bend from a closed position to an open position such that, when the anchor element traverses the entrance, the flexible member bends from the closed position toward the concave receiving area to the open position, thus allowing the anchor element to enter the concave receiving area. The extension member extends from the curved portion beyond the entrance of the concave receiving area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: Pultrusion Technique Inc.
    Inventor: Robert P. Dufresne
  • Patent number: 8827230
    Abstract: In an object holding device, it is possible to prevent loosening of a cord-like body for holding an object without requiring any user's special operation. The object holding device includes a fixing belt (3) wound on a plastic tank (2), a male buckle (9) provided at a fixing belt, a reel (4) having the fixing belt wound around and urged to rotate in a winding direction of the fixing belt and a reel housing (11) connecting with a male buckle. When the male buckle is connected to the reel housing, a rotation of the reel is restricted at least in a counter-winding direction of the fixing belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventor: Takehiko Nemoto
  • Patent number: 8814142
    Abstract: A lifting strut and stabilization system includes a lower outer tubular member in slidable engagement with an upper extendable inner tubular member, a mechanism for receiving and supporting a jack on the outer tubular member, a pin for optionally restraining the upper tubular member from further engagement into the lower tubular member, while allowing unrestrained extension of the upper tubular member from within the lower tubular member, and a removably attached jack having a bracket at its upper end incorporating a saddle or half-hole for engaging a strut lift pin located in a corresponding saddle, half-hole or flat bearing surface located on the upper end of the lower tubular member, the lift pin extending through the saddle holes in the upper tubular member, such that upon actuation of the jack, the upper jack bracket engages the lift pin and extends the upper tubular member from within the lower tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.
    Inventors: Cris E. Pasto, George Tillotson
  • Patent number: 8814125
    Abstract: A tie down assembly adapted to be installed within a structure includes a cup and a crossbar that is fastened removably to the cup by a plurality of fasteners. The cup includes a recess forming an interior surface, and a plurality of seats extending from the interior surface. The crossbar includes a central portion and a plurality of elongated members extending therefrom. Each of the members includes a head that engages a corresponding one of the seats of the cup and is secured to the seat by one of the fasteners. The central portion of the crossbar may include a central aperture that receives one of the fasteners for an additional attachment point to the cup. The crossbar is adapted to receive tie down hooks, connectors, and the like. When the crossbar requires repair or replacement, it may be removed from the cup by unfastening the fasteners without the need to remove the cup from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Franklin David Silvio, James T. Burg, Robert J. Speer, Brett P. Conner, Jean Ann Skiles
  • Patent number: 8807512
    Abstract: An underground fluid storage tank hold-down system for holding down an underground cylindrical fluid storage tank in a hole that has been excavated, the underground tank hold-down system comprising a multiplicity of paired hold-down straps having a first end and a second end. A multiplicity of paired deadmen anchors are adapted to be placed to either side of the tank when the tank is in the hole. The deadmen anchors each have anchor upstanding loops. A tank hold-down assembly is provided comprising a take-up coupler assembly having a pair of arched sections, having hooks thereon, including a first arched section and a second arched section and a threaded engagement assembly. The threaded engagement assembly includes a threaded member and a receiving member adapted to receive part of the threaded member. The straps engage the hooks and the anchor upstanding loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Watco Tanks, Inc.
    Inventors: David Watson, Wallace Watson
  • Patent number: 8776323
    Abstract: A strap assembly for securing a vehicle load includes a fixed flat strap secured around a buckle crossbar and a specially configured hook attached to an end of the strap. The parts are configured such that that upon engaging the hook and crossbar there is preferably an interference fit, allowing a major loop to be formed in the strap that will remain securely engaged even when there is slack in the strap. Additionally, the hook/buckle combination is preferably configured such that substantially rotating the hook relative the buckle is required to disengage the two. There is also preferably a second similar hook attached to the opposing end of a second adjustable strap, and a small twisted and/or folded loop built into the strap allowing a second major loop by engaging the second hook with the twisted and/or folded loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Richard E. McLennan
  • Patent number: 8720846
    Abstract: A safety strap for securing flat panel displays to a support structure to prevent the flat panel display from tipping forward or side-to-side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Milestone AV Technologies LLC
    Inventors: James G. Wohlford, Jason Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20140084125
    Abstract: Tether guards are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a tether guard includes a plate configured to contact a surface. The plate has a hole extending therethrough, wherein the hole is adapted to receive a securing mechanism that secures a tether to the surface. The tether guard also includes a cover that is attachable to the plate, the cover has an opening wherein the tether is passable through the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy D. Crawford, Martin L. Brooks
  • Patent number: 8672270
    Abstract: The present invention is an assembly (100) for use as a jack contact point and a secure tie-down location for a helicopter. The assembly includes a hollow waffled dome element (110) having support elements (116A, 116B, 116C, 116D, 116E, 116F) which form attachment openings or securing holes (118A, 118B, 118C) between the upper and lower rims of the dome element. A jack securing mechanism (130) is provided with a threaded screw region (132) which connects to a jack mounting region (134). The threaded screw region extends through a hole (122) in a planar top (120) of the dome element (110) so as to be secured to a planar region of a structurally suitable location on the helicopter. The jack mounting region is shaped to accommodate a jack used to raise the helicopter. The attachment openings (118A, 118B, 118C) are used to accommodate secure tie-down of the helicopter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Victoria L. Vas
  • Patent number: 8657250
    Abstract: A vibration and shock isolation mount for a mobile satellite antenna system securable to a transport vehicle such as a truck or boat. The isolation mount includes three isolators attachable between the mobile satellite antenna system and the transport vehicle. The three isolators are spaced substantially evenly about the central axis of the antenna system. Each isolator has a central spring element extending along a first axis between two block members wherein the spring element permits the two block members to move in virtually all direction relative to each other including toward and away from each other along the first axis of the spring element. Each isolator further includes two attaching members for respectively securing the two block members to the mobile satellite antenna system and the transport vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Winegard Company
    Inventor: Brent Lee Venghaus
  • Patent number: 8602379
    Abstract: A tie down assembly for a vehicle is provided. The tie down assembly includes a retention body, an anchoring device moveably disposed within the retention body, and a stop translatable along the anchoring device into releasable locking engagement with a portion of the retention body when the anchoring device is rotated in a first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventors: Therin Laney, Steven Swearington, Don Van Orman
  • Publication number: 20130313394
    Abstract: A retaining device is provided for maintaining the position of a microphone mounted to a boom arm with the boom arm being pivotally mounted to a microphone stand. The retaining device is a strap assembly that can include upper and lower securing portions of the strap assembly for being secured to the boom arm and the microphone stand, respectively, and a middle portion of the strap assembly interconnecting the upper and lower securing portions and including an adjustment mechanism for adjusting tension between the upper and lower securing portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Harlan Robert Hogan
  • Publication number: 20130284538
    Abstract: A stabilized, collapsible platform having two stages, each adjustable with respect to the other along a support column except to the extent restricted by a temporary lock. In a preferred embodiment, the platform may be adjusted along the support column with each stage moving independently of the other, and, once in the desired position, the temporary lock may then be employed to restrict movement of the stages relative to one another. The temporary lock may additionally stabilize the platform against movement with respect to the support column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Roger Dale Hanner
  • Patent number: 8540200
    Abstract: A soft padeye is shown and disclosed. The soft padeye has a spindle that runs through the deck of the ship or boat or other surface. The fastener is then screwed on the shaft and secured against the deck securing the fastener and the spindle to the deck. The spindle has a hole through it allowing the passage of a loop of line. The loop remains above deck while the two ends of the loop are fed through the shaft and tied in a knot that will not pull through the shaft. This allows the user to secure line or other hardware to the loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: John E. Franta
  • Publication number: 20130220092
    Abstract: A saw (100) includes a sawdust collection assembly (2) having a chute (10) made of a material having a stretchability to be shaped responsive to movement of a blade housing (102) into a moveable sawdust path. An upper end (40) of a top portion (6) of the chute (10) is removably and reattachably engaged with a top attachment member (36) mounted to the blade housing (102). A bottom portion (8) of the chute (10) is removably and reattachably engaged with a bottom attachment member (26) mounted to a rear side (106C) of a fence (106) of the saw (100). Two side edges (44, 46) of the top portion (6) are respectively attached by two side tension cords (18) to left and right sides (106B, 106A) of the fence (106). One of the side tension cords (18) can be used with a tension block (20, 28) to form a tensioning system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Richard F. Keenan
  • Publication number: 20130223972
    Abstract: The method and apparatus for loading and unloading an ATV from a truck bed includes mounting a sling in the forward end of the truck bed and attaching the winch line from the ATV to the sling link of the sling. With a pair of loading ramps inclined from the ground up to the rear end of the truck box, the winch line is used to winch the ATV up the ramps, or to assist the ATV in its self-propelled driving up the ramps and onto the truck bed. When unloading the ATV, the ATV is driven rearwardly down the ramps while the winch line is simultaneously extended from the winch so as to act as a speed limiter and to help keep the front of the ATV from lifting off the ramps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Kenny Randall Eng
  • Patent number: 8505868
    Abstract: A tie down assembly adapted to be installed within a structure includes a cup and a crossbar that is fastened removably to the cup by a plurality of fasteners. The cup includes a recess forming an interior surface, and a plurality of seats extending from the interior surface. The crossbar includes a central portion and a plurality of elongated members extending therefrom. Each of the members includes a head that engages a corresponding one of the seats of the cup and is secured to the seat by one of the fasteners. The central portion of the crossbar may include a central aperture that receives one of the fasteners for an additional attachment point to the cup. The crossbar is adapted to receive tie down hooks, connectors, and the like. When the crossbar requires repair or replacement, it may be removed from the cup by unfastening the fasteners without the need to remove the cup from the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Franklin David Silvio, James T. Burg, Robert J. Speer, Brett P. Conner, Jean Ann Skiles
  • Patent number: 8474767
    Abstract: A tie-down bar apparatus and method for securing Cargo onto the bed of trailer or full-size, mid-size, or small pick-up truck comprising an adjustable telescoping support bar having a main body and two ends, the main body of the telescoping support bar has at least one tie-down ring is connected to the main body for securing one or more pieces of cargo including recreational vehicles, the main body of the telescoping support bar has two elongated arm which are positioning inside each end of the main body, to create the telescoping effect so that the support bar can be adjusted to match the size of the width of a vehicle's bed. Wherein a user will install said pair of connectors to the vehicle thereby securely attaching said telescoping support bar to the bed of vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Bike Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: John Nicholls
  • Patent number: 8469329
    Abstract: A pallet for use in transporting merchandise includes a pallet body having a top surface for supporting merchandise. A foot-driven winch is mounted on the pallet body, and a flexible tie-down for restraining merchandise on the pallet body is connected to the winch. In a preferred method of using the pallet, a plurality of such pallets are disposed inside a vehicle with the pallets defining a surface which substantially spans the width of the floor of the vehicle and on which a delivery person can stand to access merchandise on the pallets. The delivery person can remove merchandise from the pallets while remaining inside the vehicle and then can move the merchandise to outside the vehicle without having to perform any lifting. As a result, sickness of delivery persons due to exposure to the weather during delivery and injuries due to lifting of merchandise can be decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Tygard Machine & Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Edward Tygard
  • Patent number: 8459487
    Abstract: A securing assembly for fastening a container lid to an open topped container, the container having a pair of container fixture elements at opposed positions at the top of the container. The securing assembly is a strap having a pair of strap spans. One strap span extends between one of a pair of lid fixture elements and one buckle member. The other strap span extends between the other lid fixture element and another buckle member, the buckle members engageable to buckle the strap spans together. The container fixture elements engage with respective lid fixture elements for fixing the buckled strap spans so that the lid is held against the container top. A loop is attached to and extends from one anchor location on the first strap span to another anchor location on the second strap span, the loop position at the one anchor location being adjustable, so as to alter the length of the loop and to correspondingly alter the length of the first strap span.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventors: Rajneesh Sharma, Alicia Lai Yin Sharma