Key Operated Patents (Class 248/553)
  • Publication number: 20080296468
    Abstract: An ignition switch device is provided with a switching means 2 having a key hole 2a, and capable of being rotationally operated in a predetermined direction with an ignition key K inserted to start and stop the engine of an industrial machine, a case 3 covering the switching means 2 and formed with an insertion hole 3b allowing the key hole 2a to face the outside, a shutter 4 rotatable between a closed position where the insertion hole 3b of the case 3 is closed, and an open position where the insertion hole 3b is opened to allow the key hole 2a to face outside, and a protruding portion 7 formed within the range of rotation of the shutter 4 while protruding from the surface 3a of the case 3 and whose protruding end contacts the rear surface 4b of the shutter 4 while the shutter 4 rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicants: ASAHI DENSO CO., LTD., KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akihiko TSUCHIKIRI, Takehiro SAKAI, Masaaki UEDA, Keisuke MIURA, Hiroshi KAWANAMI
  • Patent number: 7385522
    Abstract: A portable security device for displaying articles of merchandise in a retail environment has a base formed with a plurality of holes arranged in predetermined patterns for mounting the device on a plurality of different support structures. A housing containing an alarm system, a retractor and an alarm cable is contained within the housing. The housing is locked on the base by a key operated tumbler attached to the base. The base is mounted on the various support structures by fasteners, the attachment heads thereof being concealed within the housing. A plunger switch at the outer end of the alarm cable is activated when the cable is attached to an item of merchandise. An audible alarm is sounded if the integrity of the alarm cable is comprised or if the item of merchandise is removed therefrom. In a modified embodiment, a space is provided between the alarm and mounting base providing increased sound alarm level in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Belden, Jr., Ronald M. Marsilio
  • Patent number: 7370840
    Abstract: A retainer device for securing a displayed electronic device with a hinged member and a base portion to a support includes a grooved track secured to the support. First and second retainers are positionable in the track to define a space for the electronic device and include shoulder portions for engaging the grooved track and apertures for receiving elongated fasteners. First and second sets of spacers having complementary recesses and protrusions and through-holes for receiving the elongated fasteners are disposed over the retainers. A slotted member, through which the hinged member of the electronic device can be inserted, is supported by the first and second sets of spacers. Elongated fasteners are insertable through the slotted member and the sets of spacers and are engagable with the retainers for securing the electronic device to the support. A front grip secures a front of the base portion of the electronic device to the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Protex International Corp.
    Inventor: Joseph Deconinck
  • Patent number: 7273203
    Abstract: An accessory device mounting platform includes a substantially rigid frame and a substantially rigid mating tray that are slidably interconnected along a first direction, the frame and tray include a tongue-and-groove slide mechanism arranged therebetween for sliding the tray relative to the frame relative to a first direction. A resilient biasing mechanism, such as a cantilevered flexure or tension spring, is coupled between the frame and a latch bolt portion of a clasp mechanism for biasing the latch bolt portion toward a latch strike plate mechanism formed in the tray. The latch strike plate mechanism is formed with an inclined surface that is positioned to engage a latch bolt portion of the clasp mechanism and is structured for deflecting the latch bolt away from the frame, while the resilient biasing mechanism of the clasp mechanism is structured for biasing the latch bolt back toward the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 7249474
    Abstract: A laptop lock assembly is provided. The assembly includes a lock body configured to be coupled to a laptop, the lock body having a locking portion; a cable plug slidably coupled to the lock body, the cable plug including an arm; and a lock positioned at the lock body and configured to place the laptop lock assembly into a locked state in which the arm of cable plug and the locking portion of the lock body cooperate with one another to form an enclosed area between the arm of the cable plug and the locking portion of the lock body for constraining an object attached to or part of the laptop within the enclosed area, the lock being further configured to place the laptop lock assembly into an unlocked state in which the arm of the cable plug is slidably positioned away from the locking portion of the lock body, so that the object attached to or part of the laptop may be removed from the area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Alexander G Avganim
  • Patent number: 7243514
    Abstract: A method and device helps to prevent theft of sonar devices and GPS units from the brackets they are normally installed on or mounted to. The present invention provides for a unique locking device having a threaded end. The locking device is capable of alternatively permitting and prohibiting rotation of the threaded end. When a key is turned to lock the device, the handle of the device is permitted to rotate freely and the device does not permit rotation and removal of the threaded end. The device also provides for a hardened spacer that directly abuts the handle such that it prevents a thief from getting access to, and thus cutting the threaded end of the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: Don Frantz
  • Patent number: 7174752
    Abstract: A security device that can be used to secure devices, such as laptop computers, of varying sizes, and includes two securing members that are telescopically connected together and which have opposed restraining members for securing a device there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Compucage International Inc.
    Inventor: Steve N. Galant
  • Patent number: 7174751
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of using a durable, cylinder-like device that is inserted within the main cylinder part of a kingpin lock. One preferred embodiment, of several, has an outside diameter in close tolerance to the inside diameter of a kingpin lock device. In addition, the holder is easily insertable into the kingpin lock device. A round hole is located within the wall of the holder such that the hole in a cylinder wall of each kingpin lock device aligns with the hole in the holder. The diameter of the hole in the holder is sufficient to allow a metal tongue to be inserted from the kingpin lock device through the hole in the holder. Then a key in the lockpin device is removed leaving the lock device secured to the holder. In addition, the holder has a metal plate perpendicularly welded to the cylinder part. The surface could be the underside of a trailer or box or in a storage compartment behind the cab of a tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Juan Nepomuseno Escalante, III
  • Patent number: 7159423
    Abstract: A motorcycle helmet lock securely grasps a metal strap ring (or D ring) of a helmet strap to prevent helmet theft. The helmet lock includes a groove suitable to accept the strap ring and a locking bolt to advance through the strap ring to secure the helmet. The lock may be an integral part of a motorcycle grip or foot peg, may bolt to a common accessory attachment interface of known motorcycle grips, or include an expanding portion which expands inside a tubular handlebar end to attach the helmet lock. The lock may further be used on any type of vehicle using handlebars for foot pegs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Kewlmetal, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew N. Mrdeza, Joseph B. Gschweng
  • Patent number: 7088587
    Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a cage (40) and a bracket (50). The cage includes a rear panel (10) having a pair of catches (13), a bottom panel (20) having a bent strip (25) defining a cutout (27) therein, and side panel (30) having a latch bar (33) and a latch hook (35). The bracket includes a top wall (51) having a fastener (58) and a second stop (59), a pair side walls (52, 521) having a pair of opposite catches (56), and a rear wall frame (57). One of the side walls includes a board (53) and a first stop (55) at a bottom portion. The bracket sandwiches a power supply (60) in the cage, with the fastener and the second stop respectively engaging with the latch bar and the latch hook, the board engaging with the bent strip and the first stop engaging in the cutout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision IND (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun Lung Chen, Gang Su
  • Patent number: 7079385
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a docking station lock and its link assembly capable of fixing a cable onto the docking station as well as working jointly with another locking mechanism installed on a multibay to lock all installed peripherals to the docking station and prevent the docking station, the notebook computer and the peripherals from being taken away altogether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventors: Yao-Kun Cheng, Chih-Chin Yu
  • Patent number: 6886377
    Abstract: A device and method for locking an object to a tree. The device includes an eyebolt. The eyebolt is set into the tree proximate the object to be protected. A protective bracket is placed over both the eyebolt and the object. A hole is disposed in the protective bracket that aligns with the head of the eyebolt when the protective bracket is placed over the eyebolt. A lock is provided having an elongated body that extends into the hole in the protective bracket and into the eye of the eyebolt. The lock therefore interconnects the protective bracket to the eyebolt and prevents the protective bracket from being removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Warren Cohen
  • Publication number: 20040261472
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a personal computer is installed over a screw that is used to secure a moveable panel of the computer's chassis in a closed position. When installed, the locking mechanism prevents access to the screw, thereby preventing an unauthorized person from opening the panel of the chassis and having access to the contents therein. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a lock base for receiving the screw and a lock head for being positioned over the lock base to cover and prevent access to the screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng Shih-Tsung
  • Patent number: 6816974
    Abstract: Use of an especially small-sized and valuable display device (b 31) is limited to persons knowing a password, not by any requirement that a password (33) always be entered when the display device (31) is switched on, but rather detecting, the detachment of the display device (31) from the equipment (35-39) controlling it and measuring its time of being detached, for limiting the use of the display device (31) on the basis of a certain predetermined and adjustable time limit which, when exceeded, requires the password be entered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Nokia Display Products Oy
    Inventors: Juha Nurmi, Kimmo Siitari, Pertti Saarinen
  • Patent number: 6788543
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus comprises a main unit and a cover. The main unit has a slot formed in its surface and a cover mounting portion formed on the surface. An electronic device can be inserted into the main unit through the slot. The cover is located on the surface of the main unit so as to cover the slot. The cover has an end portion disposed on the cover mounting portion. The end portion is rockably attached to the cover mounting portion of the main unit by means of a hinge mechanism. The cover is detachable from the main unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Atsuhiro Yanagida
  • Patent number: 6763690
    Abstract: A security device for securing an equipment component, such as a laptop computer, having opposite corner portions. The security device includes a first securing member including a first restraining member for engaging a first corner of the component, and an elongate arm extending from the first restraining member, and a second securing member including a second restraining member for engaging a second corner of the component that is diagonal to the first corner, and a releasable locking device for engaging the arm to prevent movement of the first and second restraining members away from each other when in an engagement position. The first and second restraining members each include a first pair of spaced apart opposed engagement members for restraining movement of the component in a first plane, and a second pair of spaced apart opposed engagement members for restraining movement of the component in a second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Compucage International Inc.
    Inventor: Steve N. Galant
  • Patent number: 6763688
    Abstract: A computer lock includes a lock body, a cover, a lock core, an action body, an action shaft, and a locking block. Thus, the computer lock is used for securing the notebook computer to an article, such as a fixed upright or leg, thereby providing an anti-theft function to protect the notebook computer efficiently. In addition, the computer lock is operated easily and conveniently, thereby facilitating the user operating the computer lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jing Shu Syu
  • Patent number: 6757166
    Abstract: The present technique provides a multistage security system and method for physically securing a portable computing device and an attachable expansion device together or separately to an external fixture, such as a desk. A security structure, such as an internal lock structure, is disposed in one of the portable computing device and the attachable expansion device. An external device-to-fixture fastener is interlockable with the security structure in one of a plurality interlock stages, which facilitate separate or joint security of the portable computing device and the attachable expansion device using the one security structure. For example, the security structure may have first and second lock slots to lock the attachable expansion device to the external fixture, while the second lock slot also has an internal trigger mechanism to interlock the portable computing device to the attachable expansion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP.
    Inventors: Ronald E. DeLuga, Earl W. Moore, Robert C. Hurbanis, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6711009
    Abstract: A server housing, comprising a top cover and a base frame, is provided. The top cover has a top piece and parallel first side and second side. The two parallel sides are coupled with two opposite sides of the top piece. Each of the top piece and the two parallel sides has an interior. The top cover further comprises: two approximately parallel latches, five approximately parallel tabs, two first prominences and two second prominences. The two approximately parallel latches are on the interior of the top piece. The five approximately parallel tabs are on the interior of the top piece. The two first prominences are on the interior of the first side. The two second prominences are on the interior of the second side. The base frame is assembled with the top cover and comprises: a first side panel, a second side panel and a mounting bracket. The first side panel comprises two first guiding recesses for receiving the first prominences. The second side panel is parallel to the first side panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Jen-Hsiang Lee, Guo-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 6705133
    Abstract: A laptop lock for securing portable computers and the like against theft with an entrapment mechanism for securing one or more cables, cords, wires, or the like, which is adaptable for locking the one or more cables, cords, wires, or the like to a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Alexander G. Avganim
  • Patent number: 6622532
    Abstract: A cable lock assembly has a base, a cylinder, a cable and a cord holder. The base is adapted to be attached to the computer with a fastener. The cylinder is mounted on the base and has a lock unit, a keyhole and a lock post. The cable is detachably connected to the base with one end and locked by the lock post. The other end of the cable is used to loop around an object. The cord holder is detachably attached to the base and locked by the lock post to hold the cords of the computer. Consequently, the computer can be locked to an object with the cable lock assembly. The computer will not be stolen or inappropriately moved even if the cords of the computer are cut off or are pulled out from the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Ching-Shu Hsu
  • Patent number: 6622979
    Abstract: A locking hook assembly is provided for securely displaying merchandise on a vertical support. The locking hook assembly generally comprises a mounting bracket structured for connection to the vertical support. A hook of generally circular cross-section has an inner end fixed to the mounting bracket and projects outwardly therefrom to an outer end. The hook's outer end has a reduced diameter portion of generally semi-circular cross-section, and the reduced diameter portion includes a notch. To prevent removal of merchandise at the outer end, a lock has a semi-circular opening shaped to receive the reduced diameter portion and selectively engage the notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley C. Valiulis
  • Patent number: 6619084
    Abstract: A lock assembly for a cycle includes a lock having a main body integrally formed with an insert, and an appendage having a holder and a latch. The holder is adapted to be fastened to the cycle and has a side slot for snugly receiving the insert of the lock. The latch is movable relative to the holder and is spring-loaded so as to retain the insert in the side slot. Therefore, the lock can be held and carried on the cycle after the insert has been pushed into and retained in the slot, and can be removed from the cycle after the insert has been released from the latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Lambert Kuo
  • Patent number: 6612082
    Abstract: A protective cover for covering the end of a reinforcing bar has a cylindrical tube having an open end and an upper end. A cap is on the upper end of the tube, and an inverted fristo-conical surface is provided in the upper end of the tube to cause the reinforcing bar to orient itself vertically upon impact by a falling body. The protective cover also has strengthening ribs both above and below the canopy to prevent its inadvertent collapse. The ribs below the canopy are further strengthened against lateral deflection by a circular wall which extends downwardly from the canopy and intersects each of the ribs at their substantial mid section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Lomont Molding, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry D. Schimmelpfennig, Randy L. Sperry
  • Patent number: 6612140
    Abstract: The invention is a lock for a gun that locks the trigger so it cannot be moved. The lock fits between the trigger and the trigger guard and keeps the trigger from moving. One of the unique features of the lock is that it can be locked both by a key and a padlock. The lock is comprised of two sections that in the preferred embodiment are made out of plastic which are attached together by a flexible strip of plastic and, thus, can be molded as a single piece. In approximately the middle of both sections is an opening. In this opening is placed the lock cylinder with a pin. From the end of the lock cylinder extends a loop with a sufficient size opening that a shackle of a padlock can be placed through it. To use the lock, one places the two sections together between the trigger and the trigger guard and then inserts the key into the lock cylinder and turns it. Once the pin falls in the proper location, the lock is securely held together between the trigger and trigger guard such that the trigger cannot be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventors: Mike Strassell, Tom Deeb
  • Patent number: 6497393
    Abstract: A universal cell phone security band for displaying cell phones of various sizes includes a band that is placed around the phone. The band has a first end and a second end with notches extending from its edges. The band's second end is received in an adjustable slide at a slot including a wide portion configured to receive the notched second end and a narrow portion configured to receive the portions of the band between the notches. The adjustable slide also has an opening that is configured to receive a threaded connector that is disposed on the band's first end. The opening and the threaded connector are secured with a security-type fastener having a recess that requires the use of a tool other than a traditional flathead or Phillips head screwdriver to rotate the security fastener. A cable can secure the universal security band to a display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Frank Mayer & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: John Crosslen, Michael Colombo, Alan McGivern
  • Patent number: 6443417
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for securing a lap top computer to a support member, the device having a rigid securing member. The rigid securing member has a back, side and front restraining members defining an elongate opening dimensioned to slidably receive a monitor of the lap top computer therethrough when the computer is in the open position. The device further includes a locking assembly having a first part rigidly coupled to the securing member and a second part which can be anchored to the support member, the first and second parts being movable together into a securing position to clamp the lap top computer to the support member, and apart into a release position to allow the lap top computer to be removed. A second securing member is provided to secure the lap top in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Steve N. Galant
  • Patent number: 6442984
    Abstract: Described is a security mechanism effective in various combinations of a notebook PC and various extend units. An extend unit includes a security slot for attaching a cable lock, a security select which has a plurality of select positions and the select position of which is fixed when the cable lock is attached to the security slot. A linking unit is included for interlocking with the security select switch, disabling a release switch to be operated with fixing the release switch of a subsystem holding bay when the security select switch is positioned at a first select position, disabling the release switch and an eject switch, separating the notebook PC from the extend unit, to be operated when the security select switch is positioned at a second select position, and enabling the release switch and eject switch to be operated without fixing the release switch and eject switch when the security select switch is positioned at a third select position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Katoh, Tetsuya Ohtani, Shigeru Ishii, Yoshiharu Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 6415635
    Abstract: A device for locking a bicycle helmet to a bicycle, the helmet comprising a helmet shell (19) having a through-going hole (20). A lock case (4) is fixedly mounted on a frame rod (2), the frame rod being arranged to support the saddle (1) of the bicycle. A longitudinal locking element (11) at both ends has a lock head (10), the lock head (10) may be locked in the lock case. The locking element (11) is arranged to extend through the hole (20) of the helmet shell in order to have its lock head (10) locked in the lock case (4) and thus securing the helmet to the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Lars Jonasson
  • Patent number: 6393877
    Abstract: A security support system and method adapted to display an item on a support surface having spaced apart parallel channels to lockably retain the item against unauthorized removal. The security support system includes a base member that is sized and configured to engage the channels, a support arm that is adjacent to the base member that holds the display item, an optional retainer element that is sized to prevent removal of the display item and a lockable element that engages the support arm on the distal end opposite the base member. The lockable element is secured to the support arm in a locked state and is configured alone or with the optional retainer element to prevent removal of the display item. The lockable element in an unlocked state disengages from the support arm allowing removal of the display item and the optional retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph O. Church
  • Patent number: 6390239
    Abstract: A theft prevention device for fixed-position tree stands employs a horizontal plate with ends bent over to engage a pair of upright supports of the tree stand. The plate has a hole at a central location through which a lag bolt extends, securing the plate to a tree. Barriers to access to the bolt along its length and at the bolt head are provided. A barrier underneath the plate takes the form of side plates connected to edges of both sides of the horizontal plate or a hub surrounding the bolt. An outside barrier protecting the bolt head is provided by a hub and a plug lock engaged with the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: James S. McClain
  • Patent number: 6322039
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for the demountable secured attachment of an article such as a painting or other artwork, or the like, to a supporting surface, such as a wall. The system comprises an elongated mounting bracket with a mounting portion and mounting means for engagement with the support surface, and which is vertically adjustable, and an interconnection portion. The system also comprises an article attachment member, also an elongated bracket, with an article attachment portion and attachment means for attachment to the artwork or other article, and an interconnection portion for demountable mating engagement with the interconnection portion of the support surface attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Carmen De Luccia
  • Patent number: 6308928
    Abstract: A security device for securing a laptop computer to a support member such as a desk top. The security device includes a rigid first securing member having back, side and front restraining members defining an elongate opening through which the monitor portion of the laptop computer can be slidably received when the laptop computer is in an open position. A leg extends from the first securing member for insertion through a predetermined hole provided through the desk top. The security device includes a lock device for engaging a portion of the leg that has been inserted through the hole and for engaging the lower surface of the desk top to prevent separation of the first securing member from the desk top when the lock device is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Compucage International Inc.
    Inventor: Steve N. Galant
  • Publication number: 20010013567
    Abstract: A locking hook assembly is provided for securely displaying merchandise on a vertical support. The locking hook assembly generally comprises a mounting bracket structured for connection to the vertical support. A hook of generally circular cross-section has an inner end fixed to the mounting bracket and projects outwardly therefrom to an outer end. The hook's outer end has a reduced diameter portion of generally semi-circular cross-section, and the reduced diameter portion includes a notch. To prevent removal of merchandise at the outer end, a lock has a semi-circular opening shaped to receive the reduced diameter portion and selectively engage the notch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Applicant: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley C. Valiulis
  • Patent number: 6275378
    Abstract: A safety lock for notebook-type computer dock. The safety lock serves to lock the dock with the computer to ensure safety. The safety lock also safely combines the I/O module, notebook-type computer and the dock into one body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chia-Chun Lee, Ming-Hsun Chou, Jui-Jung Huang, Chih-Wen Chiang
  • Patent number: 6257542
    Abstract: A theft prevention clamp for preventing the theft of an article from a support. The theft prevention clamp is designed to removably fasten the article to a support, such as a desk top, a desk leg, a table, or any other similarly shaped object. The theft prevention clamp has three rigid portions including two rigid portions interconnected by a third rigid portion. The theft prevention clamp may be rigidly configured in the form of one unitary member, wherein two rigid portions are parallel to one another and are interconnected by a perpendicularly oriented third rigid portion. The theft prevention clamp may also be configured in the form of three rigid portions interconnected by elements which bias the three rigid portions in a substantially flat orientation. The theft prevention clamp may also include a fourth rigid portion which is intended to be mounted in or on the article to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventors: Lawrence P. Westfield, Mark J. Westfield
  • Patent number: 6167734
    Abstract: A coupler device for securing an additional wire rope cable without a lock to a wire rope cable with a lock on one end. The coupler includes an internal planar cavity and cavity openings that are sized and arranged to allow a first cable without a locked end to pass through the cavity and allow a second cable having a loop end and a distal locked end to pass its loop end through the device in a direction orthogonal to the plane of the cavity, resulting in the second cable crossing above and adjacent to the first cable, preventing its removal from the coupler. The coupler devices present a simple method of coupling and securing to each other a variety of cable configurations, including securing a cable to a shaft or padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Jay S Derman
  • Patent number: 6082697
    Abstract: A soccer goal anchor device used for securing a soccer goal in place and a method for installing the anchor device. The anchor device is used for engaging a portion of a soccer goal frame and securing the frame on top of a ground surface. The anchor device can also be used with other types of goals used on a playing field and other outdoor portable equipment. Also, the anchor device prevents the soccer goal frame from pivoting and falling onto a ground surface or the frame from being moved on the ground surface. The anchor device includes an auger for screwing into the ground surface. An upper end of the anchor device includes a clevis. The clevis is dimensioned to conform to different annular and angular cross-sections of goal frames for a snug and secure fit therearound. The clevis includes two upwardly extending flanges for receiving a portion of the soccer goal frame therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Dan J. Grunfeld
  • Patent number: 6062053
    Abstract: A quick-release locking device for locking an article basket on a bicycle handle bar, including a fastener body and a main body. The fastener body is a double-layer plate body formed with insertion slots and a fixing slot for engaging with the main body. One end of the main body is disposed with latch arms for engaging with the fastener body and a resilient engaging section for engaging with a slope engaging block of a push button. Lower edges of two sides of the other end of the main body are respectively disposed with clamping passages in which the bicycle handle bar is clamped and fixed. The locking device serves to lock the article basket on the bicycle with a quick-release function, whereby the basket or bag can be directly taken out from the bicycle for shopping or preventing the article placed in the article basket from being stolen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Kuo-Ping Ho
  • 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: 5987937
    Abstract: A device is provided that can be used to lock auxiliary, or peripheral, devices in portable computers. A portable computer using the device may be constructed using a housing, or body, for the portable computer that has a recessed peripheral port in a side wall of the computer body. A peripheral port is then engageable with the port in the side wall of the portable computer. A face plate on the front side of the peripheral port has a greater area than the area of the front side of the peripheral device, forming a rim around the peripheral device that fits flush with the outer surface of the body. A bracket and a locking unit are then used to secure the peripheral device to the portable computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Myoung-Kyu Lee
  • Patent number: 5927111
    Abstract: An outdoor water faucet article is configured to secure a building water faucet from unauthorized use. The article is lockable, yet is readily unlocked to access the water faucet. The article comprises a first housing half, a complementary second housing half and locking mechanism. The first and second housing halves are hingeably connected. Together they form an enclosure for the water faucet and can be secured together by the locking mechanism to prevent access to the water faucet. Upon unlocking, the second housing half is rotated away from the first housing half to allow full access to the water faucet so that its handle can be turned and a garden hose attached to its terminus. A wall mounting mechanism is optionally used to attach at least one housing half to a wall of the building where used. Insulation can be used to line the interior walls of the housing halves to add a freeze protection feature to the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Armand E. Nachbauer
  • Patent number: 5884508
    Abstract: A retrofit security adapter for adding a security slot to a portable device, such as a portable electronic device (laptop computer or electronic organizer). The adapter is made of ABS plastic made from a plastic formulation into which fiberglass fiber fill has been added prior to molding. The desired range of fiber fill is in the range of about 20% to about 40%, with about 30% most preferable. The adapter is adhered to the portable device using any suitable adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: ACCO Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark M. Dwight
  • Patent number: 5875657
    Abstract: A security device for securing a first object having an aperture to a second object by a cable. The device comprises a self contained locking unit for securing the device to the first object and a cable adapter having a top, a bottom and a cable housing. The cable housing receives a connector attached to an end of the cable after the cable is attached to the second object. The cable adapter receives the locking unit which will extend out of both the top and bottom of the cable adapter. The locking unit prevents the connector of the cable from being removed from the cable adapter when the locking unit is received by the cable adapter. The connector can be removed from the cable adapter when the locking unit is not being received by the cable adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Qualtec Data Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald W. Kelley
  • Patent number: 5870910
    Abstract: A lock-down security box including a security box and a lock-down plate. The lock-down security box is adapted to be detachably anchored to a mounting surface such as a table, wall or the like. The lock-down plate is fixed to a mounting surface by inserting fasteners through apertures extending through the plate. The lock-down plate includes a first anchoring member and a bolt-receiving slot extending therethrough. The security box includes a top panel which is pivotally mounted to one of the side panels of the box. The top panel includes a first lock set associated therewith for providing controlled access to the enclosure of the security box. The bottom panel of the security box includes a second anchoring member mounted thereon. The bottom panel further includes a bolt-passage slot extending therethrough which is adapted to receive a deadbolt of a second lock set mounted to one of the side panels of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Block and Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul E. Specht
  • Patent number: 5839303
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for securing and selectively locking a portable item to a supporting surface. A generally flat attachment plate is connected to a generally flat base plate containing a lock barrel and a lock cylinder. The attachment plate fastens to a device being secured. A securing stud fastens to the underside of the supporting surface such that the shaft of the securing stud protrudes through a hole in the support surface and base plate to extend into threaded engagement with the lock cylinder barrel. The securing stud has a thin flat head which when adhesively attached to the supporting surface prevents the securing stud from being rotated or removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Business Machine Security, Inc.
    Inventors: John Umberg, Greg Umberg, Tanfirio J. Palmese
  • Patent number: 5836183
    Abstract: A portable device for securing a laptop computer from theft. Provision is made for locking the device to an immovable object by cable or by padlock. The device comprises a base, a retaining rod fastened across the width of the base and a locking post. A laptop computer would be placed with its keyboard between the base and retaining rod, and a locking post is inserted vertically in the rear of the base, protruding upwards behind the opened laptop. This prevents the laptop from from being pulled rearward out from under the retaining rod and removed from the device. When not in use, the device retaining rod may be rotated downwards so that the device becomes flat and is readily stored or carried. The device is light in weight and low in cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: ACCO Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Jay S. Derman
  • Patent number: 5826853
    Abstract: Two embodiments are shown for protecting the pedestal of a public payphone against vandalism. Both employ a stainless steel plate. Both also employ techniques for protecting the stainless steel plate against vandalism. In one, a U-shaped structure and bar is utilized. In the other, internal bars and a cam control are employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Sandt Technology, Ltd.
    Inventors: Salvatore Anello, Albert F. Diaz
  • Patent number: 5806354
    Abstract: A theft deterrent arrangement for a passenger side air bag assembly includes hollow bolt shield cylinders surrounding mounting bolts holding the air bag assembly to a fixed cross member, a locking cylinder locked in place to prevent access to the bolt head. Removal of the locking cylinder with a key allows removal of the bolts and air bag by use of a socket wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Dean C. Hasnik
  • Patent number: 5794463
    Abstract: A cable lock attachment for portable articles that is protected from tampering, whether by twisting or otherwise, when the associated cable lock is operational. The attachment comprises a shell with concentric axial ports, one large and one small, and opposed lateral ports. The small port is in proximity to a threaded socket in the article. A collar having a wide head and narrow stem fits through the large port and the stem fits into the small port with the head remaining inside the shell and the stem abutting the article. The stem is secured to the article by a screw that has an internal hex head. The stem is slightly longer than the thickness of the shell so that the shell is free to swivel about the stem when secured. The cable extends through the lateral ports, preventing access to the screw when the cable lock is secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Kryptonite Corporation
    Inventor: Cornelius McDaid