Portable Patents (Class 70/14)
  • Publication number: 20110265526
    Abstract: A lock assembly (210) including a body (220), at least one locking member (223, 240) and a length of lock material with two free ends and at least one leg (212) attached to one of the free ends, each leg configured to be engaged by a respective locking member. The locking members are separately actuable such that each leg (212) may be removed from the lock body independent of any other legs. A bracket assembly (300) for connecting a lock assembly (210) to a bicycle or the like. The bracket includes a bracket body (310) with a strap (330) that is secured via a pivotal buckle (340). The bracket body (310) includes at least one flange (320, 322) configured to slidably engage a groove (250, 252) provided along the lock assembly (210).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: Robert David Zuraski
  • Patent number: 8047029
    Abstract: A tire locking assembly includes a first elongated member and a second elongated member. Each of the first and second elongated members has a top end and a bottom end. The first and second elongated members each have an aperture extending therethrough positioned adjacent to an associated one of the top ends. A locking rod has a first end and a second end. The locking rod is extendable through the apertures in the first and second elongated member. The locking rod is extendable through a rim of a tire. A lock removably engages the locking rod and the second elongated member to secure the locking rod to the second elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Trevor Henry
  • Patent number: 8042366
    Abstract: A security apparatus is disclosed. The security apparatus comprises an attachment device comprising a base. A locking head can be configured to secure to the base. The attachment device can be small and strong. The locking head can have a securing element and a locking component, associated with a housing. The locking head may be in a secured configuration upon a single motion or movement of the locking head. The locking head may contain one or more gate structures for securing to the attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Acco Brands USA LLC
    Inventors: Robert Mahaffey, John Hung, John Tan, Will Ali, Ryan White, Michael Xiao Lei Liang
  • Patent number: 8042365
    Abstract: A security device includes a cable securing member defining a slot between an open first end and a closed second end. A channel is provided in the slot and a rib adjacent the channel protrudes into the slot. The open first end includes a tab receiver and a lock receiver. The tab receiver engages a tab attached to a chassis. A cable extending through the channel is not removable due to a lock inserted into the lock receiver and blocking the open first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: John Trevor Morrison, Bradley Jackson
  • Patent number: 8037723
    Abstract: A theft prevention device includes an outer shell having a top wall and side walls and defining a cavity, wherein the side walls have a slit therein adapted to accommodate a strap and wherein the top wall has an outer shell opening; and an inner shell having a top wall and side walls and defining a cavity, wherein the side walls have a slit therein adapted to accommodate a strap and wherein the top wall has an inner shell opening; wherein the inner shell is adapted to be mated to the outer shell such that the inner shell opening and the outer shell opening can be generally aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Gary Fong, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary M. Fong
  • Patent number: 8026792
    Abstract: A system for operating a container lock mechanism includes a housing, at least two lock members, the two lock members including a first lock member configured to engage a first portion of a container and a second lock member configured to engage a second portion of the container to mount the container lock mechanism outside of the container and lock at least one container door in a closed position. The system further includes a latching mechanism coupled to the first and second lock members, a lock circuit at least partially enclosed within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: David R. Powers, Daniel Bertuna, Walter C. Bonneau, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8020414
    Abstract: The Container-Locking Device with respect to this particular invention has been designed to fasten the locking upright bar of one door of a container to another. It has been invented to include two virtually symmetrical segments of a pair of locking bar fasteners, where the flat end of each segment, opposite to the end fastened to the container door locking bar, will be fixed to one of the two virtually symmetrical segments of a padlock shroud. There is also a separation-prevention unit which prevents the shroud from being separated and eliminates the gap between the two segments when they are joined, in order to prevent a bolt cutter from being able to be inserted into the padlock shackle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Solex International (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ekaphan Pitisethakarn
  • Patent number: 8020885
    Abstract: An assembly for restricting access to a coupler includes a body having a coupler engagement portion for engagement with a first surface of a coupler, a coupler engagement member laterally movable within a laterally extending slot in the body, with the coupler engagement member extending perpendicularly from the slot for engagement with a second surface of the coupler opposite the first surface. The assembly further includes a securing mechanism for selectively securing the coupler engagement member relative to the body against lateral movement away from the coupler engagement portion. When at least a portion of the coupler is received between the coupler engagement portion and the coupler engagement member and the coupler engagement member is secured in a coupler lockout position, at least one of the coupler engagement portion and the coupler engagement member prevents withdrawal of the coupler from the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Maja A. Cuellar, D. Scott Kalous
  • Patent number: 8018334
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a portable electronic device electronically is provided. The method comprises receiving a first radio signal, the first radio signal emitted by the electronically monitored portable electronic device and determining a first received signal strength of the first radio signal. The method also comprises receiving a second radio signal, the second radio signal emitted by the electronically monitored portable electronic device, the second radio signal received after the first radio signal. The method also comprises determining a second received signal strength of the second radio signal, comparing the second received signal strength to the first received signal strength, and alerting when a result of the comparing exceeds a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Allison A. DiMartino, Jason R. Delker, John M. Everson, Jason K. Whitney
  • Patent number: 8011213
    Abstract: A universal security device for preventing unlocking rotation of right and left door stanchions of cargo containers including a protective housing for a puck lock and channel shaped cross bar wings extending from its laterally opposite sides. A hook with claws for engaging a stanchion includes a palm with a locking tab having a locking bar receiving opening. The palm is insertable through one of the complimentary openings provided in each of the two side walls of the housing. At least one interior tab with a locking bar receiving opening is provided in the housing and when the locking rod of a puck lock engages the openings in the locking tabs, the cross bar structure prevents an unlocking rotation of the stanchion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Roy E. Gogel
  • Publication number: 20110203327
    Abstract: A theft prevention device includes a base having body with a pair of side walls; a base protrusion protruding from an edge of the body, the base protrusion having a base protrusion opening; and a fastener opening configured to receive a fastener for coupling the base to an external device; and a sleeve adapted to mate with the base, the sleeve having a bottom wall; a pair of side walls extending from the bottom wall; an end wall extending from the bottom wall and between the side walls, the end wall having an end wall slot adapted to receive the base protrusion; and a sleeve protrusion protruding from an edge of the sleeve and having a sleeve protrusion opening configured to be substantially aligned with the base protrusion opening when the base protrusion is inserted through the end wall slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Gary M. Fong
  • Patent number: 8002232
    Abstract: A device used to secure an automobile catalytic converter. The invention deters a person from tampering with or stealing a catalytic converter. The device consists of at least four overlapping, and adjustable plates comprising an adjustable frame structure that clamp around the catalytic converter. Tightening of fasteners keeps the frame structure securely in position around the catalytic converter, preventing easy access to the catalytic converter. The frame structure is then secured to the automobile itself with a looped cable, which prevents easy removal of the catalytic converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Monat Technologies
    Inventor: Steven Meislahn
  • Patent number: 8001812
    Abstract: A security apparatus is disclosed. The security apparatus comprises an attachment device comprising a base, and a locking head configured to secure to the base. The attachment device can be small and strong. The locking head can have a securing element and a locking component, associated with a housing. The locking head may be in a secured configuration upon a single motion or movement of the locking head. The locking head may contain one or more gate structures for securing to the attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: ACCO Brands USA LLC
    Inventors: Robert Mahaffey, John Hung, John Tan, Will Ali, Ryan White, Michael Xiao Lei Liang
  • Patent number: 7997106
    Abstract: A security apparatus is disclosed. The security apparatus comprises an attachment device comprising a base, and a locking head configured to secure to the base. The attachment device can be small and strong. The locking head can have a securing element and a locking component, associated with a housing. The locking head may be in a secured configuration upon a single motion or movement of the locking head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: ACCO Brands USA LLC
    Inventors: Robert Mahaffey, John Hung, John Tan, Will Ali, Ryan White, Michael Xiao Lei Liang
  • Patent number: 7971458
    Abstract: One embodiment is a bracket assembly having a first bracket connected to an electronic device with a fastener and an opening that receives a lock. A second bracket covers access to the fastener to prevent the first and second brackets from being disassembled while the lock is secured to the first and second brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Mark Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7961461
    Abstract: A media apparatus includes a media bay having a media module slot. A security port is provided in the media bay adjacent the media module slot. A security fastener is provided in the media bay and is accessible via the security port. A security bar is movable between a first position wherein a first portion of the security bar opens the security port and exposes the security fastener, and a second position wherein the first portion closes the security port and conceals the security fastener. A lock plunger port is provided in the media bay adjacent a second portion of the security bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Teodros Mesfin, David Gary Methven
  • Patent number: 7930914
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for preventing theft of a boat fitted with an outboard motor. The anti-theft device is made up of a rear collar and a front collar. In one embodiment the rear collar comprises an elongated bracket having a U-shaped cross-section defined by first and second opposite sidewalls with a joining curved portion there-between. A nut cover is integral with and located at one end of the front collar. Complimentary locking teeth and locking teeth receiving apertures allow a user to affix the front and rear collars around an outboard motor's steering piston. Each of the front and rear collars are provided with locking tongues. In typical use a shackle is threaded through the locking tongues and attached to a padlock to secure the anti-theft device to the steering piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Warren Taylor
  • Patent number: 7926314
    Abstract: A personal property securement device mountable to a vehicle may comprise a cable housing with a safety port that defines a passage extending from internal to external the housing. A cable may be threaded through the passage with one end fixed to a cable retention knob external the housing and the other end fixed to a reel that may be disposed for rotation within the housing. A power spring may present a torque on the reel to enable retrievable winding and tensioned unwinding of the cable. The property securement device may further comprise a ratchet mechanism in cooperation with the reel to release tensioning of the cable at given incremental extractions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Peak Recreational Products, LLC
    Inventor: Dale Anton Tollefson
  • Patent number: 7913527
    Abstract: A locking device includes an enclosure having an insertion section formed with two holes for inserting into a connecting port on a computer, and a plurality of windows axially spaced on at least one side of the enclosure; a locking unit arranged in the enclosure and including a rod having axially spaced teeth, a push member connected to one end of the rod and having an engaging portion, a hooking member movably connected to the engaging portion with two hooking arms extended into the two holes on the insertion section; an elastic member located between the push member and the fixing seat; a plurality of rotating discs fitted on the rod corresponding to the windows and each having a plurality of numeral areas and a notch; and at least one push button movably arranged on at least one lateral side of the enclosure to interfere with the push member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Yen-Hsiang Chen
  • Patent number: 7870767
    Abstract: A lockout device is provided for an instrument having a body and an actuating member extending from the body for operating the instrument. The lockout device includes a bottom member, a cover member, and a flexible member. The bottom member and cover member are adapted to receive a cinching portion of the flexible member between first and second cinching features. One of the first and second cinching features includes at least one pin, and the other of the first and second cinching features includes at least one corresponding recess configured to receive the at least one pin. When the flexible member is wrapped around a portion of the body and received between the first and second cinching features and the cover member is in a closed position, the first and second cinching features prevent movement of a cinching portion of the flexible member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Michael Brojanac, Frank Scott, Scott Czarnecki
  • Patent number: 7861562
    Abstract: A vehicle mountable personal property securement device includes a plurality of walls that device a housing with an aperture. A real is operably disposed in the housing for spring-biased rotation. A cable is threaded through the aperture of the housing and includes a first end that is secured to the reel. The second end of the cable is disposed external the housing and is terminated by a head of dimension greater than a diameter of the aperture. A ratchet is disposed in operable configuration in cooperation with the reel to enable ratcheted rotation of the reel in a first direction during cable extraction and further operable at periodic intervals of rotation to enable reversal of wheel rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Peak Recreational Products, LLC
    Inventor: Dale Anton Tollefson
  • Publication number: 20100300992
    Abstract: Described herein is technology for, among other things, a theft deterrent apparatus for cooperation with an elongate member attached to and extending outwardly from a forward-facing side of an article display panel. The apparatus includes a housing defining an internal chamber. The housing includes a first aperture passing through the housing into the internal chamber for receiving the elongate member, a second aperture for receiving a magnetic key, and a locking member that has a magnetic portion and is movably disposed within the internal chamber. The locking member is adapted to selectively: maintain the apparatus in locked and unlocked configurations in which the locking member respectively prevents or permits the elongate member from being at least partially withdrawn from the first aperture. Whether the locking member maintains the apparatus in the locked or unlocked configuration depends on whether or not the magnetic key is inserted into the second aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance Surma, Roger J. Leyden
  • Publication number: 20100281930
    Abstract: A portable safe (10) includes a safe body (15) and cover (20) that are selectively coupled with a locking mechanism (32). The safe cover (20) is permanently affixed to a tether (27) having a loop (29) at one end that is sized to allow the safe cover (20) to pass through but does not admit the safe body (15). Thus, the safe cover (20) can be installed on a fixed object by looping the tether (27) around the object, passing the safe cover (20) through the loop (29), and cinching the cover (20) to the fixed object. The safe body (15) can then be locked to the safe cover (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY LLC
    Inventor: Dean D. Hacker
  • Publication number: 20100266336
    Abstract: A gooseneck trailer lock is provided including a body having a coupler engaging portion and a trailer frame engaging portion. A lock secures the body to the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Paul J. Bickel, III
  • Publication number: 20100263413
    Abstract: A gooseneck trailer lock is provided including a body having a coupler engaging portion and a trailer frame engaging portion. A lock secures the body to the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Paul J. Bickel, III
  • Patent number: 7793526
    Abstract: An anti-theft device comprises a housing for enclosing and locking in place the accelerator pedal of vehicles such as a golf cart. The housing is formed from rigid steel or other suitable materials and includes an open top and a bottom having a T-shaped opening therein to allow the accelerator pedal to be inserted therethrough. An L-shaped retaining rod is placed through an opening in one side of the housing, slid behind the accelerator pedal and positioned through the opening in the opposing side of the housing. A padlock or similar device is placed through an aperture in the retaining rod to secure the housing to the golf cart and prevent depression of the accelerator pedal. The anti-theft device thus prevents the accelerator pedal from being depressed and the vehicle being moved or stolen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy L. Coggins
  • Patent number: 7784313
    Abstract: The present cable lock apparatus and method, including a cable having a first end terminated with a shackle, and a lock body providing a throughway to receive the cable in sliding relation such that the lock body may be selectively positioned along the length of the cable. The shackle portion is received within the lock body, and is removable therefrom. A first plunger grip assembly is used to receive the shackle portion and the cable length in a sliding relationship. The first plunger is depressed to a release state, allowing the cable to slid through the lock body, and is released to a grip state. The method of securing an item with the present lock apparatus broadly includes passing the cable through the lock, advancing the lock body along the cable, forming a loop around the item, and securing the first end of the cable to the lock body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Patent number: 7770420
    Abstract: A door has a doorknob, and is hingedly mounted in a door frame having at least one vertical member. The door is capable of selective rotational movement between a closed configuration and an open configuration. The door has a first side and an opposed second side. The first side is oriented in a direction toward which the door opens. A barricade bar includes a flange member for selectively engaging the doorknob to prevent the separation of the flange member from the doorknob. The barricade bar also includes a frame member for coordinate engagement with the at least one vertical member. The frame member is rigidly coupled with the flange member. The barricade bar can be oriented adjacent the second side of the door so that the frame member engages the vertical member and the flange member engages the doorknob to prevent the opening of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald R. Carr
  • Patent number: 7757523
    Abstract: Gate multi-locking apparatus includes two housings, one attached to a gate member and the other attached to a structural member. A latch bar is positioned externally of the housings and extends between the housings to prevent movement of the gate member to open position. Latch bar supports extend into the housings and are locked in place by lock members extending therethrough and padlocks holding the lock members in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventors: Angel Garcia, Charles Y. D. Lee
  • Patent number: 7743634
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for immobilizing tracked vehicles comprises a first bar for extending between the treads of a tracked vehicle. A second bar, affixed at one end to the first bar, extends parallel to the first bar and passes through slots in a plate on the tracked vehicle, the plate being positioned on the opposite side of the track as the treads. A rotatable member is affixed to the first bar at a distance from the second bar, and has an orifice therethrough. A lockable bar passes through slots in the plate and then through the orifice in the rotatable member. The lockable bar has an enlarged portion to prevent it from being passed through the orifice in a first direction. A lock attaches to the remaining end of the lockable bar to prevent the bar from passing through the orifice in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventors: Richard Lawrence, Larry A. Cull
  • Publication number: 20100117822
    Abstract: A tracking device is incorporated into a band, such as a watch band or bracelet. The tracking device appears as an ordinary band, but cannot be removed by the individual wearing it. If necessary, the location of the tracking device can be determined by a central server and reported to the authorities or to the individual's family.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Dequincy A. Hyatt
  • Patent number: 7712339
    Abstract: A jointed bar lock having a lock body and a jointed bar hoop which has a first end and a second end, said first end being permanently connected to the lock body and said second end being connectable to the lock body at a latching region of the lock body, with a bolt provided at the lock body selectively being movable into a latched position in which the bolt engages it the second end of the jointed bar hoop when it is connected to the lock body or is movable into a release position in which the second end of the jointed bar hoop is released for a removal from the lock body. The lock has an actuation device which is coupled to the bolt via a connection section and by which the bolt is movable from the latched position, into which the bolt is biased, into the release position. The lock body accommodates a combination locking mechanism to selectively block or release the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: ABUS August Bremicker Soehne KG
    Inventors: Andreas Hentschel, Martin Hommel, Hans-Theo Schafer
  • Publication number: 20100101283
    Abstract: A security device for deterring theft of an object from a retail store comprises a base member (10), cable means (2) for placement about the object, spool means (14) rotatably mounted on the base member (10), the cable means (2) being connected to the spool means (14) such that the cable means can be wound around said spool means (14) enabling said cable means (2) to be tightened around said object upon rotation of the spool means (14) with respect to the base member (10) in a tightening direction, and a rachet and pawl mechanism (22,24) configurable between an active configuration wherein the spool means (14) is constrained for rotation only in said cable tightening direction, and an inactive configuration whereby the spool means (14) is free to rotate in both the cable tightening direction and an opposite, cable loosening direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: HANG ZHOU CENTURY PLASTIC AND ELECTRONIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Liu Xiaobin
  • Patent number: 7698913
    Abstract: The complex lock has a housing, a number core, a key cylinder and a number detector. The number core, the key cylinder and the number detector are located inside of the housing. The complex lock can be unlock by a key and unlock number. When the unlock numbers are missed or forgotten, the number detector is able to find the unlock number again so that the complex lock can be unlock by the unlock number again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: ABA UFO International Corp.
    Inventor: Miko Lee
  • Patent number: 7698915
    Abstract: A locking device includes a first and second body members that may optionally include laterally projecting arms. A retainer element has end portions respectively received in the interiors of the first and second body members and mechanically links them for longitudinal movement between collapsed and expanded orientations. The retainer element also moves between a retain position and a release position that respectively secure the body members in the collapsed orientation and allows them to move to the expanded orientation. A lock core is operative to engage the retainer element. In a locked state, the lock core holds the retainer element in the retain position and in an unlocked state that moves the retainer element to the release position. A shackle may extend between arms on the first and second body members in order to enclose a locking region when the bodies are in the collapsed orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Patent number: 7697153
    Abstract: In a print system which processes a print job on the basis of a print instruction in which request items in print processes for obtaining a printed matter are described in a predetermined description format, a print management device manages print processings for the printed matter. The print management device includes a detection unit that detects a connection state of a processing device for executing a predetermined process among the request items included in the print instructions, and a selection unit that selects a print instruction of a description format corresponding to the connected processing device to output the print instruction to the processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyoshi Uejo
  • Publication number: 20100071422
    Abstract: An anti-theft device and method for securing and preventing access to components within an interior of a fuel dispenser cabinet having an access door located on one side of the cabinet. The device includes structure for securing the anti-theft device to the periphery of the cabinet, structure for preventing the anti-theft device from being laterally and vertically removed from the cabinet, and a releasable assembly for selectively allowing and preventing access to the interior of the cabinet through the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: NORTHERN INDIANA MECHANICAL
    Inventors: Terence Brian Kiest, Michael Steven Kiest, Michael Anthony Hawley
  • Patent number: 7681421
    Abstract: An electrical panel lockout that locks the electrical panel door closed and prevents the panel cover from being removed. Two telescoping hollow tubes extend between two panel screws. Two slots in the ends of the hollow tubes slide under the screw heads of each of the loosened panel screws. The outer hollow tube and inner hollow tube extend across the panel door keeping it locked closed. The shackle of a padlock is inserted into one of the openings of the inner hollow tube to keep the device locked in the extended position onto the panel screws. The screw heads are encapsulated by the device rendering them inaccessible and preventing the electrical panel cover from being removed. Hollow tube extension fittings can be employed to increase the length of the device for use on electrical panels of larger widths. A guide screw attached to the inner hollow tube rides in a slot in the outer hollow tube to keep both tubes from separating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Michael Cannon
  • Patent number: 7665755
    Abstract: An improved kingpin locking system includes a kingpin lock body having upper and lower sections, the lower and upper section each having a truncated generally pyramidal shape, with the lower one being inverted, a central kingpin-receiving chamber formed in the kingpin lock body, a kingpin engagement bar movably mounted in the kingpin lock body adjacent the kingpin-receiving chamber which releasably engages the kingpin when positioned within the chamber, and a kingpin engagement bar locking device which releasably locks the kingpin engagement bar in the engagement position thereby releasably securing the kingpin lock body on a kingpin to prevent unauthorized engagement of the kingpin and thereby preventing unauthorized use of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Verne E. Thomsen
  • Patent number: 7665334
    Abstract: An outboard motor lower-unit lock has a key, a locking pin assembly and a shaft. To install the lock, a user drills a shaft hole the same diameter as the shaft through both sides of a housing unit below an access hole of the housing unit. The shaft is inserted in the shaft hole, and oriented so that a threaded hole in the center of the shaft can receive a threaded pin section of the locking pin. The locking pin receives the key. The key is tightened. Finally, the user removes the key allowing the locking pin to rotate around and below the shaft, thereby obstructing a bolt securing the lower-unit to the housing unit, and preventing the unauthorized removal of the lower-unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Pedro Medina
  • Patent number: 7661280
    Abstract: One embodiment of a locking device of the type for motorcycle helmets having a cable (50) which is fastened at one end to the device, and which passes though the face of the helmet and is detachably secured in the locking device to releasably secure the helmet. The active locking element of the lock (44), when in locked position, secures the cable (50) and acts to deny access to the fastener (36) securing the device to the motorcycle handlebars, so as to resist removal of the device from the handlebars. The cable (50) is flexible, has permanently formed spiral convolutions and is partially held in place by the concave shape of the device. The device can be used to secure helmets, jackets or other items, and, in various embodiments, it can be used to lock a vehicle or item to a fixed object to deter theft of the vehicle or item. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Trevor Adrian Weyland
  • Patent number: 7654120
    Abstract: A locking assembly is configured for locking an electronic device to an object. The electronic device includes a panel. The panel includes two opposite first and second surfaces. A first through hole, a second through hole and a third through hole are defined in the panel. The locking assembly includes a rotating wheel, a lockset and a flexible cable. The rotating wheel is rotatably coupled to the first surface. The lockset includes a lock cylinder and is fixed to the first surface. The lock cylinder is extended through the first through hole and exposed from the second surface. The flexible cable is wrapped around the rotating wheel, and includes a locking end and an opposite connecting end. The connecting end is fixed to the rotating wheel. The locking end is extended through the second through hole and the third through hole, and capable of being engaged with the lockset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chao-Jen Chen, Yu-Rong Liu
  • Patent number: 7640772
    Abstract: A locking device for a watersports apparatus which in one embodiment, comprises a pair of interlocking brackets which form an inverted “T” when slidably disposed in a channel associated with a fin box. Apertures are provided to allow a cable or other security device to traverse the inverted “T” locking device for securing the watersports apparatus. In a second embodiment, a pair of generally planar scissor members having a pair of unguiform clasping elements aligned in opposition and configured to clasp a rod disposed in a tether plug aperture by scissor action. Useful watersport tools may be provided on the distal ends of the generally planar scissor members. The useful tools include a screwdriver, a wax comb, a bottle cap opener and a wax scrapper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: James Johnson
  • Patent number: 7637130
    Abstract: A security bar for quickly barricading a doorknob-operated, outward-opening door from inside a room, especially useful for fire safety doors used in schools and similar institutions. The bar spans the doorway from the knob to at least one side of the doorframe, with the ends of the bar overlying, and preferably directly engaging, the sides of the doorframe in a non-rotating fashion. The bar has a doorknob-engaging platform that engages the inner doorknob. A clamping member carried by the doorknob-engaging platform normally rests in a storage position out of the way of the doorknob while the bar is being applied to the door, but is quickly activated to clamp the doorknob to the platform. A lock is optionally engaged to lock the clamping member in place and prevent attempts to lift the bar out of engagement with the doorknob. Attempts to force the door open from the outside simply force the bar more tightly against the doorframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald R. Carr
  • Patent number: 7635272
    Abstract: Locking and blocking devices for USB ports include a lock having a linear cam with a lock button at its back end, and a locking member pivotally connected at its back end to a retaining sheath such that forward sliding of the linear cam pivots the locking member outwards. The front end of the locking member is biased toward the interior of the lock. The locking member has protrusions at its front end configured for insertion into holes of a USB port. A blocking plate includes at least one opening configured for insertion of the retaining sheath. A retaining bracket has a back face that defines a first opening, wider than the cable that connects a plug to an external device. The front face of the bracket defines a second opening configured for insertion of the retaining sheath, and a third opening configured for insertion of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Acco Brands USA LLC
    Inventor: Carl H. Poppe
  • Patent number: 7631523
    Abstract: The invention is a security locking device that secures a forklift while hitched to a commercial trailer. The invention includes a “U” shaped base member having a pin hole, a pin, and an attaching locking mechanism. The invention is designed so as to place the “U” shaped base member over the locking pin hole located on the trailer bed, insert the locking pin through both the pin hole of the “U” shaped base member and the locking pin hole of the trailer bed, and then place a locking mechanism onto the pin and “U” shaped base member. The components of the invention shall be made of a tool-grade steel or a metal of like strength-ness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Jorge Sosa
  • Patent number: 7624603
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved lock assembly particularly suited for bulk vending machines, the lock assembly formed by an upper portion including a lock barrel having a lock collar extending downwardly therefrom, the lock collar having a tubular configuration with a hollow interior. A lock pin is secured within the hollow confines of the lock collar. The lock assembly further includes a lock post which is intended to be screwthreadedly mounted to a mounting bar, and the lock post including a first diametric channel cut into the upper portion thereof along a diametric centrally positioned plane, and continues into a curvilinear channel, ending at a pair of opposed stop points, the plane formed by the stop points being exactly 90° perpendicular to the plane formed by the diametric lock channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventors: Trevor Perks, Dale N. Padjen
  • Patent number: 7614266
    Abstract: A security apparatus, a security system that uses the security apparatus, and a method of using the securing apparatus to secure a portable electronic device to an immovable object. The security apparatus comprises a combination locking mechanism with dials and tumblers, a body coupled to the dials, a reset device coupled to the tumblers, and a reset key configured to interact with the reset device to allow the user to reset the combination associated with the combination locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: ACCO Brands USA LLC
    Inventors: Ryan White, John Hung
  • Patent number: 7614264
    Abstract: The present invention provides new anchored lock systems wherein the locking device (e.g., a padlock) can be rapidly detached from its anchor. The systems comprise an anchor for attachment to a structure such as a wall, portable panel, etc., or a structure a portion of which has been adapted to detachably engage the locking device. The anchor can be mounted in any desired location on a structure, and is configured such that it can be engaged by the lock body of a locking device that comprises at least two locking functionalities: releasable engagement of the anchor to prevent the locking device from being removed from the anchor when engaged by the lock; and releasable engagement of a shackle for retention of an article to be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: John M. Mc Gettrick
  • Patent number: 7581420
    Abstract: A lockout device is provided for an instrument having a body and an actuating member extending from the body for operating the instrument. The lockout device includes a bottom member, a cover member, and a flexible member. The bottom member is adapted to be positioned over the body and includes a first holding portion and an aperture for receiving the actuating member. The cover member is connectable to the bottom member for movement between a closed position and an open position, and includes a covering portion for covering the actuating member in the closed position, and a second holding portion adapted to abut the first holding portion in the closed position. The flexible member has a first end connected to one of the bottom member and the cover member. The bottom member and cover member are adapted to receive a cinching portion of the flexible member between the first and second holding portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Rebecca Manthe, Frank Scott, Michael Brojanac, Scott Czarnecki