External Locking Devices Patents (Class 70/164)
  • Patent number: 11955926
    Abstract: A bifurcated bearing housing for use within a torque tube interface may include a first component defining a first portion of an aperture configured to house a first portion of a rotating bearing, a second component defining a second portion of the aperture configured to house a second portion of the rotating bearing, and a connection interface between the first and second components, wherein, when the first and second components are in an attached configuration, the connection interface lies below a centerpoint of the aperture defined by the first and second components. The bifurcated bearing housing may include one or more of ridges, gussets, and/or hems to increase the structural integrity and rigidity of the bearing housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: ARRAY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Nathan Schuknecht, Kevin Krautbauer
  • Patent number: 11738991
    Abstract: The invention is a pulsar lock device that can be installed on a variety of different gas dispensing pumps to prevent theft of gasoline. The pulsar lock device includes first and second covers that enable the device to be attached to a fuel dispenser frame. The covers also properly position the device adjacent to the pulsar. The pulsar lock further includes a cross bar that spans the distance between the first and second covers and provides support for a block. Advantageously, the block is positioned adjacent to the pulsar, thereby preventing access to the pulsar control board. As a result, the pulsar cannot be accessed and/or manipulated, thereby effectively preventing theft of gasoline by thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Inventors: Christopher D. Smith, Garrett R. Jones
  • Patent number: 11702865
    Abstract: Apparatus to secure an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or other structure are disclosed herein. One apparatus includes an arm including an attachment and a lockpin that engages the attachment in an engaged position. The lockpin is configured to prevent the arm from disengaging from the engaged position when a force is applied to the arm. Another apparatus includes an arm including an attachment that prevents rotation of the arm, a lockpin that engages the attachment in an engaged position, and a lock connected to the lockpin to prevent releasing the lockpin from the engaged position. An ATM includes a frame, a gate, and an abutment. The gate includes an arm including an attachment that locks the arm. The abutment includes a lockpin that engages the attachment in an engaged position to prevent the arm from unlocking and a lock connected to the abutment to prevent access to the lockpin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: COMPANION SYSTEMS
    Inventors: James Howlett, Aaron Bagwell
  • Patent number: 10830795
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and methods for securing a box cover to a watt-hour meter box base. In certain embodiments, the apparatus consists of a unitary member incorporating a plurality of flange members adapted for securing at least a portion of a top of a watthour meter box lid to a portion of a top front flange of a watthour meter box base. In various other embodiments, the unitary member consists of a unitary member adapted to engage a portion of a meter box lid. In various other embodiments, the member includes integrated opposed tension-receiving members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John Edward Stachowiak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10822839
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing first and second ends of a meter sealing ring, the meter sealing ring adapted for use in installing a meter to a watthour meter box. The apparatus comprises a lock having a head member and a shank portion comprising moveable locking members, with the shank portion being insertable through an aperture formed in the first end of the sealing ring. The apparatus further comprises at least a retaining sleeve adapted to capture the shank portion, wherein the lock is retained on the first end of the sealing ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John Edward Stachowiak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10651634
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box. In certain embodiments, the apparatus has a clamping member that fits over a wall of a meter box and a lock housing that locks to the clamping member after a box cover has been installed thereby securing the cover to the box. Further embodiments relate to a clamping member and a lock housing wherein the clamping member generally comprises a clamp, clamp actuating member, and fastening shelf, and wherein the clamp actuating member may comprise a lever or threaded member to attach the clamping member to a wall of a meter box base. The box cover is secured to the meter box base when the clamping member is secured to the wall and used in combination with the lock housing and a locking shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Tyler Dean Todd, II, Aditya Kumar Palthi
  • Patent number: 10641795
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for securing an electrical meter to a meter socket box. In certain embodiments, the method comprises providing a ring comprising an annular body portion having a split forming first and second ends of the annular body portion, the ring having a central axis, and further disposing at least a first flange on the first end of the annular body portion. The method further comprises disposing a retaining member on the first flange, the retaining member having a central axis generally parallel to the central axis of the ring. The retaining member, in some embodiments, comprises a body defining a bore, wherein the radial cross section is continuous in at least a portion of the bore. The method further comprises providing a housing wherein at least a portion of the housing comprises a receiver element adapted to receive a barrel lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Norman Binz DeWalch
  • Patent number: 10480680
    Abstract: A tamper resistant locking device for securing fire hydrants. The device is simple to install, easy to remove by the fire department using securing fasteners commonly available. The locking device prevents unauthorized use of a fire hydrant. A collar assembly is dimensioned to encircle a barrel of a fire hydrant. A tab protrudes from ends of the collar assembly each having at least one slot. A retainer leg has an aperture dimensioned to receive an operating nut of the fire hydrant. A bottom end of the retainer leg is oriented to be received in the coaxially aligned slot of the collar assembly, such that the aperture prevents rotation of the operating nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Inventors: Jock Alston McCartney, John Alston McCartney, Curtis Onsager, Andrew Henninger
  • Patent number: 10337646
    Abstract: Adjustable apparatuses for improved lockout-tag out safety. The apparatus includes anchor, drive and securing portions that allow the apparatus to sit within a valve casing and block access to a valve. The anchor portion is selectively expandable via the drive portion to grip opposing walls of the casing, thereby holding the lockout apparatus in place. The securing portion provides selective access, such as through a lockable latch, to the drive member. When the securing portion is in a closed state, the drive member is inaccessible and the anchor portion cannot be adjusted. Anchor portions can include scissor jacks or other types of pneumatic or hydraulic devices. The shape and size of the securing portion, such as a six-inch diameter disk or plate, can further allow the lockout apparatus to rest on a top portion of the casing when the anchor portion is in a contracted state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Inventor: David Oman Blair
  • Patent number: 9666988
    Abstract: A lockout system for a receptacle mount is provided that provides an additional locking mechanism to prevent access to a receptacle mount, which may include electrical hardware such as a switch or button. The lockout system includes a first piece comprising a first base section and at least two first arms, wherein at least one of the at least two arms comprises a locking hole for receiving a locking apparatus; and a second piece comprising a second base section and at least two second arms, wherein the at least two second arms of said second piece are affixed to the at least two first arms of said first piece, wherein the second piece rotates between at least first and second positions, and in the first position, said second base section of said second piece prevents a mount receptacle cover from being opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Joshua Paul Gates, Jonathan Alan Ray, Matthew Aaron Cain
  • Patent number: 9021842
    Abstract: A lockable utility box lid includes at least one aperture therethrough for receiving a fastener. The locking mechanism preferably includes a utility box engagement member coupled to the underside of the utility box lid. The locking mechanism is movable between a locked and unlocked position. A fastener extends through the opening in the utility box lid and engages the locking mechanism. Rotating the fastener in a first direction causes the locking mechanism to assume a first, locked position. Rotating the fastener in a second direction causes the locking mechanism to assume a second, unlocked position. In the locked position the utility box engagement member is engaged with an interior surface of the utility box lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Zachary Daniel Rix
  • Patent number: 9016095
    Abstract: A lockbox includes a body and a lid connected to body and pivotable between a closed position and an open position. The body defines an enclosure and includes a body aperture and the lid includes a first lid aperture positioned adjacent to the body aperture when the lid is in the closed position, such that insertion of a padlock shackle through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents pivoting movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position. The lockbox includes a slot intersecting one of the body aperture and the lid aperture for insertion of an item into the enclosure when the lid is in the closed position. A padlock shackle inserted through the body aperture and the lid aperture prevents passage of an item through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Matthew T. Dudgeon, Scott B. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20150089981
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a commercial motor vehicle and heavy equipment battery locking device, methods of producing the same, and methods of utilizing the same. In particular, the present invention relates to a lockable device that covers the hold-down nut(s), hold-down bolt(s), and/or hold-doom bracket(s) that secure a battery to a commercial motor vehicle or heavy equipment so that the battery cannot be stolen as well as a system for production and use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Cecil W. Renfro, David A. Adkins
  • Patent number: 8943861
    Abstract: A theft prevention device including a housing comprising a base and a cam ring, the cam ring comprising at least one cam; an actuator rotatably coupled to the housing, wherein the actuator has a side wall defining a central space configured to receive an object; a coupler generally between the housing and the actuator, the coupler having teeth configured to engage the object in the central space; wherein the theft prevention device has an engaging orientation in which the coupler contacts the cam and wherein the teeth protrude from the side wall of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Gary Fong Photographic, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary M. Fong
  • Patent number: 8910498
    Abstract: The lockout cabinet can comprise a body with a front opening circumscribed by a front edge, and a rear wall recessed from the front edge, for receiving lockout equipment, a first side laterally opposite a second side, and a tab extending from the first side, passed the front edge, and having a plurality of shackle engagement apertures interspaced from one another in an orientation parallel to an adjacent portion of the front edge; and a door matching the shape of the front opening, being hingedly connected to the second side of the body and having a slot shaped and positioned for the tab to extend through it when the door is closed, with the plurality of shackle engagement apertures on a side of the door opposite the body, able to receive a corresponding plurality of padlock shackles for preventing subsequent unauthorized opening of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: 6251374 Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Saucier, Sylvain DeschĂȘnes
  • Patent number: 8882069
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing an electronic device includes a main body with two ends. An arm is provided at one end of the main body, and has a hook attached thereto, shaped for the electronic device to be placed between the hook and the arm. An additional arm is slidably attached to the other end of the main body, and is capable of being slid by a user to several lateral positions relative to the main body. An additional hook is provided on the slidable arm, and is shaped for the electronic device to be placed between the hook and the arm. A locking system is provided to lock and unlock the slidable arm to at least one of the lateral positions. A base section is capable of being secured at or near a location. The main body is adjustably attached to the base section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: ACCO Brands Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Mahaffey, Will Ali, John Tan, John Hung, Ryan White, Wilson Tse
  • Patent number: 8826706
    Abstract: Provided is a barrel lock that can be used to securely lock a barrel opening, and in particular, a barrel pump positioned in a barrel opening. The barrel lock has a lock body, a closure mechanism, a locking mechanism, and is secured by a locking means. The lock body is capable of assuming an open position and a closed position for locking about the barrel pump. In a closed position, the locking mechanism is used to secure the lock body in a closed position and to secure the closure mechanism in engagement with the lock body, to thereby secure the barrel pump from use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Klondike Cheese Co.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Buholzer, Steve J. Buholzer
  • Patent number: 8813529
    Abstract: Anti-theft device for an inverter assembly including an inverter having a housing with a rear panel, a mounting plate to which the inverter is attached and a locking pin connected at one end to the mounting plate and extending through a hole in the rear panel of the inverter housing when the inverter is in a mounted position, wherein the locking pin includes an opening at the other end through which a U-lock can be inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: SMA Solar Technology AG
    Inventor: Andreas Donth
  • Patent number: 8800331
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanical barrier which prevents tampering with a filler pipe on an underground storage tank for gasoline, fuel, chemicals, or other valuable liquids. The barrier fits within a cylindrical metal liner that surrounds the filler pipe. The barrier includes two spaced posts with semi-circular brackets at their lower ends, for securement about the filler pipe. An annular plate is secured between the upper ends of the post. A lock fits into a cut-out in the plate. A plunger within the lock is extended through an opening at the upper end of one post to maintain the barrier in locked position around the filler pipe, to prevent unauthorized withdrawal of or tampering with the contents of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Alex Sofianos
  • Patent number: 8789717
    Abstract: A device to prevent removal of fuel and oil caps includes a pin having a shaft with a first and second end; a head at the first end of the shaft; a locking element at the second end of the shaft; a pad having an adhesive surface that fixes to the cap; a grommet that forms an aperture in the pad that receives the shaft of the pin so that the pad rotatably retains the pin to the cap; and a cover that is rotatably retained over the cap by the pin and the locking element so that the cap generally covers the cap and rotates independently from the cap, thereby deterring removal of the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Mike Payne
  • Patent number: 8783074
    Abstract: A vandal guard for a utility enclosure includes a cover with a cover plate and a lock box below the cover plate. The lock box is located about an opening in the cover plate and a slot is defined in a recessed portion of the lock box under the cover plate. When the staple is secured by a lock, the shackle of the lock is shielded in the recessed portion of the lock box and protected from tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Madruga Iron Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Raymond Madruga, Raymond Michael Madruga
  • Patent number: 8748742
    Abstract: A kit and method for preventing theft of wires interconnected within a pull box includes a steel cover plate having a downwardly protruding cup which has a central perforation in its base that receives the upstanding shank of a J-bolt anchored in concrete poured into a bore made in the floor of a pit holding the pull box. A template plate inserted into the open upper end of the pullbox has a central hole which receives the shank of the J-bolt while the concrete is hardening to maintain the pull box centered on the J-bolt, removed after the concrete has hardened, and replaced by the cover plate which is secured in place by tightening an oval external cross-section security nut onto the upper surface of the cup base plate using a novel socket wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Corbas Marketing Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos J. Cordova, Sammy Vargas
  • Patent number: 8726707
    Abstract: The laundry coin anti-theft device protects a laundry coin box from damage by brute force attacks, such as by a sledgehammer, or prying, such as from a crowbar. The laundry coin anti-theft device is a pin that crosses the centerline of the laundry coin box lock, blocking access. The laundry coin anti-theft device protects itself by the use of a sleeve, the sleeve making it difficult to cause damage by twisting because the sleeve prevents gripping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: John Burpee
  • Patent number: 8707745
    Abstract: A lock includes a lock body, a lock bar, and a locking mechanism. The lock body extends in a longitudinal direction between a first end defining a longitudinal passage and a second end. The lock bar is disposed within the passage and movable in a longitudinal direction between a securing position proximal to the second end and a release position distal to the second end, with a proximal end portion of the lock bar and the second end defining a first gap when the lock bar is in the release position. The locking mechanism is assembled within one of the lock body and the lock bar and is operable between a locking condition securing the lock bar against movement from the securing position to the release position, and an unlocked condition permitting movement of the lock bar from the securing position to the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventor: D. Scott Kalous
  • Patent number: 8689590
    Abstract: A vandal guard for a utility enclosure includes a cover with a cover plate and a shackle cover on top of the cover plate. The shackle cover is located over a slot in the cover plate for receiving a staple. When the staple is secured with a lock, the shackle of the lock is shielded by the shackle cover to protect it from tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Madruga Iron Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Raymond Madruga, Raymond Michael Madruga
  • Patent number: 8601842
    Abstract: A system for preventing vandalism and unauthorized access to a lock. The system has a male lock member slidably engaged to a female lock member. The lock members are provided in an enclosure and engaged to the sidewalls thereof. A padlock is provided around a charging bar on the member male lock member to prevent the male lock member from sliding relative to the female lock member a sufficient distance to allow the male lock member and female lock member to disengage from the sidewalls of the enclosure. Engaging the male lock member and female lock member to the sidewalls in front of a lock prevents direct access to the lock, thereby reducing vandalism and unauthorized access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Lock-It, LLC
    Inventors: Eric A. Sheldahl, William A. Price
  • Patent number: 8590714
    Abstract: A cash box holding apparatus for use in holding cash boxes under gaming tables and the like. The apparatus provides a basic lightweight structure which offers double retention means for a cash box. The apparatus features ease of use and time saving insertion and removal of cash boxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jose L. Osuna-Valerio
  • Patent number: 8585316
    Abstract: A locking device for a storm grate to prevent theft or vandalism by unauthorized individuals. The device typically includes an upper plate, a positioning frame, at least one coupler nut, and a bolt. The positioning frame can include the coupler nut, a catch end for engaging the frame of the grate, a lower plate for engaging the underside of the grate, and a pliers handle for holding the device during insertion through a drain opening. In one embodiment, a second coupler nut is part of a wing wedge that secures a lower plate of the positioning frame to the underside of the grate. A method of inserting the device includes lowering the device through an opening in the grate, securing the catch end around the frame beneath the ground, and then tightening the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Matt-Locks-USA LLC
    Inventor: Jerry D. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130247624
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a plurality of structures, such as ends of a scaling 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: April 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Norman Binz DeWalch, Tyler Dean Todd, II, John Edward Slacnowiak, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130205845
    Abstract: An example embodiment relates to preventing rotation of a barrel lock when opened by a key. At least one example embodiment includes a rotationally actuated barrel lock for securing electric meter boxes and the like, and a spring loaded clip for mounting inside the meter box. Lock actuation is characterized by rotation of a key relative to the lock. The barrel lock includes a head portion, and a smaller diameter shank portion with flatted areas thereon. The clip includes, in an example embodiment, a lock receiving opening with internal protrusions which engage the flatted areas on the lock shank, thereby preventing rotation of the lock when it is engaged by the key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130205846
    Abstract: An example embodiment relates to preventing rotation of a barrel lock when opened by a key. At least one example embodiment includes a rotationally actuated barrel lock for securing electric meter boxes and the like, and a spring loaded clip for mounting inside the meter box. Lock actuation is characterized by rotation of a key relative to the lock. The barrel lock includes a head portion, and a smaller diameter shank portion with flatted areas thereon. The clip includes, in an example embodiment, a lock receiving opening with internal protrusions which engage the flatted areas on the lock shank, thereby preventing rotation of the lock when it is engaged by the key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: DeWatch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
  • 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: 8347670
    Abstract: One embodiment of a lockable utility box lid (20) for a utility box enclosure (10) comprises a box lid (12) having at least one upper tool aperture (22) and at least one clamping mechanism (30) coupled to the underside of the box lid (10). The clamping mechanism (30) includes at least one lower tool aperture (38) of a lock plate (32) oppositely corresponding to the upper tool aperture (22) of the box lid (12). The lock plate (32) may be coupled to a plurality of side plates (40). The clamping mechanism (30) may also include a pivot arm (60) coupled with a jaw plate (72). A pivot tab (34) of the lock plate (32) may be inserted through a pivot tab aperture (76) of the pivot arm (60) thereby creating a fulcrum point. A back plate (50) inserted into a plurality of back plate apertures (52) of the side plates (40) and a threaded plate (64) inserted into a plurality threaded plate apertures (68) of the pivot arm (60) may be aligned to receive a bolt (80).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Zachary Daniel Rix
  • Publication number: 20130000365
    Abstract: A theft deterrent enclosure that eliminates unauthorized access is disclosed. The enclosure includes a front and back cover. A key lock cylinder is mounted in a lock opening of the front cover such that it blocks the lock opening in a locked position. A keyed interface operates a clamp mounted on a threaded shaft such that the clamp secures the front and hack covers in a closed position. The keyed interface is positioned on an interior side of the enclosure that is opposite and aligned with the lock opening. The theft deterrent enclosure can only he opened from a locked position by engaging the key lock cylinder with a key, removing the key lock cylinder tumbler, inserting the security keyed tool adapted to engage the keyed interface through the lock opening and disengaging the mounting clamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Johnny Edward Walker
  • Patent number: 8307675
    Abstract: A locking device for box-shaped containers (20) having a base and a separable cover each provided with an ear-like extension (20c; 20d) with openings, wherein in the lockable position the openings are in register one with respect to the other. The device comprises a block-shaped housing (10) with a key-operated mechanism (30) comprising a rotor. A slidable locking element is coupled to the rotor so that upon rotation of the rotor by 180° in one or the opposite directions by turning the key, a locking element slides over a certain distance in one or the opposite directions. A cavity is formed in the housing configured to accommodate therein both ear-like extensions (20c; 20d). For locking the container, the locking element is driven in the direction of and across the cavity and openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Meir Avganim
  • Patent number: 8297088
    Abstract: An enclosure includes a main body, a cover for covering the main body, a movable member movably attached to an inner surface of the main body, and a latch member. The main body defines a through hole. The cover defines a through hole aligning with the through hole of the main body. The movable member defines a locking hole. The locking hole includes a small part and a large part communicating with the small part. The movable member is moved to align the large part of the locking hole with the through hole of the second sidewall. The latch member extends through the through hole of the cover, the through hole of the second sidewall, and the large part of the locking hole. The movable member then is restored, thereby the latch portion engaging in the small part of the locking hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Guang-Yi Zhang, Jia-Qi Fu, Pu-Yu Yao
  • 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: 8096152
    Abstract: A lock system for a tool box is disclosed wherein locking is achieved with a lock which is located in a recessed portion along the front wall of the tool box in order to prevent tampering. A latch rod is slidably disposed adjacent a front wall of the box. The lock and the latch rod are disposed such that the lock body blocks the longitudinal movement of a lock engager and maintains the latch rod in the latched position when the lid of the tool box is in the closed position and the lock is locked. When the lock is unlocked, the lock engager is allowed to move past the lock to move the latch rod to the unlatched position thereby allowing the lid of the tool box to be opened. The lock system may be used for a horizontal or a vertical tool box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Knaack LLC
    Inventors: Snehal Madhavrao Wagh, Robert A. Bergum, Vinjo Varghese, Atish Jagdish Bhavsar
  • Patent number: 8087268
    Abstract: A thread retained security bolt system has a bottom collar and a top collar, the bottom collar fixed to one element of an enclosure and the top collar affixed to a mating element of the enclosure. The top collar carries a minor part of a securing bolt bearing surface and the bottom collar carries a major part of the securing bolt bearing surface and when the mating element of the enclosure is brought into engagement with the one element of the enclosure, the minor part is aligned with and contiguous to the major part upon joinder of the top collar with the bottom collar. A bearing surface of a head of a bolt is then moved into engagement with the minor part and the major part to secure the one element to the mating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: The Durham Company, PMD
    Inventor: Alva Glen Pruitt
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20110154868
    Abstract: A remotely monitorable selectably removable lock assembly for a fluid valve assembly of a bottled gas canister or other fluid valve assembly, the remotely monitorable, selectably removable, lock assembly including a lockable cover assembly configured for lockable engagement with a fluid valve assembly, a remote monitoring unit fixedly mounted to a locking shaft, arranged for lockable engagement with the lockable cover assembly when the lockable cover assembly is in a closed operative orientation, preventing unauthorized access to the fluid valve assembly and a locking unit which is operative for locking engagement with the locking shaft for retaining the cover assembly in the closed operative orientation, the remote monitoring unit having wireless communication functionality enabling it to communicate with a remote monitoring station for providing monitorable indications both of tampering and of authorized unlocking of the locking unit from the locking shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Noach Eizen, Eli Levy
  • Patent number: 7946143
    Abstract: A universal box lock for securing a meter box including a first clamping means, a second clamping means operatively connected to the first clamping means. The second clamping means being movable relative to the first clamping means. The box lock also includes a biasing means for urging the second clamping means toward the first clamping means to secure the box lock to a wall of a meter box placed between the first and second clamping means. Moreover, the box lock includes a body portion, which selectively engages and secures the first and second clamping means to a meter box wall. The first clamping means includes an aperture configured to allow a portion of the second clamping means to extend through the aperture facilitating the attachment of the inventive box lock to a side wall or a bottom wall of a meter box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventors: Robert E. Rafferty, John C. Mahaney, Anthony J. Agbay
  • Patent number: 7930913
    Abstract: A ring-type meter lock comprising a ring, first and second ends on the ring, a lock housing on the first end, a slot in the lock housing, a latch unit in the lock housing, a lock pin on the latch unit enterable and withdrawable from the slot, a tongue on the second end enterable into the slot, an opening in the tongue receiving the lock pin, a key-receiving configuration in the latch unit, and the lock pin being rotatably supported for unlatching of the latch unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: McGard, LLC
    Inventors: David C. Meyer, Wayne A. Hemmerling, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7921683
    Abstract: The locking container is a selectively lockable container for the storage of used cooking oil and the like. The locking container includes a reservoir and both front and side locking mechanisms. The front and side locking mechanisms selectively retain a screen within the reservoir. The container is adapted for the disposal of oils, solvents, acids and various other liquid wastes. The pair of locking mechanisms allow access for storing the liquid waste in the container, but prevent unauthorized removal of the liquid waste. The container includes a lid to cover the screen, with the lid being secured by the front locking mechanism. The side locking mechanism locks the screen to the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Charles E. Largay, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100326147
    Abstract: A lock mechanism for locking at least one door of a container in a closed position includes a housing, at least one lock member at least partially enclosed within the housing, the at least one lock member comprising a first lock member configured to engage a first portion of a container to lock at least one container door in a closed position, and a latching mechanism coupled to the at least one lock member. The latching mechanism includes a fluid chamber configured to hold a fluid, a piston slidably housed within the fluid chamber, and a valve coupled to the fluid chamber and configured to be in one of two states, the two states including an open state where fluid can flow through the valve in two directions to allow the piston to be moved in two directions, and a closed state where fluid is inhibited from flowing through the valve in at least one direction to prevent the piston from moving in at least one direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: David R. Powers, Daniel Bertuna, David K. Aberizk, Keith L. Frankie, Stuart J. Waddell
  • Publication number: 20100319416
    Abstract: The water meter lock includes a hollow housing adapted to be placed over a valve and/or piping. The housing includes a closed side and an open side, the open side for insertion over the valve. A locking tab having a through bore extends laterally from adjacent the open side. Lateral sides of the valve include shaped cutouts or slots adapted to seat the housing on associated piping and/or accommodate extended portions of the valve. At least two of the lateral sides have aligned bores through which a locking pin is insertably mounted. The locking pin includes an enlarged head having a bore, which aligns with the bore of the locking tab. Once properly mounted and the bores aligned, a padlock locks the water meter lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Reynold R. Eller, JR.
  • Patent number: 7775071
    Abstract: A lock assembly including a first lock portion having an open end which receives a key. The assembly further includes a second lock portion operatively connected to the first lock portion and a spring operatively attached to the first and second lock portions. Wherein one of the first and second lock portions is capable of biased rotational movement independent of the other of the first and second lock portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventor: Anthony John Agbay
  • Patent number: 7752876
    Abstract: A lockout device includes an inner housing and an outer housing. The inner housing has an upper end portion, a lower end portion, an arcuate outer portion extending between the upper and lower end portions, and a central bearing portion extending outward from at least one of the upper and lower end portions. The outer housing has an upper end portion, a lower end portion, an arcuate outer portion extending between the upper and lower end portions, and a central opening disposed on at least one of the upper and lower end portions and sized to receive and bear against the central bearing portion of the inner housing for telescopic rotation of the inner housing with respect to the outer housing. The outer housing is sized to at least partially receive the inner housing when the inner and outer housing are rotated to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Glenn P. Meekma, Christopher Rohde, Jesse A. Marcelle, Mark Johnson, Michael Brojanic
  • 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: 7677068
    Abstract: The invention is an easy-to-use one-piece air brake securing device designed for use in recreational vehicles, trucks, and other automotive vehicles employing air-operated parking brakes. The device is designed to fit around the shaft of the air brake plunger and to prevent the plunger from being moved unintentionally or inadvertently in a manner that may disengage the air brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Heidi & Max LLC
    Inventor: Carl B. Alaniz