Abstract: A net type cargo storage system is for use within a motor vehicle having a trunk, a trunk opening periphery being formed from sheet metal, and a trunk seal extending thereabout. The storage system comprises an automotive storage net member having an in-use length, opposed upper side areas, a storage area for receiving cargo, and a mounting member disposed on each of the upper side areas. Two clips each comprise a body having a first end and a second end, the first end being formed in a U-shape mounted over the trunk opening periphery sheet metal and beneath the trunk seal. A mechanism is disposed on the body for lockingly engaging the clip to the trunk opening. An attachment member is disposed on the body second end and within the trunk, the attachment member being matingly and releasably engageable with the net member mounting member. The two clips are opposedly spaced at a distance accommodating mounting of the storage net member at its in-use length.

Abstract: A retractable self-locking cleat for rope, cable and like including means forming a base that can be mounted to a truck body, deck or other surfaces which includes an opening, recess, well or cavity into which an improved self-locking cleat component can be retracted. The cleat component is pivotably secured to the base and can be rotated into and out of the recess. The pivotable connection between the self-locking cleat component and the base may include a pivot pin and slot configuration that permits the cleat component to be maintained in its extended position once rotated thereinto or until it is repositioned so that it can be pivoted into its retracted position. Suitable bolts or other fasteners may be used to secure the base to the apertured wall, deck or other surface. In an alternative embodiment, the base is formed into a classical, fixed cleat configuration having a cavity formed in its midsection for receiving a retractable self-locking cleat component pivotably attached to the fixed base.

Abstract: A bed rail mount for securing a cylindrical bed rail to stake holes on a bed of a pickup truck. The bed rail mount has a protruding snout that inserts into one end of a bed rail. The bed rail mount secures to the stake hole by way of a movable locking bracket that engages one side of the stake hole and a rearwardly sloped tongue provided on the bed rail mount that engages an opposite side of the stake hole. The locking bracket is engaged by a screw after the screw extends through a horizontal opening in the hollow body of the bed rail mount. Tightening the screw moves the locking bracket away from the tongue. The locking bracket is provided on two opposite sides with horizontally extending lips which lock under the stake holes of various types of pickups to secure the bed rail mount thereto.

Abstract: A multipurpose anchor assembly includes a block assembly for mounting to the upper sidewall of a cargo carrying vehicle to accommodate tie down of handled cargo. A pin is received through an aperture in the block and engages a spring mounted plate assembly which allows for engagement of the pin for locking in selective positions. The pin includes an eye formation at a top thereof to facilitate attachment of a tie down lashing member.

Abstract: A fastening system 10 provides a fixed fastener 60 which may be removably interlocked with a strap fastener 20. The fixed fastener 60 is typically carried by a vertically oriented planar portion of a flatbed trailer, such as a section of the vehicle's frame. The fixed fastener 60 provides a base 61 and a hook 63, having ear and nose portions 67, 68. The strap fastener 20 is typically carried by the end of a strap 101 used to secure a load carried on the flatbed trailer. The strap fastener 20 defines a fastener opening 36 having left and right ear passages 38, 40, sized to allow passage of the fixed fastener 60 when the strap fastener is rotated so that the ear portion 68 of the fixed fastener 60 passes through one of the ear passages of the strap fastener. Such passage is almost impossible to result accidentally; therefore the fasteners will remain connected during use, and must be deliberately disconnected.

Abstract: Anchoring systems include a panel having a surface and a channel recessed from the surface and a tracking plate having a spine connected with the panel in the channel. The anchoring systems further include receiving units for receiving a cargo anchoring mechanism. The tracking plate preferably further includes a face member connected with the spine member such that a portion of the spine member and the face member are spaced apart to define a cavity. The tracking plate is preferably adhered with the panel having the spine connected in the channel and the face member adhered with and coextensively overlying the inner surface of the panel. Further, the receiving units, preferably apertures of the tracking plate, can be aligned with a cavity formed between the face member and the spine member.

Abstract: A joining member for joining an adjacent pair of plates to form a portion of a side wall of a trailer, wherein at least one of the plates includes a series of openings. The joining member includes a strip having an inner surface adjacent the plates and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, the strip including a plurality of rows of apertures, wherein each aperture extends between the inner surface and the outer surface and is adapted to receive a fastener for attaching the strip to both plates, the inner surface also including a first channel aligned to overlap both plates and a second channel aligned with the series of openings to define a series of logistics slots, and a sealing strip situated in the first channel.

Abstract: A trunk net for a vehicle has a first net area for holding luggage on a floor, and a second net area for holding the luggage between the net and an upright panel, and anchor members for holding the trunk net in a luggage compartment are distributed in the compartment so as to set the trunk net in various manners. At least one of the anchor members has a net holder for holding the net and a base which supports the net holder on a vehicle body panel and which further serves as a fastener for fastening an interior trim member to the vehicle body panel. This trunk net structure makes it possible to set the net in various manners, and facilitates the fixing of the interior trim members to the vehicle body panels.

Abstract: A tie-down device has been invented that greatly improves securement of cargoes, loads, and ladings to beds, supports, and pallets. When installed within post receiving wells of beds, supports, and pallets, compressable polymeric material is caused to latitudinally expand in all outwardly directions in response to longitudinally applied compression thereupon by turning of an eyenut member.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for restraining cargo securely in or on a vehicle seat. In particular, the invention relates to an apparatus for anchoring a strap, cord, or cable to a vehicle seat, which in turn secures and restrains cargo in or on the vehicle seat. The apparatus secures cargo to a vehicle seat with a rear by anchoring a strap to the vehicle seat. It includes an anchor plate and wedge-shaped slotted unit communicably attached to the anchor plate for channeling the strap therethrough, whereby the anchor plate bears against the rear of the vehicle seat, thereby securing the cargo to the vehicle seat.

Abstract: A tie-down rail adapted to fit the top ledge of the sidewall of a truck bed, the tie-down rail comprising an elongated tubular rail having a substantially circular cross-section, and a hollow interior. In the preferred embodiment, the rail includes a planar top surface. Alternatively, the top surface may be slightly arched. The rail comprises open ends extending angularly downward and adapted to rest on the ledge of the sidewall. The preferred embodiment includes a pair of oppositely disposed flanges positioned in a plane parallel to the top surface of the rail. A rib projects into the interior of the rail from a bottom inner surface of the rail along a centerline. The rail further includes a bracket configured to be received within the end of the rail for attaching the rail to the ledge. The rail may also include a plurality of spaced apart slots formed along at least one side surface of the rail.

Abstract: An interlocking flatbed trailer load strap fastening system provides a strap fastener carried by the end of a load securing strap and a fixed fastener carried by a flatbed trailer. The strap fastener may be attached to the fixed fastener only when the strap fastener is precisely rotated. The strap fastener provides a body having left and right side elements and upper and lower cross members and a curved base, together defining an upper strap opening where a load strap may be secured, and a first hook opening. Left and right prongs extending from the curved base, define a second hook opening between them. A fixed fastener provides a hook portion somewhat resembling a horse's head extending from a base permanently attached to the side of the frame of the flatbed trailer. By momentarily rotating the strap fastener, the hook portion may be inserted into the first and second hook openings. The strap fastener is then securely attached to the fixed fastener, until carefully rotated and removed.

Abstract: A new Adjustable Magnetic Cargo Strap System for securing various quantities and sizes of objects within a bed of a pickup without damaging the pickup. The inventive device includes a strap having a first and second end, a spring-loaded buckle secured to the first end for removably securing the second end forming a loop, a first and second magnet removably secured to the strap for engaging opposing sides of the bed. The strap is preferably in a slidable engagement with the first and second magnets allowing a concentrical positioning of the spring-loaded buckle with the objects. The first and second magnets also having a resilient coating for preventing the scratching of the bed of the pickup. An end magnet is attached to the second end for securing the second end down during use to prevent fluttering of the second end of the strap during driving.

Abstract: A safety chain storage pocket for use with a tow truck comprises a user access surface with a gull wing opening defining a chain access opening providing safety chain exit and storage from and to the pocket. A pair of slotted wings extend from the opening to provide a pair of chain locking positions. The opening has a lower surface providing free movement of the safety chain out of the pocket by allowing the weight of the chain to assist the user to pull the chain out of the pocket, and the chain access opening allows the user vertical access into the pocket to use the weight of the chain to store the chain in the pocket. The slotted wings extend proximate to the chain access opening to provide a locking position for said safety chain.

Abstract: A mooring device adapted for removably attaching a watercraft to a dock is provided. The mooring device comprises an upright pivot shaft having a T-shaped handle on one end and a T-shaped locking bar on the other end. A biasing spring, clevis and tension plate are also mounted on the shaft intermediate the ends, with the T-shaped locking bar being rigidly affixed to the end of the pivot shaft. The tension plate is biased toward the T-shaped locking bar by the biasing spring, with the biasing spring bearing against one side of a support affixed to the upright pivot shaft. One arm of the clevis rests against an opposite side of the support with the other arm of said clevis spaced from the T-shaped handle. The T-shaped handle is firmly affixed to the end of said upright pivot shaft opposite the end having the T-shaped locking bar. The shaft of the mooring device has a locking element associated therewith for lockably attaching the mooring device to the docking platform.

Abstract: A framework having end members joined by longitudinal members to define an area for the reception of a tool chest. A bail assembly of the framework includes a cross member on which an eye equipped sleeve is positionable and lockable to permit lifting of the tool chest and framework in the horizontal regardless of being in an unbalanced state. Fittings on the end members receive turnbuckles for securing the framework and tool chest to a supporting surface such as the bed of a truck. Tool chest removal from the framework is prevented by a component of each end member overlying a tool chest handle.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for restraining cargo securely in or on a vehicle seat. In particular, the invention relates to a method for anchoring a strap, cord, or cable to the vehicle seat which secures and restrains cargo in or on the vehicle seat. The method secures cargo to a vehicle seat having a rear by anchoring a strap to the vehicle seat. The method includes channeling or threading the strap through a wedge-shaped slotted portion communicably attached to an anchor plate, the strap being tightened around the cargo, whereby the anchor plate bears against the rear of the vehicle seat, thereby securing the cargo to the vehicle seat.

Abstract: A article retainer includes an outer casing and an insert, the outer casing being formed as a hollow body having an engagement flange destined to cover the periphery of a mounting hole formed in a panel for insertion of the outer casing, a pair of engagement claws formed at diametrically opposite wall portions below the engagement flange to extend upward while maintaining flexing spaces between their inner surfaces and the wall portions and a pair of windows formed in diametrically opposite wall portions offset from the wall portions formed with the engagement claws by 90. The insert is formed as a hollow body of a size snugly fittable into the outer casing and having a pair of engagement projections formed at diametrically opposite outer wall portions for engagement with the windows and a pair of downward facing elastic engaging members formed at diametrically opposite inner wall portions for clamping the hook.

Abstract: A removable rack system provides the ability to carry elongated loads and is easily and simply installed and removed without the use of special tools or other equipment. The rack system includes a rear rack having a hitch tongue which is releasably connected to a conventional hitch receiver of the truck. A center post extends upward from the hitch tongue and supports a cross member at its upper end. The cross member may be of such a height that it can be used in conjunction with a removable front rack located near the cab of the truck. The front rack can support elongated loads that extend above the cab of the truck.

Abstract: A cargo holder for securing cargo loads in the bed of a pickup truck consists of a metal bar formed with a first hook at one end to engage the bottom edge of the wall of a pickup truck and a second hook at an opposite end to catch a loop in a tie-down rope. A flexible cylindrical tube disposed around the body of the metal bar can be slid downwards when securing the holder to a truck wall, thereby creating a clamping action between the tube and the first hook which secures the holder to the wall of the pickup truck. After several cargo holders have been positioned around the cargo bed and tie-down ropes have been arranged so as to catch the second hooks of the holders, the foam tubes of the cargo holders are slid upwards so as to provide a cushioned barrier between each cargo holder and the truck's finish, thereby preventing accidental marring of the truck.

Abstract: A fitting for attaching a galley wall or bulkhead to the interior of an aircraft is disclosed. The fitting uses a separable attachment plate and an anchor, to which an anchor bolt can be attached from above the attachment plate.

Abstract: A strap hook retainer for releasably retaining the hook portion of a hold down strap. The retainer includes a rectangular frame having a first opening of a first dimension in a first elongated side, and a second opening of a second dimension in a second elongated side disposed opposite the first side. A pivoting plate is located within the frame and is attached to and pivoted by an arm that extends through, and is supported by, the two short sides of the rectangular frame. The hook may be inserted into the frame via the first opening and is retained by the pivoting plate as the hook extends through the second opening and the pivoting plate pivots downward to engage the "U" portion of the hook. The hook is prevented from release by the configuration of the second opening until the plate is manually pivoted into a raised position. The hook may then be removed from the frame while the plate is held in the raised pivot position.

Abstract: A tie-down device which is removably securable without tools to an inside, downwardly oriented edge of the inner sidewalls of a pickup truck bed. The device has a stationary portion with an upwardly oriented front lip which inserts under the edge of the inner sidewall and has a loop connected to the front lip by means of a "U" shaped valley so that the loop extends upward on the inside of the truck bed. A movable portion which movably engages the loop can first be moved upward in order to position the device so that the downwardly oriented edge is inserted in a gap formed between the front lip and a wedge shaped bumper provided on the movable portion. The movable portion can then be moved downward to secure the device to the pickup truck by wedging the downwardly oriented edge between the bumper and between a vertical face of the front lip. The front lip is provided with a rubberized coating to prevent the device from scratching the finish of the truck bed.

Abstract: A ring to which things can be tied, hooked or otherwise linked is pivotally affixed to the end of an elongated shank. At the opposite end of the shank is a wide hook, preferably as wide as the connecting ring. Integral with the shank is a leaf member which protrudes into the hollow of the hook. The leaf member and tongue of the hook are biased toward each other. The hook is used to catch a rigid planar lip of a structure. The biasing causes the lip to be clamped between the leaf member and hook tongue to hold the device in place. The hook is oriented so that any tension applied to the connecting ring is counteracted by force against by the hook by the rigid planar lip. Things connected to the ring are thereby anchored by the structure.

Abstract: A tie down fitting is adapted to fit into a cutout or hole formed in a track or the like installed on the floor of a vehicle. The fitting has a pair of slotted portions which fit into the cutout in engagement with the end edges thereof. A spring actuated plunger is provided on the fitting which when manually raised permits the slotted portions to be fitted in the cutout and after being so fitted limits motion of the fitting thereby retaining the fitting in the cutout. In one embodiment of the invention, a latch formed with a protrusion on the plunger and a pair of rivets on the main body of the fitting provide upper and lower limit stops for the plunger.

Abstract: A quick setting and releasing system for installing and removing fixtures in a longitudinal track comprises a bottom track having an inverted, T-shaped, longitudinal channel and a fixture track having a T-shaped, longitudinal channel. The actuating and locking mechanisms comprise a pair of wing shaped lugs which float on and pivot around a longitudinal pin to lock the lugs in the fixture channel when upward pressure is applied to the pin and in the bottom track when downward pressure is applied to the pin.

Abstract: A device for use on pickup trucks, boats and other similar vehicles in fastening, tying down or securing covers, cargo or other objects by means of straps or cords. The device is composed of a linear body, one flat portion of which can be fastened to the topof the truckbed sidewall of a pickup truck or to the top of its tail gate or to the top of the gunwales of a boat. Another portion of the device extends outwardly from the vehicle and serves as point(s) of attachment for the straps or cords. The device is shaped so that the place(s) where the straps or cords are fastened is/are no higher than the horizontal plane or planes occupied by the top of the flat portion of the device.

Abstract: A tie down assembly including a fitting adapted to fit within a stake hole in a wall section of a pickup truck. The lower plate is dimensioned and configured for insertion through the stake hole for engagement with the underside of the wall section. An upper plate of the fitting engages the upper side of the section and is secured to the lower plate by a fastener assembly. In one embodiment aligned slots in the plates receive a retainer member for pivotal movement between a recessed position flush with the wall section to a projected position where it is adapted for engagement by a cargo securing line or the like. In another embodiment the fastener assembly projects above the truck bed side walls for engagement by securing or clamping elements. A number of such fittings enable securement of cargo on the truck bed or, in conjunction with a clamping assembly, the securement of a camper top or the like onto the truck side walls.

Abstract: A hold-down bracket is provided for releasable engagement in a post pocket of a pickup truck, having a molded U-section body which resiliently clips into the pocket and is held there by external flanges, and a retainer member, preferably tubular, which snaps into position between the limbs of the U-section to lock the latter in place and provides a passage for a rope passing through apertures in the upper portion of the limbs of the body, thus bracing the body against applied tie-down forces.

Abstract: An elastomeric insert for filling the cavity of a bottom foundation fitting or socket in a steel deck of a conveyance, such as a steel container ship, whereby a lashing knuckle of a binder tie down rod for lashing a container to the deck is readily secured within the socket, while the insert remains disposed within the socket, so as to prevent the intrusion of debris and dirt, as well as water, from entering the socket cavity, thereby maintaining access and utility of the deck sockets.

Abstract: Truck rails for pickup trucks and the like include the use of swivel connectors which permit the rails to be attached concurrently to the truck sides, headache rack, and tool box.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tie-down anchor attachable to any location along the side rail of the pickup bed, which anchor includes an L-shaped member having a horizontal leg which extends outwardly across the top of the side rail, and a vertical leg which extends downwards to the inside of the side rail. A tie-down connection member, such as a hook, is attached to the horizontal leg extending upwardly. A hole is formed in the horizontal leg of the L-shaped member between the tie-down connection member and the vertical leg. A U-shaped clamping member has two legs, which define a vertical slot, so that the clamping member may straddle the lip of the side rail, with one leg outside and the other leg beneath the side rail and inside the side rail lip. A vertical hole is formed through the outer leg of the clamping member.

Abstract: A tie-down device for securing an object to a cargo bed comprising a substantially channel-shaped structure which removably mounts along a side of the bed and is infinitely adjustable therealong. The device includes a lower hook which wraps around the bottom surface of the bed adjacent the side, an engagement structure which engages the top portion of the bed to facilitate retention of the device on the bed, and a coupling which receives and engages a chain or the like to facilitate holding the object on the bed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stake pocket tie-down anchor for pickup trucks which includes an L-shaped member having a vertical leg, with a threaded hole formed therein, which extends into the stake pocket so that it lies adjacent to the inner side wall of the stake pocket on the inside of the bed; and a horizontal leg, which extends past the outer edge of the stake pocket and across the top of the side rail. A tie-down connection member, preferably a hook, is attached to the horizontal leg and extends upwardly.

Abstract: A tie down fitting adapted to fit within a stake hole in a side wall section of a pickup truck. The fitting includes a clamping plate dimensioned for insertion through the stake hole for engagement with the underside of the wall section. A cover plate engages the upper side of the section and is secured to the clamping plate by threaded fasteners. Aligned slots in the plates receive a hook member for pivotal movement between a recessed position flush with the wall section to a projected position where it is adapted for engagement by a cargo securing line or the like. A number of such fittings enable securement of cargo on the truck bed.In its recessed position the fitting is pressed to pivot it toward its projected position. Its center of gravity tends to maintain it in either its recessed or its projected position.

Abstract: An anchor fitting has flat surfaced pads with shoulders extending therefrom and a post portion extending along an axis substantially normal to the flat surfaces of the pads. A fastening device is provided on the post for anchoring a load to a track on which the fitting is removably mounted. The device further includes a screw adjustable plunger and clamp member which can be adjustably positioned by the screw along an axis substantially normal to the flat surfaces of the pads. The fitting is removably retained in a selected position along a slotted track, having a plurality of notched portions separated by narrow neck portions formed by flanges, with the shoulders of the pads and the track slots underneath the flanges and with the plunger lowered by the screw so that it is seated in one of the notched portions of the track with a clamping shoulder portion of the plunger-clamp unit in tight engagement with the top surface of the track.

Abstract: An elongated unitary tie-down rail adapted to fit the top ledge of the sidewall of a truck bed, including a bottom flange and an upright flange formed at an acute angle. The top portion of the upright flange terminates in an enlarged elongated rod portion, and a plurality of longitudinally spaced slots are formed in the upright flange immediately below the rod portion to receive tie-down members for securing a load within the truck bed.

Abstract: A self-latching tie-down or bolt-down anchor for use in securing loads to open truck beds. The anchor is intended for installation in the cavity commonly provided in the bed or side wall of a pickup truck to receive the lower end of the support post of a rack.

Abstract: A side rail assembly (10) for attachment to the upper wall (43) of a pick-up truck (20), the assembly (10) comprising a tread plate (12) adapted to fit over the upper wall (43); a tubular, open-ended side rail (21) having a portion (22) disposed parallel to and spaced above the tread plate (12) with end portions (23) engaging the tread plate (12), the bottom wall (29) of the rail (21) split longitudinally to form a slot (30) and having an angular seat formed by shoulders (32) in the bottom wall (29); a plurality of angular and tubular spacers (33) adapted to fit in a nested manner into the shoulder seat at any location therealong and to engage the tread plate (12); and carriage bolt fasteners (34) slidingly engaged with the rail (21) by the slot (30) and insertable through the spacers (33), the tread plate (12) and the side panel wall (43 ) to fasten the assembly (10) to the side panel (11), the fasteners (34) being hidden from view.

Abstract: An improved cargo securing fitting comprising a base coupling member adapted to be fixed to the floor of a carrier and a cap coupling member removably connected to the base member. The base coupling member includes a plurality of outer spaced coupling lugs projecting radially inwardly of the inner periphery of a socket portion formed therein and a circular central pillar extending upwardly of the socket portion to the same level as the coupling lugs having a plurality of inner spaced coupling lugs projecting radially outwardly of the central pillar in diametrically opposed relationship to the outer coupling lugs. The removable cap coupling member has a circular plug element having a plurality of outer spaced coupling lugs projecting radially outwardly of the outer periphery of the plug element and a circular central recess having a plurality of inner spaced coupling lugs projecting radially inwardly in a diametrically opposed relationship to the outer coupling lugs.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a releasable fitting for anchoring webs such as used in cargo control systems, the fitting including two side plates having a keeper plate located therebetween, and the plates each including an opening through which a web loop is passed. An anchor supports the side plates, and may also support the keeper plate, and is pivotally related to the plates wherein the plates may swivel with respect to the anchor to permit alignment of the plates with the web tension force or may swivel to a non-protruding position to protect the web. The anchor includes projections for selective locking reception within a support member opening, and latch tabs defined upon the side and keeper plates are located within the support member opening to prevent accidental release of the anchor therefrom at all pivotal positions of the plates.

Abstract: A seat belt anchor assembly including an anchor around which a loop of seat belt webbing is retained, and openings in both portions of the webbing aligned with an aperture in the anchor for mounting the anchor to a structural part of a vehicle.

Abstract: A post pocket tie-down for use in pick-up trucks and other vehicles which are equipped with post pockets of the type into which vertical stakes may be inserted includes an elongated stake-like portion that is removably affixed in the post pocket and has an attachment mounting at its top end for removably affixing to the top end alternatively a tie-down anchor, such as an eye, for use in tying down cargo, or an arm inclined downwardly from the top of the stake-like portion and outwardly from the side wall of the truck for use in securing a camper body to the pick-up truck.

Abstract: A cargo stabilizing system for preventing shifting of cargo during transport in a carrier vehicle, the system including a channeled cargo-supporting floor, and a snubbing device releasably engaging the floor channels and projecting upwardly to block movement of the cargo. The snubbing device includes a snubbing block and a manually actuatable latching subassembly by which the snubbing block is selectively locked to, or released from, the floor channels. In a preferred form, the snubbing device includes cooperating wedge elements, a handle and an actuator bolt connected between one wedge element and the handle to move the wedge elements relative to each other in a channel locking and releasing movement.

Abstract: A device for example for securing a boat to a dock having spaced boards. The device comprises a body having a shaft and an elongated head secured transversely to one end thereof. A plate is mounted on the shaft for slidable movement thereon towards and away from the head with its plane parallel to the head, to provide an adjustable but uniform space between corresponding points on confronting surfaces of the head and the plate. These surfaces, during operation of the device act to grip therebetween planking of the dock. A spring is associated with the shaft and plate to urge the plate towards the head as this space is increased from a minimum value. The device further comprises a ring to which a line from the boat may be secured.

Abstract: A tie-down anchor for use with a pick-up truck stake opening and which device has side portions joined at one end capable of being removably mounted in the stake opening. Projections are secured to the side portions to engage the stake hole opening to prevent removal of the device. Stop members are also secured to each portion to limit the distance the side portions can be inserted in the stake hole. An extension is associated with at least one of the side portions to permit a rope, antenna or other attachments thereto.