Removable Patents (Class 70/163)
  • Patent number: 8985398
    Abstract: A product dispensing system includes an overcap that has a locking element extending therefrom. A container has a product disposed therein. A bracket is attached to the container. The bracket includes at least one flange and at least one slot. The at least one flange extends toward the at least one slot. A resilient member is disposed within the locking element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Demarest, Donald J. Schumacher, Christine D. Beilstein, Dirk K. Nickel, Jinsong Yu, Gang Liu, Xiaogang Tan, Yuanheng Liu
  • Patent number: 8938999
    Abstract: A locking cap apparatus includes a cap assembly having an outer cap and an inner cap received within the outer cap, and further includes lock setting members. The outer cap includes an actuator coupled with a plunger. The plunger and the actuator are movable within and relative to the outer and inner cap. The cap assembly is rotatably and releasably coupled with external threads of a bottle. The plunger has a locked position, an unlocked position, and a lock change position, where the outer cap is rotatable relative to the bottle when the plunger is in the locked position, unlocked position, and optionally in the combination change position. Lock setting members are interactively coupled with the shaft of the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: protectRx LLC
    Inventor: Derek Dahl
  • Patent number: 8881560
    Abstract: A theft-protecting electronic device (16;116) recharging assembly comprising a block-shaped stand (12; 112) having a cavity (14;122c) into and from which the device can be partly inserted and retrieved by a substantially linear sliding movement. A rigid jacket (30;130) embracing the device from at least three sides thereof is provided, one of which being the side opposite the one inserted into said cavity. A lock-receiving porting (30e;130g) is integrally formed with the jacket. A lockable device (20,120) is associated with the stand, being manipulatable between a locking position wherein it engages the said lock-receiving portion, thereby arresting the electronic device within said cavity, and an unlocked position wherein the electronic device is freely retrievable from said cavity. The stand is adapted to be secured by a cable (40;140) to an immovable object (42,142).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Meir Avganim
  • Patent number: 8870030
    Abstract: A container has a body with a product disposed therein. A pedestal with a valving structure extends from the body. A bracket has a sidewall with at least one slot extending therein. The bracket includes a second pedestal provided interiorly of the sidewall, which is shaped to fittingly receive the pedestal of the body. The second pedestal includes at least one extending flange. Each of the at least one extending flanges extends toward the sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Demarest, Donald J. Schumacher, Christine D. Beilstein, Dirk K. Nickel
  • Publication number: 20140157840
    Abstract: A cap lock system for limiting access to an access port of a gaseous system includes an outer cap including first and second key insertion passages, an inner lock having first and second key receivers and a rotatable key having first and second engagement fingers each engageable with an aligned set of key insertion passages and key receivers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: The Rectorseal Corporation
    Inventor: The Rectorseal Corporation
  • Patent number: 8683831
    Abstract: A locking cover plate can be selectively locked in position on a stortz pipe end fitting or can be unlocked and removed for access to the open pipe end. The cover plate includes a sliding plate that is driven laterally outward into a deployed state by rotating a drive bolt. The drive bolt is coupled to the sliding plate through a torque limiting coupling that transfers the rotation of the drive bolt to translating movement of the latch bar with a cam plate. Movement of the sliding plate is indicated through a front of the cover plate such that the user can identify whether the cover plate is locked on a fitting or simply placed on the fitting without the lock engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Knox Company
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Publication number: 20140084007
    Abstract: Provided is a security package which generally comprises a casing for housing a product and a collar for locking the casing. The collar generally has a locked and unlocked configuration and comprises a first locking member having at least one male locking mechanism, and a second locking member having at least one female locking mechanism lockable to the at least one male locking mechanism. The casing generally has an open and closed configuration, and comprises a cavity shaped to substantially conform to the product. In the locked configuration the collar secures the casing in the closed configuration. The casing may comprise a first and second casing portion, and these may be integrally formed with the one or more of the first and second locking members. The collar may form a perimeter around the casing, may be adjustable, and may house a security device such as an RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Glen Walter Garner, Sheila Maureen Barry
  • Patent number: 8677790
    Abstract: A security enclosure that may include at least three supports with each support secured to a surface, at least two panels with each panel installed between adjacent ones of the supports, and a locking device that may selectively permit and prevent removal of the panels. A method of securing equipment in a security enclosure that may include the steps of arranging supports around the equipment being secured, and securing the supports. The method may also include inserting a panel in the supports and inserting another panel in the supports. One panel may prevent removal of the other panel from the supports, and each of the panels may be retained between the adjacent ones of the supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Rex A. Ramsey
  • Publication number: 20140013811
    Abstract: An outer shell member positioning device includes a mounting base member mounted at an outer shell member, a bracket pivotally coupled to the mounting base member and biasable between a first position where constraint bars of the bracket are engaged in a locating hole of an inner shell member to stop the inner shell member in place and a second position where the inner shell member is released from the constraint of the constraint bars and movable out of the outer shell member, a sliding hook member mounted in one end of the bracket and hookable to the mounting base member to secure the bracket in the first position, and a locking device mounted in the bracket and operable to lock the sliding hook member to the mounting base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Cheng-Feng YANG
  • Patent number: 8596101
    Abstract: A theft prevention assembly for use on an externally threaded outer end of a fuel tank filling neck includes an outer cap, an internally threaded inner cap for mounting on the filling neck, and a lock assembly defined by a cup attached to the inner cap, a sleeve slidably in the cup and a lock in the sleeve. The outer cap is normally freely rotatable relative to the fixed inner cap, the cup and the sleeve which are releasably interconnected by the lock. When the cup is released from the sleeve, the inner cap is latched to the outer cap by the sleeve, and the two caps can be rotated as a unit to open the filling neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Les Aciers Robond Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Beaudoin
  • Patent number: 8561635
    Abstract: A locking system is provided for interconnection to a hydrant. The locking system is generally comprised of a lock body and lock that work in concert to block the operation of hydrant components, namely a control rod and/or a stem screw, that controls fluid flow through the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Pilarczyk, William T. Ball, William L. Carlson
  • Patent number: 8459071
    Abstract: A lock device comprises an interlocking means comprising two axially movable parts (61, 62) interconnecting a cylinder core (20) and an extension (40, 50) so that free-turning operation is provided in one mode of operation and the extension rotates with the cylinder core in another operational mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Assa Abloy AB
    Inventor: Daniel Andersson
  • Patent number: 8365759
    Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Sigelock Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: George Sigelakis, Matthew Hayduk
  • Patent number: 8353309
    Abstract: A hydrant locking device inhibiting unauthorized operation of a fire hydrant and includes a flip-top lid positioning between an open configuration and a closed configuration relative to a base. The flip-top lid is hingedly connected to the base of the locking device. The base may be releasably secured to an operating nut of the fire hydrant or more specifically an operating nut extension that engages the operating nut of the fire hydrant. The flip-top lid may also include a sealed cavity that may include electronics. These electronics may be in electrical communication with a wireless mesh network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventors: Joel Embry, King Embry
  • Patent number: 8240500
    Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for securing access to an underground device such as a storage tank. A lockable blocking plate is secured to a filler cap for an underground storage tank in a manner to inhibit access to the filler cap. The locking mechanism is configured such that the lock and blocking plate may freely rotate with respect to the filler cap. The blocking plate may include a side skirt extending to cover portions of the filler cap and, optionally, portions of a standpipe and coupling for the filler cap. Free rotation is enabled by way of an annular groove in a portion of the locking mechanism, and into which groove one or more locking portions may be inserted, or by way of a freely moving swivel boss attached to the filler cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: CompX International Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Dalton, Jr., Matthew R. Greiner
  • Patent number: 8235349
    Abstract: A ceiling device system for securing a device in a ceiling. The ceiling device system includes a cover plate to simulate a ceiling and has a device opening to receive the device. The ceiling device system includes a sliding mechanism mounted on an inside surface of the cover plate. The sliding mechanism includes a sliding component which moves within an area about the device opening. The ceiling device system includes a lock mechanism connected to the sliding component. The lock mechanism connected such that movement of the lock mechanism moves the sliding component. The ceiling device system includes a device mounting plate with slide tabs to engage the device and mounted to the sliding component of the sliding mechanism. The slide tabs are shaped to slide within the device to lock the device in the device opening of the cover plate due to movement of the sliding component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Oberon Inc.
    Inventors: Ricky L. Conklin, Scott D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8181495
    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: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Northern Indiana Mechanical, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence Brian Kiest, Michael Steven Kiest, Michael Anthony Hawley
  • Patent number: 8151607
    Abstract: A pallet arrestor and method for preventing the movement of a pallet, having one or more pallet tunnels for receiving the tines of a forklift is disclosed. The pallet arrestor includes a molded plastic plug which has a first portion which is configured to slot into a pallet tunnel and a front portion whose height prevents its entry into the tunnel. The pallet arrestor prevents ingress of a forklift tine into that pallet tunnel, and hence inhibits movement of the pallet, without having to move the pallet to a caged area, or the like. The plug may include a rotatable latch which in one (retracted) position allows the pallet arrestor to be inserted and removed from the pallet tunnel and which in a second (locked) position prevents or inhibits the removal of the pallet arrestor from the pallet tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Lion Nathan Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: George Bearzot
  • Patent number: 8152194
    Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide a way for a person to lock and secure the hitch of an unhitched utility trailer. Another object of this invention is to allow a person to keep an unhitched utility trailer from being stolen when the utility trailer is not hooked to a truck hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: Larry Landgraf, Sam F. Manna, Jr., Maggie Ann Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 8035478
    Abstract: Disclosed is an easy-to-retrofit, electronically controlled door lock system designed to change or expand functions of a door lock without having to replace the door lock as a whole. The door lock system includes a door lock 100 for locking and unlocking a door in response to an input signal from a key means, the door lock having predetermined inherent functions, and a function expanding device 200 having additional functions other than the predetermined inherent functions of the door lock, the function expanding device being replaceably attached to the door lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Irevo, Inc.
    Inventor: Yong-Jong Lee
  • Publication number: 20110114670
    Abstract: An interlocking mechanism for a fluid dispenser includes a container body and a top portion. The container body includes a first sidewall having a first slot therein and a second sidewall having a second slot therein. The top portion includes a first lock channel, a first magnet adjacent to the first lock channel, a second lock channel, and a second magnet adjacent to the second lock channel. A first sliding lock member is positioned within and slidable along the first lock channel. The first sliding lock member has a tip portion configured to engage and disengage with the first slot, and a base portion having a third magnet disposed therein. A second sliding lock member is positioned within and slidable along the second lock channel. The second sliding lock member has a tip portion configured to be engaged and disengaged with the second slot, and a base portion having a fourth magnet disposed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: LAURIE SCHMIDT, JOHN WISEMAN
  • Patent number: 7797972
    Abstract: A security device for engaging a threaded element includes an inner body configured to engage the threaded element and an outer body operatively coupled to the inner body. A pin is operatively coupled to the inner body and movable between an extended position and a retracted position such that the outer body moves relative to the inner body when the pin is disposed in the retracted position and the outer body and the inner body are operatively coupled for simultaneous movement when the pin is disposed in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Patent number: 7628046
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock has a hollow locking shaft with two hooks, a locking base slidably mounted on a middle section of the locking shaft and having a bar corresponding to the two hooks, a retractable rod engaged the locking rod and having a positioning device at one end and a loop lock at the other end, and an interior shaft received inside the retractable rod and having an abutting head at one end and a clamping device at the other end. Thereby, the positioning device is secured by the clamping device on the interior shaft in a normal condition so that the retractable rod is temporarily held. Moreover, the loop lock and the hooks on the locking rod respectively and detachably mount on two opposite sides of the steering wheel to provide excellent burglarproof efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Wen-Chyun Su
  • Patent number: 7587861
    Abstract: A security cover for an automatic gate arm protects against disengagement and removal of the gate arm for the purpose of unauthorized entry through the gate. The security cover comprises four walls and a top plate joined to form a housing that encloses a rotating turret and a portion of a drive arm used to actuate the gate. The security cover mounts over the turret using a vertical rod that extends from above the housing to a location within the drive mechanism of the gate arm motor, and a lock that secures the housing and prevents unauthorized tampering with the drive arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Bongard
  • Publication number: 20090126425
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a plurality of structures, such as ends of a sealing ring, with each end defining an aperture therein and with the ring being adapted to mount a meter to a meter box structure. The apparatus comprises a locking pin with a distal end adapted to be insertable through each of the apertures of the first and second ends of the ring. The locking pin comprises a head member having at least an engageable end and a fracturable member. The locking pin further comprises a shaft portion having the distal end. The apparatus further comprises a lock housing adapted to retain at least a part of the shaft portion such that the first and second ends of the ring are connected between the head member of the locking pin and the lock housing. The head member has an outer surface adapted to receive at least two opposing forces, the at least two opposing forces being of sufficient magnitude to break the fracturable member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: John Edward Stachowiak Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090100884
    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: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald R. Carr
  • Publication number: 20090000689
    Abstract: A system for managing liquid supply suitable for a process equipment with a liquid tank is disclosed. The system includes a host, a data-reading tool, a system controller and a tank-locking device. The host stores a built-in liquid database. The data-reading tool used for reading data related to the liquid tank is electrically connected to the host. The host receives the data related to the liquid tank from the data-reading tool, and the received data mapped with the liquid database. The system controller drives the tank-locking device according to the signal from the host to whether or not allow replacement of the liquid tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: POWERCHIP SEMICONDUCTOR CORP.
    Inventors: Yen-Liang Chen, Yuh-Shyang Su, Sou-Yung Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20080127688
    Abstract: A security device for engaging a threaded element includes an inner body configured to engage the threaded element and an outer body operatively coupled to the inner body. A pin is operatively coupled to the inner body and movable between an extended position and a retracted position such that the outer body moves relative to the inner body when the pin is disposed in the retracted position and the outer body and the inner body are operatively coupled for simultaneous movement when the pin is disposed in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Patent number: 7357009
    Abstract: A quarter turn slide lock assembly having a base, a cover, a slider, a rotator, springs and washers. The base includes a channel for the slider to move between extended and retracted positions. The slider includes internal and exterior cam follower surfaces. The rotator has a hex head for 90° rotation by a special tool and a cam arm for engaging the internal cam follower surface of the slider. The external cam follower surface is biased by an abutting surface on an object to be locked and the springs bias the slider in an opposite direction to an interference fit with the object. The base includes a smooth, slanted outer surface to avoid snags and the washers reinforce the slide lock so that rivets used to attach the slide lock to an object to be locked are strongly secured. The cover snap fits to the base for a simple and reliable slide lock assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Emerson Network Power, Energy Systems, North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome A. Maloney, Albert McGovern
  • Patent number: 7287404
    Abstract: A security device for engaging an threaded element includes an inner body configured to engage the threaded element and an outer body operatively coupled to the inner body. A lock is configured to engage the outer body and is operable such that the outer body moves with the inner body when the lock is in an extended configuration and freely rotates relative to the inner body when the lock is in a retracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Patent number: 7249476
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for locking a container. The present disclosure relates to a lock mechanism which comprises a latch assembly having a rod and an extension including a latch aperture, wherein the extension extends from the rod to position the latch aperture away from the rod. The lock mechanism further comprises a door assembly having a door aperture. Additionally, a support assembly is adjustably coupled to the latch assembly wherein the support assembly includes at least one arm which supports the latch aperture in alignment with the door aperture. The method for locking the container comprises adjustably coupling the support assembly to the latch assembly and attaching the support assembly to mount assemblies which are releasably attached to internal walls of the container. The door is moved to a closed position to position the door aperture adjacent to the latch assembly wherein the extension is in alignment with the door aperture to receive a lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: M-3 and Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Wilson, Kenneth Lemberger
  • Patent number: 7243515
    Abstract: A locking mechanism which includes a locking member which is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, a retaining device which is movable between a first position at which movement of the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position is prevented and a second position at which movement of the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position is allowed, and an actuator for moving the retaining device between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventor: Carl Meyer
  • Patent number: 7107803
    Abstract: A combination locking tube comprising a base end cap connected to a base tube having a longitudinal channel and at least one notch contiguous with the channel, at least one locking ring having a longitudinal ring channel, a notch contiguous with the ring channel and an interlocking pin, each locking ring rotatably mounted on the base tube such that the locking ring's notch is positioned over a base tube notch, at least one indicia ring rotatably mounted on a locking ring having a plurality of characters and a plurality of teeth on its outer and inner surfaces, respectively, at least one static ring statically mounted to the base tube having an interlocking pin receptacle and an annular recess, an inner tube having an end cap and at least one pin received within the base tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Neil J. Swanson
  • Patent number: 6962067
    Abstract: A toolbox security frame includes a lower frame that may be placed within a cage with a rear member of the lower frame extending therefrom. The rear member has ends that extend to the exterior of the lower frame. Each of the ends has a lock bar hole therethrough. Sides of a lower part of the cage form lock bar passageways that are each in registration with one of the lock bar holes. A front of the lower cage has a member with a notch therein. A front member of the lower frame has a padlock receptacle with a receptacle hole therethrough. The padlock receptacle extends to the exterior of the lower frame where it is within the notch. A central part of a U shaped lock bar includes a pair of tabs with a hole therethrough that are in registration with the receptacle hole. The lock bar has sides that each extend through one of the passageways and one of the lock bar holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Bryant Dean Chapman
  • Patent number: 6732556
    Abstract: The anti-theft device is for covering the brake and gas pedals of a vehicle. It includes a gas pedal cover placed over the gas pedal, a brake pedal cover placed over the brake pedal, with the brake pedal cover having an upwardly extending ledge having an opening therein. A slide bracket is placed opposite the brake pedal cover and has an opening opposite the opening in the ledge. An L-shaped bracket is provided having a pair of arms. Fasteners connect each arm of the L-shaped bracket to one of the pedal covers. A padlock extends through the openings in the slide bracket and ledge for securing the slide bracket to the brake pedal cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Russell
  • Patent number: 6711921
    Abstract: A locking device has a base, a positioning element, a positioning frame, a cable and a lock assembly. The base has a positioning tab and a squeezing device. The positioning element is attached to the bottom of the base configured for the base being attached to an object. The positioning frame is pivotally attached to the base and has a telescopic body. The cable is moveably received in the base and has one end extending out from the base and provided by a hook to connect to the positioning frame. The lock assembly is mounted in the base and detachably locks the cable. Accordingly, a PDA and a charging base can be securely held on the base with the positioning frame and the cable. This can keep the PDA and the charging base from being unauthorizedly moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignees: Jin Tay Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Tsung Yang
  • Patent number: 6688326
    Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an outlet port, a valve access hole, and an outer surface with a recess defined therein. The recess is configured to receive a locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole. A locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole is mounted on the fire hydrant body such that the locking cap is received in the recess defined in the outer surface of the fire hydrant body. The recess shields an interface between the locking cap and the fire hydrant body from access by unauthorized tools. A fire hydrant body, a method for restricting unauthorized access to a fire hydrant, and a method for locking an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: George Sigelakis
  • Patent number: 6393879
    Abstract: A T-bar lockable linkage is deployed between the gunnels and forward seating or casting area of a marine craft and effective to limit opening of an array of side and central storage containers including a telescoping cross bar assembly that is connected to mounting brackets at the sides of the front boat deck. The mounting brackets include universal connectors that allow self alignment of the cross bar assembly, notwithstanding varying boat configurations or installation inaccuracies. The cross bar assembly includes a slotted slidable hub that may be aligned with a forward anchorage location, preferably an existing pedestal base for a swivel boat seat. The cross bar assembly includes matching holes aligned with a medial slot in the hub. A front anchor is releasably attached to the front pedestal base and slidably receives a center locking bar. With the center locking bar in place, the front anchor is conditioned against removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: J. Mark William
  • Patent number: 6382000
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft system (10, 10′, 10″) is provided which includes a pair of housing members (12, 12′ and 14, 14′), each having a respective cavity (122, 142) into which an upper portion of a vehicle automatic transmission gearshift lever (2, 2′) is received. The securement of the housing members (12, 12′ and 14, 14′) prevents access to a release button (4, 4′) carried by the gearshift lever (2, 2′). A lock (16, 16′) is provided to releasably lockingly secure one housing member (12, 12′) to the other housing member (14, 14′).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Sherie A. Horton
  • Patent number: 6321580
    Abstract: A device that fits over a fixture, such as a toilet. It uses a number of articulated members that align with the rim of the bowl. A center star gear is used to pull all the members inward, tightly against the rim. The members are designed to fit over the rim to ensure a tight fit that is not easily defeated by prying from the underside, for example. A lock is used to prevent removal of the device. Finally, the device can be designed to fit over sinks and urinals as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Gary W. Olson
  • Patent number: 6308997
    Abstract: A device having a cover with an edge portion which is placed in adjacent relationship to a flange when the cover is in a closed position, a lock structure for locking the cover to the flange including a nut mounted on the flange for receiving the threaded shank of a bolt which extends through a bore in the end wall of a shroud having a cavity therein which contains the head of the bolt having a curvilinear groove therein for receiving a key. A method of adding a lock structure to a cover of a device including the steps of forming a first hole in a flange of the device, mounting a nut on the flange, forming a second hole in the shroud which aligns with the first hole, mounting a shroud in the second hole, extending the shank of a bolt through a portion of the shroud mounted in the hole, with the head of the bolt being contained within a cavity in the shroud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventors: Daryl R. Haseley, Steven M. McHugh
  • Patent number: 6310411
    Abstract: A lock assembly is described for a personal computer. The assembly comprises a lock member movable between a locked position and an unlocked position and a shape memory wire arranged to move the lock member between the lock position and the unlocked position in response to one or more electrical signals that generate currents therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventor: Franck Viallet
  • Patent number: 6123098
    Abstract: A cover is provided, preferably for securing valves, propellers, door knobs and the like. The cover entails a hinged plate having two sections. Each section contains an indentation which, when the sections are closed, forms an aperture. A pair of arms may depend from each section in alignment with the indentations. When the sections are closed, the arms will form a hollow column in alignment with the aperture. The hollow column will also preferably contain a constriction, preferably formed by a pair of lips extending inwardly from each arm. The sections will also contain sidewalls rising from the sections opposite the hollow column if it is present. A cap is provided which will fit over the sidewalls. A tongue and groove mechanism may be provided to allow the cap to engage the sidewalls and the sections to which they are attached. A plurality of locking apertures may also be provided in the sections and the cap so that the cover may be locked with a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Jack P. F. Gremillion, III
  • Patent number: 6049451
    Abstract: An aperture in a mounting rail for receiving a retaining pin for securing or locking a carrier that is slid into a carrier bay on the mounting rail. The carrier holds a computer system hard disk drive. The retaining pin extends through the mounting rail aperture and engages a surface on the carrier when the carrier is in a secured position to secure or lock the carrier in the carrier bay. In one example, the mounting rail aperture is located on top of the mounting rail and is formed by an aperture frame that is supported by stiffening ribs. The retaining pin is moved to a secured or locking position by a key actuated cam. The key actuated cam moves a locking bar attached to the retaining pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Dell USA, L.P.
    Inventors: Ty R. Schmitt, Arthur Lopez, Steven L. Sands
  • Patent number: 5983679
    Abstract: An locking device that cooperates with a predefined rectangular slot built into an external wall of the equipment to be secured. The locking device preferably includes a cylindrical body having a recessed area formed coaxially within the body. A cam assembly and a hook arm assembly are fitted within the recessed area and operably coupled to engage and release from the security slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Micro Security Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregg Reyes
  • Patent number: 5953941
    Abstract: A removable antitheft device inhibits theft of an aircraft and the avionics of an aircraft. The device includes a horizontal member having first and second ends. A first hook is positioned at the first end of the horizontal member. The first hook is sized to engage a first yoke shaft of an aircraft. A second hook at the second end of the horizontal member is sized to engage a second yoke shaft of the aircraft. The second hook is detachable from the horizontal member. A vertical barrier is mounted to the horizontal member and is positioned proximate to an avionics stack of the aircraft to block removal of avionics equipment from the avionics stack when the first and second hooks of the horizontal member are engaged with the first and second yoke shafts. The second hook is locked to the horizontal member after the second hook engages the second yoke shaft to prevent the second hook and the horizontal member from being removed from the second yoke shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Stephen R. Freund
  • Patent number: 5934122
    Abstract: A locking cover for a dead bolt lock assembly that permits a user to put it in one of three positions: neutral, locked and unlocked. The cover in the neutral position permits the operation of the bolt lock assembly normally. The other positions limit the rotational travel of the actuating shaft to one quarter of a turn. The actuating shaft is rotated by turning the locking cover that includes a central tubular cylinder that for selective engagement with the actuating shaft. A pin mounted on the interior of the cover is receivable within one of three holes on an annular base plate that limit the rotation of the actuating shaft. An annular base plate with a through opening includes a perpendicularly disposed tubular member that has an inwardly extending flange that together with an annular plug and a retainer ring keep in place a spring member biasing the cover towards the annular base plate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Sure-Wood Lock, Inc.
    Inventors: Titus M. Edwards, Tom Leaf
  • Patent number: 5918491
    Abstract: This invention is a tamper-resistant enclosure for a coin-operated vending apparatus and the like wherein the locking device is fixedly attached to and mounted internally of the enclosure making it less vulnerable to theft and vandalism. The locking mechanism includes a ring-shaped hanging lock that is attached by weldment to an interior end wall of the enclosure. The lock is positioned in substantial alignment with an aperture in the front end wall to permit operation of the lock from the exterior of the enclosure by a key. The top cover includes an integrally formed locking flange which passes through a slotted opening in the end wall adjacent the lock such that the lock is positioned in an operative relationship with an aperture in the locking flange when the slideable top is in a closed position enabling the enclosure to be secured. The enclosure is adaptable to use for vending any suitable consumer product or to any application where a secure, corrosion-resistant enclosure is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventors: Daniel H. Maxwell, Henley S. Hales
  • Patent number: 5904057
    Abstract: A lockable fuel cap is provided including a closure member having a drive tooth and a removal hub. The hub includes a drive lug and moves between a lock position in which the drive lug is spaced-apart from the drive tooth and a release position in which the drive lug engages the drive tooth. An outer shell is also provided and includes an interior wall defining a guiding slot to receive the drive lug and guide movement of the removal hub between the two positions. The shell is drivingly coupled to the hub so that the member remains stationary upon rotation of the shell when the drive lug is in the lock position. The member rotates upon rotation of the shell when the drive lug is in the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: William Abney, III, Jeffery Griffin
  • Patent number: 5881583
    Abstract: A new BASKETBALL RIM LOCKING COVER for PREVENTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A BASKETBALL HOOP. The inventive device includes a cover member having a circular configuration. The cover member has a diameter greater than a diameter of a basketball rim. A pair of diametrically opposed coupling members are secured to the planar lower surface of the cover member disposed inwardly of the peripheral edge for engaging the basketball rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventors: Kenith L. Booker, Bettye J. Booker