Pivoted Patents (Class 70/159)
  • Patent number: 5870911
    Abstract: A lock for meter boxes and similar enclosures includes an outer case with a central bore mounted on an electric meter box. Inside the bore are two extrusions of unequal length spaced 90 degrees apart. A sleeve having a deep bore is held in the case by a screw, and a spring assembly transmits motion from the screw to the sleeve. The sleeve includes a flange at its end with an arcuate cutout portion which spans both extrusions. The sleeve further includes several internal grooves for retaining a barrel type lock which prevents access to the screw. A heavy cover plate is welded to the top of the sleeve so that it overlays and retains the door of the meter box. To unlock the meter box lock, the barrel lock is removed to allow access to the screw. As the screw is unscrewed, the sleeve moves with the screw until the flange on the sleeve clears the shorter extrusion. The sleeve then rotates with the screw until the flange engages the longer extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Inventor: Norman Binz DeWalch
  • Patent number: 5823411
    Abstract: A locking device for motor vehicle roof trunks has a bottom part and a lid. On two sides of the trunk (1), which extend parallel relative to one another, the lid (3) is pivotable by two hinges around a hinge axis relative to the bottom part (2). The hinges each include a first hinge part (14) associated with the lid (3) and a second hinge part (15) associated with the bottom part (2). All hinges have a common actuating rod (23) which includes hinge pins (30) movable parallel to the direction of the hinge axis (12). Each hinge pin (30) is movably guided in a bearing housing (21) associated with the bottom part (2) and may engage a sleeve (17) associated with the first hinge part (14). A cylinder lock (34) enables all hinges associated with one side to be actuated centrally by actuating the actuating rod 23 towards the closed or open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignees: Huwil-Werke GmbH, Thule GmbH
    Inventors: Rolf Gronwoldt, Siegfried Deisenhofer, Artur Hirtsiefer
  • Patent number: 5816076
    Abstract: A computer security apparatus is disclosed. In a departure from the art, a metal box having a padlocked front closure is used to mount a computer to the underside of a surface, such as a counter or desk top, in such a manner as to prevent unauthorized access to and removal of the computer. In a preferred embodiment, the security device of the present invention comprises a substantially rectangular-shaped metal housing having a top, opposing left and right sides, and a door hingedly connected across the front of the housing. Each of the left and right sides includes a rear flange extending approximately one quarter of the way across the rear of the housing and a bottom flange extending approximately one third of the way across the bottom of the housing for securing the rear and bottom sides of the computer, respectively. Spaced-apart clips are provided along one end of the door for securing the door to the front end of one of the opposing sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Biedermann, Reynold Liao
  • Patent number: 5769006
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety box which includes a bottom plate provided with devices for attaching the bottom plate to a wall or a partition, and with a box shaped cover hingedly connected to this bottom plate. The construction of the safety box according to the invention prevents unauthorized access to the interior of the safety box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Alcadi
    Inventor: Dina Allaer
  • Patent number: 5762224
    Abstract: A re-enterable environmentally sealed enclosure for housing circuitry and/or cable components of a communication network employs a removable cover attached to an enclosure base by a pivoting cam-tracking system. The tracking configuration positions the cover in a manner that, as it approaches the enclosure base when being closed, a seal located in the cover is evenly compressed along its entire perimeter against a corresponding mating surface on the base, thereby distributing the compressive force equally across the entire seal, with any shear forces substantially eliminated. A single tensioning system is provided adjacent the cam-tracking system, so that the tracking system does not operate as a counter-lever to the tensioning system, and visa versa, thereby improving the distribution of force across the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Ericsson Raynet
    Inventors: Alexander Benn, Peter Henderson, Detlev A. Lohmuller, Paulmer M. Soderberg, Marc F. Moisson, Lowell I. Koht
  • Patent number: 5701770
    Abstract: A gun safe with dual method of gaining access therein including a portable housing having a top face, a bottom face, a pair of side faces and a pair of end faces formed therebetween thereby defining an interior space. One of the end faces is hingably coupled for allowing it to be pivoted between an open orientation and a closed orientation. Also included is a solenoidal locking mechanism situated within the interior space of the gun safe on the top face thereof. Such solenoidal locking mechanism is further situated adjacent an upper end of the hingably coupled end face. Further provided is a fingerprint scanning mechanism positioned within the interior space of the gun safe. The fingerprint scanning mechanism is adapted to detect the placement of a fingerprint adjacent thereto whereat the scanning mechanism is adapted to scan the fingerprint and convert the same into a digital format for processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventors: Nancy A. Cook, Anne M. Murray
  • Patent number: 5682776
    Abstract: An adjustable toilet-lid closing and lock-down device, with optional use key lock-down, for use on many different types, and styles of toilets, that is sturdily attached, keeping toilet-lid lock-down in it's normal position, requiring adult supervision to use, thus providing safety and general hygiene for infants, young children and household pets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventor: Gene Doyle Burt
  • Patent number: 5655394
    Abstract: A security locking device for coin-operated commercial washers and dryers for articles of clothing, bed linen, and the like, prevents the theft of such articles during the operation of the appliance by locking the door of the appliance. The security locking device functions in cooperation with the coin box and the appliance controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Charles J. DiRocco, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5595073
    Abstract: Method and apparatus to provide a weatherproof enclosure for one or more padlocks. The invention incorporates a weatherproof case cover and case body sized and shaped to house a plurality of padlocks together with the two looped ends of a cable that is used to secure a gate or other opening. Two donut shaped gaskets made of a resilient material are positioned on the cable in order that they make secure compressed contact with the case cover and case body when they are in a closed position. The case cover and case body are both shaped to receive the donut shaped gaskets at the points of contact and yet sufficiently compress the gaskets to form a weatherproof seal. The case cover and case body are sized and shaped in order that both have a channel at the point of contact between the case cover and case body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: John J. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5563387
    Abstract: A switch lock having a reliable side-opening door and an improved rotatable handle is provided for use in motorcycle ignition systems. The side-opening door is rotatable between an open position wherein the lock plug assembly is exposed and a closed position wherein the lock plug assembly is covered. In the closed position, the side-opening door forms a part of the handle by fitting tightly against the side and top of the handle. The side-opening door also has a latch which receives and securely retains the side-opening door in the closed position. The handle is rotatable into a finite number of predetermined engagement orientations and is lockable at some or all of these orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Fort Lock Corporation
    Inventors: Gary L. Myers, Robert Courtwright
  • Patent number: 5561929
    Abstract: A rotary card file having a tumbler combination and latch for securing a pivotable cover over a series of cards held for rotation on a spindle beneath the cover. Actuating a select position of the tumblers allows a latch to clear a tab portion of the cover to allow pivoting of the cover to access the cards. Additionally, a swivel base is provided having a lock for selecting and locking the card file in a rotary orientation convenient for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Randall Bell
    Inventors: Randall Bell, Kim Vollendorf
  • Patent number: 5555752
    Abstract: A key actuated lock is mounted within a protective enclosure which has a double hinged panel cover that projects into a slot between the bottom panel of the protective enclosure and the bottom of the lock mounted within the protective enclosure when the double hinged panel cover is closed. Both the protective enclosure and the double hinged panel cover have apertures that align when the double hinged panel cover is closed. Actuation of the lock within the protective enclosure moves a locking bolt from a unlocked retracted position to a locked extended position that projects the locking bolt through the two aligned apertures, thereby holding the double hinged panel cover closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: John R. Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 5555487
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus in which arbitrary removal of a device for processing information accommodated within an opening within the main body can be prevented, regardless of operation of an eject button or the like, and to provide an information processing apparatus in which such prevention can be realized in a simple structure and at a low cost. A removal preventing latch is provided and inserted into an aperture within the main body of the information processing apparatus and through a corresponding aperture within the device for processing information. A cover for the main body may then be selectively locked in a closed position, preventing removal of the removal preventing latch while the cover is closed. A keyboard is preferably mounted to the cover for the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Katoh, Michio Suzuki, Yoshiharu Uchiyama, Kenshin Yonemochi
  • Patent number: 5551265
    Abstract: The connecting linkage between a control lever and a control valve that controls the operation or the manipulation of an implement of a construction machine is often complex and difficult to properly adjust. The present invention provides a restraint mechanism for the control lever 10 to maintain its position in a neutral condition with respect to the control valve. A first plate 42 is pivotally mounted to a base plate 22 on the console of the machine and is movable to a first position to engage the control lever 10 and establish a neutral position. A second plate 58 is utilized to selectively secure the position of the first plate with respect to the control lever while the proper connections and adjustments are made to the linkage arrangements connecting the control lever 10 and the control valve to synchronize their respective neutral positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald H. Garman, Stephen C. Garnett, Steven L. Groth
  • Patent number: 5548479
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for protecting a memory or microcircuit unit, such as a PCMCIA card. The device comprises a mounting place receiving the memory or microcircuit unit and a protective lid. The lid pivotably attached to a locking mechanism of the protective device, operated by a removable key, is turned to protect the memory or microcircuit unit positioned in its place, when the key is turned to an ON position in the protective device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: ICL Personal Systems OY
    Inventor: Jukka Hyvarinen
  • Patent number: 5526226
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus is provided which includes a hard disk drive which is adapted to be accommodated within a main body of the information processing apparatus. The hard disk drive includes a movable member attached thereto. When the movable member slides into a first state, a portion of the movable member protrudes outside the main body of the information processing apparatus. A hinged keyboard is provided for covering the interior of the main body of the information processing apparatus and when the portion of the movable member protrudes outside the main body, the hinged keyboard is locked in a closed state. Additionally, a preventing latch is provided which may be utilized in conjunction with a card port in order to engage a PCMCIA card and prevent removal thereof. The preventing member is mounted under the keyboard such that when the keyboard is in a closed state, the PCMCIA card cannot be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Katoh, Michio Suzuki, Yoshiharu Uchiyama, Kenshin Yonemochi
  • Patent number: 5495389
    Abstract: A personal computer includes a frame unit and a top cover mounted to pivot upward and outward to the rear of the system, or alternately, upward to the side. One or more DASD storage devices may be mounted to extend downward from the top cover. A planar board is attached atop the lower side of the frame unit, where flexible mounting hardware allows the attachment of one of several types of planar boards. A central support structure includes a riser card plugged into a connector of the planar board, and a number of card connectors into which option cards can be plugged for electrical connection with the planar board. The central support structure also includes a bracket extending along the rear of the computer, having slots through which port connectors of the option cards can extend. The central support structure is held in engagement with the connector of the planar board by the top cover when this cover is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: John R. Dewitt, Todd A. McClurg, Jay H. Neer, Orlando Pimienta
  • Patent number: 5484092
    Abstract: Disclosed is a truck storage box comprising a rectangular box arranged for mounting in a standard pickup truck bed to extend thereacross and includes an two independent storage compartments, a first larger storage compartment and a second smaller storage compartment which is locked within the interior of the first storage compartment. The structures are preferably formed of steel, or like materials. The second storage compartment is particularly adapted for holding elongated, flat articles such as tools, guns, fishing rods or other appropriate items. In some instances, the second storage compartment is hinged to the interior of the lid of the larger storage compartment and the second storage compartment can be accessed only when the first storage compartment is opened and when the second storage compartment is unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Inventor: Dale S. Cheney
  • Patent number: 5448842
    Abstract: Enclosure sign device for unavoidable viewing of a sign before manipulation f an entryway opening device. An enclosure of an entryway opening device includes at least one side surface extending out at least as far as the entryway opening device, a back surface coupled to the side surface to accommodate the entryway opening device through the back surface, and a front surface releasably coupled to the side surface which can be releasably opened or closed over the entryway opening device. The enclosure is coupled to a surrounding surface of the entryway opening device and includes a display for releasably holding a sign attached to the outside surface of the front surface so that sign viewable when the front surface is closed. Access is obtained to an entryway opening device by releasably opening the latching so that there is unavoidable viewing of a sign before manipulation of the entryway opening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Jaime Sonstroem
  • Patent number: 5394714
    Abstract: A locking apparatus for securing a cargo compartment of a motor vehicle, the cargo compartment including a cargo compartment lid that moves away from the body of the motor vehicle to allow access to the interior of the cargo compartment, the cargo compartment lid having an interior surface within the cargo compartment, and the motor vehicle body having an interior surface within the interior of the cargo compartment, the locking apparatus including a first plate member for attachment to the interior surface of the cargo compartment lid, a first loop member, a mechanism for fixedly attaching the first loop member to the first plate member in at least two orientations, the at least two orientations being transverse with respect to one another, a second plate member for attachment to the interior surface of the motor vehicle body, a second loop member, and a mechanism for fixedly attaching the second loop member to the second plate member in at least two orientations, the at least two orientations being transver
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: James D. Trusty
  • Patent number: 5351509
    Abstract: Device for closing and coupling carryall cases having a shell and a counter-shell which are mutually hinged, the shell being provided with brackets for coupling to racks of a motorcycle. The device has a shaped plate fixed inside an accommodation seat defined within the shell. The shaped plate has first pivoting lugs for linkages which define a first pivoting axis for lever systems for coupling to the counter-shell and a second pivoting axis for a locking plate. The shaped plate has second pivoting lugs for a handle of the case, and the locking plate is provided with a lock and bolt mechanism for closing the device and with an opening for permitting uncoupling of the carryall case from a motorcycle. A snap-action release button connects the linkages to the first pivoting lugs and connects the handle to the second pivoting lugs. The handle has a cross-member which, in closed position, is interposed between the lever systems and the locking plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Guiseppe Visenzi
  • Patent number: 5344010
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a hand gun case having a top section hingedly attached to a bottom section. Into the top section there is placed a top insert that supports the front and two sides of the top section against prying and also has an additional guide through which the bolt of the lock is directed. A lock is attached proximate to the front of the top section. A bottom insert is placed into the bottom section which has a block which aligns underneath the lock when the top section is in a closed position. The bottom section also has a lock protection bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: Metal Products Company
    Inventors: Arthur J. Dyer, Tommie L. Crawford, Kenneth L. Beaty, Charles E. Morgan, Garry D. Mooneyham, Alton L. Monneyham, Charlie F. Watts
  • Patent number: 5329865
    Abstract: A security box assembly has a body portion and a cover portion. The cover portion has a top wall with hook and loop type fastener sheets for adhering the box to the undersurface of a table or counter, and has depending walls defining a downwardly open hollow interior. The body portion has a bottom wall with upstanding walls defining an upwardly open hollow interior. The body portion is moveable to and from a closed, locked position against the underside of the cover portion, in which portion the upwardly and downwardly facing openings are in registration. A parallelogram linkage system consisting of pairs of parallel pivoted links on each side of the assembly connect the side walls of the body portion with side walls of the cover portion thereby enabling the body portion to move downwardly and forwardly from the closed, locked position to an open position providing ready access to the interior of the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Jeffrey McWard
  • Patent number: 5321961
    Abstract: A security device for coin operated machines comprises a closure adapted to overlie the portion of a coin operated machine containing the coin return slot and the coin box. The closure is hingedly affixed to the case of the machine and is formed from a sheet of material having a composition and thickness to resist bending of the closure by prying. Openings are provided in the closure for access to the coin insert slots and coin return ports of the machine. A raised rib formed on the case or on the inner face of the closure surrounds the area of surface of the case where the coin box and coin return ports are located, The rib is disposed between the case and the closure to prevent insertion of a prying tool between the closure and the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Louis J. Barberi
  • Patent number: 5315849
    Abstract: A utility meter box lock construction includes a male assembly having a male body which is bolted to the front wall of the utility meter box with a threaded bolt having an annular groove which is locked to the male body by a set screw. The lid is secured in place in a closed condition by a conventional utility plunger lock which is assembled to a female assembly having a bore which aligns with a bore in the male body. A threaded insert is threaded to the male body in the bore which is aligned with a second bore in the female assembly for receiving the plunger lock. The balls of the plunger lock are expandable to an extension locking state for mating with a groove in the insert threaded to the male body. The position of the plunger balls is set along the plunger bore by rotation of the threaded insert for ensuring that the female member with a lid-locking flange closely closes the lid of the box to the box sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: E. J. Brooks
    Inventor: George Georgopoulos
  • Patent number: 5235830
    Abstract: A locking device for a storage container such as a tool box in which a hinged lid includes a pair of spaced detents depending to a latching configuration at their distal ends. Cooperating with the detents is a tubular conduit slidably displaceable and including slots in an upper surface in which to receive and secure the distal ends of the detents. A padlock for unlocking the box is received within a recess of the tool box providing exterior exposure to only the key end of the lock. Opening the padlock causes the lock body to eject partially outward of the tool box while forming a gap between the latching end of the lock shackle and the lock body. Secured to the conduit in the plane of the gap is a manually displaceable wing which when the lock is opened can be displaced into the gap to in turn displace the conduit and enable release of the detents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Inventor: James A. Benge
  • Patent number: 5226302
    Abstract: A self-adjusting lock has a keeper stud with a base that is mounted in a recess in a keeper assembly so that it can slide in four directions. As the bevelled keeper stud is pressed into an opening in a latch assembly, the stud self-adjusts in the necessary direction to achieve alignment. A spring pressing the base against a surface causes the base, and so the keeper stud, to be frictionally held in its new position. The keeper stud has a series of spaced ratchet teeth, axially separated from one another, any of which can interengage with the latch mechanism. Thus, the lock is adjusted in this direction each time the lock is closed, resulting in a lock self-adjustable in six directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Loctec Corporation
    Inventor: Victor R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5216907
    Abstract: A device for locking a coin control mechanism and insert into the interior of the housing of cabinet of a newspaper rack, the device comprising a cross bar (30) permanently mounted across the housing front opening (22) on which there is attached a blade receipt member (32) or in which a blade receipt slot (33) is located. An insert (38) consisting of a metal perimeter (40) having an insert cross member (52) extending from an upper insert brace (42) to a lower insert brace (46) is connected to pivot cams (36) attached to or near a lower edge (24) of the housing opening. The insert cross member (52) has an insert bracket (56) attached thereto which is generally L-shaped, having an attachment leg (58) for attaching the insert bracket (56) to the insert cross member (52) and a lock receiving leg (60). The insert (38) attaches to the pivot cams (36), and is dimensioned such that the perimeter (40) fits snugly against the perimeter of the front opening (22) of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Assignee: Kaspar Wire Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph J. Ullmann
  • Patent number: 5144821
    Abstract: A portable lid lock includes a base plate having a rotatable drum mounted thereon from which a cable will extend for extension or retraction upon rotation of the drum. A cover plate has a peripheral depending wall and is connected to the base plate to enclose the drum within a hollow cavity between the cover and base plates. The cable extends through an aperture in the base plate and has a hook connected to the free end thereof. A rotatable handle is mounted on the drum. A cover plate has a peripheral depending wall and is connected to the base plate to enclose the drum within a hollow cavity between the cover and base plates. The cable extends through an aperture in the base plate and has a hook connected to the free end thereof. A rotatable handle is mounted on the cover plate and has a portion extending through an aperture therein to connect to the drum in order to permit selective rotation of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Inventors: Robert M. Ernesti, Eugene M. Mueller
  • Patent number: 5007258
    Abstract: A lock assembly for preventing unauthorized opening of a utility meter box cover. The assembly includes a lock housing detachably mounted to a box side wall by a fastener which is accessible from the box interior. A post is shiftable in a passageway extending through the lock housing between an operative position overlapping the cover and a retracted position clear of the cover. A barrel lock is removably received in the lock housing to prevent shifting of the post from its operative to its inoperative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Olson Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: John C. Mahaney
  • Patent number: 4998425
    Abstract: An arrangement to releasably secure each of the two doors of a utility carrier box mounted transversely behind the cab of a pick-up vehicle and on the side walls of the pick-up, the arrangement comprising staples secured to the end walls of the box below the end flanges of the doors when the doors are in closed position, and a steep strap extending from below one staple, over the top of the closed box and down to a point beyond the other staple, and in conformity with the surface of the closed box over which the strap means extends, each end of the strap being slotted to enable the link of the staple beyond which it extends to be passed through the slot and to receive the link of a padlock which is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Inventor: William Hoogland
  • Patent number: 4993244
    Abstract: An apparatus for the locking attachment of a mobile, cellular phone in a secure position such as being attached to a floor or like supporting surface within a vehicle to prevent unauthorized removal of the phone but still allow freedom of use and ease of removal of the phone from the locking apparatus or the locking apparatus from its attachment to a supporting surface when it is desired to transport the phone with a user from one location to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventor: Craig Osman
  • Patent number: 4962652
    Abstract: A lock for a window on a topper cap found on pickup trucks and the like. The lock comprises an inner housing having a rotating geared pinion engaging two racks. The racks are attached to deadbolts that can extend and engage the frame tubing on opposite sides of the pinion gear. An outer housing surrounds the inner housing and the deadbolts. A handle shaft is disposed through the outer and inner housings to attach to the pinion gear. Turning the handle turns retracts or extends the deadbolts. The whole assembly can be easily installed by attaching the outer housing to the window inside surface. The housings make it difficult for intruders to open the window by tampering with the mechanical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventor: Randy R. Schneider
  • Patent number: 4926662
    Abstract: A padlock shield for protecting padlocks from exposure to rain and snow is disclosed. The shield is comprised of a cover which is made up of a plurality of walls, one of which includes a mechanism for accepting a staple therethrough at any one of a plurality of orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Inventor: Rolland M. Gaudet
  • Patent number: 4917404
    Abstract: The device comprises an integrated unit formed by a container element having an opening for the filler, a door hinged onto the container element and subject to the action of an opening spring and an electrically actuatable lock for the door. The container element with the door and the lock mounted thereon are fastened as a single unit to the metal sheet of the bodywork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Assignee: Alfa Lancia Industriale S.p.A.
    Inventors: Renato Pasquali, Luigi Verga
  • Patent number: 4896520
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lockable glove and auxiliary compartment cover system for motor cars having a lock which is transferable into its tripping position by the stressing of a tripping lever by means of an actuating element. A closing member is provided which can be rotated between positions permitting and blocking the operative connection between the actuating element and the lock to change the security condition of the system. The change of the security condition occurs by means of a toothed-wheel gear which comprises a spur gear element rotatable with the closing element and a further gear element meshing with the spur gear element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Bruhnke, Helmut Fischer, Matthias Schwarz, Erwin Uecker, Reinhard Wittwer
  • Patent number: 4890769
    Abstract: A lock for a hand-held beverage dispenser which includes a dispensing spout. This beverage dispenser normally is activatable to select any one of several different types of beverages. During non-usage, the beverage dispenser is to be locatable within the internal chamber of a beverage dispenser lock. This beverage dispenser lock is composed of a base plate and a cover with this cover being pivotably mounted on the base plate between an open position and a closed position. When in the closed position, the beverage dispenser is to be confined between the base plate and the cover and access to the beverage dispenser prevented. When in the closed position, the cover is to be locked by a separate locking mechanism. When the cover is in the open position, the beverage dispenser can be moved into and out of the internal chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Richard R. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 4885921
    Abstract: A cover for the various locks that are often placed a few inches above the door-knob is provided. The cover is an elongated plate spaced from the door and having sidewalls extending almost to the door. The cover has a downwardly extending portion that surrounds the shaft of the door-knob and has a hole through the shaft of the door-knob and has a hole through which the door-knob passes when the cover is rotated on its hinges to an open position. A jamming device has an indent for receiving the key or handle of one of the locks on the door. The jamming device bears against the shaft of the door-knob and prevents the key or handle of the lock from turning. Hence, the lock remains locked when the jamming device is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventor: Vera Sharav
  • Patent number: 4845966
    Abstract: A theft prevention device for T-tops. A first latch panel opens and closes over the latch handle of the T-top latch assembly. A conventional lock is used to lock the first panel in the closed position preventing access to the latch handle and, thus, removal of the T-top. The device is supported over the latch housing by ends which cooperate with the latch pins of the T-top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: James R. Perry
  • Patent number: 4823570
    Abstract: A locking mechanism to secure a coin operated vending machine includes an elongate locking bar insertable into a housing of the vending machine to secure closed a door hingedly mounted to the housing. A pair of metal loops integral with the door, and a pair of cover plates integral with the housing, are aligned to simultaneously contain the locking bar when the door is closed. A key-operated lock cylinder, mounted in recessed fashion inside the housing, supports a latch for pivotal movement toward and away from a latching position, wherein the latch enters a slot formed in the locking bar to keep the locking bar in its locking position. A reinforcing plate, with a keyway and a larger opening to permit insertion of the locking bar, protects the locking mechanism against tampering to discourage unauthorized entry into the vending machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Assignee: Air-Vend, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jurek
  • Patent number: 4799370
    Abstract: A videocassette security box includes a base with a protective cover pivotally attached thereto and adapted to contain videocassettes. A key-hole orifice through the base allows mounting of the base over a doorknob or other suitable mounting member whereafter the narrower portion of the key-hole is moved behind the doorknob. Closing of the cover blocks across to the larger portion of the key-hole to preclude removal of the box from the doorknob as long as the cover remains closed while a lock mechanism allows securing of the cover in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Inventor: George R. Cooper
  • Patent number: 4781044
    Abstract: A security cover for valves used to control flow of liquids from storage vessels wherein a part of the cover interlocks with the valve stem and/or a connected valve actuating handle to prevent unauthorized use of the valve. The security cover further includes a secondary lock enclosure means, attached to the top of the cover means, which receives the lock lip means and padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1988
    Inventor: Dale R. Ortega
  • Patent number: 4768021
    Abstract: A safe for a loaded hand gun has a box which includes a receptacle for containing the gun. The receptacle has a bottom providing a mounting surface. A lid is hingedly mounted on the box and is movable between a closed position covering the receptacle and an open position in which the gun is accessible. A locking device normally holds the lid in its closed position, and a touch pad mechanism is operable only by authorized personnel provides for releasing the locking device when access to the gun is desired, permitting the lid to move to its open position. The touch pad may be a numerical touch pad, an alphabetical touch pad or a fingerprint indentification touch pad. The mounting surface has a mounting hole for use in attaching the safe to another structure. A pressure sensitive pad is affixed to the mounting surface at the mounting hole and is positioned to be overlapped by the head of a mounting screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1988
    Inventor: Michael P. Ferraro
  • Patent number: 4751831
    Abstract: A lock assembly for a meter housing asembly having a first housing panel fixedly mounted on a support member and a second housing panel mountable on the first housing panel and removable relative thereto along at least one predetermined line of travel, generally consisting of a retainer bracket having a first section detachably mounted on one of the housing panels and a second section engageable with the other of the housing panels when the first retainer bracket section is mounted on the one housing panel for restricting displacement of the second housing panel relative to the first housing panel along the predetermined line of travel in a direction tending to remove the second housing panel from the first housing panel, and means for locking the first retainer bracket section to the one housing panel when the first retainer bracket section is mounted on the one housing panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1988
    Inventors: Dewey Morris, Jr., Thomas M. Fleming, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4703635
    Abstract: A lock assembly for installation on a rural type mailbox. A catch is attachable to the interior surface of the mailbox door and has an offset arm positionable interiorly of the mailbox. A plunger type lock is finger actuated by the postman and includes a bolt extendable into the mailbox interior to engage an opening in the catch arm. The plunger type lock is spring biased to an unlocked position upon key actuation by the box owner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1987
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Wyatt
  • Patent number: 4699408
    Abstract: A tamper deterrent assembly is provided for locking a unit having an outer wall which defines an open ended receiving space and which includes opposed openings. A closure unit formed of frangible material is dimensioned to close the open end of the receiving space and is provided with a locking strip engaging section which projects from one surface thereof. A locking strip of material which is more flexible than that forming the closure unit extends through the opposed openings and engages the locking strip engaging section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Inventor: David A. Kesselman
  • Patent number: 4562708
    Abstract: A security locking device for coin-operated video game machines comprising means for preventing access to the coin box of the machine and means for preventing access through the service panel of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1986
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Gros
  • Patent number: 4551999
    Abstract: A housing for receiving a lock of the so-called "barrel-lock" type for locking closed the hinged cover of an electric meter box or the like. The housing comprises a support block for attachment to the meter box, and a lock housing hinged to the block. The housing carries a meter box cover retainer which, when the housing is in the closed position and locked by the barrel lock, extends in front of the cover of the meter box and prevents it from being opened.The housing and the support block have openings which are aligned when the housing is in the closed position, to receive the barrel lock. To protect the lock from shear forces which would be applied thereto by an interloper attempting to force the housing open, a shroud is provided in the aligned openings to surround the assembled lock. The shroud, when the housing is closed and locked, extends across the junction of the housing opening and the lock opening, and is retractable when the lock is removed to allow the housing to be swung to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Richard S. Guiler
  • Patent number: 4527310
    Abstract: The secure release apparatus is used with an anti-theft device having a member which is movable in response to an applied magnetic field. The secure release apparatus comprises a cover plate with an access opening and a permanent magnet structure which produces a concentrated magnetic field sufficiently strong to move the member. A tamper prevention structure is movable into a first position for preventing the member from moving into the concentrated field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1985
    Assignee: I. D. Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Jan Vandebult
  • Patent number: 4502194
    Abstract: An automobile seat belt includes a latch tongue fixed to one belt segment and having a latching aperture, and a latch housing fixed to the other belt segment, having a recess and opening at its distal end to receive the latch tongue. The tongue is automatically latched within the housing by insertion; and the tongue is released by depressing a release button through an opening in the top face of the latch housing. To render the seat belt child proof, one form of safety cover is a sleeve slipped over the latch housing, the sleeve having one end partially closed to pass the latch tongue and the sleeve having a limited access opening in one face to overlie the release button. The sleeve is retained in enclosing position on the housing by the latch tongue. The limited access opening may be a small opening only large enough to pass the tip of the ignition key to depress the release button and unfasten the belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1985
    Inventors: Roy E. Morris, Cornelius E. Lynch, Jr.