Special Application Patents (Class 70/57)
  • Patent number: 5995366
    Abstract: A computer anti-theft system for use with various lock devices includes a docking device and a computer engaged with the docking device by an interconnecting lock. A handle is provided for moving the latch to disengage the computer and the docking device. A first lock receiver is provided adjacent the handle for receiving a first type of lock for limiting movement of the handle to prevent disengagement of the docking device and the computer. A second lock receiver is also provided adjacent the handle for receiving a second type of lock, different from the first type, for limiting movement of the handle to prevent disengagement of the docking device and the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Dell U.S.A., L.P.
    Inventors: Bryan Howell, Steve Gluskoter, Chris Jaggers, Orin M. Ozias
  • Patent number: 5983679
    Abstract: An locking device that cooperates with a predefined rectangular slot built into an external wall of the equipment to be secured. The locking device preferably includes a cylindrical body having a recessed area formed coaxially within the body. A cam assembly and a hook arm assembly are fitted within the recessed area and operably coupled to engage and release from the security slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Micro Security Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregg Reyes
  • Patent number: 5983684
    Abstract: A new anti-theft device for locking a telescopic fluidic piston-cylinder actuator in an extended piston position. The inventive device includes an elongate strut wall member having an arcuate wall portion with a pair of side wall portions. The side wall portions are spaced apart to define an elongate channel extending between the first and second ends of the strut wall member. The channel is designed for receiving the extended piston portion of a piston-cylinder actuator therein. Each side wall portion has an aperture extending through each of them. The distal end of an elongate locking pin is insertable through the apertures of the side wall portions such that the locking pin is extendible between the side wall portions across the channel of the strut wall member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Richard M. Boisvert
  • Patent number: 5949339
    Abstract: A method of reducing injuries to riders and associated riding cinch. Firstly, providing a riding cinch that has a locking mechanism with a electrically controlled release for locking a first coupling and a second coupling. Secondly, providing a remote transmitter adapted to send a signal to signal receiving means to selectively activate a release activating circuit by closing a switch to permit power to flow from a power source to the electrically controlled release for the locking mechanism. Thirdly, securing the riding cinch to an animal to be ridden. Fourthly, activating the release activating circuit with the remote transmitter, as the rider dismounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Stanley James Ettinger, Betty Lou Ettinger, Donald Henry Tuchscherer, Idella Jean Tuchscherer
  • Patent number: 5918492
    Abstract: A trigger-engaging plug for a firearm having of the type that is a trigger guard defining lateral openings and a trigger. A rear portion of the trigger is spaced from and in opposed relation with a portion of the firearm frame. The plug includes a base portion having a size and shape corresponding generally to one of the lateral openings. The plug also has a trigger-blocking projection extending from and positioned generally at one end of the base portion. The trigger-blocking projection defines a lock shackle-receiving bore. A tang extends from and is positioned on the base portion and in opposed relation with the first or trigger-blocking projection. The trigger-blocking and tang define a recess of a size and shape corresponding to a trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson
    Inventor: John F. Klebes
  • Patent number: 5917407
    Abstract: An unattended, automated bicycle rental system utilizes a bicycle rental station having a locking bicycle rack and a control tower. The bicycle rack has an inventory of rental bicycles of non standard size as inventory and the bicycles are locked in place on the rack in distinct bicycle-receiving bays. The control tower incudes a credit card reader that unlocks a specific bicycle from its bay upon insertion of a bank or credit card and begins timing the period of time in which the bicycle is away from the rental station. When the bicycle is returned, it is placed into the bay and in contact with the rack so that an identification sensor can determine if it is a system bicycle and lock it in place in the rack and bill the credit card for the rental charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventors: Joshua H. M. Squire, Yuval Degani, David Blakeman
  • Patent number: 5913907
    Abstract: A lock including a latch bolt securely extending out therefrom and having a pair of geometrically opposed channels defined therein and a wall formed near a distal end thereof, a pair of locking pins slidably received within respective channels of the latch bolt and a pad attached to an outer periphery of a stator of the lock enables a user to laterally insert the lock into a predetermined hole defined in a cover of a portable computer or the like to secure the portable computer. Furthermore, due to the provision of a wire and a loop at a distal end of the wire which is securely attached to the periphery of the stator, the portable computer or the like is able to be securely attached to an object suitable for the wire to be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Miko Lee
  • Patent number: 5908178
    Abstract: Security apparatus and a method for preventing theft or unauthorized removal of instruments from the cockpit instrument panel of an aircraft and for preventing theft or unauthorized use of the aircraft. The apparatus includes a rigid plate substantially covering the instrument panel and two rigid arms pivotally secured to the plate inwardly of the columns respectively and laterally pivotable rearwardly away from and forwardly toward the plate. Each of the arms include an end portion for restrainably engaging the aircraft flight control yokes against rotation when the arms are pivoted to extend rearwardly away from the plate while the columns are fully rearwardly extended and the yokes are fully rotated to one side. A locking device is engageable with the end portions of the arms for locking the arms rearwardly extended and for cooperating with the yokes to prevent forward displacement of the columns while securing the plate against the instrument panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Robert A. Sandhagen
  • Patent number: 5881583
    Abstract: A new BASKETBALL RIM LOCKING COVER for PREVENTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A BASKETBALL HOOP. The inventive device includes a cover member having a circular configuration. The cover member has a diameter greater than a diameter of a basketball rim. A pair of diametrically opposed coupling members are secured to the planar lower surface of the cover member disposed inwardly of the peripheral edge for engaging the basketball rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventors: Kenith L. Booker, Bettye J. Booker
  • Patent number: 5832754
    Abstract: A surfboard locking mechanism for use with having a plug with a bottom surface that is substantially planar and may have a notch formed in an edge of said bottom surface, the plug including locking means for engaging a ratchet blade passing through said plug, the blade having means for engaging a cross bar within a recessed cup in surfboard, and a cable secured to the blade for attaching to a stationary object whereby the plug is substantially flush with the top surface of the surfboard and covers the recessed cup when in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Dennis McKenzie
  • Patent number: 5816076
    Abstract: A computer security apparatus is disclosed. In a departure from the art, a metal box having a padlocked front closure is used to mount a computer to the underside of a surface, such as a counter or desk top, in such a manner as to prevent unauthorized access to and removal of the computer. In a preferred embodiment, the security device of the present invention comprises a substantially rectangular-shaped metal housing having a top, opposing left and right sides, and a door hingedly connected across the front of the housing. Each of the left and right sides includes a rear flange extending approximately one quarter of the way across the rear of the housing and a bottom flange extending approximately one third of the way across the bottom of the housing for securing the rear and bottom sides of the computer, respectively. Spaced-apart clips are provided along one end of the door for securing the door to the front end of one of the opposing sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Biedermann, Reynold Liao
  • Patent number: 5802887
    Abstract: A snowmobile ski lock used in combination with a ski of a snowmobile with a central track and two spread out skis, to lock the snowmobile to the ground. The lock comprises a reversed U-shaped toothed section kept in place under a ski by means of a member going around the top of the ski. The toothed section has a number of triangular teeth under its U-shaped section, which penetrate into the ground and block one ski of a snowmobile. When a thief tries to set a snowmobile into motion, the locked ski stays attached to the ground, thus causing the snowmobile to pivot around the lock and not go forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Camille Beland
  • Patent number: 5794464
    Abstract: A security device which includes a locking member, a ratchet member, and a plurality of cables. The cables extend through both a fastener and a base of the locking member and are wrapped around all six sides of a book or box-like structure. The fastener is releasably snap-fitted into the base and secured therein by a pair of metal tines. The ratchet member includes a housing containing a gear and bearing member which are latched together in a spaced relationship to form a reel and a pawl. A bottom plate encloses the contents of the housing. The gear includes a multi-sided key hole, a plurality of openings to secure enlarged ends of the cables therein, and a plurality of teeth. The gear and bearing member each include an annular nub which sits in and rotates around a corresponding bearing surface of the bottom plate and housing, respectively. The pawl has a catch and a resilient spring and communicates with the gear to allow the ratchet member to be turned only in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Alpha Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence R. Yeager, James T. Weisburn, Christopher G. Gallagher, Ronald M Marsilio, William G. Alford
  • Patent number: 5791171
    Abstract: A security device for securing a first object having an aperture to a second object. The security device includes a scissor locking unit for securing the device to the first object and a cable adapter. The scissor locking unit comprises a locking mechanism having a shaft that is rotated between an unlock position and a lock position, a cam connected to said shaft for rotation therewith and a scissor pivot assembly connected to the cam for translating the rotary motion of the cam into linear motion of a pair of scissor arms in the scissor pivot assembly. The pair of scissor arms will be in an overlapping closed position when the locking mechanism is in the unlock position allowing the scissor arms to be inserted into the aperture in the first object. The pair of scissor arms will be in a spread apart open position when the locking mechanism is in the lock position preventing the scissor arms from being withdrawn through the aperture in the first object so as to secure the device to the first object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Qualtec Data Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald W. Kelley
  • Patent number: 5787737
    Abstract: A device for the chassis of a computer case that prevents unauthorized access to the internal components thereof is disclosed. The device includes a `U` shaped member, positioned primarily inside the chassis, such that if one arm is pulled forward against a spring bias through an aperture in the chassis by a user, the other arm of the `U` fastens the cover of the computer case to the base. In addition, an a hole positioned near the tip of the arm that is pulled through the aperture to allow the user to attach a locking mechanism to the fastening device, thus preventing the disengagement and the opening up of the computer case by others. As a result, expensive electrical components located inside the chassis, including a CPU, will not be accessible to outsiders. The user is free to select the type of locking mechanism that is attached to the fastening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Duk-Soon Cho
  • Patent number: 5787740
    Abstract: A boat locking apparatus is provided for a boat that has a centerboard slot which has a predetermined width and a predetermined height. The boat locking apparatus includes a lock-retaining assembly which includes a first end portion and a second end portion extending distally from the first end portion. A predetermined distance which includes the first and second end portions of the lock-retaining assembly is greater than the predetermined height of the centerboard slot. The lock-retaining assembly has a width which is less than the width of the centerboard slot. A transverse lock assembly is connected to the second end portion of the lock-retaining assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Jerold R. Huebner
  • Patent number: 5784906
    Abstract: A locking bolt for a storage basket suspension system is provided with a recess for receiving a locking plate with a depending arm extending at an angle of less than 120.degree. and terminating in an eyelet which extends at 90.degree. to the axis of the depending leg portion to prevent or discourage improper installation of the locking plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: The Moore Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Junius T. Moore
  • Patent number: 5722266
    Abstract: A security device which includes a locking member, a ratchet member, and a plurality of cables. The cables extend through both a fastener and a base of the locking member and are wrapped around all six sides of a book or box-like structure. The fastener is releasably snap-fitted into the base and secured therein by a pair of metal tines. The ratchet member includes a housing containing a gear and bearing member which are latched together in a spaced relationship to form a reel and a pawl. A bottom plate encloses the contents of the housing. The gear includes a multi-sided key hole, a plurality of openings to secure enlarged ends of the cables therein, and a plurality of teeth. The gear and bearing member each include an annular nub which sits in and rotates around a corresponding bearing surface of the bottom plate and housing, respectively. The pawl has a catch and a resilient spring and communicates with the gear to allow the ratchet member to be turned only in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Alpha Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence R. Yeager, James T. Weisburn, Christopher G. Gallagher, Ronald M. Marsilio, William G. Alford
  • Patent number: 5722268
    Abstract: A burglar-proofing device for a computer includes a rear panel having a first pair of grooves and a hole formed therein, and a cover having a second pair of grooves and a fastening receptacle formed therein. A ring screw having a fastening portion formed on a first end and a projecting portion formed on a second end positioned opposite the first end is provided so that the fastening portion is connected within the fastening receptacle when the computer is in an assembled state. A bracket having a slot formed in a center portion and first and second arms extending outwardly from the center portion is provided so that the first arm is inserted through a first one of the first pair of grooves and a first one of the second pair of grooves, the second arm is inserted through a second one of the first pair of grooves and a second one of the second pair of grooves and the projecting portion is inserted through the slot when the computer is in the assembled state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Phil-Kyu Choi
  • Patent number: 5720193
    Abstract: A detachable push button firearm lock is provided. The lock comprises; a housing, and a plurality of pin sets. The housing halves are interlocking and separation capable thereby locking or making available a desired firearm. Access blocking means for the ammunition, magazine, bolt, breech, hammer, slide, actions, and firing capability is also provided. The lock is user recodable by providing a plurality of identical corresponding locking and unlocking pins, when rotated end over end, cause a combination change. Tamper resistance as well as accompanying tamper resistant unlocking means is also disclosed. Optional ease of use features including open latch, closed latch, open stop, and digit grips are also depicted. Further, optional portability and or stationary mounting means are also provided as well as display only means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Daniel J. Dick
  • Patent number: 5699687
    Abstract: A firearm-securing device providing tamper resistance features which device includes a keyway that operates a threaded rod which, in turn, controls spring-loaded cams that obstruct a tubular area including a chamber, a barrel, and a muzzle of a firearm. The cams have either fixed or articulated contact pads. Operating the keyway in clockwise rotation causes the cams to wedge against the inner chamber and barrel surfaces, locking the device in place. Counterclockwise keyway rotation unseats the cams, allowing the device to be remove from the chamber and barrel and thus allow operation of the firearm. The device includes several components designed to minimize tampering of the device itself as well as tampering of the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: John M. Pittman
  • Patent number: 5697232
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for preventing unauthorized use of an engine provided with a spark plug, from which the ignition cable has been removed and conditions have been provided which will enable the spark plug to be covered and therewith made irremovable, or at least not readily removable. The device includes a sleeve (6) which can be fitted over a spark plug (2) to which no ignition cable is connected, and a spark-plug coacting locking part (4, 5). The sleeve (6) and the locking part can be locked in a position relative to one another or in a position in which they are able to move relative to one another, through the medium of a locking device (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Sten .ANG.strom
  • Patent number: 5692403
    Abstract: A belt locking device includes: a housing including a base member having a first belt end of a fastening belt fixed in the base member and having a base engaging portion formed on the base member for detachably engaging a second belt end of the fastening belt, and a cover member combinable with the base member; a primary lock resiliently slidably held in the cover member and partially protruding outwardly from the cover member and having a movable engaging portion formed on the primary lock to be engageable with the base engaging portion of the base member for locking the second belt end of the fastening belt in between the cover member and the base member of the housing, whereby upon depression of the primary lock to disengage the movable engaging portion of the primary lock from the base engaging portion of the base member, the second belt end of the fastening belt is removable from the base member; and a secondary lock secured in the housing and operatively locking and unlocking the primary lock within the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Chong-Kuan Ling
  • Patent number: 5682776
    Abstract: An adjustable toilet-lid closing and lock-down device, with optional use key lock-down, for use on many different types, and styles of toilets, that is sturdily attached, keeping toilet-lid lock-down in it's normal position, requiring adult supervision to use, thus providing safety and general hygiene for infants, young children and household pets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Gene Doyle Burt
  • Patent number: 5666829
    Abstract: A plug lock for locking electric plugs is disclosed. The device comprises a case having a shaft. The shaft has a pair of inverted U-shaped cut portions that pivot outwardly. A lock gear is rotatably disposed within the shaft and engages the cut portions pushing them outwardly. A block cap is slidably disposed on the shaft. In its extended position, the block cap blocks the electric prongs' access to an electric socket. In this position, the lock gear is rotated so that the cut portions extend outwardly, preventing the lowering of the block cap. Lock drive means control rotation of the lock gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Inventor: Isaac Aikens
  • Patent number: 5628213
    Abstract: A tamper resistant device designed to be fitted into the blind hole of a standard VHS videocassette tape in such a manner as to prevent use/loading of the cassette. The device consists of a cylindrical body, pawl, cross pin, spring and a key for removal of the device. This device provides much more security than the current state of the art. Contents of the videocassette can neither be damaged by recording over existing program(s) nor can they be viewed, as insertion of the cassette into a player/recorder is prevented by the device. Furthermore, the device is designed to be compatible with all existing sleeves or covers used for storage. The device can be easily engaged without use of the key. Also, the device cannot be removed until the pawl neutral position is maintained while the device is being removed. Both the pawl and key hole design serve as tamper resistant components. Until the pawl's neutral postion is achieved, either of two locking surfaces engage an under cut built into the videocassette.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: James M. Broadbent
  • Patent number: 5582042
    Abstract: A double lock apparatus (10) includes interconnected locking members (12) connected by a retainer pin (14). The members include arcing slots (22) and a pair of orifices (24) and (26). Each of the locking members includes an arcing slot arcing in an opposite direction and centered on the opposite of the orifices (24) and (26). The external lock members (42) and (44) insert through the orifices (24) and (26) to prevent pivoting. Removal of one of the external lock members (42) or (44) allows pivoting about the other lock member with the retainer pin sliding along one of the arcing slots (22). The pivoting motion separates retainer finger portions (20) to allow unlatching. The devices (10) may be connected in a series for providing unlocking by removal of one of a number of external locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Federal-Hoffman, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian L. Mordick
  • Patent number: 5582401
    Abstract: A basketball hoop closure adapted to be emplaced from the ground by means of a removable rod-like installation member, wherein the installation member is adapted to alternately raise or lower the closure and drive or remove fasteners associated with hoop engaging forcipate ends of the closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventors: Terrence W. Malone, Kathryn J. Godlewski
  • Patent number: 5582363
    Abstract: A guard shield is provided as a protective security device in the cockpit of an aircraft to prevent instruments in the aircraft control panel from being removed by thieves. The guard shield is formed of a flat, laterally expansive, rigid plate with a pair of parallel slots defined in its lower edge. The slots extend upwardly into the interior of the plate and terminate in blind ends. The slots are laterally spaced from each other a distance equal to the distance of the separation of the steering columns for the steering yokes utilized by the pilot and copilot. The guard shield is mounted so as to rest upon the steering columns with the steering columns residing at the upper extremities of the slots in the blind ends thereof. A locking mechanism is employed to hold the guard shield closely adjacent to the surface of the instrument control panel, so as to prevent the removal of instruments therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Don Davis
  • Patent number: 5517836
    Abstract: A fastening device comprises a male retainer, a female retainer and a combination lock. The male retainer is made of a plastic material by injection molding and provided at one end thereof with a device engageable with a belt and at another end thereof with two retaining hooks. The female retainer is made of a plastic material by injection molding and provided at one end thereof with a device engageable with the retaining hooks of the male retainer. The female retainer has a hollow interior in which the combination lock is housed. The combination lock is provided with an arresting plate capable of preventing the retaining hooks from moving inwards when the process of locking the combination lock is under way. The arresting plate is provided with an arresting piece located between two retaining hooks and capable of being caused to move up and down by a numbered wheel of the combination lock so as to lock or unlock the fastening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng Hong
  • Patent number: 5502989
    Abstract: An apparatus which inhibits the theft of equipment such as personal computers is disclosed. The equipment must have an external wall provided with a specially designed, approximately rectangular slot having preselected dimensions. An attachment mechanism includes a housing for a spindle having a first portion rotatable within the housing, a shaft extending outwardly from the housing, and a crossmember at the end of the shaft having peripheral dimensions closely conforming to the internal dimensions of the slot. An abutment mechanism also emanates from the housing, and is located on opposite sides of the shaft intermediate the housing and the crossmember. The peripheral cross-sectional dimensions of the abutment mechanism and the shaft in combination closely conform to the dimensions of the slot. The length of the shaft from the housing to the crossmember is approximately equal to the thickness of the external wall of equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Kensington Microware Limited
    Inventors: William R. Murray, Jr., Stewart R. Carl, Arthur H. Zarnowitz
  • Patent number: 5493878
    Abstract: An apparatus which inhibits the theft of equipment such as personal computers is disclosed. The equipment must have an external wall provided with a specially designed, approximately rectangular slot having preselected dimensions. An attachment mechanism includes a housing for a spindle having a first portion rotatable within the housing, a shaft extending outwardly from the housing, and a crossmember at the end of the shaft having peripheral dimensions closely conforming to the internal dimensions of the slot. An abutment mechanism also emanates from the housing, and is located on opposite sides of the shaft intermediate the housing and the crossmember. The peripheral cross-sectional dimensions of the abutment mechanism and the shaft in combination closely conform to the dimensions of the slot. The length of the shaft from the housing to the crossmember is approximately equal to the thickness of the external wall of equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Kensington Microware Limited
    Inventors: William R. Murray, Jr., Stewart R. Carl, Arthur H. Zarnowitz
  • Patent number: 5481888
    Abstract: A device for attachment to a cable comprises two jaws each having a clamping face in which it is formed with two recesses. When the jaws are placed with their clamping faces in confronting relationship, the recesses form two cavities for receiving two lengths of cable separated by a bight. A pair of screws and nuts clamp the jaws together and releasably retain the lengths of cable in the respective cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Robert C. Perry
  • Patent number: 5473917
    Abstract: An integrated security cable, locking mechanism, and storage case particularly designed for locking skis, bicycles, snowboards, and similar articles to stationary objects such as trees and posts. The lock is employed by removing the lock and cable from the case. The cable is passed around the first object and back through an eye fitting. The annular storage case is so designed as to allow the cable end to pass into a center opening and coil around the interior wall of the case. The lock body then follows the cable into the center opening where it is retained by a snap fit between the lock mechanism and the case. The complete assembly is then easily carried in a jacket pocket or pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventor: James L. Say
  • Patent number: 5467617
    Abstract: A boat locking apparatus is provided for a boat that has a centerboard slot which has a predetermined width and a predetermined height. The boat locking apparatus includes a lock-retaining assembly which includes a first end portion adapted for connecting with a flexible connector, which includes a mid-portion extending distally from the first end portion, and which includes a second end portion that is connected to the mid-portion. A predetermined distance which includes the first end portion, the mid-portion, and the second end portion of the lock-retaining assembly is greater than the predetermined height of the centerboard slot. The lock-retaining assembly has a width which is less than the width of the centerboard slot. An extensible lock assembly is connected to the second end portion of the lock-retaining assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Jerold R. Huebner
  • Patent number: 5460306
    Abstract: A lockable fishing rod holder includes an elongate tubular member which may attached to the outside of a vehicle for supporting a fishing rod in a generally upright position, and a lockable sleeve rotatably engaged on the tubular member. The sleeve and tubular member have longitudinally extending slots therein which may be placed in registry with one another to permit the mounting bracket for the reel on the fishing rod to be moved through the slots lengthwise of the tubular member, and which may be placed out of registry with one another to prevent movement of the mounting bracket through the slots, thereby locking the fishing rod to the holder and preventing its unauthorized withdrawal from the holder. A lock may be engaged between the tubular member and sleeve to prevent relative rotational movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Craig A. Rudd
  • Patent number: 5454202
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flagpole assembly which at least comprises an at least partially hollow flagpole with a top end and a bottom end, a halyard guided at least partially through the interior of the flagpole, and first halyard fixing means. The flagpole is also provided near the top end thereof with at least one halyard passage opening and first halyard guide means. In the interior of the flagpole the halyard interacts with a halyard weight. Securing means for fixing the position of the halyard weight in the hoisted position of the flag and for preventing unauthorized lowering of the flag are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Limeta B.V.
    Inventor: Johannes M. van der Weijden
  • Patent number: 5439210
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device for use with a basketball rim. In one embodiment, the device includes two sleeve members in telescoping engagement. The sleeve member ends define C-shaped slots for engagement with a basketball rim. The bodies of the sleeve members define lock-receiving apertures, which align to receive a lock. In a second embodiment, the device comprises a sleeve member including a locking means. One end of the sleeve member defines a C-shaped slot. The body of the sleeve member includes a locking means and an inverted-U-shaped slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventor: Daniel W. Davis
  • Patent number: 5433095
    Abstract: A basketball-hoop lock has a hoop restriction with a pin-lockable vertical hook on one end and at least one horizontal hook on an opposite end. The vertical hook can be positioned vertically on a portion of a rim of a basketball hoop when an opposite end of the hoop restriction is hooked horizontally on one or more opposing portions of the basketball rim. Positioning a lock pin, a padlock rod or a suitable line through one or more orifices in the vertical hook locks all hooks on the hoop restriction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas M. Mitchell, Louis Thomas, Lydia M. Jones, Michael Thomas
  • Patent number: 5412959
    Abstract: A gun lock assembly formed of two major components, an elongated rod member and a predetermined length of flexible cable whose opposite ends can be secured together with a lock. The elongated rod member has a shank portion having a predetermined length and a head portion formed on its front end. The shank portion has sufficient length to extend into the breech of a gun. The head portion has an aperture through which the cable is threaded. The cable is also threaded through a trigger guard and locked. The flexible cable has a predetermined length such that the rod member cannot be removed from the gun barrel without unlocking the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: James K. Bentley
  • Patent number: 5410894
    Abstract: An improved gladhand security lock apparatus is locked to a gladhand brake line coupler to immobilize a trailer. The body of the security lock apparatus is formed with an abutment surface from which depends a clevis wall and a retainer turned back from the clevis wall and spaced from the abutment surface forming a tongue receiving bight. A guard plate is formed on an end of the body and a clip with an upturned rail member is formed parallel to the guard plate and spaced therefrom. The security lock apparatus is attached to the gladhand coupler so that a tongue of the gladhand is received in the tongue receiving bight, the abutment surface of the security lock apparatus overlies a port of the gladhand coupler, and a retainer flange formed on the gladhand coupler is received between the guard plate and the clip. The security lock apparatus body comprises a barrel. A lock housing is formed in a bore in the barrel perpendicular to and confronting a keeper bolt positioned in a keeper bolt receiving bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Fox, Gary Rose, Don Shirley
  • Patent number: 5392619
    Abstract: This device is for preventing unauthorized access, and theft of automobiles license plates. This license plate lock works by first fastening the license plate locking device to the automobile with bolts that are put in back of the device. Next unlocking the lock in front of the device, this can be with a key lock, or combination lock. Next the movable arm swings up and down so that the license plate can be put inside of the device and locked up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: John G. Dunaway
  • Patent number: 5392621
    Abstract: The invention relates to a protective shield for a vessel having an engine with a transmission portion extending exteriorly of the vessel. The protective shield is designed to be positioned about the interconnection of the out drive and the transmission portion when the out drive is in an elevated position and effective to block access to the fasteners which secure the out drive to the transmission. The protective shield has a pair of spaced side walls converging downwardly and away from a rear wall and each side wall has a hole therethrough to accept a locking pin. The shield deters removal of the out drive by unauthorized persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: Patrick J. Dunnigan
  • Patent number: 5381685
    Abstract: An apparatus which inhibits the theft of equipment such as personal computers is disclosed. The equipment must have an external wall provided with a specially designed, approximately rectangular slot having preselected dimensions. An attachment mechanism includes a housing for a spindle having a first portion rotatable within the housing, a shaft extending outwardly from the housing, and a crossmember at the end of the shaft having peripheral dimensions closely conforming to the internal dimensions of the slot. An abutment mechanism also emanates from the housing, and is located on opposite sides of the shaft intermediate the housing and the crossmember. The peripheral cross-sectional dimensions of the abutment mechanism and the shaft in combination closely conform to the dimensions of the slot. The length of the shaft from the housing to the crossmember is approximately equal to the thickness of the external wall of equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Kensington Microware Limited
    Inventors: Stewart R. Carl, Arthur H. Zarnowitz, Gary L. Myers
  • Patent number: 5344329
    Abstract: A plug-in socket for amplifiers, loudspeaker boxes, electric musical instruments etc. is described. The plug-in socket has a socket member for the introduction and holding of an electrical plug and at least two electrical contacts engageable with the plug. Furthermore, it includes a blocking member adapted to be introduced into the socket member and to be locked therein. The blocking member prevents an unauthorized introduction of an electrical plug into the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: Enzo Faller
  • Patent number: 5340324
    Abstract: A phone jack lock that is molded to the contours of a standard phone jack. When the lock is installed, a spring-loaded locking element protrudes behind the outer surface of the phone jack so that the lock cannot be removed without the key. All elements of the lock are contained within the contours of the interior of the phone jack, so that no element extends beyond the external surface of the jack when the lock is in place, i.e., the locked jack has the same profile as the unlocked jack. The lock may be used without installation effort or tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventors: James H. Fields, Roberta B. Williams, C. L. McKinney
  • Patent number: 5338212
    Abstract: The Power Cord Lock provides an inexpensive and easily manufactured apparatus to deter the unauthorized use of electrical or electronic equipment by preventing the power cord plug from being inserted into an electrical outlet. The plug is locked by inserting the prongs of the plug into holes in the center block which are sized and positioned to accept known standard two or three prong plug configurations. The plug is secured in the center block by folding two flexible straps attached to the sides of the center block around the plug and power cord and inserting the shackle of a padlock around the power cord through one of several pairs of parallel holes in the straps such that the prongs of the plug cannot be withdrawn from the center block. The flexibility of the straps and the spacing and shape of the sets of holes allow the device to be used with a range of plug cross sections and lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Peter J. Kerrigan
  • Patent number: 5330361
    Abstract: A two prong plug locking device having opposed top and bottom hemi-spherical housing elements enclosing an intermediate guide lever and guide plate. A keyed tumbler lock turns the intermediate guide lever. Such guide lever is attached to a flexible cable that moves within a channel in the top and bottom housing. A pair of plug prongs inserted into the bottom housing through multiple apertures are engaged by the cable and locked within the bottom housing. By turning the tumbler lock, the cable is retracted from the plug prongs and the plug is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Gary W. Brend
  • Patent number: 5327752
    Abstract: An axial pin tubular lock for use in securing portable computers and other devices having spindle-accepting ports. The lock is bade up of an outer shell attached to a cable, an inner shell, a rotatable driver sleeve, a stationary tumbler sleeve, a rear scuff plate held in place by a combination of an adhesive and cooperative geometric engagement with the outer shell, a locking spindle extending through the driver and tumbler sleeves, a retaining plate and an anti-rotation extension which may be integrally formed with the retaining plate. The rotatable driver sleeve is equipped with an internally disposed detent which engage a groove on the spindle, thereby providing proper axial and radial alignment between the spindle and the driver sleeve. The internal surface of the stationary tumbler sleeve has an indented support surface, thus providing spindle support while permitting passage of the spindle head through the tumbler sleeve during assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Kensington Microwave Limited
    Inventors: Gary L. Myers, Stewart Carl, Arthur H. Zarnowitz
  • Patent number: 5311397
    Abstract: A computer assembly comprised of a plurality of modular units which are readily connectable by pluggable terminals to permit quick interchangeability and/or replacement of certain units by untrained and unskilled personnel. The computer assembly includes a docking bay module provided with a number of external connectors for connection to equipment such as a keyboard, printer, cash register, etc., and a power supply plug. A CPU module containing the logic circuitry is slidably mounted in and out of the docking bay module and is readily connected by mating pluggable terminals to the various equipment linked to the external connectors on the docking bay module. A peripheral bay module may be added to the docking bay and CPU modules to function as a file server station in a local area network environment. The CPU module is quickly and conveniently replaced by unskilled personnel for maintenance and repair purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Logistics Management Inc.
    Inventors: Martin J. Harshberger, Arthur R. Reader, Michael S. Giambrone