External Locking Devices Patents (Class 70/164)
  • Publication number: 20100058819
    Abstract: Undesired access to a fuel oil fill pipe having a threaded cap fitting and a threaded cap is prevented by a fuel oil fill-port locking mechanism having: a coupling mateable with the fuel oil fill pipe; a nipple mateable with the coupling the cap fitting; an oil fill-port cover which denies access to the cap; a pair of oppositely disposed apertures in the coupling and a pair of alignable apertures in the cover; a lock pin sized to fit through the aligned aperture; a transverse bore through one end of the lock pin; and a lock pin stop at an opposite end of the lock pin. The cap and the cap fitting are removed from and the coupling is threaded onto the fuel oil fill pipe, the nipple is threaded into the coupling, then the cap fitting threaded into the nipple and the cap threaded into the cap fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Thorsten Gigger
  • Publication number: 20100043507
    Abstract: A lock apparatus for a utility service enclosure with a cover mountable over a sidewall includes an attachment member having a pair of spaced legs and aligned apertures formed in the legs. A fastener is extensible through the aperture in the one leg disposed interiorly of the enclosure when the attachment member is mounted over the sidewall of the enclosure and deforms the sidewall into engagement with the aperture in the other leg. A flange extending from the attachment member interengages a body having a lip overlaying the cover to inhibit removal of the cover from the enclosure. A lock is engageble with the body and the flange to lock the body to the attachment member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: EKSTROM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Richard C. Dreisbach, Robert F. Debrody, Carlos M. Pinho
  • Patent number: 7650767
    Abstract: A lock ring for use in mounting a watthour meter, meter socket enclosure cover or a watthour meter socket adapter to each other. The lock ring includes a ring member and a housing carried on the first and second ends of the ring member. The housing may be separate housings carried on the first and second ends of the ring member. A lock is insertable into mated first and second housing members in one of a plurality of variably selectable positions that vary the circumference of the ring member to accommodate varied circumferences of watthour meters, meter socket adapters and meter socket enclosure cover mounting rings. Finger grips are formed on the housing members to facilitate closure of the housing. A plurality of axially spaced grooves are formed in one of the members for receiving lock members carried by the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Ekstrom Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Darrell Robinson
  • Publication number: 20090229324
    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, 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: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: John Edward Stachowiak Jr.
  • 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: 20090173115
    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: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: MCGARD, LLC
    Inventors: David C. Meyer, Wayne A. Hemmerling, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7490838
    Abstract: A locking flange (200) for securing an airline cart (100) can include a hook shaped flange that wraps around a pull bar (130) of the airline cart, a pair of apertures (204) on opposing sides of the hook shaped flange where the apertures reside below the pull bar when the hook shaped flange is placed on top of the pull bar, and a locking mechanism (250) for insertion within the apertures once the flange is placed on top of the pull bar. The locking flange can project below a top plane of a door (102) of the airline cart. The locking flange can be made of metal such as high tensile steel. The locking mechanism can include a cylinder having a head (252) on one side and an aperture (256) on an opposing side for placement of a lock (502) through the aperture of the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Duty Free Air and Ship Supply, Co.
    Inventors: Saul Hyatt, Kevin Greene
  • Patent number: 7487652
    Abstract: A bracket, a system and a method secure a device to a fixture. The bracket has a first mount, a second mount and/or a first shaft for receiving and/or for securing the device to the bracket. A second shaft is attachable to the first mount and/or the second mount via an opening in the first mount and/or the second mount. A first end of a cable is connectable and/or is attachable to the second arm of the bracket. A second end of the cable is attached to, is connected to and/or is secured to the fixture. The device and/or the bracket is attached to, is connected to and/or is secured to the fixture via the cable. The first arm and/or the second arm has a length which corresponds to a length of the device. The bracket attaches to devices having different lengths. The first mount and/or the second mount has apertures for receiving the first arm which corresponds to a thickness of the device. The bracket attaches to devices having different thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Sennco Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Marszalek, Daniel Horvath
  • Publication number: 20090019626
    Abstract: A toilet bowl locking device (1) having a cover (7), a slot (4) located in the cover (7), an anchor (2) having an opening (24) located on the cover top surface (18), a pivotal bar (8) having flanges (14) secured to the cover bottom surface (19), a pivot point (5) about which the pivotal bar (8) pivots, and a handle (3) having at least one opening (24). The handle (3) is secured to the pivotal bar (8) and extends through the slot (4) to permit a user to pivot the pivotal bar (8) when the handle (3) is pivoted within the slot (4). The flanges (14) are spaced a predetermined distance from the cover bottom surface (19) so as to be located beneath the toilet bowl rim (12) when the toilet bowl locking device (1) is secured within a toilet bowl (10). A lock (11) may be used to lock the handle (3) to the anchor (2) and thereby prevent pivoting of the pivotal bar (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Michael P. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20080302146
    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: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Michael Cannon
  • Publication number: 20080290670
    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: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Norman Binz DeWalch, John Edward Staohowiak, JR., Zachary Leroy Davidson
  • Publication number: 20080276668
    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, 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: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: John Edward Stachowiak, JR.
  • Patent number: 7448235
    Abstract: A locking assembly for locking a cover over an opening of an enclosure includes a mounting bracket including a first wall having opposing first and second ends, a second wall joined to said first end and extending in a first direction away from the first wall. A stud joined to the first wall extends in a second direction away from the first wall. Hooking structure extends from the second wall of the mounting bracket for extending into the opening of the enclosure and engaging the enclosure to secure the mounting bracket relative to the enclosure. A locking bracket includes a first wall having opposing first and second ends and a first surface facing the first wall of the mounting bracket. A second wall is joined to the first end of the mounting bracket and extends in a first direction away from the first wall of the locking bracket. In one embodiment, a lock housing is fixed to the first wall of the locking bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Rexnord Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy B. Ely, Frederick P. Finck, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080264117
    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: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Norman Binz Dewalch, John Edward Stachowiak, Zachary Laroy Davidson
  • Patent number: 7418846
    Abstract: A lock box with a locking mechanism using a puck lock is provided that also has a handle for moving a locking bar from a locking to an unlocking position. Furthermore, the puck lock is permanently attached to the exterior of the lock box eliminating the possibility of losing the puck lock. The construction of the puck lock makes tampering with the locking system of the lock box impractical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Greenlee Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Derrick L. James, John W. Kroening
  • Patent number: 7409915
    Abstract: An item locking apparatus for releasibly anchoring personal items to beach sand includes an auger having an upright auger shaft with a shaft lower end and a shaft upper end and a ramped auger screw flange below the shaft upper end for screwing into beach sand; a lug structure fixedly secured to the shaft upper end; a locking post extending upwardly from and free spinning relative to the lug structure and having a padlock engaging structure through which a padlock bolt can pass; a shield disk having a central disk port through which the auger shaft upper end passes so that the shield disk is rotatably mounted immediately below and is retained by the lug structure and a free spinning shield dome lockingly covering the lug structure having a dome port through which the post extends upwardly, so that the shield disk and shield dome spin freely around the auger shaft and prevent unauthorized persons from gripping and rotating the auger shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Jay W. Hagar
  • Patent number: 7389551
    Abstract: A lash for a spa having a lid, wherein the lash includes an elongate flexible member having opposite first and second ends and at least two layers of webbing having a flexible metal cable interleaved between the layers of webbing. A releasably lockable latch is mounted or mountable on the first end of the flexible member for locking the first end of the flexible member to a corresponding first exterior wall of the spa. An anchor is mounted or mountable on the second end of the flexile member for irremovably anchoring the second end of the flexible member to a second exterior wall of the spa, opposite the first exterior wall of the spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Dan Stebner
  • Publication number: 20080143123
    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: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Norman Binz DeWalch, John Edward Stachowiak, Zachary Leroy Davidson
  • Patent number: 7377134
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for a quick, keyless, slam installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: McGard, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Sullivan, Eric R. Nolle
  • Patent number: 7305858
    Abstract: A security box includes an outer box, an inner box and a lock cable. The outer box comprises a compartment adapted to receive the inner box therein. The outer box further comprises a first lock hole. The inner box comprises a second lock hole, a lock core hole, a lock core and a sleeve. The sleeve has a first blind hole and a second blind hole corresponding to the second lock hole and the lock core hole respectively. The lock core has a blind hole corresponding to the first blind hole and the second lock hole. A lock cable has a lock rod at one end and a lock ring at the opposite end thereof. The lock rod is inserted through the first lock hole, the second lock hole, and the first blind hole to be secured in the blind hole of the lock core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Chun-hsien Wu
  • Patent number: 7234327
    Abstract: A lockable container comprising an open-faced receptacle with a locking mechanism aperture, at least one lid covering at least a portion of the open face of the receptacle, and a locking mechanism for engaging with a padlock and securing the lid in a partially opened position over the receptacle open face. The locking mechanism has a receptacle engagement portion that is moveable into a receptacle engagement position, and when in such position, a lid engagement portion attached to the receptacle engagement portion receives the partially opened lid, and a lock engagement portion attached to the lid engagement portion is moveable into the receptacle and through the locking mechanism aperture, and out of the receptacle, where it is engageable with a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Wasteline Rentals Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald E. Howes
  • Patent number: 7213424
    Abstract: The present disclosure 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 at least one example, 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: DeWalch Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Binz Dewalch
  • Patent number: 7197905
    Abstract: A multi-meter locking bar assembly for locking a plurality of meter boxes of a gang of meter boxes includes a locking bar having opposing first and second ends. A locking device is pivotally fixed relative to the locking bar. The locking device is fixable to one of the meter boxes to lock the locking bar over at least one meter box to lock the meter box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Rexnord Industriess, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy B. Ely, Frederick P. Finck, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7197904
    Abstract: A telescoping lockout device for encasing a gate valve, electrical connection, or similar apparatus, for the purpose of preventing unauthorized access and tampering with the apparatus. The lockout device is comprised of two nested half cylinders attached to one another through T slot that provides for telescoping of the device between an open position, where one half cylinder is nested within the other, and a closed position, where the half cylinders form a cylinder. The T slot provides a rail on one half cylinder that inserts into a track on the other half cylinder. At the ends of the T slot track and rail is an interlock. The lockout device also has locking tabs that, when the lockout device is placed in the closed position, provide overlapping locking openings into which a lock, such as a padlock, can be inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Jesse Marcelle, Glenn Meekma, Christopher Rohde, Mark Johnson
  • Patent number: 7191887
    Abstract: A locking security cover which provides means for locking a depository cassette or receptacle to the currency validator mechanism limiting unauthorized access to the collected currency in the depository cassette, the locking security cover nests the depository cassette to the currency validator by means of key holes located on either side of the cover, cooperable with corresponding studs associated with the validator, thereby securing the locking security cover in a downward position and locked in position by a shackle secured to the rear face of the depository cassette cooperative with a downwardly extending back face of the locking security cover for receipt of a padlock, thereby securing the locking security cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Louis Schrumpf
  • Patent number: 7165348
    Abstract: A plow security device, configured in accordance with embodiments of the invention, includes an attachment assembly that corresponds to a headgear assembly, or mounting portions, of a plow. During operation, a user couples the attachment assembly of the plow security device to the mounting portions of the plow. The user secures the plow security device to the plow such that the attachment assembly blocks or limits an unauthorized user from accessing the mounting portions of the plow and coupling the plow to an unauthorized vehicle. The plow security device, therefore, minimizes an unauthorized user from attaching a vehicle to the plow and removing the plow from a storage location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Kelly E. Ward
  • Patent number: 7152440
    Abstract: A latch assembly to secure an access door on the housing of an electronic device. When a conventional locking device is coupled with the housing to deter theft of the electronic device as a whole, the latch assembly will maintain the access door in a closed position and deter theft of any component accessible via the access door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: InFocus Corporation
    Inventor: Andrew G. Austin
  • Patent number: 7140211
    Abstract: This invention relates to a security system aimed at closing and locking a cover of an opening of a tank trailer to avoid any tampering of its content and to prove that the content of the tank has not been tampered. The security system comprises a locking member movable between a lock position to prevent the opening of the cover, and an unlock position to allow the opening of the cover. The invention also comprises an actuating device mounted to the tank trailer operatively connected to the locking member for moving it between the lock and the unlock positions. A sealing mechanism engages the actuating device when the locking member is in the lock position to prevent any movement of the locking member. The sealing mechanism comprises a breakable indicator which is broken upon disengagement from the actuating device, thereby indicating that the openable cover has been tampered with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Tremcar Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Tremblay
  • Patent number: 7028513
    Abstract: An anti-theft device (10) for portable computers having a base casing (12) and a hingeable cover (14). One wall of the base casing (14) is formed with a dedicated slot (16). The device (10) is generally U-shaped, having two legs (20; 22), and a web portion (24). The device (10) comprises a rotatable locking mechanism (26) installed within the web portion (24), drivingly coupled to a T-shaped tip (28) adapted to be inserted into the slot (16) in one position of the mechanism and, by rotating the mechanism by less than 180°, the tip (28) becomes locked within the base casing (12) while the legs (20; 22) extend one (22) underlying the bottom surface of the base casing (12) and the other (20) overlying the top surface of the hingeable cover (14), thus preventing the opening of the cover. A cable is used for securing the device (10) to a stationary object (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Mair Avganim
  • Patent number: 7021090
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a two-piece clip bracket having a stationary bracket member and a movable bracket member pivotally mounted to the stationary bracket member. The stationary bracket member is adapted to engage outside and inside surfaces of a wall of the box frame and remain stationary with respect thereto when the stationary bracket member is in an installation position. The movable bracket member is pivotable relative to the stationary bracket member into and out of engagement with the outside surface of the wall when the stationary bracket member is in the installation position. A lock body is adapted to latch to the movable bracket member and engage the cover. A spacer is mounted to the stationary bracket member and adapted to block movement of the movable bracket relative to the stationary bracket member when the movable bracket member is in engagement with the exterior surface of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: McGard, LLC
    Inventors: Eric R. Nolle, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7018253
    Abstract: A coupling lock for an engine and a boat hull installed on the fastening location thereof to provide coupling and locking functions includes a base dock and a upper dock. The base dock is fastened to a transom of the boat to couple with the engine and fasten to the boat. The base dock has two corresponding fastening rods to insert in fastening holes formed on a lock body housed in the upper dock. Locking operation may be accomplished rapidly. The engine coupling section is covered to guard the engine from theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Vulcan Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Show-Mon Li
  • Patent number: 6976373
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for a quick, keyless, slam installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: McGard, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Sullivan, Eric R. Nolle
  • Patent number: 6964459
    Abstract: An anti-theft device is disclosed for use on a vehicle employing air-operated parking brakes. The device is shaped for disposal about the parking brake control knobs when engaged. The device includes a pair of mating halves formed for surrounding and enclosing the control knobs while in an engaged position. A first of the halves includes a tongue having an opening therein and a second of the halves includes a channel for receiving the tongue. A lock is provided with a locking pin being disposed in the second half wherein the locking pin engages the opening in the tongue in order to secure the first and second halves together. Also, an adjustment mechanism is provided for tailoring the device to minor differences between the brake control knobs from one vehicle to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: David C. Cormier
  • Patent number: 6931893
    Abstract: A lock assembly has a clip, a base, a body, and an interlocking mechanism. The lock assembly is for an enclosure, such as an electrical meter socket with a box, having a side wall and a cover. The clip has a “U” shaped portion for encircling the side wall of the enclosure. The “U” shaped portion has an inner leg, a spanning portion, and an outer leg. The clip has a support portion projecting from an inner leg for supporting the cover of the enclosure. An interface portion of the clip projects from the outer leg. The base is interposed between the side wall of the box and the outer leg of the clip. The base has a flange portion projecting outward and underlying the interface portion of the clip. The flange portion has a hole. The body has an “L” shape including a cover retaining portion and an extending portion. The extending portion has a bore extending from the cover retaining portion. The body has a cavity opening onto an inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventor: Anthony J. Agbay
  • Patent number: 6902080
    Abstract: A lockable container particularly suitable for storing confidential documents or recyclable material has a locking system provided by an elongate tongue that projects downwardly from the underside of the front of a hinged lid and passes through a slot in the material of the upper front wall so that in the closed position of the lid the tongue lies closely behind and is shielded by an apron that extends transversely across the upper end of the front wall of the container. Holes provided in the lower end of the tongue and near the bottom of the apron are brought into alignment when the lid is closed so that the lid can be locked in the closed position by a padlock with a hasp passed through the aligned apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Busch Systems International, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig William Wayne Busch
  • Patent number: 6851288
    Abstract: A lockable container comprising an open-faced receptacle with a locking mechanism aperture, at least one lid covering at least a portion of the open face of the receptacle, and a locking mechanism for engaging with a padlock and securing the lid over the receptacle open face. The locking mechanism has a receptacle engagement portion that is moveable into a receptacle engagement position, and when in such position, a lid engagement portion attached to the receptacle engagement portion is moved over and into close proximity to the lid, and a lock engagement portion attached to the lid engagement portion is moveable into the receptacle and through the locking mechanism aperture, and out of the receptacle, where it is engageable with a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Wasteline Rentals Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald Howes
  • Publication number: 20040159133
    Abstract: A telescoping lockout device for encasing a gate valve, electrical connection, or similar apparatus, for the purpose of preventing unauthorized access and tampering with the apparatus. The lockout device is comprised of two nested half cylinders attached to one another through T slot that provides for telescoping of the device between an open position, where one half cylinder is nested within the other, and a closed position, where the half cylinders form a cylinder. The T slot provides a rail on one half cylinder that inserts into a track on the other half cylinder. At the ends of the T slot track and rail is an interlock. The lockout device also has locking tabs that, when the lockout device is placed in the closed position, provide overlapping locking openings into which a lock, such as a padlock, can be inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY
    Inventors: Jesse Marcelle, Glenn Meekma, Christopher Rohde, Mark Johnson
  • Patent number: 6772613
    Abstract: A lock system for a horizontal tool box wherein the latching mechanism for the lid may be operated from the proximal end of the toolbox and locking is achieved by means of a single padlock which is likewise located at the proximal end of the toolbox. An elongated latch rod is slidably disposed adjacent a front wall of either the body or lid components of the box. The padlock and the elongated latch rod are disposed such that the padlock body blocks the longitudinal movement of the proximal end of the latch rod and maintains the latch rod in the latched position when the body components are in the closed position and the padlock is locked, but the proximal end of the latch rod passes between the shackle and the padlock body to move the latch rod to the release position when the padlock is unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Knaack Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Freddie C. Webb, Gerald Draffkom, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6763691
    Abstract: A lock assembly for use in combination with an electric meter box or other like enclosure having a bottom, a side wall, and a cover which may be opened to gain access to the interior of the box, and which when closed, overlaps an upper edge of the side wall. The lock assembly includes a bracket having first and second mutually spaced flanges integrally joined by an intermediate web. A jaw is mechanically interengaged with and carried by the bracket for movement between its flanges. The bracket is configured for removable mounting on the side wall, with its intermediate web interposed between the cover and the upper edge of the side wall, and with the first flange and the jaw respectively located adjacent exterior and interior surfaces of the side wall. The jaw is urged towards the first flange to clamp the side wall therebetween, and a cap is secured to the bracket. The cap has a lip configured and dimensioned to overlap and maintain the cover in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corporation
    Inventor: Robert E. Rafferty
  • Patent number: 6742365
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for a quick, keyless, slam installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Sullivan, Eric R. Nolle
  • Publication number: 20040099023
    Abstract: This invention relates to a lockable container comprising an open-faced receptacle with a locking mechanism aperture, at least one lid covering at least a portion of the open face of the receptacle, and a locking mechanism for engaging with a padlock and securing the lid over the receptacle open face. The locking mechanism has a receptacle engagement portion that is moveable into a receptacle engagement position, and when in such position, a lid engagement portion attached to the receptacle engagement portion is moved over and into close proximity to the lid, and a lock engagement portion attached to the lid engagement portion is moveable into the receptacle and through the locking mechanism aperture, and out of the receptacle, where it is engageable with a padlock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Donald Howes
  • Publication number: 20040093917
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing the cover of a thin-walled box to the box frame. The locking mechanism includes a clip bracket adapted to engage a wall of the box frame, a lock body adapted to latch to the clip bracket and engage the box cover, a locking member carried by the clip bracket and adapted to clamp the clip bracket to the box wall when the locking member is in a clamping position, and a pivotable actuating lever adapted to actuate the locking member into the clamping position. The locking member and the actuating lever can be implemented as a two-piece system comprising first and second pivoting members. Alternatively, the locking member and the actuating lever can be integrally formed as a one-piece system. The locking mechanism is capable of multiple mounting positions on the box without drilling, and uses a spring-loaded plunger assembly that allows for a quick, keyless, slam installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffery R. Sullivan, Eric R. Nolle
  • Patent number: 6735989
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securing such enclosures as vending machines is disclosed. A hasp is mounted on the interior of the enclosure and a mounting bracket having a flange and a lock hole is disposed on the exterior of the enclosure. To securely lock the enclosure, a hasp key is passed through an opening in the enclosure proximate the mounting bracket. One end of the hasp key includes an engagement mechanism that engages a hasp key aperture through the hasp. On the other end of the hasp key is a lock hole which is generally aligned with the lock hole on the exterior of the enclosure when the hasp key is engaged. A lock may then be disposed through the lock holes, limiting a would-be intruder's options to gain access to the inside of the enclosure. A sliding T-handle lock cover is also described. The sliding T-handle lock cover includes a flange and slides over a T-handle lock and aligns with a flange of a cover plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: The Vendo Company
    Inventors: Dennis E. Schramm, Allen E. Alexander, Harry Wright
  • 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: 6705137
    Abstract: A lock device is provided for use with a truck semi-trailer. The semitrailer has a dolly wheel or landing gear system alternately configurable between a trailer support configuration and a trailer travel configuration. The lock device comprises a rigid, one-piece hollow box adapted to fit over and enclose portions of both a crankshaft and a drive shaft of a dolly wheel or landing gear system so as to prohibit movement of a crank into a crank operating position. The box has first and second adjacent but mutually perpendicular closed sides which are adapted to be located adjacent to portions of the crankshaft and the drive shaft. Third and fourth adjacent but mutually perpendicular box sides are at least partially open and are adapted to permit the crankshaft and the drive shaft to extend therethrough. Fifth and sixth mutually parallel sides are located perpendicularly to and at the edges of the first, second, third and fourth sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: American Lock Company
    Inventors: Edward H. Saladin, Edward C. Flory
  • Patent number: 6691732
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mueller International
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Patent number: 6692045
    Abstract: A retrofittable cap locking device for removably fitting over the stem of a fuel tank such that the cap of the stem cannot be removed. The retrofittable cap locking device includes a base portion. The base portion has an opening therein for receiving the stem of a tank designed for holding fuel and oil. The base portion has a peripheral edge. A cover portion comprises a plate having a top side, a bottom side and a peripheral wall extending therebetween. The bottom side has a flange thereon. The flange has a size adapted to fit around the cap of the stem. A first rod has a first end fixedly coupled to the peripheral wall and a second end hingedly coupled to the peripheral edge. The first rod is orientated generally perpendicular to a plane of the plate such that the rod extends away from the bottom side of the plate. A second rod is fixedly coupled to the peripheral wall. The second rod extends in the same direction as, and is orientated generally perpendicular to, the first rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Matthew Mc Call, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6684670
    Abstract: A security device comprises a first component having a through first passageway surrounded by an internal first recess, and a second component having a second passageway surrounded by an internal second recess. The first and second components are configured for assembly in a mating relationship with the first and second passageways in communication with each other and in coaxial alignment. A lock has a barrel containing a spring and plunger and carrying radially shiftable locking elements, with the plunger being normally biased by the spring in one direction urging the locking elements into expanded positions protruding radially from the barrel. The barrel is insertable into and releasably retained in an unlocked position in the first passageway with the locking elements expanded radially outwardly into the first recess, and is shiftable by a forwardly applied axial force into a locked position in the second passageway with the locking elements expanded into the second recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Agbay, John Mahaney
  • Patent number: 6676465
    Abstract: Subject of the invention is a locking device in which there is a locking part (1; 19) preventing the opening and the releasing of the attaching organs of an outboard motor. Characteristic to the device according to the invention is that there is an attaching part (2; 20) to be attached to the back board of a boat and that to this attaching part a locking part (1; 19) can be attached and locked with a lock (3; 23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Matti Karvinen
  • Patent number: 6675615
    Abstract: A T-bar lockable linkage between the gunnels and forward of a marine craft limits opening of side and central storage containers. The linkage includes a pair of tubular outer arms independently pivotally connected to a center link having an extended position for connection to the mounting brackets and a shortened position for removal therefrom. A shiftable lock block slidably supported on the linkage effects rigidized coaxial alignment of the outer arms in the extended position, The lock block includes a locking hub for releasable connection with a transverse center arm for limiting opening of the storage containers. The hub carries a keyed locking device including a latch bolt that engages the cross arm assembly to unitize the assembly and prevent separation of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: J. Mark Williams