Abstract: An apparatus for rigging and derigging lashings of an airdrop platform with one action includes a rapid release interface assembly. A loop member replaces the D-ring at the one end of a lashing. The rapid release interface system is installed in the space between the platform side rail and panel end members. Pins will slide through the lashing loop members to secure the end of the lashing to the rapid release interface system. With all of the pins on a common drive, the pins are all opened and closed together, or at the same time. In this manner, the one end of the lashing can be secured or released with one action making it faster and easier to derig a payload from an airdrop platform.

Abstract: A multi-screen display apparatus includes two display screens, an optical element and an optical element fixing mechanism. The two display screens are arranged adjacent to each other, wherein the two display screens have an included angle. Each of the display screens has a display area and a frame surrounding the display area. The optical element is disposed between the two display screens and covers two adjacent sides of the frames of the two display screens and portions of the display areas of the two display screens. The optical element fixing mechanism includes a fixing cord, and the fixing cord is configured to fix the optical element to one of the two display screens.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an assembly and method for a fastener assembly for securing a flexible cover over an open enclosure employing corner members coupleable with angled corners of the open enclosure, a plurality of removeably attachable tie down members and fastening members and a strap for securing the flexible cover about the open enclosure and any cargo therein, and is particularly preferred to be used with a tarpaulin cover for a truck bed to provide a user friendly, efficient system for tying down cargo being transported in truck beds.

Abstract: A tension absorber produced from a flexible strand which is only loadable under tension and which tension absorber possesses the advantages of a chain formed from strand material but can be easily and cost-effectively produced. The strand is folded into three or more loop sections. Proceeding from the beginning of the strand a succeeding loop section arranged offset in the direction of the end of the strand follows each preceding loop section arranged offset in the direction of the beginning, until the last loop section has been reached. Each loop section has a loop which encloses a loop opening. At least one bow is formed from the strand by guiding a succeeding loop section by its loop through the loop opening of a preceding loop section arranged adjacent to it.

Abstract: A cargo securing device for use in carrying cargo in pickup trucks and the like. The cargo securing device is formed of a flexible panel having straps on opposed sides which extend across the panel to attachment devices such as rings. The flexible panel may include apertures with removable covers to permit the ends of long devices to extend through and to be held from movement sideways.

Abstract: A working portion of load restraint strip may include an attachment region. The attachment layer may include an adhesive layer. When the adhesive layer is exposed, at least part of the attachment region on an exterior side of the load restraint strip is colored differently from regions on the exterior side outside the attachment region.

Abstract: A vehicle load securing apparatus comprising a frame including opposite side walls and an end wall extending between the side walls, with the frame having open sides positioned in opposition to each other. A spool is rotatably mounted on the frame and includes a rotating shaft, and a length of an elongate member at least partially wrapped about the spool with a hook mounted thereon. A ratcheting structure may control rotation of the spool with engaged position in which the ratcheting structure resists rotation of the spool in an unwind direction and a disengaged position in which the ratcheting structure permits rotation of the spool in the unwind direction. The shaft may have a first end portion extending through one of the side walls of the frame, and a section of the first end portion having a substantially hexagonal cross-sectional shape for engagement by a tool.

Abstract: A working portion of load restraint strip may include an attachment region. The attachment layer may include an adhesive layer. When the adhesive layer is exposed, at least part of the attachment region on an exterior side of the load restraint strip is colored differently from regions on the exterior side outside the attachment region.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gel-spun fiber comprising a polyolefin polymer forming a fiber body, wherein a stabilizer is present inside the fiber body, characterized in that the amount of said stabilizer is between 0.001 and 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the amount of the polyolefin polymer forming said fiber body and wherein said stabilizer is carbon black.

Abstract: A buoy rope assembly includes a main rope segment having a plurality of rope strands and first and second ends, a first end loop provided on the first end of the main rope segment, a second end loop provided on the second end of the main rope segment, at least one sinusoidal intermediate loop defined by at least one of the rope strands and at least one removable member releasably coupled to the first end loop, the second end loop or the at least one in-plane intermediate loop.

Abstract: A ratchet drive winch for securing cargo to a transport vehicle includes a shaft rotatably mounted on the vehicle, the shaft receiving one end of a flexible tie down member. A lever arm, rotatably mounted on the shaft, controls a ratchet gear fixed to the shaft through a pawl. The lever arm pawl causes the shaft to follow the lever arm as it is rotated in one direction. A holding pawl mounted on the frame prevents the shaft from rotating in the opposite direction so that as the lever arm is moved back and forth the shaft is rotated removing slack in the tie down member. The lever arm pawl can be manually retracted to disengage from the ratchet gear and is configured to selectively retract the holding pawl allowing the shaft to freely rotate.

Abstract: A ratchet drive winch for securing cargo to a transport vehicle includes a shaft rotatably mounted on the vehicle, the shaft receiving one end of a flexible tie down member. A lever arm, rotatably mounted on the shaft, controls a ratchet gear fixed to the shaft through a pawl. The lever arm pawl causes the shaft to follow the lever arm as it is rotated in one direction. A holding pawl mounted on the frame prevents the shaft from rotating in the opposite direction so that as the lever arm is moved back and forth the shaft is rotated removing slack in the tie down member. The lever arm pawl can be manually retracted to disengage from the ratchet gear and is configured to selectively retract the holding pawl allowing the shaft to freely rotate.

Abstract: A securing assembly adapted for promoting a more secure relationship through active material actuation, facilitating lashing, attenuating tension, reducing slack, and/or facilitating unlashing, include selectively or passively modified lashing material and/or eyelets comprising active material elements.

Abstract: A shock absorption and restraint apparatus including a plurality of co-acting cushioned pads which create a protective shock absorbing barrier for a load in a railroad car (or other shipping container) and a set of straps which are employed to restrain the cushioned pads and the load. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads include one or more central or connector cushioned pads and one or more side or cooperating cushioned pads. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads include strap engaging mechanisms which are configured to be engaged by the straps. The cushioned pads are preferably lightweight, easy to handle and install, recyclable, and readily reusable. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads are configured, sized, and constructed in such a way to protect the specific load in the railroad car.

Abstract: A vehicle load securing apparatus for securing a load to a vehicle, and including a housing substantially enclosing an interior and having a dispensing opening into the interior, and a spool rotatably mounted in the interior of the housing and including a rotating shaft. The apparatus may further include a length of an elongate member at least partially wrapped about the spool, and a ratcheting structure configured to control rotation of the spool, with the ratcheting structure having an engaged position in which the ratcheting structure resists rotation of the spool in an unwind direction of the spool and a disengaged position in which the ratcheting structure permits rotation of the spool in the unwind direction and a wind direction. The apparatus may also comprise a mounting structure on the housing that is configured to removably mount the housing on the vehicle.

Abstract: A buoy rope assembly includes a main rope segment having a plurality of rope strands and first and second ends, a first end loop provided on the first end of the main rope segment, a second end loop provided on the second end of the main rope segment, at least one sinusoidal intermediate loop defined by at least one of the rope strands and at least one removable member releasably coupled to the first end loop, the second end loop or the at least one in-plane intermediate loop.

Abstract: A loop rope assembly includes at least two loop rope assemblies, each of the at least two loop rope assemblies having a main rope segment with a first rope strand and a second rope strand continuous and uninterrupted with each other and having first and second ends; a free first end loop provided on the first end of the main rope segment; a free second end loop provided on the second end of the main rope segment; at least one sinusoidal intermediate loop defined by the first rope strand, the at least one sinusoidal intermediate loop continuous with the first end loop and the second end loop; and the second rope strand devoid of intermediate loops; and a coupling mechanism operable to releasably couple at least a first one of the at least two rope assemblies to at least a second one of the at least two rope assemblies.

Abstract: A cargo securing device for use in carrying cargo in pickup trucks and the like. The cargo securing device is formed of a flexible panel having straps on opposed sides which extend across the panel to attachment devices such as rings. The flexible panel may include apertures with removable covers to permit the ends of long devices to extend through and to be held from movement sideways.

Abstract: A tie-down strap includes a web belt having a first end. A hook is coupled to the web belt at the first end. A first magnet is embedded in the hook. The hook includes a shank portion that terminates in an eye and a bend portion. A bite portion extends from the bend portion. A first magnet is embedded in a selected one of the shank portion and the bite portion.

Abstract: A sensing device 26 is attached to a tensioned strap 20 holding a load on a vehicle. A probe 44 engages the strap 20 and causes a signal lamp 28 to light up if the tension in the strap 20 is below a predetermined threshold value. The sensing device 26 helps the vehicle operator to set the tension correctly before a journey and also provides a visible warning if a strap becomes loose during the journey. The warning is visible beyond the vehicle, to alert other road users to a possible hazard.

Abstract: A tonneau cover cargo containment track rail system including a cargo hold down and at least one tonneau cover rail. The cargo hold down has a base portion and a handle portion. The handle portion is operably attached to the base portion for movement between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The tonneau cover rail has a first attachment mechanism attached thereto. The first attachment mechanism is adapted to receive a portion of the cargo hold down to retain the cargo hold down in engagement with the tonneau cover rail while permitting the cargo hold down to move with respect to the tonneau cover rail.

Abstract: A load securing system comprises a tensioning member (18), and a securing member (22) on the tensioning member. First and second containers (12) can be arranged adjacent each other in an array of containers. Each of said first and second containers has a cooperating formation (28) to cooperate with the securing member. The tensioning member can extend across the containers to the aforesaid cooperating formations, and the securing member can be secured to the cooperating formations. The tensioning member can be tensioned to secure the first and second containers to each other.

Abstract: There is provided a load restraint installation apparatus comprising of an elongated body, tie receivers positioned at spaced intervals along the body, and a mounting assembly for mounting the body to a lifting apparatus, such that straps or cables are received in the tie receivers and then the body is lifted by the lifting apparatus to position the straps or cables at a top of a load on a transport vehicle.

Abstract: The method makes use of four top corner plates (3), four bottom corner plates (4) and five center plates (5). Each plate (3, 4 and 5) has a number of holes (2) that accept and retain swivel connectors (1) and adjustable connector straps (8) that mechanically connect the corner plates (3) and (4) and center plates (5) and in this manner allow for the even restraining of the goods (7) packed on the pallet (14).

Abstract: A chuck and lock system prevents the load on a flatbed truck from shifting at the destination during offloading. The system includes one or more extendable brace units or vertical stakes and a movable chuck and lock, which operates as a socket locking each extendable brace in place. The chuck and lock unit is attached to dunnage underneath the load. The units can be spaced on either side of the load where needed. The load is held on each side between the vertical braces adjacent to the load and which are adjusted for the height of the load. Straps are supported by the extendable braces and go over the load. At the destination, prior to unloading, all straps or lashings are removed or loosened. The vertical braces prevent the load from shifting sideways and causing an accident. The load is offloaded by a load lift.

Abstract: A chuck and lock system prevents the load on a flatbed truck from shifting at the destination during offloading. The system includes one or more extendable brace units or vertical stakes and a movable chuck and lock, which operates as a socket locking each extendable brace in place. The chuck and lock unit is attached to dunnage underneath the load. The units can be spaced on either side of the load where needed. The load is held on each side between the vertical braces adjacent to the load and which are adjusted for the height of the load. Straps are supported by the extendable braces and go over the load. At the destination, prior to unloading, all straps or lashings are removed or loosened. The vertical braces prevent the load from shifting sideways and causing an accident. The load is offloaded by a load lift.

Abstract: A motor vehicle is provided having at least one holding device, a holding device having a holding apparatus, and a holding apparatus for a guide device having two guides spaced apart from one another, in which the holding apparatus can be situated so it is movable, having one holding unit and one guide element per guide, which are coupled to the holding unit and using the holding unit can be coupled to the guides so it is movable, in order to move the holding unit along the guides, angle compensator or angle compensation means is provided that allows movement of one of the guide elements at least along the guide upon the adjustment of at least one of the other guide elements in relation to the guide.

Abstract: An inventive cargo securement device as described herein integrates a mesh tarp portion with a cargo net portion. In the preferred embodiment, the mesh tarp portion is overlaid upon the cargo net portion to create a substantially smooth, and snag-free side to the device, which allows for easier maneuvering over cargo loads without snagging. The side opposite the smooth side is a lattice work of longitudinal and latitudinal straps overlaid upon the mesh tarp portion and is attached thereto. In use, the lattice work side of the device preferably does not contact the cargo, but provides a foundation for attaching a plurality of anchor points located within the perimeter of the mesh tarp portion. By locating anchor points within the perimeter of the mesh tarp portion, ropes, hooks, winches or a combination thereof can be attached to the anchor points and any slack in the mesh tarp portion can be effectively gathered up.

Abstract: A vehicle body includes structure that defines a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, and an opening between the first and third surfaces. The first surface and the second surface at least partially define lateral boundaries of a vehicle cargo area. The third surface at least partially defines a compartment separate from the cargo area. A first fastening element is mounted with respect to a flexible member. A second fastening element is mounted with respect to the second wall and is releasably engageable with the first fastening element. The flexible member is selectively movable through the opening from a stowed configuration to a deployed configuration. In the stowed configuration, the flexible member is substantially entirely outside the cargo area. In the deployed configuration, the flexible member extends sufficiently across the cargo area such that the first fastening element is engaged with the second fastening element.

Abstract: A shock absorption and restraint apparatus including a plurality of co-acting cushioned pads which create a protective shock absorbing barrier for a load in a railroad car (or other shipping container) and a set of straps which are employed to restrain the cushioned pads and the load. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads include one or more central or connector cushioned pads and one or more side or cooperating cushioned pads. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads include strap engaging mechanisms which are configured to be engaged by the straps. The cushioned pads are preferably lightweight, easy to handle and install, recyclable, and readily reusable. In certain embodiments, the cushioned pads are configured, sized, and constructed in such a way to protect the specific load in the railroad car.

Abstract: Devices for securing cargo in the bed of a truck having tie-down anchors are provided. A representative device includes: a body sized and shaped to span a width of cargo to be secured in the bed of the truck, the body having a first segment and a second segment; a first attachment member connected to the first segment; and a second attachment member spaced from the first attachment member and being connected to the first segment; the first attachment member and the second attachment member being operative to be secured in position relative to first and second ones of the tie-down anchors of the truck such that the cargo is positioned between the truck bed and the body of the device.

Abstract: A securing assembly adapted for promoting a more secure relationship through active material actuation, facilitating lashing, attenuating tension, reducing slack, and/or facilitating unlashing, include selectively or passively modified lashing material and/or eyelets comprising active material elements.

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: 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 structural tie down bar for securing the rear track of a snowmobile to a trailer or other similar structure. The device comprises an elongated beam with a plurality of eyelet projections extending therefrom. The eyelets serve as trailer tie down attachment points for external trailer tie down straps. In a preferred embodiment, the base surface of the beam rests flush against the outer surface of the snowmobile track while the eyelet projections protrude through drive hole penetrations along the track. High tension tie down straps attach to the device using an S-hook or similar attachment means to engage the eyelet projections. Tension loads in the straps act to secure the entire rear end of the snowmobile without compressing the suspension, limiting movement during transportation and reducing potential damage to frame, fairings and other accessories.

Abstract: The invention relates to a net comprising a plurality of net members (100), said members being arranged in a lattice structure and having a thickness (D1), wherein the net further comprises attachment means connected to said members, wherein the thickness (D2) of the attachment means is larger that the thickness of the members (D1) at least at the place of places of connection through which loads are transmitted between said members and said means and wherein the ratio between the thickness of the members and the thickness of the attachment means (D1/D2) is at least 1.15. The invention further relates to the use of the net as a barrier net to secure an off-limits area and as a cargo net to secure restrain movement of a cargo on a platform of a pellet.

Abstract: Various enhancements to the capabilities of vehicles in general, and particularly light-duty utility vehicles, which can advantageously enhance the cargo-carrying capabilities of such vehicles. The present invention provides a cargo bed insert, as well as an insert system, for removable attachment to a vehicle's existing cargo box. Improvement to a light-duty utility vehicle, where the improvement is in the form of a cargo box for the vehicle which includes one or more features of the described cargo bed insert and/or system is disclosed. The invention contemplates methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capability of a light-duty utility vehicle. In particular, methods for enhancing the cargo-carrying capacity of such a vehicle beyond a manufacturer's specified cargo weight capacity are provided. Lastly, the invention includes a mounting assembly for a removable attachment to a vehicle's frame.

Abstract: A linkable loop rope system that includes at least two loop rope assemblies fastened together by a coupling mechanism operable to releaseably couple the rope assemblies for use in securing large and/or irregular shaped objects on a transport vehicle or a tarp or cover on such objects during transport.

Abstract: A load securing system comprises a tensioning member (18), and a securing member (22) on the tensioning member. First and second containers (12) can be arranged adjacent each other in an array of containers. Each of said first and second containers has a cooperating formation (28) to cooperate with the securing member. The tensioning member can extend across the containers to the aforesaid cooperating formations, and the securing member can be secured to the cooperating formations. The tensioning member can be tensioned to secure the first and second containers to each other.

Abstract: A coupling/uncoupling device is disclosed for joining and disjoining first and second segments of a transmission and/or connection means. An end fitting of the device is arranged on the first segment. The end fitting creates a snap connection with a receiver part arranged on the second segment. The device may be adapted for use in vehicles, such as for a vehicle seat, a tailgate, an engine cover, a storage compartment, a battery pole connection, or for securing transported or loaded items.

Abstract: A support arrangement for supporting load in a transportation unit, includes a rod-like support member to be placed beside the load to support it and two parallel rails in the longitudinal direction of the transportation unit and at a distance from each other. The support member includes support ends to be fastened to support points in the transportation unit so that the support member is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the transportation unit. To achieve safe and easily implemented support for the load to be transported, the support member is arranged to move along the inner walls of the rails and guided by the inner walls to set it against the load. The support arrangement includes an elongated flexible member and a tightening element for tightening the elongated flexible member against the load to be supported so that displacement of the load in relation to the rod-like member is prevented.

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: A mechanically actuated, air release, binding device adapted for use on trucks or trailers, commonly known as a load binder, comprises a horizontally aligned frame, truck air brake cylinder, lever arm and attachment connection. The air brake includes an internal piston and exposed drive shaft which are spring driven outwards from the cylinder. Application of compressed air to the cylinder drives the piston and drive shaft inwards, rotating the lever arm and providing a fully slack condition in binding straps or chains attached to the binder. Release of all or part of the cylinder compressed air draws in upon the lever arm rotating it to a full or floating binding condition automatically. A ratchet and pawl secured to the lever arm mechanically locks the binder and adjusts when the binder becomes slack due to load shift or transportation conditions. The pawl is fully released to permit the binder to provide full load strap slack for attachment or removal.

Abstract: A containment assembly may be used with a shipping container and may include: a cargo net having a pair of sleeves; and, a pair of tethering members that are received within the sleeves and that have ends that extends out from the sleeves. The ends of the tethering members may be attachable to multiple attachment surfaces on the shipping container to change the orientation of the cargo net with respect to the shipping container.

Abstract: A bi-directional cam buckle is provided. The invention allows selectable placement of a bi-directional buckle across a strap for secure resistance of bi-directional load pulls. The bi-directional cam device can be threaded in anti-reverse, dual cam, or single cam configurations.

Abstract: A locking device and system for a tie down includes elements that positively secure a securing strap within a locking housing to hold one or more objects in place. In one embodiment, the locking housing includes a sloped housing having a cavity adapted to receive one end of the securing strap. The locking housing includes at least a user actuable lever and a gripping element. When the securing strap is threaded through the cavity of locking housing and the securing strap is in a desired positioned within the locking housing, the locking device enables a user to pivot the lever to cause the gripping element to press against the strap and positively secure the position of the strap within the housing. In one embodiment, the strap is a cogged belt having teeth and the gripping element includes a surface with teeth that mesh with the teeth of the strap.

Abstract: A security device used to secure heavy payloads upon a flatbed platform trailer bed thereby preventing injury during sudden stops and collisions. The security device comprises a plurality of interwoven load bearing straps capable of securing heavy payloads on trucks. The security device is situated between the front side of the payload and the backside of the front cab.

Abstract: The method makes use of four top corner plates (3), four bottom corner plates (4) and five centre plates (5). Each plate (3, 4 and 5) has a number of holes (2) that accept and retain swivel connectors (1) and adjustable connector straps (8) that mechanically connect the corner plates (3) and (4) and centre plates (5) and in this manner allow for the even restraining of the goods (7) packed on the pallet (14).

Abstract: There is disclosed a load binder device (10) for tightening, a load, for example during transport on a truck. The device is connected to hooks (80, 102) for securement to suitable anchor points and has an actuating lever (20) and lashing wheels 40. The actuating lever includes a pushing plate (32) which engages ratchet teeth (41) of the lashing wheels to rotate them. A stop plate (56) engages with the ratchet teeth and allows the lashing wheels to be rotated to tighten the load but prevents the wheels from rotating in an opposite direction to release the load. The actuating lever can be released from the lashing wheels by lifting the pushing plate and can be moved into an unlocking position in which cam-like lobes (24), forming part of the lever, force the locking plate into a disengagement position for releasing the lashing wheels to allow the load to be released.

Abstract: There is provided a load restraint installation apparatus comprising of an elongated body, tie receivers positioned at spaced intervals along the body, and a mounting assembly for mounting the body to a lifting apparatus, such that straps or cables are received in the tie receivers and then the body is lifted by the lifting apparatus to position the straps or cables at a top of a load on a transport vehicle.