Single Stem Or Shank Patents (Class 70/34)
  • Publication number: 20080105006
    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 biasing means 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: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: INNER-TITE CORP.
    Inventor: ANTHONY JOHN AGBAY
  • Patent number: 7353671
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler lock for locking a trailer hitch such that a trailer cannot be removed from a vehicle. The coupler lock comprises a lock body with a locking mechanism and a locking plate, and also comprises a shaft having a narrow and a flange end, and also having multiple recesses along the length of the shaft for engagement with the locking plate of the lock body. The recesses along the length of the shaft have a vertical edge which engages the locking plate such that the lock body cannot be removed from the shaft without unlocking the locking mechanism. The recesses also have a tapered edge that allows for slidable movement of the lock body along the shaft, without unlocking the locking mechanism, for the purpose of adjusting the lock to the size of the latch. The components of the coupler lock are made of stainless steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Master Lock Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jim Recknagel, Ken Burmesch, Victor Yip, John Zapushek
  • Patent number: 7316534
    Abstract: An integrated pin and clip for securing vehicle trailer components. The integrated pin and clip includes a shaft member and a clip member. The clip member is movable between a locked and an unlocked position. The unlocked position allows for the integrated pin and clip to be inserted and withdrawn from a receiving aperture in a vehicle trailer component, such as a receiver. The locked position does not allow the integrated pin and clip to be inserted and withdrawn from the aperture. The integrated pin and clip also includes retention means that secures the clip in either the locked position or the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Rolf Hohmann, Chris Irgens, Gary Burmesch, Kerry Jacques, Mark Van Handel, Michael Sheridan
  • Patent number: 7290415
    Abstract: A puck shaped lock including a substantially cylindrical body into which a cavity is formed and a movable bolt that passes through the cavity and is shiftable from a first position advanced across the cavity to a second position substantially withdrawn from the cavity and which can be releasably secured across the cavity fixedly connected to and extending from the puck shaped lock and being securable to a door or a door jamb. The invention further includes a hasp member supporting a first staple securable to a door or a doorjamb. When the puck shaped lock is positioned overlying the hasp member the staple is inserted into the cavity and the movable bolt can be advanced across the cavity and through the opening in the staple whereby the puck shaped lock and the hasp member are secured together and the door is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Cargo Protectors, Inc.
    Inventors: Avron S. Rosenberg, Matt Prazenka
  • Patent number: 7225649
    Abstract: A locking device includes a shackle member that includes an elongated shank portion, a stop portion on a first end and a latch portion on a second end. A locking head includes a locking mechanism that has an entryway to receive the latch portion and is movable between a locked state to retain the latch portion and a unlock state to release the latch portion. A head cover includes a cover portion that engages the locking head and a flange portion that extends inwardly to define an opening to receive the latch portion therethrough. A seal structure is associated with the inner edge of the flange and sealably engages the outer surface margin of the latch portion. The seal structure may be a margin of the flange portion or a separate O-ring. The lock may be constructed as a lockable hitch pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • 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: 7165426
    Abstract: A method utilizes a locking device that includes a shackle member having a shank with a latch portion and a stop at opposite ends. A locking head mounts in a locked state on the latch portion but is removable when unlocked. A sleeve is carried on the shank but is removable. The sleeve and the shank together define a size conversion structure for the shackle. When the sleeve is on the shank, the shackle has one operative thickness to closely fit one size aperture, but when the sleeve is removed, the shackle has another, smaller operative thickness to fit a smaller aperture. A retaining member may be employed to resist removal of the sleeve. Two or more sleeves may be used to fit more than two apertures. These can be separately mountable onto the shank or may be nested on the shank, one inside of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Patent number: 7107799
    Abstract: A trailer hitch locking device for securing a trailer having a ball type hitch includes a rigid U-shaped frame member having a central lower mounting member, an upper pin shield, a locking pin having a flattened locking end, a shaft and a pin head, the locking end engaging a cylindrical security lock which engages the locking pin through a hole in the frame member, the cylindrical security lock being surrounded by a lock security collar, preventing access to the entire cylindrical lock except for the outer surface of the cylindrical lock, exposed from the lock security collar, the pin head being sunken into a pin head recess in the frame member across from the lock security collar. The pin head access prevents access to the pin, the upper pin shield prevents access to the shaft of the pin and the cylindrical security lock and lock security collar preventing access to the locking end of the pin, the pin preventing removal of the device from the applied ball type hitch of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: Kenneth Ray Marley, Stanley N. Solloway
  • Patent number: 7080530
    Abstract: A locking device having a cylindrical plunger and a cylindrical sleeve for releasably and rotatably receiving the plunger, the sleeve having an open top portion, and a bottom portion. A keyway is provided axially disposed along the length of one of the plunger or sleeve, and a lip circumferentially disposed around the same plunger or sleeve. A key is also provided on the other of the plunger or sleeve, the key slidably mating with the keyway. A spring member is disposed within the sleeve and is compressed when the plunger is inserted into the sleeve biasing the plunger out of the sleeve. To lock the device the plunger is inserted into the sleeve, the key sliding along the keyway through the lip, the plunger compressing the spring member, and then the sleeve and plunger are rotated with respect to each other and released, the spring biasing the plunger out of the sleeve and locking the key onto a surface of the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: David J. Haas
  • Patent number: 7059158
    Abstract: A lockbox is adapted for receipt within a main cavity defined by a conventional trailer hitch. Various embodiments of the lockbox include a pivotable opening front wall, and a removable top. The lockbox may have a rectangular, triangular or other polygonal configuration as well as having the configuration of an elongated tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Frank J. Martin Company
    Inventor: Tim Freeman
  • 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: 7000955
    Abstract: A compact, portable device for effectively locking a crank window in a user selected position. The body of the device can be selectively secured to or released from a window crank. When secured to the window crank, the device limits rotation of the crank by mechanical interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Roger Heyder
  • 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: 6962066
    Abstract: A locking arrangement serving for locking a door hinged on a casing on e.g. a container by a combination or key lock. The locking arrangement comprises a rotatable closing rod for keeping the door closed by engaging the casing in a closed position; a fitting having a U-shaped part encompassing at least a length of the closing rod; two flushing locking holes made with one hole in each of the opposite walls of the U-shaped part; a transverse hole made in the closing rod and flushing with the locking holes in the closed position; and a bolt having a first section provided with a head, and a second section displaceably mounted in the lock between a locked inner position and an unlocked outer position; whereby the locking arrangement is locked when the bolt is extending through the transverse hole and the locking holes in locked inner position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Servial CC ApS
    Inventors: Allan R Larsen, Henning Kummerfeldt
  • 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: 6913413
    Abstract: A coupling lock comprising a lock base having a hole includes a core member received in the hole of the lock base and a core plug at an end thereof running out of the hole of the lock base. A driving member, having two driving portions at opposite ends thereof, is coupled with the core member at the distal end of the plug. A locking assembly has two locking and two elastic members. Each of the locking members has two lateral ends pivoted on the lock base, and a hooking portion. The elastic members have ends fixed on the base and other ends resting against the locking members. A housing has a stepped central hole receiving and securing the core in a larger section thereof, and a locking plug inserted into a small section of the center hole of the housing and an annular locking slot receiving the hooking portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Yao-Kun Yang
  • Patent number: 6862905
    Abstract: A locking device for locking one or more objects together includes a lock stud defined by an elongated shaft having a head at a first end and an annular recess at a second end, and a lock body that slides over and locks onto the second end. The lock body includes an outer housing having an aperture for receiving the second end of the elongated shaft. A cylinder lock mechanism is positioned in the outer housing, and the cylinder lock is rotatable between a locked and an unlocked position. The cylinder lock is rotationally coupled to a locking disc that is eccentrically disposed in the outer housing with respect to the aperture of the outer housing. The locking disc has an aperture therein that engages the annular recess in the elongated shaft when the cylinder lock is rotated to the locked position. The locking device also includes a sleeve that is dimensioned to slide over the elongated shaft to allow the locking device to be used for locking through several different sized apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventor: John B. Zapushek
  • Patent number: 6854303
    Abstract: A security lock and encasement providing resistance to torquing moment with a slip ring designed to slide onto the padlock encasement from the back without being able to advance beyond the front face of the encasement. Said slip ring is designed such that it can only be applied or removed to the lock casing from the back of the casing and is properly aligned with said encasement through a setscrew that will break if sufficient torque is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Lock America, Inc.
    Inventors: Ming Liang Shiao, Frank Minnella
  • Patent number: 6854302
    Abstract: A tool lock, especially useful in preventing theft or unauthorized use of a tool. The tool lock has a housing in which a lock cylinder assembly and locking balls are disposed. The tool lock housing has an opening at one end in which a portion of a tool, such as a pneumatic fitting on a pneumatic tool, may be inserted and secured by the engagement of the locking balls. The tool lock housing may further include a shackle portion which can be used in conjunction with a cable, either integral or separate, padlock, or chain to secure the tool lock to another object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventors: John Zapushek, Christopher R. Irgens
  • Patent number: 6851285
    Abstract: A locking device having a cylindrical plunger with a key thereon and a cylindrical sleeve for receiving the plunger and key. The sleeve has a lip therein with a mating keyway that passes therethrough. An indicium on the sleeve is aligned with the keyway. To lock the device the plunger is inserted into the sleeve, the key sliding along the keyway through the lip into the bottom portion compressing a spring member therein. The sleeve and plunger are then rotated with respect to each other and released, the spring biasing the plunger upward to lock the key onto the bottom surface of the lip. To unlock the device, the sleeve and plunger are pressed together and rotated with respect to each other until, by noting the position of the known indicium, the key and keyway are aligned with each other. The plunger is then removed from the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: David J. Haas
  • Publication number: 20040261472
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a personal computer is installed over a screw that is used to secure a moveable panel of the computer's chassis in a closed position. When installed, the locking mechanism prevents access to the screw, thereby preventing an unauthorized person from opening the panel of the chassis and having access to the contents therein. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a lock base for receiving the screw and a lock head for being positioned over the lock base to cover and prevent access to the screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng Shih-Tsung
  • Patent number: 6829915
    Abstract: A trailer lock comprises a rocket bolt, a lock body, and a chain couple. The inner side of the fixed end in the rocket bolt and one of the lock bodies individually has a mounting segment for matching a chain couple with a two-end mounting part and its connection. By the winch design of the chain, it can winch the carrying goods such as bicycle of the supporting base in the end of the car for achieving anti-theft purpose on carrying goods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Vulcan Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Show-Mon Li
  • Publication number: 20040221626
    Abstract: A security cover with releasable lock includes a rearwardly opening steel box secured over the ears of a hasp assembly on a cargo container, with the hasp ears positioned within the box. An operable lock is mounted on the box, for selectively securing the hasp ears by the selective positioning of a pin through the ears of the hasp within the box. In the preferred embodiment, the lock is a plunger type lock with a plug connected to the pin and operable to selectively slide the pin into journaled engagement with the hasp ears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Raymond G. Palzkill, Keith R. Feilmeier
  • Patent number: 6813918
    Abstract: A lock assembly having a first body portion configured to lock with a second body portion. The first body portion includes a first end having a first aperture and a second aperture aligned in perpendicularly intersection with the first aperture. The second aperture retains a pair of locking balls. The second body portion includes an aperture configured to receive the first end of the first body portion. The aperture of the second body portion also includes a circumferential groove configured to receive a portion of the pair of locking balls in a locked position of the first body portion with the second body portion. A keyway locking cylinder is configured to axially drive a beveled point of an extension into the first aperture of the first body portion and force the pair of locking balls in a radially outward direction into the locked position with the circumferential groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Life-Long Locks Inc.
    Inventor: Mark H. Reese
  • Publication number: 20040211231
    Abstract: A locking arrangement serving for locking a door hinged on a casing on e.g. a container by a combination or key lock. The locking arrangement comprises a rotatable closing rod for keeping the door closed by engaging the casing in a closed position; a fitting having a U-shaped part encompassing at least a length of the closing rod; two flushing locking holes made with one hole in each of the opposite walls of the U-shaped part; a transverse hole made in the closing rod and flushing with the locking holes in the closed position; and a bolt having a first section provided with a head, and a second section displaceably mounted in the lock between a locked inner position and an unlocked outer position; whereby the locking arrangement is locked when the bolt is extending through the transverse hole and the locking holes in locked inner position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Allan R. Larsen, Henning Kummerfeldt
  • Publication number: 20040211230
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler lock for locking a trailer hitch such that a trailer cannot be removed from a vehicle. The coupler lock comprises a lock body with a locking mechanism and a locking plate, and also comprises a shaft having a narrow and a flange end, and also having multiple recesses along the length of the shaft for engagement with the locking plate of the lock body. The recesses along the length of the shaft have a vertical edge which engages the locking plate such that the lock body cannot be removed from the shaft without unlocking the locking mechanism. The recesses also have a tapered edge that allows for slidable movement of the lock body along the shaft, without unlocking the locking mechanism, for the purpose of adjusting the lock to the size of the latch. The components of the coupler lock are made of stainless steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY
    Inventors: Jim Recknagel, Ken Burmesch, Victor Yip, John Zapushek
  • Patent number: 6796154
    Abstract: The trailer wheel locking device to prevent rotation of a set of wheels on a common axle has an elongated rod in which one end has a stop and a second end having an annular groove defined therein for receiving a locking mechanism. The length of the rod spans the width of the vehicle, thereby spanning the wheels on the common axle being locked. The device is installed by passing the rod through the openings of the wheels and includes two movable washers placed on the rod at opposite ends in order to prevent the device from passing through the wheel openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventors: Chad Gebow, Gerald D. Wagner
  • Patent number: 6786068
    Abstract: A locking device for trailer hitches of the pintle ring/hook type is disclosed to include a lower base portion with an upstanding locking eye insertable into the pintle ring. An upper lock portion containing a shank lock is mountable onto the lower base portion with the locking eye within a lock slot of the shank lock. The shank lock is then locked in position after having passed through the locking eye so as to securely lock the base and lock portions of the locking device within the pintle ring and with the locking bolt of the shank lock completely contained within the lock and not being exposed outside of the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: John G. Spooner
  • Patent number: 6766671
    Abstract: A high-security shackleless lock is provided. The lock includes a shackle pin adapted to move between a closed position extending across a lock body recess to engage a staple; and an open, staple-free position. A lock bar mounted entirely within the lock body can be move between a closed shackle pin engaging position to retain the shackle pin in its staple-engaging position, and an open shackle pin-free position wherein the shackle pin does not extend across the lock body and cannot engage a staple. A shackle pin spring urges the shackle into its open position, and a lock bar spring urges the lock bar into its closed position. The shackle pin has a distal end formed with a head element of extended dimensions. The lock body defines a recess adapted to closely confront the shackle pin head when the shackle pin is located in its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventors: Christopher Haczynski, Troy A. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20040139771
    Abstract: A method utilizes a locking device that includes a shackle member having a shank with a latch portion and a stop at opposite ends. A locking head mounts in a locked state on the latch portion but is removable when unlocked. A sleeve is carried on the shank but is removable. The sleeve and the shank together define a size conversion structure for the shackle. When the sleeve is on the shank, the shackle has one operative thickness to closely fit one size aperture, but when the sleeve is removed, the shackle has another, smaller operative thickness to fit a smaller aperture. A retaining member may be employed to resist removal of the sleeve. Two or more sleeves may be used to fit more than two apertures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • 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: 20040083777
    Abstract: A lock assembly adapted to engage a closure eye. A piston is slideably positioned in the housing for movement between a first piston position, in which the piston is substantially positioned inside the housing, and a second piston position, in which a portion of the piston extends from the housing. A bolt is moveable from a first bolt position into a second bolt position. When the bolt is substantially in the second bolt position and the piston is moved into the first piston position, the bolt moves into a third bolt position, in which the bolt is substantially within the housing. The bolt is adapted to be positioned within the closure eye at least while in the third bolt position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Patent number: 6726071
    Abstract: An information handling system lock and carrying strap provides a carrying mode to transport the portable computer and a security mode to secure the portable computer to a fixed object. A cable has attachment devices coupled to each end and operable to couple to a portable computer so that the cable acts as a carrying strap. The cable further secures the information handling system to a fixed device to prevent theft by attaching one cable end to the information handling system and the other end to a fixed object. In one embodiment, the attachment device include a secured unlocked position to allow convenient use as a carrying strap and a secured locked position to allow locking of the device with a key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Michael Baseflug, Reynold Li Liao, Sean P. O'Neal
  • Patent number: 6721810
    Abstract: A universal expansion module interfaces a logic controller to a plurality of types of input/output expansion modules that communicate input/output data between the controller and automated devices. A communication interface establishes communication between the controller and at least one of the plurality of types of an input/output expansion module. An expansion module having a physical configuration accommodates signals from the plurality of types of input/output expansion modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation
    Inventor: Michael Ross Massie
  • Publication number: 20040025546
    Abstract: A lock assembly having a first body portion configured to lock with a second body portion. The first body portion includes a first end having a first aperture and a second aperture aligned in perpendicularly intersection with the first aperture. The second aperture retains a pair of locking balls. The second body portion includes an aperture configured to receive the first end of the first body portion. The aperture of the second body portion also includes a circumferential groove configured to receive a portion of the pair of locking balls in a locked position of the first body portion with the second body portion. A keyway locking cylinder is configured to axially drive a beveled point of an extension into the first aperture of the first body portion and force the pair of locking balls in a radially outward direction into the locked position with the circumferential groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: LIFE-LONG LOCKS, INC.
    Inventor: Mark H. Reese
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040011092
    Abstract: A high-security shackleless lock is provided. The lock includes a shackle pin adapted to move between a closed position extending across a lock body recess to engage a staple; and an open, staple-free position. A lock bar mounted entirely within the lock body can be move between a closed shackle pin engaging position to retain the shackle pin in its staple-engaging position, and an open shackle pin-free position wherein the shackle pin does not extend across the lock body and cannot engage a staple. A shackle pin spring urges the shackle into its open position, and a lock bar spring urges the lock bar into its closed position. The shackle pin has a distal end formed with a head element of extended dimensions. The lock body defines a recess adapted to closely confront the shackle pin head when the shackle pin is located in its closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher Haczynski, Troy A. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6672115
    Abstract: A locking device includes a shackle member having a shank and a latch portion at one end and a stop at the other end. A locking head mounts in a locked state on the latch portion but is removable when unlocked. A sleeve is carried on the shank but is removable. The sleeve and the shank together define a size conversion structure for the shackle. When the sleeve is on the shank, the shackle has one operative thickness to closely fit one size aperture, but when the sleeve is removed, the shackle has another, smaller operative thickness to fit a smaller aperture. A retaining member may be employed to resist removal of the sleeve. Two or more sleeves may be used to fit more than two apertures. These can be separately mountable onto the shank or may be nested on the shank, one inside of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Patent number: 6668608
    Abstract: A dual-sided key ring holder that allows a key ring to be released from one end. The device uses a real or equivalent shell casing, and a real or equivalent shaped bullet member that fits in the mouth of the shell casing. The bullet member includes a hole in the nose for fastening a key ring thereto. A spring-loaded piston which is disposed inside the shell casing, normally acts on the bullet member to retain the bullet member in the casing. The piston includes a rigid tab which projects from the head of the shell casing and may be manually pulled to release the bullet member with a key ring from the casing. Provision is also made for fastening a key ring to the tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Jay S Derman
  • Patent number: 6662484
    Abstract: A locking device to be secured in a weapon, comprising a first locking means manoeuvrable by a lock cylinder (56), which locking means has a friction body (10) displaceably arranged in relation to the lock body (3-5) and insertable into the chamber or barrel of the weapon, and blocking elements (23) arranged to be moved into engagement with the inside wall of the chamber/barrel in case of mutual displacement between the friction body (10) and the lock body (3-5). The locking device furthermore comprising a second locking means (73), which by means of the lock cylinder (56) is movable into engagement with a space in the weapon located adjacent to the chamber/barrel in order to secure the locking device in the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventors: Reidar Andrée, Mikael Helgesson, Christer Eriksson
  • Publication number: 20030192354
    Abstract: A means for preventing rotation of a barrel lock when opened by a key 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 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: May 19, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventors: Norman B. DeWalch, Donald m. DeWalch
  • Patent number: 6622538
    Abstract: A lock core rotatable in a housing is formed with an axially extending key passage, transverse guide slots, and an axially inwardly open bore. A bolt displaceable in the bore between a locked position and a unlocked position has radially open grooves aligned with the slots in the locked position. The inner bolt end can directly engage in an inwardly open seat formed in the housing or with a ball engageable in such a seat to lock the core in the housing. Tumbler plates in the slots are formed with control edges and holes alignable with the bore in a freeing position. The plates are displaceable into blocking positions with the holes offset at least partially from the bore and engaging in the respective grooves. A key has a plurality of respective bit notches engageable with the control edges on engagement of the key in the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Evva-Werk Spezialerzeugung von Zylinder-und Sicherheitsschlossern Gesellschaft m.b.H. & Co. KG
    Inventors: Kurt Prunbauer, Reinhard Amon
  • Patent number: 6622979
    Abstract: A locking hook assembly is provided for securely displaying merchandise on a vertical support. The locking hook assembly generally comprises a mounting bracket structured for connection to the vertical support. A hook of generally circular cross-section has an inner end fixed to the mounting bracket and projects outwardly therefrom to an outer end. The hook's outer end has a reduced diameter portion of generally semi-circular cross-section, and the reduced diameter portion includes a notch. To prevent removal of merchandise at the outer end, a lock has a semi-circular opening shaped to receive the reduced diameter portion and selectively engage the notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Southern Imperial, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley C. Valiulis
  • Patent number: 6619078
    Abstract: A barrel lock for locking two structures together that includes two lock portions, each portion being generally cylindrical and elongated, one of which is substantially solid and one of which is substantially hollow. The first lock portion has one section of a substantially greater diameter than a second section, the two sections being separated by a beveled annular shoulder. The smaller diameter section is provided with a cylindrical axial aperture into which are disposed a plurality of spheres adapted to be received in apertures in the first portion of the lock, and also adapted for engagement in an annular groove on the interior surface of the second portion of the lock, the locking balls thereby effectively locking the two portions of the lock together. The second portion is axially aligned with the first portion and is provided with a keyway adapted for movement in a rotatable and axially slideable fashion within said second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Life-Long Locks, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark H. Reese
  • Patent number: 6595031
    Abstract: A retaining device is fitted into the end of the handlebar of a personal vehicle such as a bicycle or motorcycle. The device has a shackle, a cable, or a spring loaded lever which extends out of the distal end of the handlebar whereby it can be used to retain such items as a motorcycle helmet or a flotation vest. The retaining device may include a lock. A cable can be used, and a cap fitted over the retaining device attached to the distal end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventors: Larry Stephen Wilson, Edward John Hosch, III
  • Patent number: 6588239
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multipurpose device designed to prevent thefts of trailers, heavy tows and so called dollies, i.e., having coupling elements with a pull rod and a turn table, designed to haul a trailer by means of a truck, all of which being provided with coupling devices, designed to connect the trailers to a traction vehicle. The locking device comprises a box-shaped lock house (1) in which the coupling device on the tow, the trailer and the dolly is designed to be positioned and locked by means of a locking shaft (4), which is inserted through the lock house (1) and can be located in the lock house (1) in various positions, depending on the character of the coupling device to be locked, and consequently said coupling device is enclosed in the lock house (1), and the tow, the trailer or the dolly is prevented from being connected to any unauthorized traction trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Stacker Stop Euro AB
    Inventor: Lars Johansson
  • Patent number: 6574999
    Abstract: A padlock includes a U-shaped lock casing having intercommunicated core receiving space and latch recess, aligned first and second shackle insert holes, and a slide channel communicating the second shackle insert hole with the latch recess. A lock core unit is received in the core receiving space, and includes a latch member extending into the latch recess and rotatable inside the latch recess between locking and unlocking positions. The latch member has an end face formed with a pin hole eccentric to an axis of the lock core unit. A shackle bar extends into the first and second shackle insert holes. A catch member is disposed slidably in the latch recess, and is formed with a pin extending rotatably into the pin hole in the latch member for engaging the latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Patent number: 6575000
    Abstract: An improved lock for a trailer enables a latch bolt to be inserted conveniently, and allows locking and unlocking operations be done easily. The lock mainly consists of a latch bar and a lock member. The lock member includes a latch sleeve, a lock ring, a connection shaft and a lock core. The lock may be easily locked or unlocked by turning a key for 90°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Vulcan Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Show-Mon Li
  • Patent number: 6553793
    Abstract: A motorcycle disc brake lock includes a lock body, a rotary base, a deadbolt, a locking card, a coil spring, a lock column and a twist spring. In using, a key is applied to turn around the rotary member of the lock column to actuate the rotary base rotate. The engage members of the locking card are guided and actuated to move up and get into the engage recesses of the rotary base by the sloped surfaces of the two prop projections in the chamber of the lock body. Thus, the deadbolt is moved upward, forming an unlocked condition. For locking, only insert the disc brake of a motorcycle into the deep opening of the lock body to slightly push up the deadbolt and force the locking card to move into the slide slots of the rotary base. Thus, the deadbolt is pushed down to have its bottom end inserted in a lock hole to lock the disc brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Tian-Yuan Chen