AU2021105343A4

AU2021105343A4 - Tie Down Tensioning Device

Info

Publication number: AU2021105343A4
Application number: AU2021105343A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Jim Sampson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-08-12
Filing date: 2021-08-12
Publication date: 2021-10-14
Anticipated expiration: 2029-08-12

Abstract

Tie Down Tensioning Device The present invention relates in general to a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements. The tie down tensioning device has a housing with a first end spaced apart from a second end and a bore extending through the housing between the first and second ends with an opening in the first end and the second end aligned with the bore to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing. At least one first cleat extends from a first side of the housing and at least one second cleat extends from a second side of the housing. A cavity is centrally positioned and extending substantially perpendicular to the bore and having a first portion positioned on one side of the bore and a second portion positioned on an opposite side of the bore from the first portion. A clamping assembly is secured within the cavity with a first end having an actuating member which moves the second end of the clamping assembly into and out of the bore. The second end of the clamping assembly moves into and out of the bore to secure the tie down tensioning device to the at least one flexible elongated element, and the first cleat is used to tie down and tension the flexible elongated element and the second cleat is utilised to tie off an end of the flexible elongated element. 1/18 co LO LOm Oo © co coO C)O coo cLO cLO

Description

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Tie Down Tensioning Device

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements for such purposes as tying together items and stabilising items in relation to each other. The present invention also extends to a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements which can be used to compactly store the flexible elongated elements thereon when not in use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted that reference to the prior art herein is not to be taken as an acknowledgement that such prior art constitutes common general knowledge in the art.

Flexible elongated elements such as ropes are used for many applications that typically require one or both ends of the rope or multiple ropes to be secured in some manner. Typically ropes are secured by tying a knot or combination of knots. This task requires the use of dexterity and strength of the user. In most cases the knots tied are either inadequate to secure a load or are difficult to untie. Tying a knot with a rope can be useful in hundreds of activities ranging from docking a boat to climbing a mountain to pitching a tent. By way of example only, ropes can also be used when securing a load to a cargo bed. To secure the load, the rope must be tensioned to prevent shifting or movement of the load. Loose loads can cause the cargo to shift or fall from the vehicle and get damaged, damage other vehicles or property and can be dangerous, and sometimes fatal, to the user and other drivers. In most countries, it is an offence if your load is not properly restrained and is at risk of falling from your vehicle.

The prior art shows a wide range of devices have been designed to overcome the problems associated with ropes and knots when they are used for fastening and tensioning between two points or across a load. Some of these devices are only designed to allow the fastening of the rope and they cannot be used to tension the rope. Often a device or apparatus is used to aid in tensioning the rope, but many of these, require the rope to be secured or knotted at least at one end of the rope if not both. Some of these devices completely circumvent the need for knots, but they are limited in application and often unable to adjust to varying load conditions.

Likewise, some devices such as pulleys and winches have been specifically designed for tensioning a rope and firmly holding the load in position. These devices are typically complicated in design and relatively expensive to manufacture. This is especially true for those devices incorporating complex and inconvenient ratcheting or cam mechanisms. They can also be difficult to adjust the length of the tie-down to size prior to tensioning and can be difficult to release for removal of the cargo or unstable and unreliable under tension during transport. Also, the design of these devices makes it somewhat difficult to use such devices in differing locations along the length of the rope where tensioning of the rope is specifically required. These devices can also incorporate pulley wheels, pins, springs, ratchets, cams, and other small parts that will wear out, potentially fail suddenly and without warning, and not work properly in harsh, muddy, wet, and extremely cold environments.

A number of other devices which secure items using ropes require the device to be permanently mounted or attached to some object. These types of devices are designed to be permanently mounted or bolted down to a larger object to be operative and none easily facilitate the removal of slack from the rope just prior to securing its loose end.

Other prior art devices have been developed such as mechanical rope cinching devices which are predominantly used with wire, rope and chain. Such devices are complicated in design and have many moving parts. The design complexity results in reliability and operating difficulty.

None of the devices truly replicate the multiplicity in function or the compactness in size afforded through the use of knots.

Clearly it would be advantageous if a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements could be devised that helped to at least ameliorate some of the shortcomings described above. In particular, it would be beneficial to provide a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements for such purposes as tying together items and stabilising items in relation to each other.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect, the present invention provides a tie down tensioning device for tensioning at least one flexible elongated element, the tie down tensioning device comprising: a housing with a first end spaced apart from a second end, a bore extending through the housing and between the first and second ends, an opening in the first end and the second end aligned with the bore to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing; at least one first cleat extending from a first side of the housing; at least one second cleat extending from a second side of the housing; a cavity centrally positioned and extending into the housing from a third side of the housing, the cavity extending substantially perpendicular to the bore and having a first portion positioned on one side of the bore and a second portion positioned on an opposite side of the bore from the first portion; a clamping assembly secured within the cavity and having a first end spaced from a second end, the first end having an actuating member which moves the second end of the clamping assembly into and out of the bore; and wherein the second end of the clamping assembly moves into and out of the bore to secure the tie down tensioning device to the at least one flexible elongated element, and the at least one first cleat is adapted to tie down and tension the at least one flexible elongated element and the at least one second cleat is utilised to tie off an end of the at least one flexible elongated element.

Preferably, a guide member may extend from and is formed adjacent to the first and second ends on the first side of the housing, each guide member having at least one aperture therein. An end of the at least one flexible elongated element may be passed through the at least one aperture in one of the guide members prior to being tensioned and tied down by the at least one first cleat.

Preferably, the cavity may be centrally positioned between the first and second ends of the housing and extends into the housing from the third side of the housing.

Preferably, the housing may further comprise an opening in one of or both of the first and second ends of the housing, the opening connecting to a passageway extending longitudinally within the housing, the passageway receiving therein an extension rod, the extension rod may extend from a first position within the housing to a second position outside of and extending perpendicular to the housing to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to be stored thereon when not in use.

Preferably, the passageway extending longitudinally within the housing may have a circular cross-section with a first section connected to a second section, the first section may have a diameter less than a diameter of the second section and forming a wall between the first and second sections.

Preferably, the extension rod may comprise a first end spaced apart from a second end with an elongate element connecting the first end to the second end. A retaining member may be positioned adjacent the second end of the extension rod, the retaining member frictionally engaging with a surface of the second section of the passageway to allow the extension rod to move from the first position within the housing to the second position outside of the housing under tension, the retaining member engaging with the wall between the first and second sections to prevent the extension rod from being removed from the passageway.

Preferably, the retaining member may be at least one barb shaped member extending a distance along the elongate element from the second end of the extension rod, the at least one barb shaped member projecting outwardly to a point and in an opposite direction from the second end of the extension rod. The point of the at least one barb shaped member may engage against the wall between the first and second sections to prevent the extension rod from being removed from the passageway.

Preferably, a locking mechanism may be positioned adjacent to the first end of the extension rod, the locking mechanism retaining the extension rod within the passageway of the housing. The locking mechanism may comprise a threaded section extending along the elongate element from adjacent to the first end of the extension rod, the threaded section engaging with a complementary threaded section in the first section of the passageway.

Preferably, the extension rod may have a head section positioned adjacent to the first end of the extension rod, the head section is positioned externally of and contiguous to the first and/or second ends of the housing when the extension rod is completely received within the passageway. A user may rotate the head section of the extension rod to release the extension rod from within the locking mechanism and allow the extension rod to extend from the first position within the housing to the second position outside of and extending perpendicular to the housing.

Preferably, the clamping assembly may further comprise: a threaded member having a first end connected to the actuating member and a second end connected to the second end of the clamping assembly, as the actuating member is rotated the threaded member moves the second end into and out of the bore of the housing; and a mounting assembly for securing the clamping assembly within the housing.

Preferably, the mounting assembly may have a centrally positioned threaded bore for receiving the threaded member therein. The threaded member may be received within the centrally positioned bore of the mounting assembly prior to the second end of the threaded member being connected to the second end of the clamping assembly.

Preferably, the mounting assembly may be a substantially rectangular block with a first side spaced apart from a second side, the mounting assembly being received within a complementary shaped recess in the housing. The second side of the mounting assembly may have at least one securing clip, the at least one securing clip being received within a complementary shaped socket within the recess in the housing to secure the mounting assembly within the recess of the housing. When the mounting assembly is secured within the recess of the housing the first side of the mounting assembly may sit flush with the third side of the housing.

Preferably, the second end of the clamping assembly may have an end face which engages against an outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element. The end face may have a plurality of shaped teeth which engage against the outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element. The shaped teeth may form a serrated surface on the end face of the second end of the clamping assembly. Preferably, rotation of the actuating member may advance the second end of the clamping assembly and engages the end face of the clamping assembly against the outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element and inwardly presses the at least one flexible elongated element into the second portion of the cavity to firmly lock it in place.

Preferably, the second portion of the cavity may have an engaging surface with a plurality of shaped teeth which engage against the outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element. The shaped teeth may form a serrated surface on the engaging surface of the second portion of the cavity. Preferably, the second portion of the cavity may be shaped to form a central section with a pair of wings extending at an angle from opposite sides of central section.

The central section may have a surface area which is approximately the same size as a surface area of the end face of the clamping assembly. As the end face of the clamping assembly presses the at least one flexible elongated element into the second portion the at least one flexible elongated element may be deflected and secured between the end face of the clamping assembly and the combined central section and the pair of wings of the second portion of the cavity.

Preferably, a fourth side of the housing may have an opening therein, the opening extending parallel to the bore located between the first and second ends of the housing and allows the user to assist the movement of the at least one flexible elongated element through the bore in the housing.

Preferably, the first side of the housing may be formed perpendicular to the second side of the housing. The opening may be asubstantially C-shaped opening with a central indent section located above the second end of the clamping assembly, the central indent section retaining the at least one flexible elongated element within the bore of the housing.

Preferably, the first and second cleats may be a horn cleat with an elongated body with two opposing noses and narrowing under the opposing noses to a foot where the horn cleat attaches to the housing. The foot of each horn cleat may extend perpendicular from the housing to position a top surface of the elongate body parallel to the first and second sides of the housing.

Preferably, the housing may be formed as a substantially T-shaped body, the housing, the first and second cleats, the guide members, the clamping assembly and the extension rod are made from a plastics or metal material. Preferably, the housing, the first and second cleats and the guide members may be formed as a unitary piece. The unitary piece may be formed as a rigid body of cast plastics material such as a polycarbonate plastics material.

In accordance with a further aspect, the present invention provides in combination a tie down comprising: a length of a flexible elongated element of given diameter made of a plurality of twisted strands; and a tie down tensioning device comprising: a housing with a first end spaced apart from a second end, a bore extending through the housing and between the first and second ends, the bore is open at the first end and the second end to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing; at least one first cleat extending from a first side of the housing; at least one second cleat extending from a second side of the housing; a guide member extends from and is formed adjacent to the first and second ends on the first side of the housing, each guide member having at least one aperture therein; a cavity centrally positioned between the first and second ends of the housing and extending into the housing from a third side of the housing, the cavity extending substantially perpendicular to the bore and having a first portion positioned on one side of the bore and a second portion positioned on an opposite side of the bore from the first portion; a clamping assembly secured within the cavity and having a first end spaced from a second end, the first end having an actuating member which moves the second end of the clamping assembly into and out of the bore, the second end moves into and out of the bore to secure the tie down tensioning device to the flexible elongated element; and wherein the at least one aperture in each guide member is adapted to receive an end of the flexible elongated element therethrough prior to being tied down and tensioned by the at least one first cleat and the at least one second cleat is utilised to tie off an end of the flexible elongated element.

In accordance with a still further aspect, the present invention provides a method of tensioning a flexible elongated element, the method comprising the steps of: i) looping a first free end of the flexible elongated element around a first and second tie down element of an item to be secured and returning the first free end to the tie down tensioning device; ii) threading a second free end of the flexible elongated element through a housing of a tie down tensioning device from an open first end and through a bore extending through the housing to an open second end of the housing; iii) securing the tie down tensioning device to the flexible elongated element by rotating an actuating member on a clamping assembly of the tie down tensioning device to secure the flexible elongated element within the bore; iv) threading the first free end of the flexible elongated element through at least one aperture in a guide member located on the first or the second end of the housing; v) looping the first free end of the flexible elongated element around a first cleat and using the first cleat to apply a desired tension to the flexible elongated element; and vi) tying the first free end of the flexible elongated element around a second cleat to tie down the free end of the flexible elongated element.

In accordance with a still further aspect, the present invention provides a tie down tensioning device for tensioning at least one flexible elongated element, the tie down tensioning device comprising: a housing with a first end spaced apart from a second end, a bore extending through the housing and between the first and second ends, an opening in the first end and the second end aligned with the bore to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing; at least one first cleat extending from a first side of the housing; at least one second cleat extending from a second side of the housing; a guide member extends from and is formed adjacent to the first and second ends on the first side of the housing, each guide member having at least one aperture therein; a cavity centrally positioned between the first and second ends of the housing and extending into the housing from a third side of the housing, the cavity extending substantially perpendicular to the bore and having a first portion positioned on one side of the bore and a second portion positioned on an opposite side of the bore from the first portion; a clamping assembly secured within the cavity and having a first end spaced from a second end, the first end having an actuating member which moves the second end of the clamping assembly into and out of the bore, the second end moves into and out of the bore to secure the tie down tensioning device to the at least one flexible elongated element; and wherein the at least one aperture in each guide member is adapted to receive an end of the at least one flexible elongated element therethrough prior to being tied down and tensioned by the at least one first cleat and the at least one second cleat is utilised to tie off an end of the at least one flexible elongated element.

Preferably, the housing, the extension rods, the clamping assembly are all manufactured using an injection molding process with a plastics material such as a polycarbonate plastics material.

Any one or more of the above embodiments or preferred features can be combined with any one or more of the above aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given hereinafter and from the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, which, however, should not be taken to be limitative to the invention, but are for explanation and understanding only. Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the tie down tensioning device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 shows a top view of the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 shows a bottom view of the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 shows one end view of the view of the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 5 shows a rear view of the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 6 shows another end view of the view of the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 7 shows a sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 2; Fig. 8 shows a sectional view taken along line BB of Fig. 2; Fig. 9 shows a sectional view taken along line CC of Fig. 4; Fig. 10 shows an exploded view of Fig. 1; Fig. 11 shows a rear view of the housing for the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1 with components removed for clarity; Fig. 12 shows a front view of the housing of Fig. 11; Fig. 13 shows a sectional view taken along line DD of Fig. 12; Fig. 14 shows an end view of the housing of Fig. 11; Fig. 15 shows a sectional view taken along line EE of Fig. 14; Figs. 16 to 18 show perspective and end views of the extension rods for the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of the clamping assembly for the tie down tensioning device of Fig. 1; Fig. 20 shows a further perspective view of the clamping assembly of Fig. 19 showing the internal detail of the assembly; Fig. 21 shows an end view of the clamping assembly of Fig. 19; Fig. 22 shows a sectional view taken along line FF of Fig. 21; and

Fig. 23 shows the mounting block for the clamping assembly of Fig. 19.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description, given by way of example only, is described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that discussion of a particular feature or component extending in or along a given direction or the like does not mean that the feature or component follows a straight line or axis in such a direction or that it only extends in such direction or on such a plane without other directional components or deviations, unless otherwise specified.

Reference will now be made to the drawings in which the various elements of embodiments will be given numerical designations and in which embodiments will be discussed so as to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention. It will be further noted that the figures are schematic and provided for guidance to the skilled reader and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Rather, the various drawing scales, aspect ratios, and numbers of components shown in the figures may be purposely distorted to make certain features or relationships easier to understand. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.

The present invention provides tie down tensioning devices for use with elongated flexible elements. As used herein, an elongated flexible element can be a line, a cord, a rope, twine, string, or the like. Also, the present invention is a tie down tensioning device which can be used, but is not limited to, tensioning the elongated flexible element for such purposes as tying together items and stabilising items in relation to each other or another fixture.

The present invention in its broadest form provides a tie down tensioning device 10 for tensioning at least one flexible elongated element. The tie down tensioning device 10 has a housing 11 with a first end 12 spaced apart from a second end 13. A bore 26 extends through the housing 11 and between the first and second ends 12, 13. An opening 17 in the first end 12 and the second end 13 is aligned with the bore 26 to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing 11. At least one first cleat 60 extends from a first side 20 and at least one second cleat 50 extends from a second side 14 of the housing 11. A cavity 19 is centrally positioned and extends into the housing 11 from a third side 15. The cavity 19 extends substantially perpendicular to the bore 26 and has a first portion 19A positioned on one side of the bore 26 and a second portion 19B positioned on an opposite side of the bore 26 from the first portion 19A. A clamping assembly 40 is secured within the cavity 19 and has a first end spaced from a second end, the first end having an actuating member 41 which moves the second end of the clamping assembly 40 into and out of the bore 26. The second end of the clamping assembly 40 moves into and out of the bore 26 to secure the tie down tensioning device 10 to the at least one flexible elongated element and the at least one first cleat 60 is adapted to tie down and tension the at least one flexible elongated element and the at least one second cleat 50 is utilised to tie off an end of the at least one flexible elongated element.

As illustrated in Figs. 1 to 10, the tie down tensioning device 10 has a substantially T-shaped housing 11 which is made from any plastics or metal material. Preferably, the housing 11 is formed as a rigid body of cast plastics material such as a polycarbonate plastics material. The housing 11, cleats 50, 60 and the guide members 16 are all formed as a single unitary body. By way of example only and by no way limiting, the single unitary body may be injection molded using a polycarbonate plastic material.

The housing 11 has spaced apart ends 12, 13 with each end having an opening 17 for receiving a rope or the like therein. The T-shaped housing 11 has sides 14, 20, 21 forming the top section of the housing 11 and sides 15, 22 forming the bottom section of the housing 11. The sides 20, 21 extend perpendicular from the end portions of side 14. This effectively places the cleats 60 on side 20 perpendicular to the cleats 50 on side 14 of the housing 11.

Each end 12, 13 has a guide member 16 extending above the respective end 12, 13 and each guide member has an aperture 18 which has a bottom side adjacent to the side 20 of the housing 11. As will be described further below the guide members 16 receive an end of the rope through the aperture 18 before the rope is tensioned on the cleat 60, this prevents the tie down tensioning device 10 from pivoting as tension is applied to the rope. While each guide member 16 has been illustrated with a single aperture 18, other embodiments could include one or more apertures 18 in each guide member 16.

Each end 12, 13 have an opening 37 which align with a passageway 70, 72 within the housing 11, the passageway 70, 72 and opening 37 have a circular cross-section shape to receive the extension rods 30. Each extension rod 30 can extend perpendicular from an end 12, 13 to allow the rope to be looped around the extension rod 30 to store the rope when it is not being used. The passageway has a first cylindrical portion 72 and a second cylindrical portion 70 with the diameter of the first portion 72 is less than the diameter of the second portion 70. A wall 71 is formed at the junction between the two portions 70, 72. A threaded portion is formed in the wall of the first cylindrical portion 72 adjacent to each end 12, 13 of the housing 11.

Each extension rod has a longitudinally extending solid cylindrical shaft 35 extending between ends 31, 33. The diameter of the shaft 35 is approximately the same size as the diameter of the first portion 72 of the passageway 70, 72. This ensures that the extension rod 30 is a snug fit within the housing 11. End 33 of each extension rod 30 has barbs 34 which frictionally engage with the wall surface of the second cylindrical portion 70 of the passageway. The barbs extend a distance along the shaft 35 from the end 33 and outwardly to a point away from the shaft 35. The ends 38 of the barbs 34 which extend from the shaft 35 engage against the wall 71 of the passageway 70, 72 to prevent the extension rods 30 from being removed from the housing 11. The barbs 34 provide some resistance to movement of the extension rods 30 such that they allow the extension rod 30 to move from a first retracted position within the housing 11 to a second extended position outside of the housing 11 under tension.

The extension rods 30 are secured in the retracted positon within the passageway 72 of the housing 11 by the threaded section 36 adjacent to the end 31 on each shaft 35, the threaded section 36 engages with a complementary threaded section formed in the wall of the first cylindrical portion 72 adjacent to each end 12, 13 of the housing 11. When the extension rod 30 are in the retracted position, the end 31 of the extension rod 30 sits just outside and contiguous with the end walls 12, 13 of the housing 11. Each end 31 has a head section with a knurled portion 32 to allow a user to easily engage and rotate the extension rod 30. The rotation of the head section of the extension rod 30 disengages the extension rod 30 from the threaded section in the passageway 72 to allow the extension rod 30 to be extended from the first retracted position within the housing 11 to the second extended position outside of and extending perpendicular to each end wall 12, 13 of the housing 11. The extension rods 30 like the housing 11 are made from a plastics or metal material and preferably a plastics material which is a cast polycarbonate plastics material. Each extension rod 30 is formed as a solid cylindrical shaft 35 extending between the first and second ends 31, 33.

The bore 26 extends through the housing 11 and is aligned with the openings 17 in each end 12, 13. As illustrated and like the openings 17, the bore 26 has a substantially rectangular shape. However, the shape of the bore 26 and openings 17 are not only limited to a rectangular shape and could be formed in any desired shape. The bore 26 receives the rope within the housing 11 to secure the tie down tensioning device 10 to the rope. The bore 26 is sized and shaped to receive one or more ropes therein. The size and shape of the one or more ropes can be the same or different. For example the tie down tensioning device 10 could receive a single rope of up to 10mm in diameter or multiple ropes of up to 10mm in total diameter within the bore 26 and be secured therein by the clamping assembly 40. Therefore multiple ropes of varying diameter can be secured within the bore 26 of the tie down tensioning device 10.

As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, two horn cleats 50 extend from the side 14 and two horn cleats 60 extend from the side 20 of the tie down tensioning device 10. Each horn cleat 50 consists of two horns extending from a central post 51, with each horn cleat 50 having a flat top surface 54 extending parallel to the side 14. Each horn cleat 60 consists of two horns extending from a central post 61, with each horn cleat 60 having a flat top surface 64 extending parallel to the side 20. As the surfaces or sides 14, 21 of the housing 11 are formed at right angles to each other, this places the horns 50 extending from the surface of side 14 perpendicular to the horns 60 extending from the surface of side 20. Each horn 50, 60 consist of a first flat section 53, 63 extending on opposite sides of the post 51, 61 to an angled section 53, 63 which extends to a point 55, 65. A further flat section 54, 64 joins each angled section 53, 63 at the points 55, 65 to form the horn cleat 50, 60.

While the cleats 50, 60 have been described and illustrated in the drawings as a horn cleat 50, 60 they are not only limited to this type of cleat. For example, the cleats 50, 60 could be one or more cam cleats in which one or two spring-loaded cams pinch the rope, or one or more jam cleats in which the line is pinched in a v-shaped slot. Likewise, any one or more of the cleats 50, 60 may include opposing rows of teeth disposed around the base post 51, 61, the first flat section 53, 63 or the angled sections 53, 63. The teeth being orientated such that a rope (not shown) disposed between the opposing rows of teeth and pulled in a first direction will be gripped by the teeth. The teeth readily release the rope when the rope is pulled in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

As illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3 the housing 11 is a substantially T-shaped housing 11 forming the tie down tensioning device 10. To secure the tie down tensioning device 10 to a rope in the bore 26 a clamping assembly 40 is secured within the vertical stem portion 15, 22 of the housing 11. A cavity 19 extends into the housing 11 approximately between the first and second ends 12, 13 of the housing. The cavity 19 is formed perpendicular to the bore 26 with a first portion 19A formed on one side of the bore 26 and adjacent to the side 15 of the housing 11 and a second portion 19B is formed on the opposing side of the bore 26 and adjacent to the side 14 of the housing 11.

The clamping assembly 40 has a first actuating end 41 and a second spaced apart end 49. The first actuating end 41 is positioned adjacent to the side surface 15 to allow a user to access the actuator end 41 of the clamping assembly 40. The second end 49 forms the end surface of the moveable block 45 which as the first actuating end 41 is rotated the block 45 moves laterally within the cavity 19 into and out of the bore 26. All of the component parts of the clamping assembly 40 are cast from a plastics material such as a polycarbonate plastics material.

Fig. 3 shows the bottom side 21 of the housing 11 with the C-shaped opening 23 extending parallel to the bore 26. The opening 23 allows a user to access the bore 26 from below, this is particularly advantageous as it allows a user to guide the end of the rope as it passes from the first end 12 and through the bore 26 and out of the second end 13 of the housing 11. As ropes age the loose fibres at the end of the rope can be a problem when trying to feed the rope through the bore 26. The opening 23 allows a user to place a finger or fingers through the opening 23 in the bottom side 21 to contact the end of the rope and guide its movement through the bore 26. Fig. 3 also shows the moveable block 45 located within the bore 26. Also, the opening 23 is shaped with an indent centred either side of the moveable block 45 to prevent the rope falling out while the actuating end 41 of the clamping assembly 40 is moving the moveable bock 45 to secure the rope in the bore 26. The indent in the opening 23 also prevents the user from inadvertently inserting their fingers into the bore

26 while the moveable block 45 is securing the rope in the bore 26 of the tie down tensioning device 10.

Figs. 4 and 6 show the end views of the tie down tensioning device 10. Each end 12, 13 is substantially identical with the exception of the position of the extension rods 30. For example, the end 13 the extension rod 30 is positioned towards the bottom side of the end 13 and adjacent to the bottom side 21. The extension rod 30 located in the end 12 is positioned towards the upper side of the end 12 and adjacent to the top side 20. Each end 12, 13 have an opening 17 aligned with the bore 26 in the housing 11. Each opening 17 is adapted to receive and end of the rope. As will be described below in relation to the operation of the tie down tensioning device 10, the rope can be fed into the bore 26 from either end 12, 13.

Fig. 5 shows the rear housing 15 with the clamping assembly 40 and the first actuating end 41 secured in the housing 11 by the mounting block 42. Fig. 5 also illustrates the position of each extension rod 30 and the operating end 31 of each extension rod 30 on the ends 12, 13 of the housing 11.

Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of the tie down tensioning device 10 taken along line AA of Fig. 2. Fig. 7 illustrates a first embodiment of the clamping assembly 40 positioned within the cavity 19 of the housing 11. In this embodiment the actuating member 41 is attached to the shaft 43 with the end 46 of the shaft 43 secured to the moveable block 45 by a fastening device 47. The shaft 43 has a thread 44 which engages with the complementary thread within the mounting block 42. To assemble the clamping assembly 40 the threaded shaft 43 is first screwed through the mounting block 42. A fastening device such as circlip 47 is inserted through the opening 48 in the top side of the moveable block 45, the end 46 of the shaft 43 is then located within a bore 27 in the moveable block 45. The shaft 43 has a groove 69 extending around the shaft 43 which receives the circlip 47 therein to secure the shaft 43 within the bore 27 of the moveable block 45. Once the moveable block 45 is secured to the shaft 43 the clamping assembly 40 is then secured within the housing 11 by pressing the mounting block 42 into the recess 24 and locating the tabs 75 on the rear side of the block 42 within the sockets 77 in the recess 24. Fig. 7 also shows the opening 23 within the bottom side 21 which provides the user with access to the bore 26 in the housing 11.

Fig. 8 shows a sectional view of the tie down tensioning device 10 taken along line BB of Fig. 2 and Fig. 9 shows a sectional view of the tie down tensioning device 10 taken along line CC of Fig. 4. As described above the passageway 70, 72 within the housing 11 have a circular cross-section shape to receive the extension rods 30. The passageway has a first cylindrical portion 72 and a second cylindrical portion 70 with the diameter of the first portion 72 is less than the diameter of the second portion 70. A wall 71 is formed at the junction between the two portions 70, 72. A threaded portion is formed in the wall of the first cylindrical portion 72 adjacent to each end 12, 13 of the housing 11 to secure the complementary threaded section on the shaft 35 of each extension rod 30.

Each extension rod has a longitudinally extending solid cylindrical shaft 35 extending between ends 31, 33. End 33 of each extension rod 30 has barbs 34 which frictionally engage with the wall surface of the second cylindrical portion 70 of the passageway to allow the extension rod 30 to move in and out under tension. The ends 38 of the barbs 34 which extend from the shaft 35 engage against the wall 71 of the passageway 70, 72 to prevent the extension rods 30 from being removed from the housing 11. As shown in Figs. 8 and 9 the extension rods 30 are secured in the retracted positon within the passageway 70, 72 of the housing 11. When the extension rod 30 are in the retracted position, the end 31 of the extension rod 30 sits just outside and contiguous with the end walls 12, 13 of the housing 11. Each end 31 has a head section with a knurled portion 32 to allow a user to easily engage and rotate the extension rod 30. The rotation of the head section of the extension rod 30 disengages the extension rod 30 from the threaded section in the passageway 72 to allow the extension rod 30 to be extended from the first retracted position within the housing 11 to the second extended position outside of and extending perpendicular to each end wall 12, 13 of the housing 11.

Fig. 10 shows an exploded view of the tie down tensioning device 10. Each of the major components will now be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 23.

Figs. 11 to 14 show views of the T-shaped housing 11 with all other components removed for clarity. Fig. 11 shows a rear plan view of the housing 11 with the guide members 16 projecting above the top surface 20 and aligned with either end 12, 13, and the horn cleats 60 extending above and parallel to the top surface 20. Fig. 13 is a sectional view taken along line DD of Fig. 12 and Fig. 15 is a sectional view taken along line EE of Fig. 14. Figs. 12 and 14 show the openings 37 in the ends 12, 13 for receiving the extension rods 30 therein. With the clamping assembly 40 removed we see the recess 24 which receives the mounting block 42 and the sockets 77 positioned towards the rear side of the recess 24 for receiving the tabs 75 of the mounting block 42. The rear wall 25, 25A of the second portion 19B of the cavity 19 has a plurality of shaped teeth forming a serrated surface which engage against an outer surface of the rope which is to be secured within the bore 26 of the tie down tensioning device 10.

As shown in Figs. 13 and 15 the rear wall is formed from a first central section 25 and a pair of wings 25A extending at an angle from the outer sides of the central section 25. The central section 25 and the wings 25A both have the serrated surface and form the second portion 19B of the cavity 19. The central section 25 has approximately the same cross-sectional area as the end 49 of the moveable block 45. This means as the moveable block 45 of the clamping assembly 40 is moved into engagement with the outer surface of the rope in the bore 26 the rope is displaced into the second portion 19B of the cavity 19. As the actuating end 41 of the clamping assembly 40 is rotated the moveable block 45 is laterally displaced within the cavity 19 and the end 49 compresses against the rope forcing the rope into the second portion 19B of the cavity and effectively securing the rope to the tie down tensioning device 10.

Fig. 13 also shows the perpendicular alignment of the cavity 19 with respect to the bore 26. The cavity 19 is formed by the first portion 19A which is sized to snuggly receive but allow the moveable block 45 to move laterally within the cavity 19. The moveable block 45 displaces the rope from the bore 26 into the second portion 19B of the cavity 19 located on the opposite side of the bore 26 from the first portion 19A.

Figs. 16 to 18 show the extension rod 30 which have been described in detail with respect to Figs. 8 and 9. The extension rod 30 has a knurled operating grip 32 on the first end 31 which allows an operator to easily rotate the extension rod 30 and release the thread 36 from the complementary retaining thread within the channel 72 of the housing 11. The extension rod 30 has a solid cylindrical shaft 35 extending longitudinally between the first end 31 and the second end 33. The second end 33 has a pair of barbs 34 located on opposite sides of the shaft 35. The barbs 34 are frictionally engaged against the wall of the channel 70 to slow the lateral movement of the extension rod 30 as it moves in and out of the housing 11. The barb ends 38 engage against the wall 71 to prevent the extension rod 30 from being completely removed from the housing 11.

Figs. 19 to 23 show the first embodiment of the clamping assembly 40. Fig. 19 shows the complete assembled perspective view of the clamping assembly 40 and Fig. 20 shows the assembled perspective view with the mounting block 42 removed for clarity and the hidden detail of the components shown within the moveable block 45.

Fig. 19 shows the top side of the moveable block 45 and the T-shaped opening 48 which receives the circlip 47 therein. The vertical stem portion of the T-shaped opening 48 in the moveable block 45 is sized to allow a user to insert a pair of circlip pliers into the opening 48 to release the circlip 47 from the groove 69 in the shaft 43. This allows the shaft 43 and the mounting block 42 to be removed from the moveable block 45. The shaft 43 has a portion which has an external thread 44 which engages with the complementary thread 76 within the mounting block 42. As illustrated in Fig. 20, the shaft 43 also has an end portion 46 without the thread 44 which is inserted into the bore 27 in the moveable block 45. The shaft end portion 46 also has the groove 69 for receiving the circlip or fastener 47, the circlip 47 secures the shaft 43 within the moveable block 45. As the actuating end 41 is rotated the shaft 43 with the thread 44 moves in and out of the mounting block 42 at the same time the moveable block 45 moves into and out of the bore 26. This provides the user with a visual indication as to the position of the moveable block 45 in the cavity 19.

The end surface 49 of the moveable block 45 has a plurality of shaped teeth forming a serrated surface which engage against an outer surface of the rope to secure the rope within the bore 26 of the tie down tensioning device 10. As noted above the cross-sectional area of the end 49 of the moveable block 45 is approximately the same size as the central section 25 of the second portion 19B of the cavity 19. As the moveable block 45 moves through the bore 26 the rope is displaced into the second portion 19B of the cavity 19. As the actuating end 41 of the clamping assembly 40 is rotated the moveable block 45 is laterally displaced within the cavity 19 and the end 49 compresses against the rope forcing the rope into the second portion 19B of the cavity and effectively securing the rope to the tie down tensioning device 10. As the moveable block 45 is laterally displaced and the rope forced into the second portion 19B of the cavity 19, the angled wings 25A on either side of the central section 25 resist the displacement of the rope into the second portion 19B and effectively wedge the rope between the end 49 of the moveable block 45 and the central section 25 and the wings 25A.

Fig. 21 shows an end view of the clamping assembly 40 in accordance with the first embodiment. The actuating end 41 is shown as a four lobe head which is used to rotate the shaft 43. However, the number of lobes and the design of the actuating end 41 is not only limited to these features. Fig. 22 is a sectional view taken along line FF of Fig. 21. When assembled, the mounting block 42 is fixed within the recess 24 of the housing 11 by the locking tabs 75 which are secured to the sockets 77 within the recess 24. As the actuating end 41 is rotated the shaft 43 also rotates and the thread 44 moves into or out of the thread 76 in the mounting block 42. As the mounting block 42 is fixed within the recess 24, rotation of the actuating end 41 moves the moveable block 45 laterally within the cavity 19. For example, clockwise rotation of the actuating end 41 moves the moveable block 45 into the bore 26 of the housing 11. Likewise, anti-clockwise rotation of the actuating end 41 moves the moveable block 45 out of the bore 26 of the housing 11. The moveable block 45 is sized to be a close fit within the cavity 19 but provides enough clearance for the lateral movement of the moveable block 45.

Also, Figs. 21 and 22 show the curved section 78 on the outer surface of the mounting block 42. When the mounting block 42 is fixed within the housing 11 the curved section 78 ensures that the outer surface of the mounting block 42 sits flush with the outer surface of the end 15 of the housing 11. The curved section 78 corresponds to the curved top portion of the side 15.

Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of the mounting block 42 and in particular, the mounting tabs 75 which secure the mounting block 42 within the recess 24 of the housing 11. Also shown is the thread 76 which engages with the external thread 44 on the shaft 43. The mounting tabs 75 and corresponding mounting sockets 77 are not only limited to those as shown in the drawings and described above, other securing methods may be employed to secure the mounting block 42 within the recess 24. For example, more or less tabs 75 and sockets 77 could be positioned on the mounting block 42 and within the recess 24 or the tabs 75 and the sockets 76 may be reversed. By way of example only a single tab 75 may be positioned within each side of the recess 24 and a complementary single socket 76 positioned on each edge of the rear side of the mounting block or vice versa.

A further embodiment not shown in the drawings of the clamping assembly 40 which differs from the first embodiment in how the shaft 43 is attached to the moveable block 45 is described below. In order to remove as many component parts as possible, the shaft 43 now has the thread 44 extending over only the end portion 46 of the shaft 43. This allows the threaded end 46 of the shaft to be received within complementary threaded socket in the bore 27 in the moveable block 45. The opposite end of the shaft 43 now has no threaded section and likewise the thread 76 in the mounting block 42 is replaced with a smooth bore. The opposite end of the shaft 43 has a disc shaped member which is seated against the inner wall of the mounting block 42 when the clamping assembly is assembled in the cavity 19 of the housing 11. The actuating end 41 of the clamping assembly 40 can be attached to a spigot extending through the smooth bore in the mounting block 42. The actuating end 41 when assembled will be permanently fixed to the shaft 43. For example, the spigot on the end of the shaft 43 may have locking barbs on the end which are received within complementary sockets in the actuating end 41. This removes the need for the opening 48 and the circlip 47. The remaining components and the operation of the clamping assembly 40 are the same as the first embodiment. As a further alternative, the actuating end 41 may also be removable from the end of the shaft 43 by providing the actuating end 41 with a threaded spigot which is received within a threaded socket in the end of the shaft 43. This can be used to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the clamping assembly 40.

The present invention also extends to a method of tensioning a flexible elongated element such as a rope with the tie down tensioning device 10. In this example, the rope is being tensioned between two tie down elements to secure an item. A first free end of the rope is looped around first and second tie down elements of an item to be secured and the first free end is then returned to the tie down tensioning device 10. The second free end of the rope is then threaded into the opening 17 at the first end 12 and then into the bore 26 of the housing 11. The opening 23 in the bottom side 21 allows a user to assist the threading of the rope through the bore 26 and out of the second end 13. The tie down tensioning device 10 is then secured to the rope by rotating the actuating member 41 in a clockwise direction to move the moveable block 45 into engagement with the outer surface of the rope within the bore 26. Further rotation of the actuating member 41 compresses the rope between the end 49 of the moveable block 45 and the rear wall 25, 25A of the housing 11. The tie down tensioning device 10 is now secured to the rope and the rope can now be tensioned between the first and second tie down elements.

The first free end of the rope which was returned to the tie down tensioning device 10 is now threaded through an aperture 18 in one of the guide members 16 located on either the first or the second ends 12, 13 of the housing 11. The rope is then looped around one of the horn cleats 60 and the desired tension is applied to the rope. Once tensioned the end of the rope can be tied off around one of the horn cleats 50. Any length of rope not required can be stored on one or both of the extension rods 30 by unscrewing the extension rod 30 from the housing 11 and extending the rod 30 the required distance from the housing 11.

The process is reversed to remove tension from the rope and remove the tie down tensioning device 10 from the rope. One or both of the extension rods 30 can then be unscrewed from the housing 11 and extended to allow the rope to be stored thereon when not in use.

The tie down tensioning device 10 can be used in different ways to apply tension to a rope using any one or more of the following features of the tie down tensioning device 10. For example, as described above the rope can be secured within the bore 26 and then tensioned using the cleats 50, 60. Alternatively, a rope can be tensioned using only the combination of the cleats 50, 60 on the tie down tensioning device 10. Also, a rope can be fixed to some form of tie down at a first end and the tie down tensioning device 10 used to secure and tension the rope once it is passed through another tie down at some opposing end to the first end. The tie down tensioning device 10 of the present invention is a portable device, in that they do not need to be fixed to a generally immovable object like a tree, a pier, or the ground, and can be positioned at any point along the rope which needs to be tensioned.

ADVANTAGES

The present invention provides a device for tensioning flexible elongated elements for such purposes as tying together items and stabilising items in relation to each other.

The tie down tensioning device of the present invention provides a number of advantages over the known prior art. For example, the device has been designed to provide for easy line engagement, easy tension adjustment, and fast release. The device can also be easily moved from one position to another position along the length of the rope without having to be close to any anchoring means.

Although the present invention may be used with knots, they have been designed so that knots are not required for typical uses. Additionally, with the tie down tensioning device of the invention, ropes can be configured in complex arrangements without having to feed the entire line through any attachment points or loops. The tie down tensioning device of the invention is useful for a wide range of activities and settings including boating, camping, climbing, trucking, industry, home, garage, and yard.

Furthermore, the device of the present invention is relatively simple and easy to use rope tensioning device. The device has been designed with a minimum number of moving parts, and the device can be used to secure one or multiple ropes with a diameter of up to 10mm. The guide members positioned on opposite ends of the device prevent the pivoting of the device while the rope is being tensioned. The extension rods used to store the excess rope or the rope when not in use, are designed so that they are stored within the housing when not being used. They also have a stop mechanism on the end which prevents the extension rod from being completely removed from within the housing therefore avoiding losing any component parts.

VARIATIONS

It will be realized that the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example only and that all other modifications and variations as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein defined in the appended claims.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or step (or the like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer, component, or step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.

The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the scope of the above described invention.

In the specification the term "comprising" shall be understood to have a broad meaning similar to the term "including" and will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. This definition also applies to variations on the term "comprising" such as "comprise" and "comprises".

Claims

1. A tie down tensioning device for tensioning at least one flexible elongated element, the tie down tensioning device comprising: a housing with a first end spaced apart from a second end, a bore extending through the housing and between the first and second ends, an opening in the first end and the second end aligned with the bore to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to pass through the housing; at least one first cleat extending from a first side of the housing; at least one second cleat extending from a second side of the housing; a cavity centrally positioned and extending into the housing from a third side of the housing, the cavity extending substantially perpendicular to the bore and having a first portion positioned on one side of the bore and a second portion positioned on an opposite side of the bore from the first portion; a clamping assembly secured within the cavity and having a first end spaced from a second end, the first end having an actuating member which moves the second end of the clamping assembly into and out of the bore; and wherein the second end of the clamping assembly moves into and out of the bore to secure the tie down tensioning device to the at least one flexible elongated element, and the at least one first cleat is adapted to tie down and tension the at least one flexible elongated element and the at least one second cleat is utilised to tie off an end of the at least one flexible elongated element.

2. A tie down tensioning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a guide member extends from and is formed adjacent to the first and second ends on the first side of the housing, each guide member having at least one aperture therein, and an end of the at least one flexible elongated element is passed through the at least one aperture in one of the guide members prior to being tensioned and tied down by the at least one first cleat.

3. A tie down tensioning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises an opening in one of or both of the first and second ends of the housing, the opening connecting to a passageway extending longitudinally within the housing, the passageway receiving therein an extension rod, the extension rod extending from a first position within the housing to a second position outside of and extending perpendicular to the housing to allow the at least one flexible elongated element to be stored thereon when not in use.

4. A tie down tensioning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clamping assembly further comprises: a threaded member having a first end connected to the actuating member and a second end connected to the second end of the clamping assembly, as the actuating member is rotated the threaded member moves the second end into and out of the bore of the housing; and a mounting assembly for securing the clamping assembly within the housing.

5. A tie down tensioning device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second end of the clamping assembly has an end face which engages against an outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element, and rotation of the actuating member advances the second end of the clamping assembly and engages the end face of the clamping assembly against the outer surface of the at least one flexible elongated element and inwardly presses the at least one flexible elongated element into the second portion of the cavity to firmly lock it in place.

16 20 10 60 18 64

30 64 65 63 40

63 62

12 62 15 63

61 61 16 11 67 11 1/18

18

50

14 13

50 FIG. 1 17

55

40 10 A 15 41

22 20 22

12 13

60 2/18

16 11 16

B B

52 51 52 53 51 53 53 53 30 14

55 50 54 55 A 54 50

FIG. 2

41 10 15

60 60 22 22

12 23 45 13 3/18

21

30

51 51

14

50 50 FIG. 3