Clamps Patents (Class 70/19)
  • Publication number: 20090266119
    Abstract: A locking clamp device is provided with first and second clamping members. The first clamping member includes a base member with a first clamping surface and a locking member movable with respect to the base member between a securing position and a releasing position. The second clamping member is slidably engaged with the first clamping member and selectively movable to a plurality of clamping positions. The second clamping member includes a second clamping surface opposite the first clamping surface. The lockout device further includes a means for preventing movement of the locking member from the securing position to the releasing position. The locking member is configured to secure the second clamping member in one of the plurality of clamping positions when the locking member is in the securing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY LLC
    Inventors: Michael BROJANAC, Mark JOHNSON, Frank SCOTT, John WEBER
  • Patent number: 7594415
    Abstract: A wheel clamp includes a clamp body, a movable rod pivotally connected to the clamp body, a connecting rod fitted on the movable rod, and a rotating unit disposed in a lock core seat of the clamp body. The connecting rod has a threaded section for connecting with a screw. The rotating unit has a rotating rod to be inserted into an accommodating trough of the screw. A first engaging member is secured to the accommodating trough of the screw. A second engaging member is secured to the rotating rod of the rotating unit. The second engaging member has a second engaging block to mesh with and drive a first engaging block of the first engaging member so the connecting rod is able to be moved relative to the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Wu
  • Patent number: 7552606
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a coupling assembly for connecting first and second sections of a brake supply line, the coupling assembly comprising complementary first and second couplings which fit together. A safety device is complementary to one coupling and which can be fitted to the coupling so that it cannot be connected to the other coupling. The safety device includes a locking device which is operable to prevent removal of the safety device from the coupling; the locking device prevents removal of a key until the locking device is operated. The key removed from the locking device can be used to enable use of a loading bay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Castell Safety International Limited
    Inventor: Michael Drummond
  • Patent number: 7549307
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing an object to a vehicle comprises a mounting bracket for being fixedly secured to a vehicle. A mating unit is removably secured to the mounting unit, the mating unit comprising an adjustable shackle and a locking mechanism, the adjustable shackle operative to secure an object, such as a surfboard, snowboard, wakeboard, or skis, to the mating unit and mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Donald A. Bistline
  • Patent number: 7503194
    Abstract: A multiple padlock lock system for locking a first post to a second post has a common plate and connecting links. Padlocks connect the common plate and the connecting links around the first post lock the common plate to the first post. Connecting links or a tongue plate lock the common plate to the second post. At least two padlocks must be unlocked to remove the lock system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Randy L. McNeil
  • Patent number: 7475575
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for articles having some article body portion of lesser cross sectional area bounded by body portions of greater cross sectional area so that the smaller body portion can be lockably held within a passage and the larger body portions prevent removal of the article from the anti-theft device. Preferably, the anti-theft device can be used for cables and other devices having permanent non-removable enlarged sections, such as endoscopy cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventors: Jack Greenfield, David B Monoson
  • Patent number: 7454932
    Abstract: A lockable tie down strap comprises a strap member having one end captively connected to a buckle member and a free end engageable over a load bearing member in the buckle body to enable the strap member to be tensioned. A lockable latch member is pivotally mounted in the body and includes a first jaw surface adapted to clampingly engage the strap member against a second jaw surface associated with body. The strap member includes a pair of steel reinforcing cords located in respective pockets extending longitudinally of the strap member adjacent opposed edges thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: CMH Products Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Clinton Hollier
  • Patent number: 7441424
    Abstract: A security tag holder is releasably clamped onto a garment. The holder includes first and second members coupled for relative pivotal movement about a pivot pin. The first member includes first clamping and locking regions at opposite sides of the pin, respectively. The second member includes second clamping and locking regions at opposite sides of the pin. The first locking region has a recess and a fixed magnet. The second locking region has a bore and a movable magnet movable between an unlocking position wherein the movable magnet is received in the bore and a locking position wherein the movable magnet is partly inserted into the recess and attracted to the fixed magnet. When the first and second members are urged against each other to clamp the garment, the movable magnet is moved from its unlocking to locking position to lock the first and second members against relative pivotal movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Washin Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masatoshi Saitoh, Takako Negishi
  • Patent number: 7434425
    Abstract: A golf club securing mechanism includes a rigid member and a flexible member. The flexible member is wovenly engaged with the rigid member to define one or more golf club holding regions between the flexible member and the rigid member. The flexible member can be manipulated to vary a size of the one or more golf club holding regions such that in a loose position a golf club can be positioned within one of the golf club holding regions and in a tightened position the golf club is tightly fixed between the rigid member and the flexible member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventors: Roger O. Mahre, Charles R. Halverson
  • Patent number: 7377135
    Abstract: A portable multipurpose lock having a shackle base with two parallel rods having opposing interior sides with spaced-apart detents, an adjustable lock body with through holes for slidable insertion of the rods, a lock for engaging the rods to secure and lock the lock body on the rods, and one or more recesses formed in the shackle base, lock body, or both, which facilitates placement of the lock around an object or objects to be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Gary D. Copus
  • Patent number: 7337636
    Abstract: An anti-theft device including a shaft divided into first and second brackets and a locking mechanism. First bracket defines first 300a and second 320a edges, second bracket defines first 300b and second 320b edges. First 320a and second 320b edges are hingedly connected such that first and second brackets can be opened or closed. Edge 300b includes at least one inner-flange and a locking tab. First bracket 260a includes sidewall 340a. Locking tab and sidewall 340a respectively define apertures 440 and 390. Apertures 440 and 390 are aligned upon closing the first and second brackets. When the first and second brackets are in a closed configuration, the locking mechanism is in operable communication with apertures 440 and 390 such that the locking mechanism is capable of reversibly locking first and second brackets together, and wherein the at least one inner flange prevents illicit tampering of the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Bryan Witchey
  • Publication number: 20080041122
    Abstract: A system for restricting access to wellhead equipment is provided. A cable may be snugly wrapped around or threaded through wellhead equipment and secured with a cable restraint to prevent loosening of the cable from the equipment. Other devices are also provided within the system, the devices for covering ports or shielding equipment to prevent unauthorized access to the ports and/or equipment. Such devices may also be secured with the cable and restraint system. A method and kit for securing wellhead equipment are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Earl Gordon
  • Patent number: 7325424
    Abstract: A saddle locking device for preventing unauthorized use of a saddle is the subject of the invention. The device has a lower plate with billet pins protruding there from. The device also has an upper plate defining openings for receiving the billet pins. There is a locking mechanism for securely locking the lower plate to the upper plate so that the billet pins are locked through the openings defined by the upper plate. In use, the device is attached to the billets of a saddle where the billet pins are threaded through the holes in the billets and the device is then closed and locked. Optionally, the device has a locking mechanism such as a cable to connect the device to a fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: William B. Wolf, III
  • Patent number: 7234371
    Abstract: A locking, removable handle assembly for a vise is provided. The vise has a threaded rod, a fixed jaw, and a movable jaw as is known in the art. The handle assembly includes a base assembly, an elongated handle member, and a lock assembly. The base assembly is structured to be fixed to the threaded rod. The elongated handle member is structured to be coupled to the base assembly. The lock assembly is structured to selectively couple the handle member to the base assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Eugene A. Ritz
  • 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: 7207198
    Abstract: A lockout assembly suitable for use with a valve having a handle rotatable between an open position and a closed position includes a lock arm which supports a clamping mechanism. In one aspect of the invention, the lock arm includes a longitudinal slot having slot ends. The clamping mechanism is engagable with the handle for clamping thereto and includes a threaded stud extending through the slot. The threaded stud is slidable in the slot between the slot ends. In another aspect of the invention, the clamping mechanism includes a locking knife and body. The body is interposed between the lock arm and locking knife, and includes an opening for slidably receiving the threaded stud therethrough. The locking knife is axially fixed to an end of the threaded stud and is moveable relative to the body for clamping onto the handle interposed between the locking knife and body. The locking knife includes a lower jaw having a distal end and a proximal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Brady Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Benda
  • Patent number: 7201025
    Abstract: A golf club securing mechanism includes a rigid member and a flexible member. The flexible member is wovenly engaged with the rigid member to define one or more golf club holding regions between the flexible member and the rigid member. The flexible member can be manipulated to vary a size of the one or more golf club holding regions such that in a loose position a golf club can be positioned within one of the golf club holding regions and in a tightened position the golf club is tightly fixed between the rigid member and the flexible member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: Roger O. Mahre, Charles R. Halverson
  • Patent number: 7194878
    Abstract: A device for booting the wheel of a vehicle comprises a dual capability for locking the wheel of either small or large vehicles. The booting device comprises a dual pair of pincer arms that are juxtaposed with respect to each other about a base member. The base member is composed of two sliding linkages that allow the pincer arms of one of the pair, to be adjusted about a wheel of a vehicle. The other pair of pincer arms acts as a stand member to prevent movement of the wheel. A lock in the base member secures the position of the arms, and prevents tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventors: Glenn Johnson, Kevin Mak, John Pallay
  • Patent number: 7134302
    Abstract: A security device includes a carrier for a tell-tale provision having electro-magnetic characteristics. The device is adapted to be releasably secured to an article to be protected, in particular to the shaft of a golf club, in a tamper-resilient manner and to retain the tell-tale provision in a spaced relationship from the article. In this way any adverse magnetic effects on the tell-tale provision by ferromagnetic parts of the article are avoided. Preferably, the tell-tale provision is spaced at least 3 mm from the article to which the device is secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sports-Tag Limited
    Inventor: Alan Jeffrey Gorst
  • Patent number: 7111764
    Abstract: A clamp assembly secures a first article to a second article. The clamp assembly includes first and second spaced-apart article holders adapted for engaging respective first and second articles. An elongated gear rack interconnects the first and second article holders. A pinion operatively engages the gear rack, and is adapted for moving the first article holder along the gear rack relative to the second article holder. A locking bar has a plurality of spaced teeth adapted for meshing with respective teeth of the gear rack in a locked position. The locking bar is moveable between the locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the meshing teeth of the locking bar and gear rack cooperate to prevent linear movement of the first article holder relative to the second article holder, thereby securing the first article to the second article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Nordman Corporation of NC
    Inventors: Robert F. Smith, Michael S. Richardson
  • Patent number: 7047771
    Abstract: A gun lock for receiving and clamping a cross-sectional portion of a firearm. A slide bar is provided for mounting the gun lock to a surface in a storage location. A locking assembly slidably mountable to the slide bar is provided. A set screw assembly for releasably locking the locking assembly onto the sliding bar is provided. A set screw and a set screw nut locks the locking assembly onto the slide bar. The set screw is accessible by a hex key through an opening in housing of the apparatus only when the ratchet arm is in the unlocked open position. A pivotably attachable ratchet arm which resembles typical handcuffs is provided that has a plurality of ratchet teeth that enables the gun lock to clamp a wide variety of cross-sectional portions of different weapons. A solenoid has a plunger adapted to engage one of the ratchet teeth of the ratchet arm to lock the rotatable ratchet arm in position around the cross-sectional portion of the weapon to be locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Laszlo Tanos
  • Patent number: 7032416
    Abstract: A tire lock includes a fixed arm, a lock tube, a movable arm and a lock rod. The movable arm is pivotally connected to the fixed arm at one end. Both the fixed arm and the movable arm comprise troughs, respectively. The lock tube is pivotally connected to the fixed arm. The lock rod is pivotally connected to the movable arm. The lock tube and the lock rod are respectively inserted through the troughs of the fixed arm and the movable arm, and have enlarged ends left outside of the troughs. By swinging the lock tube and the lock rod to engage together, the tire lock is locked on an opening of a tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Chun-Hsien Wu
  • Patent number: 7024894
    Abstract: A safety storage device (1) comprising a frame (2), a first contact surface (6), a locking member (3) arranged movable relative to the frame (2), a second contact surface (7) at a first end of the locking member (3), and a locking device (4). An article (10) to be locked is arranged between the contact surfaces (6, 7), and the locking member (3) is then moved towards the first contact surface (6) so as to engage the article (10) to be locked between the contact surfaces (6, 7). When locked, the locking device (4) acts on the locking member (3) by being arranged to prevent the movement of the locking member (3) away from the first contact surface (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: S.I. Treducon Oy
    Inventor: Arto Salonen
  • Patent number: 6997022
    Abstract: A locking assembly is being used on a trailer and is installed on at least one wheel. The locking assembly consists of two locking bars that have U-shaped ends at an outer end and straight sections at an inner end. Each of the inner ends have a multiple of bores there through. When installed, the inner ends of the locking bars are received in a receiver box, which is attached to a cylindrical hub, in an overlapping relationship whereby any of the bores will align with each other. A locking pin is passed through the bores once the locking bars are in place and once the U-shaped ends are placed around a tire and properly matched with its size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Craig DeMange
  • Patent number: 6990838
    Abstract: A skid steer attachment lock for preventing the theft of a tool attached to a skid steer loader. The device comprises of an extendable hollow shaft having a first and second opposite ends, wherein the first and second opposite ends are open and adapted to respectively accommodate a first and second attachment tool locking arms when the arms are facing each other; and a locking mechanism disposed in the outer shaft of the extendable shaft for temporarily locking the extendable shaft at a desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Bryan Witchey
  • Patent number: 6942094
    Abstract: A sportboard storage apparatus, which is mountable onto a supporting surface, and which can be modified to store a variety of different types of boards which have two opposed ends that are catchable. Such as surfboards, skateboards and skis. The apparatus comprises two parts, one part of which is mounted to the support surface, and the other part of which is slideably attached to the mounted part. The sportboard is held in the apparatus by a pair of sleeves, which engage the ends of the sportboard and hold it in place on the apparatus. The apparatus provides an easy way to store sportboards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: WMC Holding Incorporated
    Inventor: Wilmot Maxwell Coulson
  • Patent number: 6938734
    Abstract: A configurable wheel lock comprising a rigid chock and an adjustable fork pivoted to the chock that engages a wheel seated within a cradle. The fork projecting from the control portion mounts a pair of separate arms pivoted to opposite ends of an axle that is slidably captivated within guide slots in the chock sides. Projecting arm stubs are inserted within the wheel to be captivated for locking. The fork arms rotate in a first plane that is coplanar with both arms and the axle, and they may be rotated about the axle. These combined rotational features enhance the positional abilities of the arms, and the dexterity of the wheel lock. Rigid locking-links pivoted to at least one of the arms are extended to the opposite arm to lock it in a selected locking position about the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Curl
  • Patent number: 6935145
    Abstract: A stationary axle/wheel lock anti-theft device for positioning and encumbering vehicle axle/wheel assembly movement in X-Y-Z-axis planes. Said device includes a base, a cylindrical blocking member and a security lock assembly. A frontal wheel barrier integral to the base restricts access to the front face of the vehicle wheel rim, axle hub, wheel nuts and cylindrical blocking member. Said barrier provides a restraining bore for the cylindrical blocking member in the locked position. Wheel chocks integral to the base localizes the vehicle wheel assembly, substantially aligning the vehicle axle with the cylindrical blocking member coaxially. The cylindrical blocking member is restrained in the extended position by mechanical means and serves to protect a security lock device from tampering. The cylindrical block member obstructs forward or rearward movement once the vehicle wheel assembly makes contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Douglas R Howitt
  • Patent number: 6874338
    Abstract: A device for locking a piston rod of a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly in an extended condition so that mobile construction equipment or other heavy machinery cannot be driven from a job site. The locking device is placed in ensleeving relation to an extended piston rod between a proximal hydraulic cylinder and a distal bearing point to prevent retraction of the piston rod. The device has a hollow sleeve configuration formed of confronting first and second sleeve parts that are hingedly connected to one another. A first lock secures the first and second sleeve members to one another along a longitudinally extending parting line. A second lock is opposed to the first lock and prevents hinged movement of the first and second sleeve parts relative to one another even if the first lock is defeated. The device is adaptable to a variety of hydraulic piston and cylinder assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventors: Michael H Hunt, Preston E Smith
  • Patent number: 6862906
    Abstract: A locking device for locking golf clubs in a golf bag and the like, comprising a continuous chain of hinged links, where the links are formed so that two adjacent links in a first mutual position enclose the golf club shaft so as to prevent the golf club from being taken out of engagement with the links, while the links in a second mutual position partly enclose the shaft of the golf club, allowing the golf club to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Dan Lindkjølen
  • Patent number: 6860128
    Abstract: A clamp for preventing theft of a motor cycle, by disabling operation of a handlebar brake lever comprises: a pair of jaws connected together at a pivot so as to be movable between an open and a closed condition, the jaws providing when in the closed condition, first and second substantially parallel apertures and through the clamp, the first aperture being shaped to receive a handlebar handgrip portion therethrough, and the second aperture being formed in a movable member and positioned so as to receive a brake or clutch lever operably mounted on the handlebar. The clamp also has a locking device for enabling the jaws to be locked in the closed condition. The movable member is locked at optional positions when the jaws are in the closed condition, by a pair of ribs which engage into a series of transverse grooves formed in the jaw along the length thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Neils William Chappell
  • Patent number: 6834896
    Abstract: A locking apparatus for locking the doors of a cargo container, such as the rear doors of a trailer, is disclosed. The locking assembly may include a second tubular member that telescopes and slides within a first tubular member and an L-shaped assembly mounted on or near the ends of the respective first and second tubular members. The locking apparatus may be placed in a perpendicular fashion between the securing rods of the doors of a cargo container, and the tubular members may be slidably telescoped until the L-shaped assemblies substantially fill the spaces between the cam pins of the securing rods and the walls of the cam pin housings containing the cam pins when the securing rods are in a locked position. In this manner, the cam pins will be prevented from being removed from the cam pin housings, thereby preventing the securing rods from rotating, which in turn keeps the doors of the cargo container securely and tightly locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Barry F. Smith
  • Patent number: 6763688
    Abstract: A computer lock includes a lock body, a cover, a lock core, an action body, an action shaft, and a locking block. Thus, the computer lock is used for securing the notebook computer to an article, such as a fixed upright or leg, thereby providing an anti-theft function to protect the notebook computer efficiently. In addition, the computer lock is operated easily and conveniently, thereby facilitating the user operating the computer lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jing Shu Syu
  • Patent number: 6749362
    Abstract: A folding motor vehicle immobilizer and chase inhibitor to surround both the front and rear of the tire of a motor vehicle that has been stopped for investigation by law enforcement officers to prevent the vehicle and its operator from fleeing the scene of the stop so as to avoid the risks inherent with a high speed chase. The chase inhibitor includes a frontal member that is located against the outside of the tire to be surrounded and a pair of outwardly projecting spike supports that are pivotally connected to opposite ends of the frontal member. Each of the spike supports carries a set of sharp hollow spikes that are aimed at and adapted to puncture and deflate the tire should the vehicle drive off in either the forward or the reverse direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Eichenberg
  • Patent number: 6739792
    Abstract: An adjustable key-locked clamp for securing car stereo equipment against a mounting surface. A single rotary lock fixes the adjustable clamping member and secures the clamp to its base. A key is required to release the clamping member and remove the device from its base. Thus, without the key, it is very difficult to remove the car stereo equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: James D. George, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040011091
    Abstract: A security lock device for portable sporting articles such as skis, snowboards and the like has opposed jaws (10, 11) for clamping onto an edge of the article. One of the jaws has barbs (28) projecting from a face of the jaw for penetrating slightly into the article and preventing removal therefrom when clamped in position. A lever arm (15) mounted for pivotal movement on a first jaw (10) supports a bolt (13) which is pivotally connected to the lever arm (15) and extends through a bore in a second jaw (11). A nut (12) on said bolt retains the second jaw (11) on the bolt (13) in an adjustable manner whereby the spacing between the jaws (10, 11) can be varied. Actuation of the lever (15) from an open to a closed position draws the jaws (10, 11) towards each other to clamp onto the article and a security locking mechanism (38) locks the lever arm (15) in a closed position within a cavity of the first jaw (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Marcus John Zeuschner
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6629440
    Abstract: The present lock construction, for securing a movable object to a fixed object, includes a housing having an interior cavity and an elongated member having a first portion secured within the housing and a second portion slidably received within the housing. The elongated member is slidable within the passageway to a locked position, securing the movable object to the fixed position and to an unlocked position, releasing the object from the fixed object. First and second members are slidably disposed in the housing and are movable to engage the cable in the locked position. A rotatable locking mechanism is disposed within said housing and is engageable with the first member to permit slidable movement of the first member and thereby allow slidable movement of the elongated member to different locked positions. The rotatable locking mechanism is also engageable with the second member to permit slidable movement of the second member and thereby prevent movement of said elongated member in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventors: Glenn P. Meekma, John B. Zapushek
  • Patent number: 6622532
    Abstract: A cable lock assembly has a base, a cylinder, a cable and a cord holder. The base is adapted to be attached to the computer with a fastener. The cylinder is mounted on the base and has a lock unit, a keyhole and a lock post. The cable is detachably connected to the base with one end and locked by the lock post. The other end of the cable is used to loop around an object. The cord holder is detachably attached to the base and locked by the lock post to hold the cords of the computer. Consequently, the computer can be locked to an object with the cable lock assembly. The computer will not be stolen or inappropriately moved even if the cords of the computer are cut off or are pulled out from the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Ching-Shu Hsu
  • Patent number: 6598433
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for an endoscope, boroscope or other device is disclosed. The anti-theft device in one embodiment comprises a top portion with a channel through it and a bottom portion hingeably attached to the top portion. A locking mechanism presses the flexible tube against a resting surface. The bottom portion comprises a flange that extends into the top portion when the device is closed. A locking lip turns upon activation of the locking mechanism and extends above the flange when the device is closed, and a cam within the bottom portion pushes a bolt attached to the pressing surface upon activation of the locking mechanism, thereby pressing the flexible tube against the resting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Frank A. Malvasio
  • Patent number: 6591641
    Abstract: The specification discloses a locking device for a cargo-container closure of the type comprising a pair of doors hingedly mounted to a body of the cargo-container, each door having associated therewith in spaced-apart relation at least one upright lockrod the lockrods being adapted for securement to the body in a closed condition of the doors, and in which closed condition of the doors the lockrods are laterally spaced-apart a finite distance. The locking device comprises a pair of separate arms, each arm having a principal length extending between first and second ends, the first end of each arm defining a stop adapted to confront one of the lockrods, and the second ends of the arms being adapted for secure interconnection in end-to-end abutting relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Freight Securities, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Cann
  • Patent number: 6505487
    Abstract: A locking device (1) includes a first clip member (20) and a second clip member (40). The first and second clip members (20, 40) include a first and second clip base (21, 41), respectively. A first jaw (22) extends outwardly from the first clip base (21) whereas a second jaw (42) extends outwardly from the second clip base (41). The first and second clip members (20, 40) are connected together so that they may move with respect to each other between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the first and second jaws (22, 42) cooperate to form a locking loop (6). The locking loop (6) is adapted to fit through and lock with a locking feature (32) on an object to be secured. When the first and second clip members (20, 40) are moved to the open position, the first and second jaws (22, 42) are separated by an opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Dell Products, L.P.
    Inventors: Michael R. Garel, David W. Grunow, Cassius J. Mullen
  • Patent number: 6477871
    Abstract: An article for providing a visual deterrent against theft of a portable electronic device is provided. The portable electronic device such as a portable computer has a first portion, such as a keyboard and body part and a second portion such as a display hinged for rotation relative to the first portion. The article comprises a body arranged to prevent hinging of the second portion relative to the first portion and a lock for preventing removal of the body of the article from the portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jane Henderson Shaw, Sohail Syyed
  • Patent number: 6467315
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for water craft to secure boats and to secure accessories in three embodiments. The first embodiment discloses a two part locking mechanism comprising a tubular locking bar which reciprocates into locking relationship with a tubular locking cylinder. Both the locking bar and the locking cylinder have projecting and bent locking legs of elongated length configured to enclose the horns of a cleat in secure relationship. The locking bar is capable of being reciprocated into the locking cylinder and locked therein to maintain the locking legs around the horns of the cleat. The second embodiment discloses a locking bar and locking cylinder arrangement wherein the horn engaging locking legs are of relatively thin wall tubular construction and fit around the horns of the cleat. In the third embodiment the horn engaging legs are of circular ring construction and are attached respectively to the locking bar and locking cylinder as described in the other embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: JME Products Corporation
    Inventor: Jack M. Edmondson
  • Patent number: 6443417
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for securing a lap top computer to a support member, the device having a rigid securing member. The rigid securing member has a back, side and front restraining members defining an elongate opening dimensioned to slidably receive a monitor of the lap top computer therethrough when the computer is in the open position. The device further includes a locking assembly having a first part rigidly coupled to the securing member and a second part which can be anchored to the support member, the first and second parts being movable together into a securing position to clamp the lap top computer to the support member, and apart into a release position to allow the lap top computer to be removed. A second securing member is provided to secure the lap top in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Steve N. Galant
  • Patent number: 6438885
    Abstract: A weapon trigger guard apparatus is provided for use on a gun rack having a support member and a lock coupled to the support member. The weapon trigger guard apparatus comprises a base rigidly coupled to the support member of the rack, and a cover pivotably coupled to the base. The cover is movable between a first open position to permit installation and removal of the weapon from the rack and a second closed position in which the cover and the base cooperate to surround and enclose a trigger housing of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Pro-Guard Industries, L.P.
    Inventors: Kurt R. Murray, Richard N. Mercurio
  • Patent number: 6434980
    Abstract: A tire clamp for immobilizing a vehicle including a fixed bar having a generally L-shaped configuration. The fixed bar is comprised of a horizontal segment and a vertical segment. The horizontal segment is comprised of an inner portion and an outer portion. The inner portion has a plurality of sharpened teeth extending downwardly therefrom. The vertical segment has an inwardly angled lower portion. The fixed bar is positionable with respect to a tire with the horizontal segment disposed above and extending across the tire with the plurality of teeth abutting the tire and pointed thereat. A movable bar has an inwardly angled lower portion and is coupled with the fixed bar and is slidably mounted thereon. The movable bar is positionable with respect to a tire with both inwardly angled lower portions positioned against an exterior of the rim the tire is mounted on while the sharpened teeth remain oriented toward and abutting the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Foster
  • Patent number: 6427499
    Abstract: A device to secure a PC notebook, a loose-leaf storage book or similarly shaped equipment, using a string of metal rod elongated rectangular links over the opposite and diagonal corners of the equipment, and securing the links using a padlock or other locking device. The links are secured to each other at their short ends by a double hinge that allows the links to pivot in a vertical axis while the hinge surface is held against the side of the equipment. The device is light weight, small in size to facilitate packing for travel, and low in cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Jay S Derman
  • Patent number: 6408658
    Abstract: A trailer wheel rim lock comprising two steel jaw members hinged together at one end and secured around a wheel rim at the other ends and wherein a chain is fixed to one jaw and passed through a guide member on the other jaw to tighten the jaws together around the wheel rim and a padlock is passed through the chain to lock the chain around the jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Steven Bertus Pickett
  • Patent number: RE38162
    Abstract: A bicycle carrier fastening bracket has a main body, a base, and a leg extending from the base to support a tube defining a hole for receiving a threaded rod having threaded end engaged with a fast releasing nut. The threaded rod also has a head end and associated head end washer, the head end being engaged with a handle capable of eccentric motion. The tube has a slot for receiving an arresting washer, and there is a round hole in the leg. The handle has a grip with a locking hole corresponding in diameter to the round hole. The eccentric body fastening the handle regulates a distance between each of the threaded rod head end washer and the nut and its respective opposite end of the main body. The distance can be shortened to clamp a bicycle front fork when the handle is rotated to rest the grip against the leg, with the locking hole of the grip rested against the leg, so as to facilitate installation of a lock and confine displacement of the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Delta Cycle Corporation
    Inventor: Justin Tyler Brown