AU2004214574B2 - A security device - Google Patents

Description

AUSTRALIA Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Applicant(s): ARNO LUCIANO HLUPAR ROBERT PARKHILL Invention Title: A SECURITY DEVICE The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us: -2 A SECURITY DEVICE The present invention relates generally to anti-theft devices. In particular, some forms of the anti-theft s device of the present invention are useful in deterring or preventing unauthorized use of an item. More particularly, some forms of the device of the present invention deter or prevent unauthorized use of an item and or theft of an item by concealing the item or at least a part of the item 10 and/or preventing and/or hindering access to the item or to a part of the item. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to a security device for a conduit, particularly a conduit provided on or within a motor vehicle, and more particularly the end of a conduit is so as to cap or cover the end of the conduit to prevent or deny access to the end of the conduit. The present invention finds particular application as a security device in the form of a dual locking arrangement having an inner lock member that is lockably connectable to the item 20 and an outer lock member that is lockably connectable to the first lock member arranged so that the inner lock member is received within the outer lock member so as to prevent access to the first lock member in turn prevents access to or conceals the item or at least denies access 25 to the item. The present invention finds particular application as a portable security device for denying access to the nozzle or outlet or inlet of an air line of the braking system of a trailer of an articulated vehicle for preventing or deterring unauthorized movement and/or 30 use of the trailer such as theft or the like thereby reducing the chance that the trailer will be stolen or the like. Thus, in one embodiment the present invention is a dual locking cap or cover for the air line of a trailer that prevents the end of the air line from being connected 35 to a prime mover, tractor, or the like. Although the present invention will be described with 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 -3 particular reference to a dual lock arrangement of a security device for deterring or preventing unauthorized use of a motor vehicle trailer by securing the end and/or entry to the air line of the braking system of the trailer s it is to be noted that the scope of the present invention is not restricted to the described embodiment but rather the scope of the present invention is more extensive so as to include other forms and arrangements of the security device and to other uses of the various different forms of 10 the security device. Commercial motor vehicles such as articulated vehicles, articulated lorries, pantechnicons, semi-trailers or the like usually consist of a prime mover or tractor that 15 provides motive power for the vehicle, rig or the like and a trailer which is towable by the prime mover, tractor etc. In many situations the fully laden trailer, often with valuable or expensive cargo, is parked overnight at a depot, factory, truck stop or other facility where it is 20 vulnerable to theft, particularly the theft of the trailer and contents of the trailer by connecting the trailer to another prime mover or similar and driving away with the trailer attached, resulting in loss of the contents of the trailer. Thus, there is a need to provide a security 25 device which prevents or reduces the chance of a motor vehicle trailer being stolen, particularly being stolen by connecting the trailer to another prime mover and driving the combination away. 30 Trailers attached to prime movers are provided with an air line to operate the air brakes of the trailer in tandem with the brakes of the prime mover to provide auxiliary braking of the motor vehicle, particularly when the trailer is laden with goods. The prime mover is connected 35 to the trailer through a quick release fastening or coupling so that air can be supplied from a suitable reservoir located on the prime mover to the trailer to 21053791 (GHMatters) 14112/09 -4 operate the air brakes. When a trailer is parked preparatory to separating the prime mover from the trailer, the air line coupling joining the air line of the prime mover to the air line of the trailer is unfastened 5 or decoupled to separate the two air lines so that the prime mover can be separated from the trailer. When this happens the air brakes are immediately and automatically applied owing to the lack of air pressure or air in the brake systems so that the trailer is prevented from 10 undergoing unwanted movement since the brakes default to a braking condition in the absence of air pressure. As the entry nozzle of the air line is exposed when the supply line of the prime mover is decoupled from it, it is a simple matter for the air line of a replacement prime 15 mover to be coupled to the air nozzle of the trailer thus releasing the brakes allowing the trailer to be driven away since the air line is now connected to the prime mover to supply air to the trailer which results in the brakes moving to their normal operating release condition 20 allowing movement of the trailer. This is clearly not desirable since the trailer is readily exposed to theft. However, if the nozzle is disabled or otherwise prevented from being coupled to the prime mover, such as by example capping the end of the air line or similar, movement and 25 thus theft of the trailer would be more difficult. Thus, there is a need to disable the trailer in some way so as to be able to prevent unauthorized movement of the trailer, such as by unauthorized attachment of the air line nozzle of the trailer to a prime mover or similar in 30 order to reduce, eliminate or prevent the chance of theft. Surprisingly, the present inventors have been able to provide such a device which fits over the air line nozzle and of the air line of the trailer making access to or 35 manipulation of the nozzle difficult, if not impossible or sufficiently difficult to deter theft or unauthorized use of the trailer. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 5 Accordingly, it is an aim of the present invention to provide a security device that can be attached to the entry nozzle or end of the air line of the braking system 5 of a motor vehicle trailer so as to prevent unauthorized coupling of the trailer to another air line, such as the air line of a prime mover in order to reduce, eliminate or hinder or prevent unwanted movement of the trailer in order to deter or prevent theft of the trailer. 10 A further problem associated with deterring or preventing theft of a motor vehicle trailer relates to providing an arrangement which prevents or reduces the chance that the air line, particularly the nozzle of the air line, from 15 being interfered or tampered with or otherwise manipulated by removing the nozzle entirely from the air line or to otherwise modify the air line or its end so as to gain access to the air line. Therefore, another aim of the present invention is to provide a security device which 20 protects the nozzle of an air line of the braking systems of a motor vehicle against manipulation, interference, tampering, modification or the like by concealing the nozzle or denying access to the nozzle using the security device or a part of the security device. 25 According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a security device capable of deterring and/or preventing unauthorized use of an item comprising a first lock member having a first engaging element for engaging 30 at least a part of the item, said first lock member being operable to adopt a locked condition in which the item is securely retained by the first engaging element, and a second lock member having a second engaging element for engaging a least a part of the first lock member and/or 35 the item, said second lock member being operable to adopt a locked condition in which the first lock member is securely retained to or by the second engaging element 21053791 (GHMatters) 14112/09 - 6 wherein the first engaging element is provided with at least a first part of a void having two or more segments of different sizes in communication with each other for receiving part of the item, such that when the part of the 5 item is securely retained by the first engaging element of the first lock member and the first lock member and the second lock member are in the locked condition, access to the item within the first engaging element is hindered or prevented thereby securing the item against unauthorized 10 use, manipulation or interference. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of hindering and/or preventing unauthorized use of an item comprising the steps of 15 locating the item or at least a part of the item with respect to a first engaging element of a first lock member, said first engaging element being provided with at least a part of a void having two or more segments of different sizes in communication with each other for 20 receiving part of the item, operating the first lock member to a locked condition in which the item is securely retained within or by the first engaging element , locating a second lock member with respect to the first lock member in which the second lock member has a second 25 engaging element so that when the second lock member is in a locked condition the first locked member is securely retained to or by the second engaging element of the second lock member to prevent or hinder access to the item or at least to the part of the item received in the void 30 of the first engaging element so as to reduce or prevent the chances of manipulation, interference or tampering or use of the item thereby reducing or preventing unauthorized use of the item. 35 Typically, the security device of the present invention is a lock, locking device, anti-theft device or other device preventing unauthorized use. More typically the lock is a 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 dual lock arrangement having a first lock assembly and a second lock assembly. Even more typically the dual lock is arranged so that one lock assembly cooperatively engages with the other lock assembly, typically at least a 5 part of the one lock assembly is received within the other lock assembly, preferably the first lock assembly which includes a first lock member is an inner lock member and the second lock assembly which includes a second lock member is an outer lock member, more preferably, the inner 10 lock member is received at least partially within the outer lock member, more preferably, the inner lock member is received substantially entirely within the outer lock member so as to conceal or cover the inner lock member to prevent access to the inner lock member. 15 Typically the item is a fitting, preferably a fitting of a conduit or similar. More typically a fitting for an air line, preferably the air line of an air brake system. Even more typically, the fitting of the brake systems is a 20 nozzle of the air line of the braking system of a vehicle. Even more typically the nozzle is attached to a vehicle, preferably the brakes of the vehicle. Even more typically the vehicle is a trailer, particularly an articulated trailer connectable to a prime mover, tractor, or the 25 like. Typically, the nozzle is provided with a means for engaging with the engaging means of the first lock member. More typically, the end portion of the nozzle is releasably securable. Even more typically, the end of the nozzle is a quick release coupling. 30 Typically the first lock member is a lock body. More typically the lock body is substantially solid. Even more typically the lock body is substantially cylindrical. Even more typically, the lock body is provided with a 35 flattened segment in the outer wall. Typically, the first lock member is provided with an 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 -8 insert located within the body of the first lock member for cooperatively engaging with the end of the nozzle to retain the first lock member on the nozzle. More typically, the insert is provided with a clamping 5 arrangement for clamping to the nozzle when in the locked condition. Typically the first engaging means or element includes an aperture, bore opening, well or similar located within the 10 body. More typically the first engaging means or element is a counter bore having different segments of different sizes, diameters, lengths or the like. More typically, the bore is substantially cylindrical. Even more typically the bore is a multi faceted counter bore, wall 15 or similar having a number of sections or segments of different diameters and/or lengths. Typically, the bore extends axially, preferably off centre axially, through a substantial part of the length of the first lock body. 20 Typically, the first lock member is provided with a second bore, opening, aperture, well or the like. More typically, the second bore extends transversely of or radially from the side wall of the body. Even more typically a retaining means or locking element is located 25 in the transverse bore. Typically the first engaging means or element includes a locking element, preferably a moveable locking element which is moveable between a locked position and a release 30 position. Typically the locking element is a barrel lock having a pin, preferably the pin is extendable and/or retractable and/or rotatable between at least two different positions so that in an extended condition it contacts the item, preferably to securely retain the item, 35 particularly when in the counter bore and in a retracted position that allows separation of the first lock member and the item. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 -9 Typically, the lock, such as the barrel lock may be located transversely or may be located axially. If the lock is located axially, the lock member is provided with 5 a single cavity or chamber only. Typically the first lock member is provided with a retaining means. More typically the retaining means is provided in or arranged in the wall of the cylindrical 10 body. Even more typically the retaining means is a receiving means, typically in the form of an elongate slot, groove, rebate, cut-out or similar. Even more typically the retaining means extends axially in the side wall of the body. Even more typically the elongate slot is is provided with a plurality of spaced apart apertures, notches, bores or the like. More typically, the spaced apart notches extend perpendicularly to the lengthwise direction of the slot, preferably radially inwardly. 20 Typically the second lock member is a substantially hollow body. Typically the hollow body is cylindrical. Even more typically the hollow body is provided with a bore. Typically, the bore is centrally located. Typically, the bore extends lengthwise along the axis of the body. Even 25 more typically, the body is a cup or is cup-like. More typically, the solid body of the inner lock member is received in the hollow or cavity of the cup of the second lock member. Typically, the second lock member is provided with at least two cut-outs, preferably located on 30 opposite sides at or towards one end. More typically, the second lock member is provided with a second engaging means or element. More typically the second engaging means is a bore or locking element. Even more typically, the locking element engages with an extension or 35 projection of the first locking member so that when in the locked condition the first lock member is securely retained in the second lock member by the locking element 21053791 (GHMalters) 14112/09 - 10 cooperatively engaging with a projection or extension of the first lock member. Typically, the second engaging means includes an engaging s element. More typically, the engaging element is capable of moving between at least two positions and/or conditions. Even more typically, the engaging element is movable axially or rotatably. Even more typically the engaging element is a pin, either a straight pin, curved 10 pin, bent pin or L-shaped pin or the like including other shapes. In particular the engaging element is a generally L-shaped member or element that is rotatable between a release position and a locked condition. 15 The present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 is a one end elevation view of one form of the first lock member showing the off centre axial bore of 20 different diameters. Figure 2 is the other end view of the lock member of figure 1 showing the centrally located axially extending boss. 25 Figure 3 is a cross section view of the embodiment shown in figures 1 and 2. Figure 4 is a one end view of one form of the second lock 30 member of the present invention showing the cylindrical cavity. Figure 5 is a cross sectional view of the second lock member of figure 4. 35 Figure 6 is a cross sectional view of the first lock member being received within the second lock member 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 11 showing the second lock member in a locked condition for securely retaining the first lock member. Figure 7 is a side view of one form of the nozzle of the 5 air line of the brake system of a trailer which is protected by the security device of the present invention. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of another form of the inner or first lock member in accordance with the present 10 invention. Figure 9 is a side elevation view from one side of the inner or first lock member showing six spaced apart notches for receiving an extendable/retractable pin. 15 Figure 10 is a partial end view partial sectional view showing one of the six notches and part of the elongate groove. 20 Figure 11 is an end view of one form of the outer or second lock member showing the semi-circular art out and arcuate rebate in the wall of the lock member. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the outer second 25 lock member of figure 11. Figure 13 is a cross sectional view of one form of the device of the present invention showing the inner lock member of figures 8 to 10 received in the outer lock 30 member of figures 11 and 12 when in a locked condition. Figure 14 is a view similar to figure 13 when the security device is in an unlocked condition. 35 Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a further form of the first lock member. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 12 Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of a further form of the second lock member. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the security device 5 of the present invention in situ in which the first lock member is secured to the nozzle and preparatory to placing the second lock member over the first lock member. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view showing the security 10 device in use with the second lock member placed over the first lock member. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 showing the security device in a locked 15 condition with the item secured to the first locking member and the first locking member secured to the second locking member. Figure 20 is a perspective view of the embodiment of 20 Figures 8 to 14 in a fully locked position. In figures 1 to 6 there is shown one embodiment of the security device of the present invention. This embodiment comprises two main components which are inner lock body 4 25 and outer lock body 40. The nozzle of the air brake line is received with inner lock 4. This form of the device is adapted to disable the nozzle of an air brake line of a vehicle by denying access to the nozzle or at least making it difficult to gain access to the nozzle. 30 The inner lock body 4 or first lock member is a substantially cylindrical block having an outer end 6, side wall 8 and an inner end 10. A generally cylindrical axially extending bore 12 is formed off centre from the 35 central axis of block 4 as shown in figures 1, 2 and 3. The bore 12 is not a simple bore but rather is of a complex shape. Bore 12 is a double counter-bored 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 13 arrangement including three portions each being of a different diameter. The first portion or outer portion 14 located relatively near to the open end in rear surface 6 and is of a relatively large diameter when compared to the 5 diameter of the other bores and extends to only a small length whereas the second or central portion or intermediate portion is of a lesser diameter than the diameter of the outer end portion but is of a greater length so as to extend more axially inwardly within block 10 4. The third or inner or proximal portion 18 of bore 12 is of a further relatively smaller diameter from the diameter of bore 16 and extends to a smaller length within block 4. It is to be noted that bore portions 14, 16 and 18 are located coaxially with respect to each other. 15 Bore 18 is for receiving the free or distal end of a air nozzle such as the air nozzle shown in figure 7. One form of air nozzle 100 is shown in figure 7. This form has a relatively smaller diameter tip 102 located at the extreme 20 distal end, a curved or reduced diameter collar, groove or rebate or ring 104 located close to or around adjacent tip 102. Further, a circumferential and curved groove 106 is located adjacent curved wall collar 104, and a relatively larger diameter post or boss 108 extending from hexagonal 25 nut 110 adjacent threaded portion 112 provided at or towards the other end of the item. In use nozzle 100 is threadingly engaged with the end of the air line of the brake system of a framework member of a trailer so as to terminate the air line. Typically, nozzle 100 is 30 threadingly received in a suitable bore or aperture on a framework member of the trailer or other substrate that allows the nozzle to be fixed firmly in place. A complementary shaped quick release coupling from the air line of the prime mover cooperatively engages with the 35 nozzle 100 to supply air to the trailer's brakes. In use of the device of the present invention nozzle 100 is received in bore 12 when security device 2 is fitted to 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 - 14 the trailer so that tip 102 is received in bore portion 18, collar 104 and groove 106 in bore portion 16 and hexagonal nut 108 in bore portion 14 so that when the security device is locked the nozzle is securely retained 5 in place and access thereto denied as will be described in more detail later. A substantially transversely extending cylindrical cavity or bore 20 is provided in the side of block 4 at one io circumferential location around the edge of block 4. This cavity extends radially within block 4. Cavity 20 extends substantially perpendicular to the axis of bore 12. Cavity 20 is for receiving a suitable locking mechanism such as for example a barrel lock 80, having an extending 15 retractable pin 82 or similar as will be described in more detail later. A further elongate slot 22 is provided within outer end 6 of block 4 extending axially into the interior of the 20 block 4 to cavity 20 for receiving a grub screw or similar for securely fastening the body of barrel lock 80 within cavity 20 to allow operation of lock 80. A projection or extension in the form of a post or boss 24 25 is provided centrally in or at the inner end 10 of block 4 so as to extend axially outwardly from the surface of inner end 10. Boss 24 takes a generally cylindrical form having a many faceted profile. In one embodiment boss 24 includes a base portion 26, a reduced diameter neck 30 portion 28 and an enlarged head portion 30 having a diameter greater than the diameter of neck portion 28. It is to be noted that the diameters of base portion 26 and head portion 30 are about the same as each other so that the neck portion 28 formed between them is a reduced 35 diameter groove or the like extending circumferentially around boss 24 towards the distal end. In use, an extendible pin which extends substantially perpendicularly 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 15 to projection 24, cooperatively engages with neck 28 to restrain movement of block 4 axially as will be described in more detail later in this specification. A pair of locating channels 32 are optionally provided along 5 diagonally opposed lengthwise extending parts of the side wall 8 of block 4 as shown in Figure 2. With particular reference to figures 4 and 5 one form of the outer lock portion or second lock member within which 10 is received block 4 to form the security device will now be described. This form of the outer lock portion 40 is substantially hollow and cylindrical having a side wall 42 defining a cup like chamber or cavity 44 within which is received in use inner locking member 4 as will be 15 described in more detail later. An axially extending bore 46 of reduced diameter as compared to the diameter of cavity 44 is centrally located at the inner end of chamber 44. Bore 46 is for receiving boss 24 therein in use. Bore 46 and cavity 44 are coaxial with each other. 20 A transversely extending bore or cavity 48, typically being perpendicular to cavity 44 or bore 46 is provided in the side wall 42 of outer lock member 40 to extend radially inwards for receiving a suitable locking 25 mechanism in the form of a barrel lock 84 having an extendible/retractable pin 86 as shown in figure 6. An axially extending elongate slot or similar 49 is provided between the inner end wall of bore 44 and the side wall of cavity 48 for receiving a grub screw (not shown) or 30 similar to retain lock 84 in place within cavity 48. In operation of this form of the device 2 of the present invention inner lock block 4 is moved to the release position by operation of the barrel lock 80 in cavity 20 35 so as to retract pin 82 from bore 16. The air nozzle 100 located at the end of air line of the brake system of a trailer, can then be located inside bore 12 as described 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 - 16 previously since there is clearance between the distal end of pin 82 and nozzle 100 when slidingly being received in bore 12. As the shape of bore 12 is closely conformed to the shape of the nozzle 100 the various parts of nozzle 5 100 are snuggly received in the respective bores. Such that tip 102 of nozzle 100 is received in bore part 18, post 108 is received in bore part 16 and hexagonal head is received in bore part 14 so that almost all of the 10 non threaded portion of nozzle 100 is received fully in bore 12. The barrel lock 80 is operated to extend pin 82 into bore 12 which results in the distal end of pin 82 being 15 received in the circumferential curved groove 106 of the air nozzle 100 where collar or ring 104 prevents axial movement of nozzle 100 from bore 12 thereby preventing withdrawal of block 4 from nozzle 100 or otherwise preventing relative movement of block 4 and nozzle 100. 20 The second lock member 40 is moved to the release position in which pin 86 is retracted into cavity 48 so that lock member 40 can be fitted over the first lock block 4 so that boss 24 of block 4 is received within cavity 46 of 25 block 40 as shown in figure 6. When in this position, barrel lock 84 is operated so as to extend pin 86 into cavity 46 so that the distal end of pin 86 is received in the neck portion 28 of boss 24 as shown in figure 6 to prevent relative movement of block 4 and cup 40. When in 30 this position block 4 and cup 40 can not be removed or separated from each other since axial respective movement of one to the other is prevented and thus security device 2 is securely retained in place over nozzle 100 which in turn is secured to frame work member 88 of the trailer so 35 that security device 2 prevents access to nozzle 100 denying unauthorized use of the trailer by preventing connection of an air line to nozzle 100. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 17 Also in this position side wall 42 of cup 40 covers lock 80 in cavity 20 thereby preventing access to lock 80. Also, as the hexagonal head or nut 110 associated with the s air nozzle 100 is received within bore 14 of lock body 4 it is not possible to manipulate nozzle 100 with the security device 2 in place since the nozzle is located wholly within lock body 4. In this manner it is not possible to connect a coupling to the end of air nozzle 10 100 so as to release the air brakes of the trailer to move the trailer. Also, owing to the construction of security device 2, outer lock member 40 merely rotates about projection 28 when forced or pressure applied to the outside of device 2. Similarly, block 4 can freely rotate is with respect to nozzle 100 thereby preventing device 2 from being forced open or similar. Another embodiment of the security device of the present invention is illustrated in figures 8 to 15. In this form 20 of the device 2 of the present invention the inner or first lock member 50 is provided with a blind axial bore 52 located off centre towards one edge of the cylindrical block 50 extending from outer end 53 internally into the interior of the body of this lock member. A transversely 25 extending cavity 54 is provided in the side wall 55 of block 50 to extend radially inwards into the body of this lock member substantially perpendicularly to blind bore 52. A barrel lock similar to barrel locks 80, 84 is located in cavity 54 with the extending/retractable pin of 30 this lock extending outwardly from the barrel lock 80 to engage the circumferential groove 106 of nozzle 100 located in axially bore 52 in a similar manner to engagement within block 4. The modification of this form of the inner lock 50 is the provision of an elongate slot 35 56 extending axially along the side wall 55 of block 50. A plurality of circular notches 58 or similar bores, rebates or the like are formed along the inboard edge of 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 18 the elongate slot 56 as shown more particularly in figure 9. Also in this embodiment of the security device, the outer 5 or second lock member 60 is shown in figures 11 and 12 and includes a cylindrical body 60 which is open at either end 61,62 defining an open bore 59. A semi circular cut out 63 is provided in the side wall 64 of the cylindrical body 60 at or towards one end, which is in end 62. A lo transversely extending cavity 65 defined by boss 67 is located in the side wall 14 of the cylindrical block 60 to extend radially inwardly substantially perpendicularly to open bore 59. This cavity 65 is for receiving a barrel lock 84 having a retractable/extendible pin 86. End 62 of 15 block cylinder 60 is provided with a generally arcuate cut out 66 in and along the inner wall of the side 64 of the cylinder. In use of this form of the security device nozzle 100 is received in cavity 52 of body 50 in the same manner as nozzle 100 is received in bore 12 of block 24 as 20 described previously so that when the barrel lock 80 in cavity 54 is operated to extend the retractable/extendable pin 82 the distal end of this pin 82 engages with groove 106 to retain nozzle 100 within block 50 as shown in figures 13 and 14. 25 When in this condition lock 84 in cavity 85 is operated to extend pin 86 so that the distal end of pin 86 is received in one of the six transversely radially extending notches or apertures 58 located at the base of slot 56 in and 30 along the side wall of body 50. In this condition lock 50 is securely retained in lock member 60 since the inner block 50 is prevented from moving with respect to the outer block 60 by preventing axial movement therebetween. In this embodiment body 50 and member 60 are retained 35 together since pin 84 is always located in slot 56 allowing body 50 and member 60 to slidingly move with respect to each other. When pin 84 is in notch 58 body 50 2105379_1 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 19 and member 60 are prevented from sliding with respect to each other as shown in figure 13. This embodiment provides greater flexibility of mounting the lock body 60 with respect to lock body 50 since there is greater 5 adjustability to take into account different sizes or lengths of body member 50 which in turn can accommodate different sizes or lengths of nozzle 100. Another embodiment of the security device 2 is shown in 10 Figures 15 to 18. In this embodiment inner lock member 200 is provided with a circumferential groove 202 located around the outer surface of one end of body 200 being the end away from the 15 end that receives nozzle 100 therethrough. Groove 202 is located at or towards the distal end of inner lock member 200 in use. Inner lock member 200 is secured to nozzle 100 in a manner similar to that of the previously described embodiments in that the nozzle is received with 20 bore 204 of lock member 200 and is held captive by a moveable pin or similar locking arrangement. In this embodiment bore 204 of body 200 is adapted to receive a locking arrangement or locking insert 206 within bore 204, such as for example a barrel lock with a clamping 25 arrangement being located axially within the bore with the keyway or keyslot being accessible through the open end of body 200. In this embodiment, the insert 206 is provided with a pair of clamping elements 208 which clamp around the nozzle 100, particularly groove 106, to grip onto the 30 nozzle thereby preventing access to nozzle 100. In this same embodiment, outer lock member 90 is provided with a first blind bore 92 extending from one open end of the body internally into the interior of the body. A 35 cavity or chamber 94 is provided at or towards the other end of lock member 90. A lock (not shown) is provided in cavity 94 for operating a generally L-shaped pin 96 which 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 - 20 is radially movable between a locking position that is relatively radially inwards and a release position that is relatively radially outwards as shown in Figures 17 and 18. In some forms of this embodiment pin 96 is rotatable 5 between the release position and the locked position in response to movement of a key in the barrel lock located in cavity 96. In this embodiment a guard or shroud 98 is fixedly 10 provided on the framework of the trailer around security device 2 further hindering access to the security device 2 and nozzle 100. In one form the guard is generally of a cup shape in which part of the wall is provided with an inclined extension 99 to further prevent ready access to is the security device 2 when installed on nozzle 100 or to prevent the nozzle 100 from being removed from the framework of the trailer. In operation of this device, when inner lock 200 is 20 secured to nozzle 100 as shown in Figure 17 by the clamping elements 208 engaging nozzle 100, outer lock 90 with L-shaped pin 96 in the release position as shown in Figure 17 is fitted over inner lock 200 until in the fully home position. The lock of outer lock 90, such as for 25 example a barrel lock, is then operated to move the L shaped pin into the locking position as shown in Figure 18 such as for example by being rotated to engage groove 82 of inner lock 200. 30 When in the locking position, the distal end of the L shaped pin 96 is received within the circumferential groove 202 so as to securely retain the outer lock member 90 on inner lock 200. This prevents access to nozzle 100. 35 Advantages of the present invention include that the trailer cannot be coupled to a prime mover until the security device is removed. The use of force to remove 21053791 (GHMatters) 14112/09 - 21 the security device will result in damage to the air nozzle thereby rendering the nozzle useless for coupling to the prime mover. Further, in this condition the brakes of the trailer will be applied so the trailer can not be 5 towed without connecting to the air line. A further advantage is that a damaged trailer or a trailer in need of repair can have a security device attached to the air inlet nozzle so as to prevent the trailer from 10 being inadvertently used before the damage can be remedied or the repairs effected. Additionally, the security device can be used to ensure the correct trailer is hitched to the correct prime mover 15 by having each security device with its own set of unique keys so that a driver having the correct key cannot inadvertently remove the security device from the wrong trailer and drive off with it since his key will only operate the correct security device. Thus, the security 20 device as well as having a safety aspect will also have a stock central aspect. It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute 25 an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. It will be understood to persons skilled in the art of the 30 invention that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context 35 requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, 21053791 (GHMatters) 14112/09 - 22 i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09

Claims (32)

1. A security device capable of deterring and/or preventing unauthorized use of an item comprising a 5 first lock member having a first engaging element for engaging at least a part of the item, said first lock member being operable to adopt a locked condition in which the item is securely retained by the first engaging element, and a second lock member having a 10 second engaging element for engaging a least a part of the first lock member and/or the item, said second lock member being operable to adopt a locked condition in which the first lock member is securely retained to or by the second engaging element wherein 15 the first engaging element is provided with at least a first part of a void having two or more segments of different sizes in communication with each other for receiving part of the item, such that when the part of the item is securely retained by the first 20 engaging element of the first lock member and the first lock member and the second lock member are in the locked condition, access to the item within the first engaging element is hindered or prevented thereby securing the item against unauthorized use, 25 manipulation or interference.

2. A method of hindering and/or preventing unauthorized use of an item comprising the steps of locating the item or at least a part of the item with respect to a 30 first engaging element of a first lock member , said first engaging element being provided with at least a part of a void having two or more segments of different sizes in communication with each other for receiving part of the item, operating the first lock 35 member to a locked condition in which the item is securely retained within or by the first engaging element , locating a second lock member with respect 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 24 to the first lock member in which the second lock member has a second engaging element so that when the second lock member is in a locked condition the first locked member is securely retained to or by the s second engaging element of the second lock member to prevent or hinder access to the item or at least to the part of the item received in the void of the first engaging element so as to reduce or prevent the chances of manipulation, interference or tampering or 10 use of the item thereby reducing or preventing unauthorized use of the item.

3. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the security device is a 15 lock, a locking device, an anti-theft device or other device preventing unauthorized use of the item by preventing access to the item.

4. A security device or method according to any 20 preceding claim in which the security device is a dual lock arrangement having a first lock assembly and a second lock assembly cooperatively engageable with each other to prevent unlocking of the first lock assembly in which the first lock assembly 25 includes the first locking member and the first engaging element and the second lock assembly includes the second locking member and the second engaging element. 30

5. A security device or method according to claim 4 in which the dual lock arrangement is arranged so that the second lock assembly cooperatively engages with the first lock assembly to prevent access to the first lock assembly or the item whereby the first 35 lock assembly cooperates with or is received at least partially within the second lock assembly and the item is received at least partially within the void 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 25 of the first engaging element of the first lock assembly to prevent removal or withdrawal of the item from the first engaging element or the item is received in the void of the first and second engaging s element.

6. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the first lock member is an inner lock member or has an inner lock part and the 10 second lock member is an outer lock member or has an outer lock part in which the inner lock member is received at least partially within the second lock member to prevent unlocking of the inner lock member or the inner lock part cooperates with the outer lock 15 part.

7. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the item is a fitting wherein the fitting is received in one or more of the 20 voids of the first engaging element so that the fitting is securely retained in the voids when the first lock member is in the locked condition.

8. A security device or method according to claim 7 in 25 which the fitting is a conduit or end of a conduit or is a conduit having a coupling located at one end of the conduit wherein the coupling or end is provided with parts having different sizes in which a relatively smaller sized part is located inboard of a 30 relativelyl larger sized part.

9. A security device or method according to claim 7 or 8 in which the fitting is for an air line, or part of an air line, a brake air line, or part of a brake air 35 line of a vehicle.

10. A security device or method according to any one of 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12109 - 26 claims 7 to 9 in which the fitting is an end or a nozzle of a brake air line of a motor vehicle or a trailer of a motor vehicle for connecting to a prime mover so as to form an articulated vehicle. 5

11. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the void of the first engaging element is an aperture, opening, well, or cavity located within the body of the first lock 10 member and is of a complementary size and shape to the size and shape of the fitting at the end of the air or brake line of the vehicle so that when the fitting is received in the void, the fitting can be locked within the void to prevent withdrawal of the 15 fitting from the void.

12. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the void of the first engaging element is a counter bore having different 20 segments of different sizes, diameters, lengths, widths or forms.

13. A security device or method according to claim 12 in which the counter bore extends at least partially 25 axially through the lengthwise extending axis of the first engaging element.

14. A security device or method according to claim 13 in which the first engaging element is located off 30 centre axially from the central axis and extends through a substantial part of the length of the first lock body.

15. A security device or method according to any 35 preceding claim in which the first lock member is provided with a circumferential groove extending at least partially around one end of the wall of the 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 27 void.

16. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the first lock member is s provided with a second void in the form of a bore, opening, aperture or well.

17. A security device or method according to any preceding claim 16 in which the second bore extends 1o transversely or radially from the side wall of the body.

18. A security device or method according to claim 17in which the second bore extends substantially is perpendicular to the axis of the counter bore.

19. A security device or method according to claim 18 in which a retaining means or locking element is located in the transverse bore for cooperatively engaging 20 with the nozzle or a part of the nozzle or part of the second lock member in order to secure the first lock member to the nozzle or the first lock member to the second lock member when the first lock member is in the locked position. 25

20. A security device or method according to claim 19 in which the retaining means is a movable locking element receivable in the transverse bore, said movable locking element being movable between a 30 locked position and a release position in which, when in the locked position, the locking element retains the item in the void of the first locking member or retains the second lock member in the locked position with respect to the first lock member. 35

21. A security device or method according to claim 20 in which the movable locking element is a barrel lock 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 28 having an extendable and/or retractable pin movable between an extended position and a retracted position so that when in an extended condition the pin extends to contact the nozzle to securely retain the nozzle s within the void of the first lock member and when in the release position the pin is retracted allowing withdrawal of the nozzle from the void.

22. A security device or method according to any 10 preceding claim in which the first lock member is provided with a retaining means in the wall of the first lock member.

23. A security device or method according to any 15 preceding claim in which the retaining means is a receiving means in the form of an elongate slot, rebate or cut-out or in the form of a circular or circumferential groove, channel, rebate or cut-out. 20

24. A security device or method according to claim 23 in which the elongate slot is provided with a plurality of spaced apart apertures, notches, bores or detents aligned in side by side relationship to one another in the lengthwise extending direction of the slot. 25

25. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the second lock member is a substantially hollow body provided with a cavity chamber or void for receiving the first lock member. 30

26. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the second lock member is a cup or cup like arrangement having a chamber or cavity surrounded by a wall into which the first lock 35 member is received to securely retain the first lock member. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09 - 29

27. A security device or method according to claim 26 in which the second lock member is provided with two separate bores in which the two bores are arranged to extend axially with respect to each other or to 5 extend perpendicularly with respect to each other.

28. A security device or method according to any preceding claim in which the first locking member is 10 provided with an extension or projection and the second engaging element is a locking element for engaging with a part of the projection or extension of the first locking member so that when in the locked condition the first lock member is securely 15 retained in the second lock member by the locking element of the second engaging element cooperatively engaging with the projection or extension of the first lock member. 20

29. A security device or method according to claim 27 in which the second engaging element is a movable pin wherein the pin is in the form of a straight pin, curved pin, bent pin, or L-shaped pin. 25 30. A security device or method according to claim 29 in which the movable pin is movable to engage the slot or groove of the first lock member to secure the second lock member to the first lock member.

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31. A security device substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

32. A method of using a security device to prevent 35 unauthorized use of an item substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 21053791 (GHMatters) 14/12/09