Abstract: A positionable connector assembly comprises a base, a connector operatively connected to the base, a friction member positioned between the base and the connector, and a biasing member operatively connected to the connector and configured and arranged to bias the connector toward the friction member.

Abstract: A stake pocket chain tie-down for a trailer or truck bed which is insertable into a stake pocket through an uppermost opening of the stake pocket. The stake pocket tie-down provides for connection of a load restraining chain to the trailer or truck bed. The stake pocket tie-down comprises an insert that is made of metal and dimensioned to fit securely within the interior of the stake pocket, and the insert has four sides and is closed by an end plate on at least one end. The end plate has a hole therethrough for passage of a chain. The insert has a pin and a hook or tab structure therein for the attachment of the end of the chain.

Abstract: A modular integrated mounting system includes a plurality of mounting struts secured to a floor or deck surface, at least one cross mounting rail movably attached perpendicular to the mounting struts, a foot lock receiver attached to the at least one cross mounting rail, and a foot lock configured to be attached to equipment and to be retained by the foot lock receiver.

Abstract: A rail mounting system may have a rail and a slide member. The rail has a base, two sidewalls, lip portions and ribs. Channels are formed by portions of the rail. The slide member has tabs with grooves that define legs. The lip portions and the ribs are slidably located within the groves and the legs are slidably located within the channels for selective movement of the slide member with respect to the rail.

Abstract: A cargo carrying vehicle (10, 130) includes a load supporting deck (24, 132). Cargo supported on the deck may be secured through releasible engaging anchors (32, 110). The anchor includes a base (34, 112) and a cap (36, 114). The base and cap are relatively rotatable about a pivot (64, 116). The base includes a claw end (40) configured for engaging a ledge projection (58) of a cargo bed (60). The cap includes a post (68, 122) and a cleat (70, 128) which bound a tie engaging recess (104). The cleat (70) also includes an aperture (90) suitable for accepting further ties therein.

Abstract: A tailgate latching system includes a pair of latches configured to removably secure to an external latch positioned on either side of a pickup truck tailgate and within the latching mechanisms thereof. A connecting plate has a slot adjacent to each end and is configured to span the distance between each latch while simultaneously being secured about each latch.

Abstract: This relates to a multi-part attachment device for attaching a device to a stiffening element and to an outer skin of a vehicle. The multi-part attachment device comprises a base body having an angular profile for attaching the attachment device to the stiffening element and to the outer skin of the vehicle. Furthermore, the multi-part attachment device comprises an upper part with a lug, wherein the upper part is attached to the base body. This also relates to a method for attaching a device to a stiffening element and to an outer skin of a vehicle as well as to an aircraft with a multi-part attachment device.

Abstract: A flat rack comprising, a cargo platform for carrying a load, terminal bulkheads for enclosing the cargo platform and two intermediate bulkheads positioned between the terminal bulkheads at equal distance from the center of gravity of the flat rack. Each of the intermediate bulkheads is equipped with lifting points suitable therefore. Optionally, the distance between the intermediate bulkheads is between 20? and 40?. More specifically, the distance between the intermediate bulkheads may be 34?. A method for loading or offloading a cargo vessel loaded with a plurality of flat racks. The method comprises operating a crane adapted to lift at least one of the plurality of flat racks as described herein above.

Abstract: A vehicle tie-down cleat assembly can include (i) a tie-down cleat defining an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion defines at least one aperture or member configured to receive a tying member, and wherein the tie-down cleat comprises a plastic housing and a metal insert disposed within the plastic housing, and (ii) a base assembly coupled to the lower portion of the tie-down cleat and configured to be removably coupled to a surface of a storage compartment of the vehicle, the base assembly comprising a base member, a hinge coupled to the lower portion of the tie-down cleat and the base member, the hinge being configured to allow the tie-down cleat to rotate with respect to the base assembly, and a locking system configured to lock/unlock the tie-down cleat assembly to a mounting plate mounted to a surface of a vehicle storage compartment.

Abstract: A connector has at least one aperture for receiving a buckle clip. The aperture has two crossed aperture extent portions. Each aperture extent portion has a different orientation such that the buckle clip received within the at least one aperture can be at one of two different orientations.

Abstract: A deck hook capable of accepting loading forces in multiple directions and of distributing such forces over an increased deck surface area thereby reducing the risk of damage to the deck, particularly when the deck is formed of a non-steel material.

Abstract: A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises first braces that rotate about a mounting point on the frame that supports a cargo loading surface. The first braces are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The first braces may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Second braces attach to the first braces to assist in load distribution. The frame may comprise center feet extensions to further assist in load distribution. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.

Abstract: A side rail of a floor assembly of a trailer, such as a flatbed trailer, including a channel formed in a top wall of the side rail and an aperture formed in the top wall of the side rail at a location spaced-apart from the channel. The channel extends along a length of the side rail and is configured to receive a first cargo restraint device therein. The aperture is configured to receive a second cargo restraint device therein.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention relate to function elements for fixing in seat rails of aircraft. The function element according to the invention may include: a fixing rail with a web running in the x direction and a multiplicity of extensions which protrude beyond the web in a y direction to form a T profile, wherein the fixing rail is formed corresponding to the seat rail such that the fixing rail can be inserted in the seat rail and moved along the x direction into a holding position in which the extensions sit between the holes below the slots, at least one fixing peg which is arranged mobile on the fixing rail and can be brought into a blocking position in which the fixing peg engages in a hole of the seat rail so that the function element is fixed in the x direction.

Abstract: An end stop device for restraining an ULD from movement across a cargo deck surface of an aircraft includes a main body; and a mounting interface connected to the main body which is configured and arranged to attach the end stop device to the cargo deck by means of a corresponding tie down ring. Each mounting interface includes a tongue-like support plate which is partially protruding below a bottom side of the main body, at least one recess arranged in an area above the support plate, wherein side walls of the recess form a frame-like structure. and a bolt portion extending from the support plate into the recess and partially surrounded by the frame-like structure. The bolt portion is configured to engage the tie down ring in an operation mode where the end stop device is fixed to a tie down ring.

Abstract: A fastener device (10) for fastening a load to a rail (4) that is provided with a slideway (4?) defined by a bottom wall (5), two side walls (6), and a top wall (7) including a succession of wide slots (8) and of narrow slots (9), said fastener device (10) comprising a base (20) and two shoes (30) suitable for being inserted in said wide slots (8) and for co-operating with the top wall (7) in a narrow slot (9) by shape interference. The device further comprises first and second slides (31, 32), each including one of said two shoes (30), spacer means (40) for spacing apart said first and second slides (31, 32), detector means (50) for detecting a rail (4?), approach means (60) for causing said first and second slides (31, 32) to approach each other, and blocking means (70) for longitudinally blocking said base (20).

Abstract: A restraining strap securement system for a trailer includes a load-restraining strap with a flat hook that connects to the trailer side rail. The trailer side rail extends along the sides of the trailer and comprises a bottom wall with an opening for receiving the flat hook. A keeper slides upon a rail affixed to the bottom wall and the keeper may be positioned to extend beneath the flat hook and prevent the flat from falling from the opening while the strap is being tightened. The keeper may comprise a hook that can be used to secure tarps or ropes over the trailer load.

Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. One embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle having a side wall construction enclosing a cargo bed at a side of the cargo bed. The side wall construction includes an outer portion which runs generally vertically at an outer portion of the vehicle, and a top portion which runs generally horizontally from the outer portion toward a longitudinal center of the vehicle. A tie-down rail is mounted adjacent to the top portion such that a part of the top portion overhangs at least a portion of the tie-down rail. The tie-down rail is configured to accept a tie-down fitting and includes a slotted opening generally aligned with an interior edge of the top portion.

Abstract: An underbed hitch mounting system is described. The mounting system may be utilized for towing vehicles wherein the mounting system may selectively accommodate either a fifth wheel hitch or a gooseneck hitch. The mounting system may include at least one rail capable of being connected to a vehicle frame, wherein the rail includes at least one socket. The socket may be engaged with a receiving member, wherein the receiving member may be engaged with a leg of a fifth wheel hitch. A mid rail may be connected to the rails and may include a hitch ball socket that is capable of engagement with a hitch.

Abstract: An improved cargo restraint for installation on a preselected track mounted in or on the surface of a vehicle carrying the cargo and the restraint is mounted on a bracket which abuts the cargo to restrain the movement of the cargo and the restraint is slidingly movable on the track and has a locking position on the track wherein the bracket restrains the cargo and the restraint has no relative movement with respect to the track or the bracket or the vehicle so that there is no rattling of the restraint when in the locked position.

Abstract: A tie down for securing objects in an aircraft having a roller tray can comprise a tie-fitting, a carriage, and protruding elements. A carriage can include at least one side wall with protruding elements extending from the side wall of a carriage to cooperate with a roller tray. The protruding elements removably secure the tie down to a selected location along the roller tray. A restraint extending from an object can be removably secured to a tie down. The tie down being vertically insertable and removable by hand operation and without the use if tools or mechanical fasteners.

Abstract: A restraining strap securement system for a trailer includes a load-restraining strap with a flat hook that connects to the trailer side rail. The trailer side rail extends along the sides of the trailer and comprises a bottom wall with an opening for receiving the flat hook. A keeper slides upon a rail affixed to the bottom wall and the keeper may be positioned to extend beneath the flat hook and prevent the flat hook from falling from the opening while the strap is being tightened. The keeper may comprise a hook that can be used to secure tarps or ropes over the trailer load.

Abstract: A trailer includes a floor engageable with a load, the trailer floor comprising a plurality of floor panels. Each floor panel comprises a plurality of tubular portions that are hollow inside to reduce weight. The tubular portions have an upper wall comprising pairs of parallel channels which slideably receive at least one sliding bracket for securing the load to the trailer.

Abstract: A tie-down attachment device and system for use in pickup trucks featuring a plurality of clamps that slide along the upper edge of the pickup truck bed rail used to hold bed caps in place without having to drill into the pickup truck bed is herein disclosed. The device comprises a clamping means that is secured by tightening a bolt with a strong grip or by wrench or pliers. The device further comprises a large eye bolt to which a strap, a rope, or other securing means can be connected and thus securing a load. The clamping device can be left in place on the bed rail or removed and stored when not in use.

Abstract: This invention relates to a fastener assembly that has a rail (1) and a fastener device (6) that can be installed in a transport vehicle, characterized in that a rail head (2) is coated with a layer (3) of alumina with polytetrafluoroethylene seal and that at least a portion (5) of the fastener device in contact with the rail head is made of metal coated with a layer of polymers (7).

Abstract: A vehicle article carrier system employing a pair of support rails adapted to be secured to the sidewalls of a bed of a pick-up truck. Attached to the sidewalls are a pair of tie-down assemblies that can be fixedly secured at various points along each of the support rails. A load bar assembly is also included that can be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the tie-down assemblies. When the load bar is not in use, the tie-down assemblies can be used in connection with external bungee cords, nylon straps or other fastening implements to help restrain articles within the bed of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle cargo bed includes a cargo bed floor, a wall structure and an attachment member. The cargo bed floor has an approximately horizontal cargo bed surface. The wall structure at least partially surrounds the cargo bed surface. At least a portion of the wall structure has an upper end. The attachment member is secured to the upper end of the portion of the wall structure defining an approximately horizontal first surface disposed above the cargo bed surface. The first surface has a linearly extending scalar demarcations formed thereon.

Abstract: A hook attaching unit in accordance with the invention is constituted by a hook member which is rotatably attached to an end portion of a base plate, a bolt with a flange inserted to a bolt insertion hole of the base plate, and a resin cover member in which a cover body is connected to an annular basement portion. Since the hook member, the cover member and the bolt are integrally assembled, it is not necessary to install the bolt separately in the work field and then install the cover member after attaching the hook, and as such, the workability at the time of fastening is improved. Further, since the cover member invisibly covers the bolt head portion, improved safety and outer appearance is obtained. The hook attaching unit can be also utilized for attaching a seat belt anchor plate.

Abstract: A load securing device (20) for a pick-up truck (100) cargo bed (102) having at least one sidewall (104), the at least one sidewall including a cap portion (106) having a top portion (110) and a vertical portion (112) is provided. The load securing device generally includes a tubular member (22) having a first surface (30) and a second surface (32), the tubular member being adapted to be coupled to the cap portion in a manner that positions the first surface of the tubular member adjacent one of either the top portion or the vertical portion of the cap portion. When coupled to the cap portion, the tubular member is substantially visually obscured by the cap portion. The load securing device further includes at least one attachment member (24) extending from the second surface of the tubular member to provide a tie-down anchor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a load device (1) for a vehicle, comprising at least one elongate guide rail (3) which is formed with a slide groove (5), said guide rail (3) being arranged to receive at least one load holding element (15) which is displaceable relative to the guide rail (3) along said slide groove (5) during positioning of said load holding element (15) in a desired position, said guide rail (3) having a first slide groove portion (7) with a first direction of extension and a second slide groove portion (9) with a second direction of extension deviating from the first, said slide groove portions (7, 9) continuously merging into each other.

Abstract: A cargo anchoring system includes anchor rings with an opening formed therein. Each ring has a tongue monolithically formed with an outer perimeter thereof and extending outwardly therefrom. Each tongue has planar top and bottom surfaces respectively oriented perpendicular to a central axis of a corresponding one of the ring openings. Each tongue has an aperture formed therein. Each of a plurality of bars has a groove formed in an outer surface thereof and penetrates through corresponding ones of the apertures of the tongues. A plurality of cotter pins engages corresponding ones of the grooves and prevents the bars from separating from the tongues. A plurality of rails is connected to the rings and the existing vehicle. An anchor plate, including a hitch ball, is coupled to inner surfaces of the rails and centrally positioned therebetween.

Abstract: An anchor (100) for securing a rope (215) while holding tension comprises conjoined hook (105), foot (120, 125), and knee (115) sections. Both feet of the anchor are attached to a surface (200) where a first foot (120) forms one or more wedges (225, 230) with the surface. A rope from an object to be secured (220) passes beneath the knee, around the first foot and is secured by a knot (400) to the shank (110) of the hook. The first wedge (225) secures the rope and keeps it from slipping while the knot is tied. In an alternative embodiment, only one foot (120) is attached to the surface. This permits slidable entrance of the rope from the side of the anchor. The result is a firm anchorage which to which a rope can be fastened without the need for strength or dexterity on the part of the user.

Abstract: A cargo restraint device for resisting movement of cargo items on a vehicle floor or cargo bed has a generally flat octagonal or rectangular base with a slip-resistant bottom surface to be supported on the floor or bed and a top surface for receiving at least a portion of a cargo item, and a hollow upright upper body portion that can be filled with heavy material such as sand to provide weight. The upper body portion has at least two upright members extending upwardly from the base member, each having outer surfaces for abutting the cargo item, and at least one having an aperture for receiving straps to encircle a cargo item held by the device. In one embodiment four upright members intersect at a center portion in a cross-shaped configuration. In another embodiment two upright members intersect at a center portion in an L-shaped configuration.

Abstract: A flexible cargo bed tie-down system allows the user to easily change, adjust, customize, and adapt his or her vehicle to specific needs at any given moment, and interfaces with the rest of the vehicle in an optimum manner from a functional, structural, and aesthetic standpoint. One embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle having a side wall construction enclosing a cargo bed at a side of the cargo bed. The side wall construction includes an outer portion which runs generally vertically at an outer portion of the vehicle, and a top portion which runs generally horizontally from the outer portion toward a longitudinal center of the vehicle. A tie-down rail is mounted adjacent to the top portion such that a part of the top portion overhangs at least a portion of the tie-down rail. The tie-down rail is configured to accept a tie-down fitting and includes a slotted opening generally aligned with an interior edge of the top portion.

Abstract: A cargo securing device for restraining cargo within a vehicle, including a chain assembly extended about the perimeter of a cargo area, and attached to spaced locations in the cargo area. Restrainers are attached at any point on the chain assembly and used to restrain cargo stored within the cargo area. Anchoring devices, such as brackets, are joined onto the chain assembly at various points, and then attached the cargo area sidewalls or cargo floor, securing the chain assembly to the surface. Additionally, the cargo securing device may include telescoping units attached to the chain assembly and secured to the sidewalls or floor. The telescoping units allow the chain assembly to be situated at different heights so that restrainers may strap about cargo at different heights.

Abstract: A freight lashing channel (18) for a transport conveyance is constructed for mounting a plurality of spaced lashing devices (10) in the channel. Each lashing device (10) has a base (14) and a bail (11) journalled to the base (14). The bail takes up a recessed position within the lashing channel (18) or a working position out of the channel. In the recessed position the channel (18) is closed by a cover plate formed with a load mounting rail (33) for a rapid change-over from a freight lashing function to a seat mounting function. The lashing channel is either a separate unit or it is integrated into a floor panel or it is formed between two floor panel sections. Reinforcing load take-up elements (30) are mounted within the channel between neighboring lashing devices.

Abstract: The present invention is a novel tie down anchor formed of a single piece and a method of using the single piece tie down anchor.

Abstract: Various load items, such as freight pieces or passenger seats are to be secured to the loading floor of a transport conveyance. For this purpose a lashing device is constructed for a lashing function performed by a tiltable lashing bail or a latching function performed by a mounting rail profile cooperating with an interconnecting or interlocking element when the lashing bail is in a recessed position in a housing to which the lashing bail is journaled and in which a mounting member (7) carrying the mounting rail profile (8) is secured. When the lashing bail is in a raised, active position the mounting rail profile is in an inactive state and vice versa.

Abstract: A chain winch comprising a slack adjustor arranged for attachment to a chain for securing loads. The chain winch has a winding shaft and cooperating slack adjustor mounted on a frame for continuous rotation of the winding shaft by the slack adjustor, and the winding shaft incorporates a chain securing element.

Abstract: A tie-down assembly includes a housing configured to receive a pair of bails. A cross-bar and post are used to rotatably connect the bails to the housing. The pair of bails can be identical to allow a strap to be cinched to the housing. Alternatively, the bails can be shaped differently, for example, to center a strap within the bail or to facilitate the use of multiple straps.

Abstract: A tie-down strap or chain anchor is described for use with a trailer or truck. The anchor includes a stem portion which is adapted to be secured to one side of the bed of the trailer or truck. A pair of spaced-apart plates are secured to the upper end of the stem portion and have a J-shaped receiver secured thereto and extending therebetween which includes an inclined portion and a generally U-shaped portion at the lower end thereof. The U-shaped portion has a slot or notch formed therein.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed an improvement for a tie-down and attach-point anchor device for pickup truck beds that clamps to the downward protruding flange of a pickup truck's inner side rail or other similar available surface having an exposed edge. The anchor incorporating a slotted head capable of swiveling to accommodate different angles at which straps, bungees, ropes, and rigid members may be placed to secure or support cargo.

Abstract: A track fastener assembly for securing a seat or cargo apparatus to a floor track of a vehicle. The assembly includes a bottom rail with forward and aft ends. Front and rear movable slides carrying locking studs are carried by the bottom rail. A locking rod having a helical groove formed in its outer surface is operatively connected to the bottom rail and the slides. Rotation of the locking rod causes the slides to move axially from an installation position to a locking position. As the slides move to the locking position, they are deflected upwards along with the attached locking studs, clamping the track fastener assembly to the track.

Abstract: A truck bed liner for a truck bed having a bed floor and two opposing bed walls is provided. The bed liner includes a bed floor configured to be disposed along the floor of the truck bed. The bed liner also includes two opposing side walls which conform the truck bed side walls, and a third wall attached to the side walls near the front of the truck bed. Each of the side walls includes a rail integrally formed with a corresponding side wall, and running the length of the side wall. Each of the rails includes a plurality of threaded holes which can be used to attach cargo items using threaded fasteners. Each of the holes also includes a cleanout, which provides for removal of dirt and debris from the holes, and facilitates the use of a lockable threaded fastener to more securely attach cargo items to the bed liner.

Abstract: A cargo securing system comprising an elongate base member having a front surface and a rear surface with a plurality of attachment holes to facilitate attachment of the base member to a desired surface. An elongate slot is formed in base member and the slot communicates with an elongate recess. At least one adjustable member, having an enlarged head and a leg extending from the head, is accommodated by the recess. The head of the adjustable member is sized to slide along the recess of the base member with the leg projecting through and being freely slidable along the slot to facilitate sliding movement of the adjustable member relative to the base member. The base member carries a first interlocking structure and the adjustable member carries a mating second interlocking structure. When the first and second interlocking structures engages with one another, the adjustable member is retained at a desired position relative to the base member.

Abstract: A tie-down strap or chain anchor is described for use with a trailer or truck. The anchor includes a stem portion which is adapted to be secured to one side of the bed of the trailer or truck. A pair of spaced-apart plates are secured to the upper end of the stem portion and have a J-shaped receiver secured thereto and extending therebetween which includes an inclined portion and a generally U-shaped portion at the lower end thereof. The U-shaped portion has a slot or notch formed therein.

Abstract: A lighted anchor for a vehicle is adapted to be attached to the rear end of a side wall of the carrying bed of the vehicle. The anchor includes wires leading from an anchor light in the anchor member. The wires can be connected to the tail light of the vehicle so that the anchor light is on when the tail light is on.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to an assembly for securing cargo to a cargo bed. Specifically, the invention relates to a cargo tie-down for mounting in the cargo deck of a vehicle. The recessed cargo tie-down includes a housing recessed within the cargo deck of a vehicle, an anchor defining an aperture secured within the housing, and a tie-down ring having a nominally circular portion and at least one nominally straight portion compatible with flat metal banding. According to the exemplary embodiment, the tie-down ring is attached to the recessed housing through the aperture in the anchor such that the tie-down ring may be rotated along its periphery within the aperture such that either the nominally circular portion or the nominally straight portion is within the aperture.

Abstract: A track fastener assembly for securing a seat or cargo apparatus to a floor track of a vehicle. The assembly includes a base with a longitudinal slot formed therein, and a ramp disposed in its upper surface near the forward end of the slot. A movable slide carrying locking studs runs in the longitudinal slot. A locking rod having a helical groove formed in its outer surface is operatively connected to the base and the slide. Rotation of the locking rod causes the slide to move axially along the longitudinal slot from an installation position near the aft end of the base to a locking position near the forward end of the base. As the slide moves to the locking position, the slide engages the ramp in the base, thereby deflecting the slide with the attached locking studs upwards and clamping the track fastener assembly to the track.

Abstract: An apparatus for straightening and reinforcing a pickup truck bed wall having a bowed cornice, the apparatus including of a “U” beam having a bed wall drawing flange, the bed wall drawing flange having upper and lower ends, a rear flange having upper and lower ends, a web spanning between the upper ends of the bed wall drawing flange and the rear flange, and having a plurality of screw receiving apertures extending through the web; and including left and right pivotally mounted “D” rings mounted upon the rear flange by left and right ring mount plates; the straightening and reinforcing including steps of providing such apparatus, placing the apparatus over the cornice, drilling screw receiving apertures into the cornice, inserting screws through the screw receiving apertures, and turning the screws in a left to right or right to left succession, drawing the apparatus downward over the cornice, and causing the bed wall drawing flange to straighten the bow of the cornice.