Abstract: An actuated wedge socket assembly. The assembly includes a wedge socket having an elongated hollow basket with a large opening at a first end, a small opening at an opposed second end, and an open interior cross-section tapering from the large opening to the small opening. A wedge includes a large end, an opposed small end, and a peripheral groove to receive a wire rope therein. A mechanism is provided to mechanically move and seat the wedge and the wire rope in the wedge socket to a controlled depth.

Abstract: A combination master link and chain shortener that can be readily connected to existing closed loop lifting rings. In one preferred embodiment, a bail connects to a lifting mechanism and an elongated body having a pair of opposed ends includes an opening at one end to connect to the bail. A pair of chain shortening cradles are provided, each chain shortening cradle in angular relation to the elongated body. A pair of chain connecting hooks, each receive a chain end link therein. A chain retainer pin retains the chain end links within the connecting hooks. In an alternate embodiment, a bail connects to a lifting mechanism and an elongated body includes a pair of opposed ends with an opening at one end to connect to the bail. A pair of chain shortening cradles are provided with each cradle in angular relation to the elongated body. A pair of receptacles are provided at an opposite end of the body in order to receive a pair of chain end links.

Abstract: A hinge pin and retention sleeve to be used as part of a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly includes two chain half-links, the hinge pin, and the retention sleeve. The hinge pin has an annular notch with a reduced cross-section. The retention sleeve has a valley with a reduced cross-section. The retention sleeve fits over the hinge pin and the valley of the retention sleeve fits into and engages the hinge pin annular notch, preventing the hinge pin from moving laterally with respect to the sleeve. Ends of the sleeve nearly abut the chain half-links, with a slight gap between the ends and the chain half-links. The sleeve is restricted from substantial lateral movement by inner faces of the chain half-links. The hinge pin annular notch and the retention sleeve valley are located in the center portion of the hinge pin and retention sleeve, respectively, away from the high-stress areas near the chain half-links.