On Ground Patents (Class 188/32)
  • Publication number: 20110083481
    Abstract: A security device attaches to and secures a wheel of vehicle. The security device has a pair of arms for releasably engaging with a wheel and a locking assembly attached to or disposed between the arms. The locking assembly may include a static portion disposed on one of the arms and an actuatable portion disposed on the other arm. The actuatable portion is receivable within the static portion. The static portion may include one or more rack plates each having a plurality of tabs, with the rack plates being disposed in an opposite and spaced relationship, such that the actuatable portion is receivable therebetween. The actuatable portion may include a rotatable cam having a pair of oppositely disposed arms. The actuatable portion is positionable in a secured position in which the arms are respectively engaged with tabs of the rack plates, and an opened position in which the arms are disengaged from the rack plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: James F. Cheatham
  • Publication number: 20110067960
    Abstract: A wheel stop is disclosed which is engaged by a wheel of a vehicle in an attempt to be parked in a parking lot, to limit movement of the vehicle. The wheel stop includes a middle extending portion, first and second leg portions, all of which are integrally formed with a metal pipe. The wheel stop further includes first and second anchor plates affixed to the first and second leg portions, respectively, the anchor plates being anchored to the parking lot; an electric cable disposed within the metal pipe; and an electric outlet disposed on an outer surface of the metal pipe, and connected with the electric cable, to thereby allow, when the vehicle parked in the parking lot is an electric car, a power supply cable extending from the electric car to be plugged into the electric outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: MEC CO., LTD
    Inventor: Sadao Miki
  • Publication number: 20100170754
    Abstract: An example wheel restraint includes a wheel chock that is manually movable between a retracted or release position clear of a wheel of a vehicle at a loading dock and an operative position to block the path of the wheel. In the release position, the chock can be manually moved freely along a track that is mounted to a driveway of the dock. When the chock is manually moved from its release position to its operative position, a locking feature automatically restricts the movement of the chock relative to the track. When the chock is manually moved back to its release position, the locking feature automatically disengages. Although the wheel chock is connected to a track, much of the force exerted by the wheel against the chock can be transmitted directly from the chock to the driveway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Andrew Brooks, Benjamin Wieberdink, Bradley J. Stone, Kurt Lessard, Norbert Hahn, Timothy Cotton
  • Patent number: 7740114
    Abstract: A braking member for rotatable mounting on a wheel axle of a hand-driven wheeled vehicle such as a shopping cart has a first part having an opening for mounting on a wheel axle, and a second part releasably secured to the first part and having a braking surface adapted to engage the ground when the braking member is in an operative position. When the braking member becomes worn, the entire member does not have to be removed from the wheel or caster, but instead the second part is released from the first part while the first part remains on the wheel. The second part can only be released using a special tool which is provided to store personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Carttronics, LLC
    Inventors: Jay S. Means, Joseph F. Nebolon
  • Publication number: 20100140024
    Abstract: A wheel chock including a head for engagement with a vehicle wheel. The head has a blade that defines a pair of conjoined wedges oriented 180° apart. A hosel is affixed to, and extends laterally from, the middle of the blade. A handle is affixed to, and extends upwardly from, the hosel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen D. Wolfram
  • Publication number: 20100108448
    Abstract: A locking wheel device designed to prevent the unauthorized movement and or roll away of a wheeled vehicle or trailer by locking onto a wheel and having a configuration such that the device also serves to chock the wheel when in the locked on position. A locking wheel chock device which includes two similar matching arms with both a male and female tube attached to one end to allow for the telescopic engagement of said arms. The female tube having attached a lock assembly for locking said arms in a fixed position. Further, the female tube portion has attached to its lower edge, which is closest to the ground, means for contacting the ground in a binding fashion so as to prevent forward rolling movement of the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Publication number: 20100065714
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a motorcycle in an upright position. The apparatus includes a base and a wheel stop coupled thereto. A cradle is pivotably coupled to the base and includes a pair of clamp members slidably coupled thereto. The pair of clamp members are biased away from each other. In other embodiments, a chock apparatus and a method of holding a motorcycle in an upright, stable position using a chock apparatus are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Dennis Ray Curlee, David Eric Curlee, Steven Richard Fox, Fu Yong Gang, Jin Yueming
  • Patent number: 7641026
    Abstract: A brake assembly for a motor, the brake assembly comprising a stack of brake elements, at least one of which is rotatable with an output shaft of the motor, in use, and at least one of which is non-rotatable relative to a housing, and actuator means controlling the magnitude of a compressive load applied to the brake elements, wherein the brake elements are provided, at least in part, with a surface coating which raises the coefficient of friction of the brake elements to a value greater than 0.2. The invention also relates to a brake assembly comprising a plurality of brake elements and an electromagnetic actuator arranged to permit control of a compressive load applied to the brake elements, wherein the actuator includes a winding located such that the brake elements are accessible without requiring removal of the winding from the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Goodrich Control Systems Limited
    Inventors: Dennis Richard Hayward, Paul Harris, David Bonniemann
  • Patent number: 7594415
    Abstract: A wheel clamp includes a clamp body, a movable rod pivotally connected to the clamp body, a connecting rod fitted on the movable rod, and a rotating unit disposed in a lock core seat of the clamp body. The connecting rod has a threaded section for connecting with a screw. The rotating unit has a rotating rod to be inserted into an accommodating trough of the screw. A first engaging member is secured to the accommodating trough of the screw. A second engaging member is secured to the rotating rod of the rotating unit. The second engaging member has a second engaging block to mesh with and drive a first engaging block of the first engaging member so the connecting rod is able to be moved relative to the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Wu
  • Patent number: 7581623
    Abstract: A method for fixedly positioning commercial kitchen equipment is provided. A ramped stop comprises a body having an upstanding front ramp portion having opposing forwardly and rearwardly sloping surfaces for the passage of a wheel therealong, a rear ramp portion extending rearwardly from the rearwardly sloping surface. The rear ramp portion being of a height at least as great as the front ramp portion. A wheel receiving portion positioned between the front ramp portion and the rear ramp portion and interconnecting the front and rear ramp portions. Lateral wheel support elements attached to the body of the stop on the bottom floor of the stop and extending the length of the stop. A plurality of securing holes in the bottom floor of the stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: John M. Egnor
  • Publication number: 20090194376
    Abstract: An example wheel restraint includes a wheel chock that is manually movable between a retracted or release position clear of a wheel of a vehicle at a loading dock and an operative position to block the path of the wheel. In the release position, the chock can be manually moved freely along a track that is mounted to a driveway of the dock. When the chock is manually moved from its release position to its operative position, a locking feature automatically restricts the movement of the chock relative to the track. When the chock is manually moved back to its release position, the locking feature automatically disengages. Although the wheel chock is connected to a track, much of the force exerted by the wheel against the chock can be transmitted directly from the chock to the driveway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew Brooks, Jonathan Andersen, Kurt Lessard, Kyle Nelson, Timothy Cotton, Ben Wieberdink, Bradley J. Stone, Donald L. Anton, Joseph Manone, Norbert Hahn
  • Publication number: 20090194375
    Abstract: A wheel restraint includes a wheel chock that is manually movable between a retracted position clear of a wheel of a vehicle at a loading dock and an operative position to block the path of the wheel. In the retracted position, the chock can be manually moved freely along a track that is mounted to a driveway of the dock. When the chock is manually moved from its retracted position to its operative position, a locking feature automatically restricts the movement of the chock relative to the track. When the chock is manually moved back to its retracted position, the locking feature automatically disengages. Although the wheel chock is connected to a track, most of the force exerted by the wheel against the chock is transmitted directly from the chock to the driveway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Timothy Cotton, Norbert Hahn, Joseph A. Manone, Kyle E. Nelson, Reinhard E. Sander
  • Patent number: 7537095
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for reliably blocking a vehicle (2) at a loading dock (3) includes a telescopic arm (4) that at one end (4A) is supported so as to be stationary but is pivotal about two axes (P1, P2) and that at the opposite end (4B) is provided with an engagement element (5) for effecting a blocking connection between the vehicle and the area of a loading dock. At the same time as the stationary end maybe provided at a safe position where it is practically completely out of the way when it comes to e.g. snow clearance and risk of being run into, the capability of pivotal movement and the telescopic design of the arm makes it possible to easily maneuver the engagement element into a blocking or restraining engagement from the outside of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Bengt-Olov Eriksson
  • Patent number: 7527128
    Abstract: An anchorless wheel bumper block is used as a stop in a parking facility. The block includes a base with a bottom surface, a top with an upper surface, and a side extending around a perimeter of the block and between the bottom and upper surfaces. The bottom surface rests on a ground surface and the block is in contact with and unattached to the ground surface in an in-use position. The bottom surface is disposed in a first plane and has a length. The upper surface is disposed in a second plane generally parallel to the first plane. A distance between the bottom and upper surfaces defines a height of the block. The length is substantially greater than the height of the block. The block remains substantially in the in-use position when a wheeled unit contacts the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: APM Terminals North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Guy A. Buzzoni
  • Patent number: 7490701
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the securing structure comprises a depression formed in a support surface, such as a concrete or asphalt parking lot. The depression is configured to accept one or more wheels of a wheeled cart therein for restraining the cart. An advertising platform is located in the depression. The advertising platform bears advertising or other information. Another embodiment of the invention is an advertising platform for use with a cart securing structure which is mounted to a support surface. The platform may span the space between two securing structures, the platform having a top surface configured to bear advertising or other information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Publication number: 20090026022
    Abstract: A wheel restraint for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock includes various features such as, a wheel chock supported by a spring loaded articulated arm with a spring that can be selectively tightened or released, a sensor that detects whether the chock is solidly against a base plate or floor, a bi-directional pivotal joint between the articulated arm and the wheel chock to ensure that the chock can sit squarely on a mating base plate, a wheel chock that meshes with a hydraulically actuated base plate, pivotal or otherwise movable backstops that prevent a wheel chock from sliding out of position, and a base plate cleaning system. The cleaning system might include a vehicle-actuated brush, fluid spray nozzles, electric heater and removable cover plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Andersen, Eric Bublitz, Timothy Cotton, John A. Kish, Kurt Lessard, Timothy Muhl, Kyle E. Nelson, Pamala Pietrangelo, Reinhard E. Sander, Matt Sveum, Benjamin Wieberdink
  • Publication number: 20090019901
    Abstract: A method of chocking a wheel comprises a step of providing a wheel chock. The wheel chock comprises a stationary body and a rocking body. The rocking body is pivotally connected to the stationary body. The method also comprises a step of rolling a wheel into contact with the rocking body in a manner causing the rocking body to rotate to a wheel securing position relative to the stationary body and causing the wheel to reach a chocked position relative to the stationary body. The method further comprises a step of activating a locking mechanism that limits pivotal movement of the rocking body away from the wheel securing position relative to the stationary body. The activating of the locking mechanism occurs while the wheel is in the chocked position. After activating the locking mechanism, the wheel is fully secured to the wheel chock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Brad Swasand
  • Publication number: 20080314693
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an immobilisation device for a wheel of a vehicle, comprising two chocks to be positioned in front and behind a wheel to prevent said wheel from rolling, two arms which are pivotable about a pivot point relative to each other, which function as connecting means by which the chocks are connected together at least during use of the immobilisation device, and tensioning means arranged for tensioning the chocks against the wheel, wherein the arms are each connected to a chock on one side of the pivot point and to a tensioning element on the other side of the pivot point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Joan Jozef Antonius Maria VAN ASPERT
  • Publication number: 20080277211
    Abstract: A wheel chock including a head for engagement with a vehicle wheel. The head has a blade that defines a pair of conjoined wedges oriented 180° apart. A hosel is affixed to, and extends laterally from, the middle of the blade. A handle is affixed to, and extends upwardly from, the hosel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen D. Wolfram
  • Publication number: 20080264734
    Abstract: A container fillable with a flowable material such as sand, salt or water, and usable as a ballast weight for a back of a motor vehicle and also as a wheel chock. The container is elongate and may have a triangular cross section. One end may be permanently closed. An end cap at the other end may be removed for filling/emptying the container, or may have a hole sealed by a plug or a cap for filing/emptying the container. An anti-skid surface element may provided on an external surface of the body. A separate handle may be provided, or an integral handle may be provided. Stripes of a color contrasting with the body member may be disposed on at least two sides of the body member. The container may be formed of a rigid metal or plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Edward J. Walter
  • Publication number: 20080230329
    Abstract: A wheel chock assembly is provided having a base member extending axially from a top end to a bottom end, first and second support members whose upper ends are pivotally and slidably engaged with respect to the base member, first and second wheel chocks mounted with respect to the lower ends of the support members, and an adjustment mechanism mounted to the base member. The adjustment mechanism is operatively engaged to the support members to achieve axial movement of their upper ends with respect to the base member to extend and retract them within a range that permits the assembly to grip the wheel of a cart between the wheel chocks. Preferably, the adjustment mechanism is a cord secured to the main member of the base member such that pulling the cord upward draws the main member into the handle of the base member, extending the support members outward, while releasing the cord withdraws the main member from the handle, retracting the support members inward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Rita Slager
  • Publication number: 20080185238
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a wheel immobilizer apparatus and method for immobilizing a wheel of a vehicle. For example, a wheel immobilizer apparatus may include a plurality of chocks and an adjustment member secured to each of the chocks and configured to adjust a relative distance between a pair of the plurality of chocks. The apparatus may also include a flexible member comprising a pair of free ends each secured to a respective one of the pair of chocks and configured to secure the chocks to a wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Arnold
  • Publication number: 20080128220
    Abstract: A portable wheel chock for partially accommodating and supporting a vehicle wheel. The wheel chock comprises a base plate which is configured to have at least a portion of the vehicle wheel rested thereupon. In addition to the base plate, the wheel chock comprises a support frame which is attached to the base plate and is configured to partially receive the vehicle wheel. The support frame itself includes a pair of elongate base portions which extend in spaced, generally parallel relation to each other and are each attached to the base plate. In addition to the base portions, the support frame includes a support portion which defines an opposed, generally parallel pair of arms, and a pair of arcuate portions which define the transition between the base portions and respective ones of the arms of the support portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: George S. Hartmann
  • Publication number: 20080060886
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for supporting a wheeled vehicle in a stationary and/or upright orientation. In one aspect of the present invention, a self-locking rear brace is coupled with an adjustable front brace to provide a plurality of contact points between the vehicle support and a wheel contained therein. In another aspect of the present invention, a stabilizer is provided to accommodate freestanding use of the vehicle support. In another aspect, the components of the vehicle support are easily removable to accommodate loading of a plurality of vehicles in an aligned manner. Also disclosed are rear braces including extensions for providing lateral support to a wheel contained within the vehicle support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Glenn Alan Erghott
  • Patent number: 7299902
    Abstract: A wheel chock, for use with tandem wheeled vehicles, having a pair of generally wedged shaped block members in spaced apart relation that are interconnected by a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly is operatively connected to a handle so as to horizontally displace the block members relative to each other. The first end of each block member has an angled contact panel configured for frictional engagement with the wheels so as to prevent movement of the vehicle. The handle is operatively connected to a link member configured for over-center displacement and the link member is pivotally connected to a drive member. In the preferred embodiment, the wheel chock comprises a locking member configured to maintain the linkage assembly in the engaged condition. The first ends of the block members has a vertical panel and is configured at an angle that will not become easily stuck under the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Jim Thorpe
  • Publication number: 20070245783
    Abstract: A two-piece vehicle immobilizing device adapted for removable interconnection to a vehicle wheel assembly. The vehicle immobilizing device utilizes an outer arm, an inner arm with inner and outer indexing stops, an engagement dome, and a securing mechanism that provides engagement to the vehicle wheel assembly to prevent unauthorized removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Applicant: MITI MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Robert A. Fulcher, Allan E. Beavers
  • Patent number: 7284641
    Abstract: A wheel locking system includes a plate that has an upper edge and a lower edge. A lower housing has a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. The lower edge of the plate extends through the top wall and is fixedly attached to the bottom wall. An upper housing has an upper wall, a lower wall, a forward wall, a rearward wall, a first outer side and a second outer side. The plate extends through the upper and lower walls and the upper housing is selectively positionable on the plate. The forward wall is substantially coplanar with the front wall. The upper and lower housings may be positioned between and abutted against each of a pair of tires to prevent the rotation of the tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: James E. Spence, III
  • Patent number: 7278520
    Abstract: Disclosed is a wheel locking device for vehicle which prevents an unauthorized movement of the vehicle. The wheel locking device for vehicles comprises a supporting disk attached to an outer side surface a wheel and provided with arms, fixtures inserted into the arms so as to surround a circumferential surface of the wheel, clamping pins for fixing the fixtures, a guard disk for surrounding an outer side surface of the supporting disk so as to cover the clamping pins, a clamping bolt for holding the guard disk and the supporting disk together, a lock for locking the clamping bolt. The wheel locking device is easily assembled and attached to the wheel, and is effectively protected from an unauthorized separation from the wheel. Further, the locations of the fixtures are adjusted according to the size of the wheel of the vehicle or the fixture has a folding-type structure easily fixed to the wheel without interfering with the frame of the vehicle, thereby being firmly secured to the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Young-Hoon Kim
  • Patent number: 7264092
    Abstract: Wheel chock restraint system comprising a wheel chock, a supporting element mounted on the ground near a loading dock and a support assembly connected by one end to the wheel chock and by another end near the loading dock. A base portion of the chock is provided with first engagement elements and the supporting elements are provided with corresponding second engagement elements, cooperating to create a retention force to prevent the chock from sliding away from the wheel of a vehicle attempting to depart prematurely. The first engagement elements comprise teeth extending downwardly under an angle and the second engagement elements are stoppers extending upwardly from the supporting element. This system also comprises an anti-theft locking device; which, together with the first and second engagement elements, securely locks the chock on the wheel of the vehicle to prevent any unauthorized removal of the chock and theft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: GMK Safety Inc.
    Inventor: Gaetan Jetté
  • Patent number: 7243761
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for securely positioning a medical device that prevents movement of one end of the device by applying a single force. The apparatus allows a doctor to depress a pedal, which is connected to a pedal housing by way of a single shaft. Connected to the ends of the shaft are two separate linkage members. The first linkage member is attached to a ratcheting mechanism that steers the pedal into the locked position. The second linkage member is connected to a cam within the pedal housing that drives a spring-loaded plunger assembly. When the pedal is in the locked position the plunger assembly is in contact with the floor, thereby preventing movement of the device. To release the braking device, the doctor depresses the pedal slightly, which causes the ratcheting mechanism to allow the pedal, and therefore the plunger assembly, to return to their unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey W. Pattee, John M. Simmons, David M. Robbins
  • Patent number: 7172203
    Abstract: A limited movement roller device and related method for moving a load includes a frame with a load bearing surface. A plurality of rollers are moveable through the frame and connected with respect to each other. A stop block is positioned within a void between two rollers of the plurality of rollers so as to obstruct movement of the plurality of rollers through the frame. Accordingly, a load may be maneuvered by reaching a braking point of the roller device and then rotating the load and the roller device 180° relative to each other prior to moving the load again to the braking point. This process may then be repeated to move the load without risk of losing control of the load, such as down an incline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Triodyne Safety Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Ralph Lipsey Barnett
  • Patent number: 7168527
    Abstract: A wheel torquing assisting device for allowing lateral movement of a suspended vehicle wheel while preventing rotation of the suspended vehicle wheel, including anti-slip teeth on the wheel-engaging face, a forefoot portal and means for varying the height and/or width of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Garrett W. Bateman
  • Patent number: 7131561
    Abstract: A boat rack apparatus for carrying a boat on a vehicle roof rack includes a plurality of conformable support members. Each support member has an expanse that contacts a boat hull. The expanse is supported by a rib arrangement, including a spring rib and a load rib. The spring rib underlies a flexible portion of the expanse. The load rib provides vertical support to the expanse. The support member adapts to different boat hull shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel M. Humes
  • Patent number: 7121508
    Abstract: The present invention is adapted to immobilize a vehicle by utilizing a pair of selectively interconnected chocks that are placed fore and aft of a tire. The chocks are preferably used to secure aircraft and/or aircraft ground support equipment from unauthorized motion in airport parking areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: MITI Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Fulcher, Allan E. Beavers
  • Patent number: 7107802
    Abstract: An immobilization apparatus for a vehicle having a wheel with a tire. The apparatus comprises first and second elongated members having inner ends and outer ends. The inner ends are connected together and the outer ends are angularly spaced apart. There is an L-shaped clasp at each of the outer ends for grasping the tire. The clasps are rotatable about the outer ends. A third elongated member has an inner portion and an outer portion and is angularly spaced-apart from the first and second members. The inner portion is tubular and the outer portion of the third elongated member is telescopically received therein. The outer portion has an L-shaped clasp, and the outer portion is rotatable with respect to the inner portion. A locking mechanism secures the outer portion at a fixed telescopic position with respect to the inner portion of the third elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: John Clarke
  • Patent number: 7070024
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a body having a pair of spaced stops with an intermediate trough. In use, the wheels of the cart are rolled along an upwardly extending face of one of the stops, over the stop and into the trough between the stops. In one embodiment, advertising is located on the surfaces of one or more of the stops. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an LCD display located on one of the faces and a control system for presenting advertising and other information using the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Patent number: 7040460
    Abstract: A mechanic's platform brake assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall with an upper edge defining an opening into the housing. A panel is attached to the upper edge. The bottom wall has an aperture extending therethrough. A block member positioned in the housing is biased toward the opening. An urging member is attached to the panel for selectively urging the block member toward the bottom wall. A leg has a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the block member such that the leg extends outwardly through the aperture. A footpad is attached to the second end. A coupler is attached to the housing for removably attaching the housing to a frame of a platform. The block member may be urged toward the bottom wall such that the footpad abuts a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventors: Allen V. Sherrill, Robert W. Ragan
  • Patent number: 7040461
    Abstract: A wheel chock (10) configured for placement under a resting rubber tired wheel (W), such as a wheel found on a powered vehicle, to maintain the wheel (W) at rest is disclosed. The wheel chock (10) broadly includes a body (12) that defines an internal chamber (14) in communication with an open face (16) presented by the body (12). The body (12) presents a prism-like configuration having a generally triangular shape and includes a pair of oppositely spaced sidewalls (18, 20), a rear wall (22) extending between and adjoining the sidewalls (18,20), and a wheel-supporting surface (24) extending between and thereby enclosing the walls (18,20,22). The wheel-supporting surface (24) presents a low profile, arcuate leading tire-engaging edge (34). The arcuate leading edge (34) substantially complements the contour of the tire and enables the chock (10) to be easily placed under the wheel (W) in an optimal operating position i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Blitz U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Larry L. Chrisco, Charlie L. Forbis
  • Patent number: 7032720
    Abstract: Wheel chock restraint system comprising a wheel chock, a supporting element mounted on the ground in vicinity of a loading dock and a wheel chock support assembly connected by one end to the wheel chock and by another end in vicinity of the loading dock. A base portion of the chock is provided with first engagement elements and the supporting elements are provide with corresponding second engagement elements. The first engagement elements are adapted to cooperate with the second engagement elements, thus creating a retention force directed away from the loading dock and preventing the chock from sliding away from the wheel of a vehicle making an attempt to depart prematurely from the loading dock. Wheel chock support assembly is adapted to ensure a secure positioning of the chock under the wheel of the vehicle during loading and unloading operation by creating an engagement force directed towards the loading dock and pressing the chock against the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventors: Gaetan Jette, Renée Chartier
  • Patent number: 7000737
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the securing structure comprises a depression formed in a support surface, such as a concrete or asphalt parking lot. The depression is configured to accept one or more wheels of a wheeled cart therein for restraining the cart. An advertising platform is located in the depression. The advertising platform bears advertising or other information. Another embodiment of the invention is an advertising platform for use with a cart securing structure which is mounted to a support surface. The platform may span the space between two securing structures, the platform having a top surface configured to bear advertising or other information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Patent number: 7000740
    Abstract: A pair of wheel chocks (10, 12), configured for placement under a resting tandem wheel (W) to maintain the wheel (W) at rest and for alternatively supporting a trailer tongue wheel (Wj), are disclosed. The wheel chock (10) broadly includes a body (14) that defines an internal chamber (16) in communication with an open face (18) presented by the body (14). Wheel supporting surface (26, 28) each include a arcuate leading edge (60, 62) to complement the contour of the wheel (W) and enable the chock (10) to be easily placed under the wheel (W) in an optimal position. A top surface (24) of the body (14) including an arcuate depression (32) operable to receive the trailer tongue wheel (Wj). A substantially hollow tapered supporting leg (46) projects from arcuate depression (32) for support. The top surface additionally includes an open rim (36) which can at least partially receive a supporting leg of another similar configured wheel chock (12) to enable nesting of the chocks (10, 12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Blitz U.S.A., Inc.
    Inventors: Larry L. Chrisco, Charlie L. Forbis
  • Patent number: 6978865
    Abstract: A safety chock (16) for large wheeled vehicles. A torque arm component (26, 24, 20, 21) maintains and positions an underside face (37) of a shoe (30) in proper position relative to the travelling surface (14), when moving the chock (16) from a cruise position to a chocking position. A tierod assembly (24, 28, 27, 23, 21) positions a receiving face (31) of the shoe (30) to engage the wheel (13). The two components rotate in concert to accurately place the shoe (30) to engage the wheel (13) in an optimal chocking position as the shoe receiving face (31) is engaging the periphery of the wheel (13) simultaneously with the shoe underside face (37) contacting the traveling surface (14). This safety chock (16) operates independent of the ride or loaded height of the vehicle as it is attached to the axle (12), or the suspension components of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Safety Chock Systems International Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert Vincent Fougere
  • Patent number: 6971483
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for controlling a velocity of an object, and more specifically, to a braking apparatus to be attached with a piece of snow-sporting-equipment. The braking apparatus comprises a brake bracket with a deployable braking section. The deployable braking section may be actuated through use of a user-operated control. When actuated, the deployable braking section is forced into a snow's surface, creating drag and friction in order to control the snow-sporting-equipment's terrestrial velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Eryn Houston
  • Patent number: 6957722
    Abstract: A vehicle chocking system includes a control panel positionable within a vehicle for remotely operating the system. The system further includes a housing and a power source for supplying power to the system. The housing includes a motor disposed therein and electrically connected to the control panel. The system further includes a chock arm pivotally connected to the motor and a tire chock connected to the chock arm and engageable with a vehicle tire for preventing same from rotating in a predetermined direction. The chock arm includes an elongated pin connected thereto and extending outwardly therefrom. The tire chock has a slot formed therein for receiving the pin so that the tire chock can be engaged with, and disengaged from, a vehicle tire. The system further includes a plurality of collars securable to each other and engageable about a vehicle axle for assisting to maintain same at a non-rotating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Daniel J. Baskerville, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6941780
    Abstract: A wheel lock system for an at least two wheeled trailer with an object or a personal water craft, the trailer having leaf springs, the wheel lock system including two hook shaped members which attach to each of the leaf springs and protrude through slotted holes in the wheels and is locked into position and retained in position by respective locks engaging one of a plurality of upper grooved indentations on each hook shaped member, a locking member slidably engaged between the hook shaped members placed upon the crook shaped member prior to application of the lock to protect the wheel from damage when removing and engaging the wheel lock device, and a chain connecting between the two hook shaped members attached to the wheels with a vertical shaft locking member engaging an impeller shaft on the small personal water craft, securing the personal water craft to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: Kendall Joe Marr
  • Patent number: 6938734
    Abstract: A configurable wheel lock comprising a rigid chock and an adjustable fork pivoted to the chock that engages a wheel seated within a cradle. The fork projecting from the control portion mounts a pair of separate arms pivoted to opposite ends of an axle that is slidably captivated within guide slots in the chock sides. Projecting arm stubs are inserted within the wheel to be captivated for locking. The fork arms rotate in a first plane that is coplanar with both arms and the axle, and they may be rotated about the axle. These combined rotational features enhance the positional abilities of the arms, and the dexterity of the wheel lock. Rigid locking-links pivoted to at least one of the arms are extended to the opposite arm to lock it in a selected locking position about the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Curl
  • Patent number: 6935145
    Abstract: A stationary axle/wheel lock anti-theft device for positioning and encumbering vehicle axle/wheel assembly movement in X-Y-Z-axis planes. Said device includes a base, a cylindrical blocking member and a security lock assembly. A frontal wheel barrier integral to the base restricts access to the front face of the vehicle wheel rim, axle hub, wheel nuts and cylindrical blocking member. Said barrier provides a restraining bore for the cylindrical blocking member in the locked position. Wheel chocks integral to the base localizes the vehicle wheel assembly, substantially aligning the vehicle axle with the cylindrical blocking member coaxially. The cylindrical blocking member is restrained in the extended position by mechanical means and serves to protect a security lock device from tampering. The cylindrical block member obstructs forward or rearward movement once the vehicle wheel assembly makes contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Douglas R Howitt
  • Patent number: 6920771
    Abstract: A lock-down device for use on an all-terrain vehicle, comprised of a rectangular base which mounts to a surface such as a garage floor or bed of a pick-up truck, four sockets mounted at each corner of the base, a flat rear panel with two bolts pivotally articulating on its bottom edge, a wheel cover, a flat rear panel which pivotally articulates with the wheel cover and which has two bolts on the bottom edge of the rear panel. The bolts on the rear panel and the front panel register with the four sockets on the base. The rear panel engages with the wheel cover by a latching mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: James Robert Griffith
  • Patent number: 6896223
    Abstract: The present invention is adapted to immobilize a vehicle by utilizing a pair of selectively interconnected chocks that are placed fore and aft of a tire. The chocks are preferably used to secure aircraft from unauthorized motion in airport parking areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Miti Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Fulcher, Allan E. Beavers
  • Patent number: 6863101
    Abstract: A description is given of an insertion device for snow chains, comprising a base (2) designed to be rested on the ground, and two lateral walls (3) which rise up from the base to form a channel for insertion of the internal ring (15) of a snow chain, in such a way that the internal ring (15) of the snow chain can be made to pass behind the wheel of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: König SpA
    Inventor: Romolo Airoldi