Abstract: A securing apparatus configured to provide automated tensioning and loosening of a strap being utilized to secure an object to a flatbed trailer. The present invention includes a first plate member that is movably mounted proximate the bottom surface of the flatbed trailer. The first plate member includes an aperture proximate the first end thereof. A cylinder bracket member is present on the bottom surface of the first plate member and is surroundably present to the aperture. A cylinder is releasably secured to the cylinder bracket member and the piston thereof is configured to pass through the aperture and engage the bottom of the flatbed trailer. A hook member is formed on the first end of the first plate member and is configured to have an end of strap secured thereto. The first plate member is movable with respect to the trailer.

Abstract: A winch engagement apparatus that is configured to be operably coupled to a strap winch on a flatbed trailer wherein the present invention provides a technique to rotationally move the shaft on the strap winch so as to tighten a strap. The present invention includes a housing wherein the housing has a first side and a second side. A passage is present through the housing and extends between the first side and the second side having openings at each end thereof. The passage is configured to surroundably mount a portion of a shaft present on the strap winch. Engagement levers are present wherein the engagement levers are pivotally secured to the housing. The engagement levers includes a hole engagement edge that is operable to penetrate a hole formed on the shaft portion in order to operably lock the housing into position so a rotational force can be applied.

Abstract: A tie down strap retrieval device that is configured to retrieve and roll a tie down strap after use on a flatbed style trailer. The present invention is configured to be releasably secured to a portion of the trailer. The tie down strap retrieval device includes a main support beam wherein the main support beam includes a rail engagement member that is configured to be releasably secured to a section of a trailer. The rail engagement member includes a hook member having a curved section configured to engage a rail or similar element. A roller assembly is rotatably mounted to a first side of the main support beam and includes a support plate and four mounting rods extending outward from the support plate and main support beam. A guide member is proximate the roller assembly and is configured to direct a strap onto the roller assembly.

Abstract: The present invention provides a rice catalase B promoter for inducing expression specifically in at least one site of roots and stem apices. By using this promoter, it is possible to synthesize a resistance substance against nematodes or soil pathogens in roots; synthesize a substance promoting the development of roots in the roots; produce a gene recombinant plant in which expression of a selective marker in the redifferentiated plant body is limited to roots when the plant is young, so as to suppress the expression when the plant is matured; or the like. Further, the capability of expression in stem apices can be used to develop a technique for suppress gene expression in vigorously proliferating cells.

Abstract: The present invention provides a promoter for inducing expression specifically in at least one site of roots and stem apices. By using this promoter, it is possible to synthesize a resistance substance against nematodes or soil pathogens in roots; synthesize a substance promoting the development of roots in the roots; produce a gene recombinant plant in which expression of a selective marker in the redifferentiated plant body is limited to roots when the plant is young, so as to suppress the expression when the plant is matured; or the like. Further, the capability of expression in stem apices can be used to develop a technique for suppress gene expression in vigorously proliferating cells.