Abstract: A vehicle chock device includes a first body portion and a stepped-box body integrally formed with the first body portion. The stepped-box body has a lower portion and an upper portion. The stepped-box body transitions from a first generally planar, generally horizontal surface on the lower portion to an intermediate sloped surface to a generally planar, generally vertical surface on the upper portion. The lower portion has a second generally planar, generally horizontal surface configured to engage a supporting surface of a carrier vehicle on which an automobile is disposed. An opposite side of the upper portion that is opposite the generally planar, generally vertical surface defines a tire-contacting surface that is positioned to engage a vehicle tire of the automobile while the second generally planar, generally horizontal surface engages the supporting surface of the carrier vehicle.

Abstract: A disconnect assembly for disconnecting a payload from a delivery platform includes a disconnect device for providing a releasable connection between the payload and the delivery platform. The disconnect assembly also includes an actuation mechanism for actuating release of the releasable connection, and a trigger mechanism for triggering the actuation mechanism to release the releasable connection. The trigger mechanism is automated such that the trigger mechanism can trigger the actuation mechanism without requiring operator intervention at the trigger mechanism. Also provided is a kit of parts, a delivery apparatus and a method of disconnecting a payload from a delivery platform.

Abstract: A universal chain tie down assembly includes an anchor base and an associated turret, with a cannon pivotally connected to the turret. The proximal portion of a tensioning rod is associated with the cannon. The tensioning rod further includes a distal portion associated with a hub, along with a tool attachment portion that is configured for engagement by a tool for rotation of the tensioning rod. First and second arms of a constant tensioning device extend from proximal ends associated with the hub to distal ends spaced distally of the hub. A chain is associated with a distal end of the constant tensioning device, such as by being linked to the curved portion of a U-bolt of the constant tensioning device. A tension lock assembly and/or an anti-vibration assembly may be employed to prevent a vibration-induced change in the tension in the universal chain tie down assembly.

Abstract: A wheelchair docking system including a frame having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion being movable relative to the lower portion between a lowered position and a raised position. A coupler mechanism engages a wheelchair during a docking operation. The system also includes a first latching mechanism being movable between a retracted position and a latching position such that the first latching mechanism is spaced from the coupler mechanism. A second latching mechanism moves the upper portion of the frame between its lowered position and raised position. The first latching mechanism is partially retracted by a wheelchair during the docking operation, and the first latching mechanism is biased to its latching position when the coupler mechanism engages the wheelchair.

Abstract: A vehicle flooring system for converting regular vehicles into wheelchair accessible vehicles. The flooring system is made up of individual flooring panels connected via a snap fit type tongue and lip connection. Each individual panel contains an integral track. The integral track forms a positive lock with the track channels. The flooring system is able to satisfy government regulations concerning seat and wheelchair location pull testing.

Abstract: According to an example aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a novel chassis (100) for a roll container (1000). The chassis (100) features a first arm (121), a second arm (122), and a crossmember (110) for connecting the first arm (121) to the second arm (122) so as to form the chassis (100). The crossmember (110) is formed to be less resistant to mechanical strain than that of the first and second arm (121, 122). The crossmember (110) is such that it can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the first and second arm (121, 122).

Abstract: A releasable paperboard chock assembly is provided comprising first and second paperboard chocks, each comprising a base, a back wall, and first and second side walls adjacent to the base. Each of the first and second side walls comprises an upper edge surface having a generally curved portion to conform to a curved surface of a roll to be secured. A paperboard sling extends between the first and second chocks comprising first and second ends joined to the first and second chocks, respectively.

Abstract: A shared vehicle includes: a pair of right and left first pillars; a pair of right and left fourth pillars; a pair of right and left second pillars; a pair of right and left third pillars; an entrance door provided on one side wall of a vehicle body so as to be placed between the second pillar and the third pillar; and a front wheelchair space being provided such that at least a head of a wheelchair occupant is placed within a first region of the vehicle cabin in a plan view, the first region being surrounded by the first pillars and the second pillars, or a rear wheelchair space being provided such that at least the head of the wheelchair occupant is placed within a second region of the vehicle cabin in a plan view, the second region being surrounded by the third pillars and the fourth pillars.

Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a bicycle to the tailgate of a truck bed. The mounting system includes at least a frame pad and a fork pad. The frame pad is directly attached to the bicycle's down tube and includes a handlebar strap that captures the handlebar in a positioning that renders the bicycle unridable. A fork pad for direct attachment to the bicycle's fork. The frame pad and fork pad include multiple layers of textile materials and multiple layers of cushioning materials. The multilayer frame pad and multilayer fork pad provide durability and protection for both the bicycle and the truck. The mounting system allows for easy attachment and detachment directly to the bicycle. By attaching to the bicycle rather than the truck itself, the mounting system avoids damage to the truck's parts and paint. The mounting system's direct attachment to the bicycle rather than to the truck also provides for a much greater ease of use, as compared to the mounting systems of the prior art.

Abstract: The tie-down hook includes a curved hooking finger whereof the free end, intended to be inserted in oblong through orifices provided in the deck of a transport vehicle, includes a flattened spatula extending laterally on each side by a lateral extension. It also includes an elongated intermediate part with a round or oval section, and a connecting part that is preferably annular whereof the orifice is delimited in its inner part by rounded edges. The upper surface of the spatula that is oriented facing toward the connecting part is rounded in relief when considered in profile. The tie-down hook preferably includes a conventional second curved hooking finger provided opposite the other finger so as to form an S.

Abstract: One general aspect includes a mirror system including: a retractor module configured to be installed onto the ceiling of a vehicle interior; a retractor assembly positioned within the retractor module, the retractor assembly having a retractable connector attached at one end to a mirror positioned outside of the retractor module, the retractor assembly configured to releasably maintain the connector in a retracted position and at least one extended position; and the mirror being pivotably connected to the connector around a horizontal axis such that the mirror can be in a substantially horizontal orientation and substantially vertical orientation.

Abstract: A multipoint tie-down formed of EPDM for reducing movement of a load. The tie-down comprises a central hub having a plurality of elongate arms that are molded from EPDM as a single unit with the central hub. The plurality of elongate arms are elastomeric and extend from the central hub to form one of a cross-pattern, a Y-pattern and an X-pattern together with the central hub.

Abstract: The restraint and retractor assembly described and claimed herein are for securing a wheelchair to a support while the wheelchair is in transit. In one embodiment, the system includes at least one securement assembly having a configuration in which a portion of the wheelchair is secured in the vehicle. In this embodiment, the securement assembly includes a retractor secured to the vehicle and a restraint that has both of its ends secured to or near the retractor and a middle segment extends to and from a spool in the refractor, a middle segment is connected to the wheelchair by a connector and passes through an opening in the connector, providing a double length of flexible webbing to secure the wheelchair to the support surface.

Abstract: A shipping strap assembly for use in securing items during transport. The shipping strap assembly includes a first locking element and a second locking element disposed within a frame. The locking elements may be cam buckles oriented in the same direction. In certain embodiments, the shipping strap assembly further includes a strap extending from one side of the frame to the other and engaging both the first and second locking elements, the strap being adjustable to form a nose between the first and second locking elements. In certain embodiments, the strap further terminates at one or both ends in an attachment element, which may include an E, L, or A-track fitting or a hook, ring, clip, clamp, coupler, shackle, or loop.

Abstract: A tornado protection system and related methods are provided. The tornado protection system includes a concrete pad. At least two anchors are affixed to the concrete pad. A vehicle is in a grounded position on the concrete pad. At least two anchor straps are connected between the vehicle and the at least two anchors, respectively, wherein the at least two anchor straps are connected to at least two sides of the vehicle, respectively. The tornado protection system may allow the vehicle to remain grounded throughout the duration of a tornado having a wind speed of at least 65 MPH, a horizontal wind force of at least 2,959 lbs., and a vector wind force of at least 4,638 lbs.

Abstract: A vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car which includes an active chock and an anchor chock configured to co-act to secure a vehicle in the auto-rack railroad car. In various embodiments, each chock has a chock body including a substantially diamond shaped elongated tube which includes four integrally connected elongated walls. In various embodiments, for each chock, various components of that chock extend substantially along longitudinal axis that lie in the same or substantially the same vertical plane as the apex and trough of the substantially diamond shaped elongated tube of the chock body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a double folding seat for a vehicle, particularly a public transportation vehicle such as a bus or a train, with a bench seat positioned in the direction of travel of the vehicle that has a backrest and a seating surface that can be folded between a home position and a sitting position, with a retaining device for holding a wheelchair or the like that has at least two hooks arranged in extension of the backrest and mounted on a wall supported on a floor of the vehicle, which hooks can be tightened by respective tightening members and loosened by respective loosening members, with a safety belt for the wheelchair user and with a covering for the tightening members and loosening members.

Abstract: The restraint and retractor assembly described and claimed herein are for securing a wheelchair to a support while the wheelchair is in transit. In one embodiment, the system includes at least one securement assembly having a configuration in which a portion of the wheelchair is secured in the vehicle. In this embodiment, the securement assembly includes a retractor secured to the vehicle and a restraint that has both of its ends secured to or near the retractor and a middle segment extends to and from a spool in the refractor, a middle segment is connected to the wheelchair by a connector and passes through an opening in the connector, providing a double length of flexible webbing to secure the wheelchair to the support surface.

Abstract: A safety restraint adapted for securing a personal mobility vehicle in a transport vehicle, against movement in a direction opposite to the direction of normal motion of the transport vehicle, the safety restraint comprising: a retractor comprising a spool on which an elongate piece of material is wound; the elongate material being configured to be attached at one end to the personal mobility vehicle; a slider bar adapted to be fixed to the transport vehicle; and wherein the retractor is mounted on the slider bar, in a manner which allows the retractor to slide in the direction of normal motion of the transport vehicle, and prevents the retractor moving in the opposite direction on the slider bar.

Abstract: An anchoring system utilized in securing and transporting a motorcycle or other vehicle includes a strap, a ratchet and at least one anchor device securable to the bed of a transport mechanism. An embodiment herein includes a remote anchor device that attaches at one end to the strap ratchet and at another end to the bed of a transport mechanism.

Abstract: A wheelchair securing device of the present invention is configured such that in a condition in which a plurality of cord-like retaining members having hooks are respectively drawn from reels and in which the hooks are hooked on a wheelchair, the retaining members are taken up by the reels to secure the wheelchair to a vehicle. The device includes a rotation restraining mechanism that is configured to restrict rotation of the reels using tensions of the retaining members when the retaining members are forced to be drawn from the reels due to an external force applied to the wheelchair.

Abstract: A tie down assembly for a vehicle is provided. The tie down assembly includes a retention body, an anchoring device moveably disposed within the retention body, and a stop translatable along the anchoring device into releasable locking engagement with a portion of the retention body when the anchoring device is rotated in a first direction.

Abstract: A vehicle restraint system includes a strap assembly configured to be positioned on a portion of a tire of a vehicle to secure the vehicle to a configurable track assembly, such that the strap assembly is configured to be coupled to the configurable track assembly on inboard side of the tire of the vehicle. System includes a pin assembly configured to be coupled to the configurable track assembly on outboard side of the tire of the vehicle, such that the pin assembly is operable to receive the strap assembly. System also includes a winch assembly configured to be coupled to the configurable track assembly and to a second end of the strap assembly, such that the winch assembly is uncoupled from the pin assembly and operable to tighten the strap assembly around a portion of the tire.

Abstract: An advanced cargo restraint employs an elongated rope-like member formed of web material. The web material is manufactured from high-modulus fibers. Various connectors are attached to the elongated member. In some embodiments, a small linkage of chain is also connected directly or indirectly with the advanced cargo restraint member. The advanced cargo restraint member is adapted to substitute for heavy-duty chains employed to secure cargo.

Abstract: A single point release system provides a single point for efficiently, concurrently releasing multiple cargo retaining latches of an aerial delivery system. A release module is mounted to the platform and connects via a cable and is actuable to a release mode to concurrently release each of the latches.

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 wheelchair securing device of the present invention is configured such that in a condition in which a plurality of cord-like retaining members having hooks are respectively drawn from reels and in which the hooks are hooked on a wheelchair, the retaining members are taken up by the reels to secure the wheelchair to a vehicle. The device includes a rotation restraining mechanism that is configured to restrict rotation of the reels using tensions of the retaining members when the retaining members are forced to be drawn from the reels due to an external force applied to the wheelchair.

Abstract: A tie down apparatus for tying a motorcycle down to a trailer or truck bed has a novel U-shaped tie down bracket used in conjunction with tie down straps and a front wheel receiving channel attached to the bed.

Abstract: A strapping system for positioning and transporting a motorcycle or similar vehicle in an upright position include two interconnected straps with reinforced cuffs. The cuffs have a cylindrical body and strap attachment housing contiguously formed and a reinforcement ring substantially enclosed within the walls of the cylindrical body and strap attachment housing.

Abstract: A method for retrofitting chain tie down systems to strap tie down systems. Exemplary embodiments include a method for retrofitting a chain tie down apparatus to a strap tie down apparatus, the chain tie down apparatus having a central shaft, the method including affixing a first parallel shaft adjacent the central shaft and affixing shaft plates to the central shaft, wherein the first parallel shaft is radially moveable with respect to the central shaft.

Abstract: A wheel chock for restraining movement of a vehicle tire on a supporting grating during transit includes a base, a grate lock mechanism for locking the base to the grating, and a ramp on the base for engagement with a circumference of a vehicle tire. A strap connected with the base is extensible around the vehicle tire to help restrain movement of the tire on the grating. The chock includes a retractor for retracting the strap and for taking up slack that forms in the strap during transit.

Abstract: Apparatus for securing one or more wheelchairs to a vehicle includes a plurality of straps for holding the wheelchairs to the vehicle. Some of the straps are attached to a movable element that can be moved into or out of the area to be occupied by the wheelchairs. This allows the area to be utilized by other passengers when no wheelchairs are present and also facilitates ingress and egress of the wheelchairs. In the preferred embodiment, movable elements, which carry housings for wheelchair-engaging belts and passenger restraint belts, are mounted to the side wall of the vehicle for pivotal movement about vertical axes between storage positions and operative positions. The apparatus allows an operator to quickly and easily secure or release a passenger in a wheelchair and maintains the integrity of the straps.

Abstract: A device for securing a vehicle includes a frame member locatable over the upper portion of a tire of a wheel of a vehicle and; a respective tie down attachable to each of opposite sides of the frame member. Each tie down includes an attachment member at its end remote from the frame member, whereby with the frame member located over a tire, the wheel is able to be secured by engaging each connector with an anchor point below the frame member.

Abstract: A cargo rack assembly is provided for a vehicle. The cargo rack assembly defines an inner region and includes a restraint assembly disposed at least partially within the inner region. The restraint assembly includes a belt and a carrier. The belt extends between a first end portion and a second end portion. The second end portion of the belt is attached to the carrier. The carrier is configured to facilitate selective dispensation of the first end portion of the belt between a stored position in which the first end portion is adjacent to the cargo rack assembly, and an extended position in which the first end portion is spaced from the cargo rack assembly. A vehicle including a cargo rack assembly is also provided.

Abstract: An aircraft payload retention system includes a cable, a brake assembly, a hollow crushable member and a hollow structural member. The hollow structural member is fixed adjacent an aircraft internal cargo bay. In response to a high-G condition, the payload may break free from a tie-down system and move forward. The brake assembly engages the hollow crushable member within the hollow structural member and begins to crush the hollow crushable member as the cable is pulled therethrough to dissipate energy of the payload into the structure of the aircraft to arrest forward movement of the payload toward the cockpit.

Abstract: This invention provides a cargo anchoring system for anchoring cargo to a cargo bed. One cargo anchoring system comprises a rear ring; a forward ring; and a ring connection member connecting the rear ring to the forward ring. A first lateral ring is sized and configured to be directly or indirectly attached to the cargo bed, a first lateral connection member connects the first lateral ring and the rear ring, and a second lateral ring is sized and configured to be directly or indirectly attached to the cargo bed, a second lateral connection member connecting the second lateral ring and the rear ring. A first elongate connection member is attached to the first lateral ring, and a second elongate connection member is attached to the second lateral ring. A front ring is sized and configured to be directly or indirectly attached to an item of cargo. Both elongate connection members are threaded through the forward ring and attached to the front ring.

Abstract: A vehicle having a handlebar grip comprising a cylindrical surface is secured for transport with a tie-down strap using an apparatus. The apparatus comprises a series of two or more rigid plates flexibly connected at their edges. The series is adapted to be applied to the handlebar grip such that the two or more rigid plates overlie respective portions of the cylindrical surface while, at the same time, the first and last rigid plates in the series define an uncovered region of the cylindrical surface therebetween.

Abstract: An anchoring system for a craft according to one embodiment comprises a first and third portion for forming a first loop around a handlebar, the first portion having a free end; a second and fourth portion for forming a second loop around the handlebar, the second portion having a free end; a third portion coupled to the first portion, the third portion having a free end; and a fourth portion coupled to the second portion, the fourth portion having a free end; wherein tension exerted on the free end of the first portion or third portion causes the first loop to exert a wrapping force on the handlebar when wrapped therearound; wherein tension exerted on the free end of the second portion or the fourth portion causes the second loop to exert a wrapping force on the handlebar when wrapped therearound.

Abstract: The device (1) for stowing a vehicle when it is transported on a bearing plane (9) by one of its wheels or from an anchorage on the chassis is characterized in that it is constituted by the following means: a link (2) that has a coupling end (5) provided to engage with a tensioning and retaining mechanism (3), a tensioning end (6), and a sliding sheath (7) for support on a tyre, a mechanism for tensioning and retaining the link (2) that has a roll axis (10) of sufficient length to offer numerous transverse coiling positions of the strap, and a coupling and return assembly (4) passed through by the link (2). Said device therefore enables vehicles to be stowed in two ways: a) by coupling to the vehicle chassis and b) by stowing the vehicle by link (2) on its tyres. This invention relates to the transportation of vehicles on Lorries or railway trucks.

Abstract: The tiedown product comprises a rod having a first end which passes through a first opening at a first side of a load. The rod also has a second end which passes through a second opening at a second side of the load. A first tiedown attaching provision is on the rod first end. A second tiedown attaching provision is on the rod second end. Tiedown lashings can connect between the tiedown attaching provisions and a cargo deck to restrain the load on the cargo deck. The rod carries force from the tiedown lashings thus preventing this force from harming the load.

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 tiedown system has a single tensile member with cargo attachments on each end thereof. The tensile member passes through a series of guides affixed about the perimeter of the carrier (flatbed truck or trailer, etc.). The ends of the tensile member are secured removably to the rear of the cargo, e.g., the cargo rack of an all terrain vehicle (ATV). The medial portion of the tensile member is connected to a winch on the front of the ATV or other cargo, or alternatively the medial portion of the tensile member is passed through an opening on the front of the cargo, e.g., the forward cargo rack of the ATV, and connected to a winch anchored to the cargo bed of the carrier. The winch is actuated to draw up the tensile member, simultaneously pulling the rear and front of the cargo securely against the cargo bed of the carrier.

Abstract: Restraint apparatus and methods for securing items are disclosed. The restraint apparatus include a retention element including an elongated arm secured to a body. The elongated arm defines a spiral to secure a fitting. The spiral of the elongated arm at least in part may define a gap to receive a fitting. A tether may be secured to the body of the retention element to extend across an item to be secured.

Abstract: An apparatus for restraining a mobility aid in the interior of a vehicle includes two or more retractor spools contained within a common housing. The retractor spools carry flexible webbed belts, and are operated by common actuator mechanism having a direct mechanical attachment to the spools. The various elements of the apparatus are contained within a common housing which is easily mounted to a bulkhead or under a foldable seat. A third retractor is mounted in opposition permitting both the front and rear of the mobility aid to be easily secured by the occupant of the mobility aid without assistance of the operator of the vehicle. The operative portions of the retractor are designed to be positioned so as not to present an obstacle to other users of the vehicle in which the apparatus may be installed. A timing mechanism is provided for at least one of the retractor spools to allow at least one of the retractor spools to be freely manipulated during a predetermined time interval.

Abstract: The embodiments described and claimed herein are improved wheelchair passenger securement systems and stations. In particular, one embodiment described and claimed herein is a drop-in system comprising a barrier module and a wall-side module, which incorporate three separate restraint devices which are configured to secure a wheelchair at three separate attachment points. The system can optionally include a moveable excursion barrier or a pull-mechanism to pre-tension at least one of the restraint devices the wheelchair securements. In a simpler embodiment, three restraint devices, such as retractors, are provided for attachment to the vehicle surfaces or structures in, for example, a generally right-triangular configuration.

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 retractor anchor for releasably engaging a track. The retractor anchor has a body member which is slidably receivable on the track, and a plunger, which is moveably connected to the body member. A release member is connected to the plunger for moving the plunger between an engaged position, wherein the plunger engages the track to restrain the body member from sliding with respect to the track, and a disengaged position, wherein the body member is slidable with respect to the track. A mounting member is connected to the body member for mountably receiving an attachment for rotation of the attachment around the release member.

Abstract: The invention features a locking coupling for securing a transported vehicle within a carrier vehicle. The locking coupling features an turnbuckle attachment having adjustable arms for securing to the frame of a transported vehicle and a load binder assembly having a tensioner.

Abstract: A stabilizing rod system for securing a motorcycle to a trailer during transportation. The system has telescoping tubes which can be adjusted to fit different dimensions and a hook for securing the tubes to the trailer and a second hook for securing the tubes to the motorcycle.

Abstract: A cargo rack assembly is provided for a vehicle. The cargo rack assembly defines an inner region and includes a restraint assembly disposed at least partially within the inner region. The restraint assembly includes a belt and a carrier. The belt extends between a first end portion and a second end portion. The second end portion of the belt is attached to the carrier. The carrier is configured to facilitate selective dispensation of the first end portion of the belt between a stored position in which the first end portion is adjacent to the cargo rack assembly, and an extended position in which the first end portion is spaced from the cargo rack assembly. A vehicle including a cargo rack assembly is also provided.