Abstract: The Strap Tension Device consists of a rectangular frame produced in a variety of dimensions depending on the truck to be equipped, and in materials ranging from injection-molded thermoplastic resins in one embodiment to aluminum and steel in other embodiments. The Strap Tension Device is produced in a pallet-type embodiment for flatbed trucks, as a perimeter frame or rail for flatbed trucks in another embodiment, and even as a top-rail fitting for the beds of pickups in yet another embodiment. In one embodiment, the device of the present invention features a series of inset, spring-loaded, sliding tensioning blocks and in another embodiment, clamps. When depressed, these clamps create an opening at the outer side of the frame, an opening through which the user pulls a two inch nylon cargo strap. When the straps have been passed through the tensioning clamps and pulled tight to secure the load, the clamps are released, locking the straps in position and thus securing the load.

Abstract: A tie-down winch system includes a tie-down winch and a winch bar member. The tie-down winch includes frame, a cylinder member rotatably carried by the frame, a first lock member connected to a second end of the cylinder member, and a second lock member pivotally connected to the frame adjacent the second end of the cylinder member and moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The engaged position is defined as a portion of the second lock member engaging a portion of the first lock member to prevent rotation of the cylinder member, and the disengaged position is defined as the second lock member being spaced apart from the first lock member so that the cylinder member is freely rotatable with respect to the frame.

Abstract: The present device is a combination winch attachment and a winch winding shaft end wherein the winch attachment including a body for demountably attaching to the shaft end, the winch attachment further including a mechanism for releaseably securing the body to the shaft end thereby placing the winch attachment in an engaged position wherein the winch attachment and shaft end rotate in unison, and the winch attachment further including a coupling mechanism for receiving rotational forces to the body, such that the body in turn rotates the shaft end when the winch attachment is in the engaged position.

Abstract: A cargo bed storage structure is provided for a vehicle. The cargo bed storage structure includes a cargo bed having a floor and a wall. The wall has a first portion extending substantially perpendicularly from the floor and a second portion extending inboard from the first portion. An attachment member is fixed to a lower surface of the second portion of the wall. A tie-down device has a first end that is fixed to the first portion of the wall. The tie-down device is operative in a stowed configuration and a usage configuration. The second end of the tie-down device is releasably engaged with the attachment member when the tie-down device is in the stowed configuration such that the tie-down device is disposed entirely outboard of an inboard distal end of the second portion of the wall.

Abstract: A self-tensioning tie down assembly (2) for tightening retaining straps (70) about winches (64) securing cargo (71) on a carrier (73). The assembly (2) has an actuator (15) connected to a pneumatic circuit (61) and providing reciprocating linear motion to a torque linkage (60) connected to the winch (64). The torque linkage (60) has a wrap spring clutch (17) connectable to the ratchet wheel (7) of the winch (64) and a connector arm (11) connected to the actuator (15). The torque linkage (60) transmits the linear motion to the winch (64) as a corresponding rotational motion. The required tension level of the retaining strap (70) is pre-set. Pressure within the circuit (61) drives the actuator (15) thereby actuating the torque linkage (60) which tightens the strap (70) on the winch (64) until the tension level is reached.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a vehicle cargo restraint system comprises a cargo restraining strap and at least two tie down rings proximate the perimeter of the cargo area, positioned approximately opposite each other. In trucks and trailers, additional tie down rings may be conveniently placed near the top of the vertical corners of the cargo bed. At least one of each pair of the tie down rings is configured to allow a cargo restraining strap to be passed through it and be attached to a mechanical tightener, e.g., a ratchet, which is located conveniently on a wall of the cargo area, at a distance from the pass-through, tie down ring. The mechanical tightener may be rotatably and removably attached to the wall of the cargo area. The cargo restraining strap, both of the tie down rings and the mechanical tightener, and their respective anchoring sites, must all be strong enough to restrain cargo under predetermined conditions of cargo weight, vehicle speed and type of accident.

Abstract: Applicant provides an offset safety winch bar to remove the handle portion of a winch bar from a hazard zone created by the offset angle of the winch bar for safety in winching strap spools attached to flatbed trailers. An offset safety winch bar includes a spool insert insertable into a flatbed trailer winch spool hole; a body connected to said spool insert; and a handle connected to said body, wherein said spool insert is at an offset angle from said body, and said body has one or more compensating angles to intersect a portion of said handle with the longitudinal axis of said spool insert. The compensating angles can place the longitudinal axis of said handle aligned upon the longitudinal axis of the spool insert.

Abstract: A multi-mode belt retractor including an interlocked attachment mechanism. The belt retractor and attachment mechanism are physically integrated in a single unit. In one embodiment, the retractor is shifted between modes by the operation by the attachment mechanism such that securing the attachment mechanism to an anchor point shifts the belt retractor into a locked mode. Releasing the attachment mechanism from the anchor point shifts the belt retractor into a free-wheel mode. In one embodiment, only a single user-operable button is provided, thus minimizing the opportunity for improper operation. One embodiment of the attachment mechanism is symmetrical, making it operable by a user's left or right hand.

Abstract: A rope fastening device (11) provided at a predetermined position of a vehicle and fastening a rope (20) placed over freight on the vehicle. The rope fastening device (11) has a rope winding drum (12) having a rope hitch opening (19), a worm wheel (13) with which the drum (12) is operatively associated, a worm (14) meshing with the worm wheel (13), a rotation shaft (15) connected to the worm (14), a rotating tool (16) provided at an end of the rotation shaft (15), a gear box (17) in which the worm wheel (13) and the worm (14) are received, and an installation section (18) fitted to the gear box (17). The rope fastening device (11) can prevent a collapse of freight on a vehicle etc. by reliably fastening with simple operation a rope or other fastening materials placed over the freight.

Abstract: A parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system. Exemplary embodiments include a parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system for vehicle transports. Exemplary embodiments include a central shaft having a ratchet wheel and a pawl configured to wrap a strap around the central shaft. A parallel shaft is positioned parallel to the central shaft. The strap can be inserted between a variable gap between the central shaft and the parallel shaft. When the central shaft is rotated the strap is wound around the central shaft and the parallel shaft, both of which cooperate to create a self-tightening response of the strap on the central and parallel shafts.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an intelligent logistics goods binding system in the field of control technology. The problems of the conventional intelligent logistics goods binding systems, such as inconvenience in operation of the intelligent logistics goods binding system, low operation efficiency and complicated adjusting of control parameters, are addressed by the system of the invention. The intelligent logistics goods binding system of the invention includes an upper controller and a lower controller connected thereto. A sensor and a power mechanism are connected to the lower controller, which are respectively provided on the pay-out and take-up device. An upper input means is connected with the upper controller and a lower input means is connected to the lower controller. The activation or deactivation of the power mechanism is controlled by the upper controller through the lower controller or directly controlled by the lower controller based on the pressure signal of the sensor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pay-out and take-up device for a tightener in the mechanical field. The pay-out and take-up device of the invention includes a casing fixedly connected to the side of the holder and a worm, a worm axis and a worm wheel set within the casing, in which the worm wheel is fixedly connected to the extension end of the belt axis, and the worm axis is provided on the side of the worm wheel and could move in the axial direction thereof within the casing, and the worm is covered on the worm axis and fixedly connected to the worm axis. A guide mechanism is placed between the casing and the worm or between the casing and the worm axis, in which the worm axis could move in the axial direction thereof when the worm axis rotates. The worm axis or the worm could be detached from the guide mechanism when the worm is engaged with the worm wheel. A power mechanism is further provided on the holder.

Abstract: A parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system. Exemplary embodiments include a parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system for vehicle transports. Exemplary embodiments include a central shaft having a ratchet wheel and a pawl configured to wrap a strap around the central shaft. A parallel shaft is positioned parallel to the central shaft. The strap can be inserted between a variable gap between the central shaft and the parallel shaft. When the central shaft is rotated the strap is wound around the central shaft and the parallel shaft, both of which cooperate to create a self-tightening response of the strap on the central and parallel shafts.

Abstract: A cable tightening device includes a fixed unit including a base, a rotation member rotatably mounted on a first end of the base, a movable unit including a movable member rotatably mounted on the rotation member and movable relative to the base, and a holding member secured on a second end of the base. Thus, the base of the fixed unit is integrally combined with the holding member without having to provide a bolt and a nut, thereby decreasing the costs of fabrication. In addition, the holding member is integrally combined with the base of the fixed unit by punching so that the holding member will not detach from the base of the fixed unit, thereby facilitating operation of the cable tightening device.

Abstract: A rachet strap tightener and a power driven rotary tool are arranged to be operated together for tightening a strap. The body of the power driven rotary tool is arranged to be anchored in mating engagement relative to the body of the rachet strap tightener, in addition to coupling the rotating mating parts of the tool and the strap tightener, such that the torque applied when winding the spindle of the tightener no longer acts to twist the tightener body from the user's hands but rather the torque is anchored directly through the bodies so that winding of the spindle with the power driven tool can be accomplished quickly, efficiently and in a safe manner.

Abstract: A winch used for tightening a strap to retain an article, which may be cargo, on the deck of a vehicle has a ratcheting mechanism which tightens the strap around a cylindrical shaft. A ratchet cap installed on the winch has two sections. One of these sections is fixedly attached to the winch drive shaft This first section has a plurality of spaced recesses running around a surface plate thereof. Spring urged pins with rounded end surfaces are mounted in receptacles formed in the second cap section. The rounded ends of the spring urged pins are urged against the surfaces of the recesses. The pins are prevented from moving out of the recesses in one direction by a right angled end portion of the recess in this one direction and are free to move out of a recess over a slanted recess end portion into an adjoining recess in the opposite direction. At least one aperture is formed in the cap into which a lever for driving the winch is fitted.

Abstract: A ratcheting tie down apparatus and system. Exemplary embodiments include a ratcheting tie down system, including a ratchet assembly affixed to an end of a tie down shaft having a longitudinal axis, a pawl mechanism coupled to the ratchet assembly, wherein the ratchet assembly includes a ratchet gear, a ratchet head coupled to the ratchet gear, wherein an inner face of the ratchet gear is positioned in opposition to and in mechanical contact with an inner race of the ratchet head, and wherein the ratchet gear, the ratchet head and the shaft are configured to rotate as a single integral unit when rotated in a forward direction about the longitudinal axis, and the ratchet head is configured to rotate with respect to the ratchet gear and the shaft when the ratchet head is rotated in a reverse direction about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A ratcheting tie down apparatus and system. Exemplary embodiments include a ratcheting tie down system, including a ratchet assembly affixed to an end of a tie down shaft having a longitudinal axis, a pawl mechanism coupled to the ratchet assembly, wherein the ratchet assembly includes a ratchet gear, a ratchet head coupled to the ratchet gear, wherein an inner face of the ratchet gear is positioned in opposition to and in mechanical contact with an inner face of the ratchet head, and wherein the ratchet gear, the ratchet head and the shaft are configured to rotate as a single integral unit when rotated in a forward direction about the longitudinal axis, and the ratchet head is configured to rotate with respect to the ratchet gear and the shaft when the ratchet head is rotated in a reverse direction about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A retractable bungee cord tie down having a housing enclosing a ratcheting mechanism and a bungee cord. The bungee cord is wrapped around a spool having a biasing member operatively coupled thereto to permit automatic retraction of the bungee cord into the housing. Operatively coupled to the spool is a control arm that is used to engage and disengage spool movement and thus movement of the bungee cord into or out of the housing. A button connected to the control arm permits a user to secure items by securing the bungee cord first and then operating or moving the housing to another secure location.

Abstract: A ratcheting apparatus for engaging the winch driver of a winch used for tightening cargo straps, providing secure temporary engagement, with substantial leverage for turning the winch. The apparatus comprises a handle that removably inserts into the two sleeves of the apparatus. The teeth of the sleeves are arranged such that loosening motion allows the teeth of the respective sleeves to slip, one against the other, where winch tightening motion causes the teeth to engage and tighten a cargo strap. The spring of the rod of the apparatus provides correct tension between the two sleeves. A hardened leverage bar turns the apparatus. The apparatus is preferably made of metal or metal alloy, although more exotic polymers and matrixes may be used in construction.

Abstract: A ratchet mechanism for a cargo tie-down includes a unidirectional coupling. The unidirectional coupling is adapted to receive a bidirectional torque at an input thereof, and provide a unidirectional torque to a belt shaft at an output thereof.

Abstract: A binding device for a wheeled vehicle includes a drive mechanism including a shaft tube, a driven member secured to the shaft tube, at least one driving pawl mounted on the driven member, and a drive member rotatably mounted on the driven member and having an inner wall formed with a plurality of locking grooves engaged with the driving pawl. Thus, the drive member drives the shaft tube to rotate in one direction and performs an idle rotation in the opposite direction, so that the shaft tube is rotatable successively to wind the binding strap successively so as to tighten the cargo without having to remove the drive rod from the drive member, thereby facilitating a user winding the binding strap, and thereby saving the working time and energy.

Abstract: A cable tension device includes a fixing seat, a rotation shaft, a ratchet unit, a movable seat, a safety locking plate, a control member, an engaging board, a push board, a compression spring, and a tension adjustment knob. Thus, when the cable is tightened to a determined extent by rotation of the movable seat, the force applied by the cable on the ratchet unit is greater than that applied by the engaging board and the push board on the ratchet unit, so that the engaging board is pushed and deflected by the ratchet unit to pass by the ratchet unit, and the movable seat performs an idle rotation, thereby preventing the cable from being tightened too excessively.

Abstract: The present device is a combination winch attachment and a winch winding shaft end wherein the winch attachment including a body for demountably attaching to the shaft end, the winch attachment further including a mechanism for releaseably securing the body to the shaft end thereby placing the winch attachment in an engaged position wherein the winch attachment and shaft end rotate in unison, and the winch attachment further including a coupling mechanism for receiving rotational forces to the body, such that the body in turn rotates the shaft end when the winch attachment is in the engaged position.

Abstract: A strap tie-down apparatus and system. In general, the apparatus includes an elongated shaft generally attached to an automobile transport platform. A ratchet gear wheel having engagement teeth and a ratchet wrench socket wheel having a plurality of wrench apertures can be located on one side of the shaft together or on opposite sides of the shaft. The apparatus further includes a strap spool slidably connected to the shaft. The spool generally includes two side plates connected by a strap attachment bracket. A quick release pawl is connected to the platform adjacent the ratchet gear wheel for engagement with the engagement teeth. The pawl is connected to an elongated rod that is connected to the platform generally parallel with the shaft. The rod partially protrudes adjacent the ratchet wrench wheel. A spring is connected to the shaft adjacent the pawl.

Abstract: A fastener includes a frame, a collar connected to the frame and a reel inserted through the collar and the frame. A strap can be reeled in and reeled out when the reel is rotated in a direction and an opposite direction. A first switching device is provided between the reel and the collar so that the first switching device is operable to switch the reel between a reel-out mode and a reel-in mode. A second switching device is provided between the reel and the frame so that the second switching device is operable to switch the reel between a reel-in mode and a reel-out mode.

Abstract: A winch bar is provided for use in combination with a strap winding winch for flatbed trailers. The bar has a rotatable link member at one end thereof which is provided with a hook portion adapted to interface with the apertures of the hub on one end of a reel of the winch. Upon the hook engaging the apertures, the bar can be rotated at a safe distance from the truck bed in order to rapidly, safely and securely rewind the strap onto the winch reel.

Abstract: A housing assembly for housing a restraint device is provided. The housing assembly may be recessed into a floor or a wall of a building or a vehicle. The restraint device may be a retractor.

Abstract: A cargo bracing device includes a base having two side plates for rotatably attaching a reel drum, one or more toothed discs attached to the reel drum and controlled to rotate relative to the base with a stop, an operating arm having two legs rotatably attached to the reel drum, a catch device attached to the operating arm and engaged with the toothed disc, and an anchoring device may detachably anchor the catch device to the operating arm for limiting the catch device to slide relative to the legs of the operating arm and for preventing the operating arm from being disengaged from the reel drum. The operating arm includes an opening formed in each leg for detachably engaging with the reel drum and for preventing the cargo from being stolen by the unauthorized persons.

Abstract: A winch for a cargo restraining strap includes a frame having a base and first and second parallel spaced sidewalls. The first and second sidewalls define respective first and second apertures. A protective wall extends from the base and is spaced from the first sidewall. The first sidewall and the protective wall cooperate to define a clevis structure including a channel. A pawl is movably secured to the frame, with an inner end thereof located in the clevis channel. A spool extends between the first and second sidewalls and is rotatably supported in the first and second apertures of the first and second sidewalls. A ratchet wheel is connected to the spool and is located adjacent the first sidewall. The ratchet wheel is selectively engaged by the pawl. The frame, spool and ratchet wheel can be defined from aluminum alloy. The frame can be extruded as a one-piece construction. The spool and ratchet wheel can be extruded as a one-piece construction.

Abstract: A winch assembly is designed so that it can be slidably supported on the side rail of a vehicle. The winch assembly has side walls and a top plate. Slots are formed between the top plate and the side walls. A first bar runs between the side walls at substantially the same elevation as the top plate. A second bar runs between the side walls at an elevation below that of the first bar. A space is formed between the top plate and the first and second bars. The vehicle has a side rail running there around on which the winch assembly is supported. The side rail has a U-shaped bottom piece and a U-shaped top piece which run around the vehicle side walls. A cross member runs between the opposite sides of the cargo compartment The side frame has a U-shaped bottom piece with an arm extending there from, this arm being fitted into a slot in the deck of the vehicle located between the deck and the cross member.

Abstract: The tool for rewinding winch belts has a C-shaped member having a pair of parallel arms, a transverse portion joining the arms, and a shaft extending from the transverse portion away from the arms along a rotational axis thereof. Each arm has a boss protruding therefrom, with both bosses protruding toward each other along a working axis. One of the bosses has an inclined end defining a straight side facing a working direction and an inclined surface facing a releasing direction. In another aspect, a clevis and a pin extending through a diameter of the shaft define an articulation axis of the tool, extending at right angle from the working axis and the rotational axis. The articulation of the pin and the articulation of the bosses in the holes through the socket of a winch jointly define an universal joint along the tool's rotational axis.

Abstract: A tightening device leverage tool includes a bar member with a bar axis; a first receiver mounted to the bar member, and a second receiver mounted to the bar member and spaced-apart along the bar axis from the first receiver. The first and the second receivers are simultaneously engageable with a respective one of a first ratchet buckle member and a second ratchet buckle member, spaced apart from one another, for pivoting at least one of the first and the second ratchet buckle members about a pivot axis.

Abstract: A winch for a cargo restraining strap includes a frame having a base and first and second parallel spaced sidewalls. The first and second sidewalls define respective first and second apertures. A protective wall extends from the base and is spaced from the first sidewall. The first sidewall and the protective wall cooperate to define a clevis structure including a channel. A pawl is movably secured to the frame, with an inner end thereof located in the clevis channel. A spool extends between the first and second sidewalls and is rotatably supported in the first and second apertures of the first and second sidewalls. A ratchet wheel is connected to the spool and is located adjacent the first sidewall. The ratchet wheel is selectively engaged by the pawl. The frame, spool and ratchet wheel can be defined from aluminum alloy. The frame can be extruded as a one-piece construction. The spool and ratchet wheel can be extruded as a one-piece construction.

Abstract: Tensioners useful for supporting and tensioning tarps and the like from below are described, as are systems and kits that include such tensioners. Such articles are useful in variety of contexts, including boating, camping, and storage of various items.

Abstract: The invention is a strap rolling device that provides the end user with the capability of winding long cargo straps either manually or with an electric drill. An end of the tool has a shape that accommodates the chucks of most electric drills. Should no electric drill be available, the end user can manually crank the winch and wind up the long cargo straps with the handle, which is integrated into the body of the tool.

Abstract: A strapping apparatus includes a frame. A first strap is connected to the frame. An axle is installed on the frame. A second strap is connected to the axle. A spool is positioned around the axle. The spool defines a slit through which the second strap is directed. Two ratchets are connected to the spool and rotationally installed on the axle. A coil spring includes a first end connected to the axle and a second end connected to the frame in order to rotate the spool. A first detent is movable on the frame between an operative position in engagement with the ratchets and an idle position away from the ratchets. A handle is pivotally installed on the axle. A second detent is movable on the handle between an operative position in engagement with the ratchets in order to rotate the spool and an idle position away from the ratchets.

Abstract: A bulkhead divider system including a delivery container, a divider wall, and at least one strap assembly is provided. The delivery container includes a plurality of walls defining an interior compartment. The at least one strap assembly is coupled with the divider wall for securely attaching the divider wall to at least two of the plurality of walls of the delivery container. In another aspect, the bulkhead divider system may include a divider wall having a top edge, a bottom edge, and two opposing side edges. The divider wall may further include a fold line positioned adjacent to at least one of the top edge, bottom edge, and opposing side walls to define a corresponding number of flanges. The flanges allow the divider wall to be frictionally engaged with a wall of the delivery container.

Abstract: A retractable tie down for tying a work vehicle down to a cargo vehicle is disclosed, the tie down including a retractor assembly fixed to the outer surface of a work vehicle; a belt with one end connected to the retractor assembly; and a coupling connected to the other end of the belt, wherein the belt has a length sufficient to reach the cargo vehicle.

Abstract: A driver for rewinding a cargo winch strap includes a cordless drill and an adapter. The adapter fits into the chuck of the drill and has two movable jaws. The jaws close onto and grip the collar of the cargo winch as soon as the drill is placed into reverse and open to release the collar as soon as the direction of the drill is changed from reverse to forward.

Abstract: A tie-down assembly may include a lever-type load binding mechanism and may be used to couple a truck to a truck camper. The tie-down assembly may include a cushioning member used to cushion a tension load applied between a first end and a second end of the tie-down assembly. The tie-down assembly may also include a removable handle that is used to operate the lever-type load binding mechanism.

Abstract: A winch (1), a vehicle including the same and a method of operating associated thereto. The winch (1) is used with a strap (15) for fastening a load onto a transportation vehicle, and comprises a tightening assembly (3) and a gear assembly (5). The tightening assembly (3) comprises a support structure having first and second support flanges (7, 9) and a cross member (11) extending between the flanges (7, 9). The cross member (11) is devised for mounting onto a corresponding side track of the vehicle. The tightening assembly (3) also comprises a tightening reel (13) for receiving a portion of the strap (15) to be tightened about said reel (13), the tightening reel (13) being pivotally mounted onto the first and second support flanges (7,9). The gear assembly (5) is operatively connected to the tightening assembly (3), and comprises a gear (17), a worm (19), and a casing (21). The gear (17) is securely mounted about the tightening reel (13) so as to rotate with said reel (13).

Abstract: A retractable tie down for tying a work vehicle down to a cargo vehicle is disclosed, the tie down including a retractor assembly fixed to the outer surface of a work vehicle; a belt with one end connected to the retractor assembly; and a coupling connected to the other end of the belt, wherein the belt has a length sufficient to reach the cargo vehicle.

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 generator trailer with anchor system adapted for transporting a large generator. The trailer has a bed with a front, rear and two sides surrounding the bed. There are at least four tightening devices. Each of the tightening devices includes a trailer component, an adjustable tension component and a generator component. The trailer component attaches to the trailer. The generator component is adapted to be attached to the generator. The adjustable tension component attaches between the attached trailer component and the attached generator component to provide tension to secure the generator to the trailer and provides a quick disconnect from the generator.

Abstract: The described pawl and ratchet wheel shackle is preferably used to secure automobiles on transport trailers for shipment. To release the tension on the chain securing the vehicle on the trailer, the pawl is shifted laterally relative to the ratchet wheel's plane of rotation. This lateral shift disengages the pawl from the ratchet teeth, releasing the ratchet wheel and relieving the tension on the chain.

Abstract: A strapping system is used to strap loads to the deck of trailers and/or trucks. The system includes a pair of rollers supported by a frame above the deck which extend in a longitudinal direction of the deck. Strapping is rolled onto the rollers. Anchors at the free ends of the strapping can be secured along opposing sides of the deck. A tightener in the form of a crank and ratchet mechanism is coupled to the rollers for tensioning the strapping spanning between the rollers and the free ends anchored to the sides of the deck. The load, for example large round bales, is retained beneath the strapping under tension. The tightener permits common tensioning of all strapping of each roller in a single, time saving operation to ensure loads readily secured before transport.

Abstract: A winding apparatus (winder) that is used to quickly and conveniently wind cargo straps into individual coils for storage from conventional strap winches is disclosed. The winder has a two piece design, which includes a “jawbone” shaped cantilever and a removable crank. The “jawbone” configuration of the cantilever is created by its toothed tapered sides at its front and the pair of spaced parallel ears at its rear. The removable crank can be fitted to the cantilever in a winding position inserted between the two ears or in a storage position secured within the front section of the cantilever. The cantilever is mounted to the strap winch in a plurality of positions to ensure that the rear of the cantilever extends beyond the edge of the trailer bed providing easy access to the crank in its winding position. One end of a cargo strap is secured to the crank, which is fitted to the cantilever and the crank is manually turned to wind the cargo straps into a coil.

Abstract: A manually operated winch system secures cargo to a transport vehicle. The winch system has a shaft rotationally mounted relative a frame. A ratchet drive mechanism controls rotation of the shaft. A handle received in the drive mechanism can be used both to control rotation of the shaft and to control operation of a pawl. The drive mechanism is configured such that tilting the handle moves a member axially. Sufficient axial movement of the member causes the pawl to disengage mating ratchet teeth and thereby allows the shaft to rotate freely.

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.