US20200231376A1

US20200231376A1 - Cargo securement devices and related methods

Info

Publication number: US20200231376A1
Application number: US16/750,211
Authority: US
Inventors: W. Joseph Alexander; Bret Schaller
Original assignee: ALEXANDER INNOVATIONS LLC
Current assignee: ALEXANDER INNOVATIONS LLC
Priority date: 2019-01-23
Filing date: 2020-01-23
Publication date: 2020-07-23

Abstract

Cargo securement device (CSD) for securing cargo includes a top encasement and a bottom encasement; and, a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further includes one or more spools, wherein each spool includes a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear. A retractable strap attaches to each spool.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/795,729 entitled “Cargo Securement Devices and Related Methods”, filed on Jan. 23, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to securement devices, and more particularly to a securement device having multiple and retractable tighteners where the strapping does not become entangled.

BACKGROUND

A variety of securement devices are known in the art. One form of a securement device includes a strap with a fastener at each end and a ratchet-type tightener that allows a user to contract the length of the device, thereby creating a tightening force. Another form of a securement device includes stretchable netting material. For a variety of reasons, existing solutions for securing objects, goods, loads, or freight (sometimes referred to herein generally as “cargo”) of different shapes, sizes, geometries, or weights that may be stationary or in various modes of transport may not be adequate for securing a given cargo in an efficient, safe and effective manner. Various solutions for securing objects currently available in the market do not allow for easy and intuitive use without requiring detailed directions or instructions. Various solutions for securing objects currently available in the market further are not suited for use in a variety of cargo configurations such as, for example, uneven loads, irregular shaped cargo, varying distances from fixed tie-down points, and bulk cargoes, among others. Further, straps and ropes typically used for securing objects often get tangled up thereby resulting in inconvenience and inefficiencies.
Accordingly, a need exists for a cargo securing solution that overcomes the limitations of the art wherein such cargo securing solution can further be efficiently applied for securing various types of stationary cargoes and cargoes that need to be transported from one point to another point.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form concepts that are further described in the following detailed descriptions. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
In at least one embodiment, a cargo securement device (CSD) for securing cargo comprises a top encasement and a bottom encasement, and a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further comprises one or more spools, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and a retractable strap attached to the spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a securing mechanism provided at a loose end of the strap.
According to one or more embodiments, each spool includes a coiling mechanism or spring mechanism configured to apply tension to the strap to retract the strap and coil the strap about the spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the spring mechanism is configured to apply tension to the strap when the securing mechanism is removably attached to an anchor for securing a cargo.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises at least two spools and at most twelve spools.
According to one or more embodiments, at least two of the straps are configured to be released from the coiling mechanism or spring mechanism, attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a wrench housed in a compartment attached to the device.
According to one or more embodiments, the wrench is configured for applying torque to one or more of the center gear and the one or more spools.
According to one or more embodiments, the wrench is further configured for releasably interfacing with at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement.
According to one or more embodiments, the securing mechanism comprises one or more of: a carabiner, a hook, an O-ring and a metal loop.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare strap, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.
Disclosed herein is a multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD) for securing a cargo item. According to various embodiments, the device comprises a top encasement and a bottom encasement, and a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further includes one or more spool, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and a cord attached to each spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the center gear is configured to releasably engaging the spool gear whereby the spool is configured to rotate freely when the center gear disengages the spool gear.
According to one or more embodiments, the cord is configured for mechanical retraction when the center gear is not engaged with the spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a securing mechanism provided at a loose end of the cord.
According to one or more embodiments, the device comprises two or more spools, wherein at least two of the cords are configured to be attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare cord, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.
Disclosed herein is method for securing a cargo item. According to at least one embodiment, the method comprises providing multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD). The CSD device comprises a top encasement and a bottom encasement, and a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further comprises two or more spools, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and a cord or strap attached to each spool. The method comprises positioning the device on or adjacent to the cargo to be secured; extracting at least two cords or straps and securing them to one or more anchors; and, applying torque to one or more of the center gear and at least one spool gear to secure the cargo.
According to one or more embodiments, the method further comprises disengaging a spool gear from the center gear, and mechanically recoiling the cord or strap attached to the disengaged spool gear upon completion of cargo securement.
According to one or more embodiments, the method further comprises applying torque to one or more of the center gear and the two or more spools with a wrench housed in a compartment attached to the device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The previous summary and the following detailed descriptions are to be read in view of the drawings, which illustrate particular exemplary embodiments and features as briefly described below. The summary and detailed descriptions, however, are not limited to only those embodiments and features explicitly illustrated.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cargo securement device (CSD), according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD with top and bottom covers removed partially exposing the inner workings of the CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a CSD with the top and bottom covers removed partially exposing the inner workings of the CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a CSD with the top and bottom covers removed, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a CSD with a top encasement removed fully exposing the inner workings of the CSD including a central gear, spool gears with recoil springs, tie-down straps, and carabiners attached to the ends of the straps, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the interior of a CSD showing spool gears engaged with a central gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a spool gear of a CSD with a recoil spring on top and a tie-down strap in the center of the spool gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a spool gear of a CSD with an engagement spring on the bottom and a tie-down strap in the center of the spool gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a top and bottom encasement of a CSD showing a cog-lock lever on an underside of the bottom encasement, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of spool gears of a CSD engaged with a central gear and a cog pin for locking the central gear by engagement between two cogs on the central gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a wrench that can be used to turn and torque individual spool gears or a center gear of a CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 13 illustrates perspective view of a CSD with an isolated wrench operating to provide spool gear activation and disengagement from a central gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top perspective view of a CSD with a wrench interfaced with the top cover of the CSD and engaged with a center gear of the CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a compartment provided in the CSD for storing an isolated wrench, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a CSD operating to secure a cargo container in a centered application, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a CSD operating to secure a cargo container in an off-centered application, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an underside of the top encasement of a CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 19 illustrates a top perspective view of a top side of the bottom encasement of a CSD, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 20A illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD with the top and bottom covers removed and showing the top and bottom encasements along with tie-down straps and carabiners attached to the ends of the straps, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 20B illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD as shown in FIG. 20A but with tie-down straps and carabiners removed, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 21A illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD as shown in FIG. 20B sliced through a central gear, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 21B illustrates a side elevation view of a CSD as shown in FIG. 20B with the bottom encasement removed, according to one or more embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

These descriptions are presented with sufficient details to provide an understanding of one or more particular embodiments of broader inventive subject matters. These descriptions expound upon and exemplify particular features of those particular embodiments without limiting the inventive subject matters to the explicitly described embodiments and features. Considerations in view of these descriptions will likely give rise to additional and similar embodiments and features without departing from the scope of the inventive subject matters. Although the term “step” may be expressly used or implied relating to features of processes or methods, no implication is made of any particular order or sequence among such expressed or implied steps unless an order or sequence is explicitly stated.
Any dimensions expressed or implied in the drawings and these descriptions are provided for exemplary purposes. Thus, not all embodiments within the scope of the drawings and these descriptions are made according to such exemplary dimensions. The drawings are not made necessarily to scale. Thus, not all embodiments within the scope of the drawings and these descriptions are made according to the apparent scale of the drawings with regard to relative dimensions in the drawings. However, for each drawing, at least one embodiment is made according to the apparent relative scale of the drawing.
Like reference numbers used throughout the drawings depict like or similar elements. Unless described or implied as exclusive alternatives, features throughout the drawings and descriptions should be taken as cumulative, such that features expressly associated with some particular embodiments can be combined with other embodiments.
Embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are directed to a variety of multi-tighten-able, interfaceable, and retractable cargo securement devices (CSDs) and related methods. In at least one embodiment, a CSD includes a center gear 101 configured to drive a plurality of interfaceable spool gears, each spool gear forming part of a respective spool. A retractable strap is operably attached to each spool. Each strap can include a fastener such as, for example, a carabiner, at an end of strap opposite the end connected to the spool for connecting to an anchor.
In various embodiments, a cargo securement device (CSD) as disclosed comprises a plurality of tie-down straps emanating from an encasement. The straps can be torqued to desired tension uniformly as a group or individually; held at variable distances from the encasement; and thereby used to secure irregularly shaped cargo at varying distances from fixed tie-down points, for either safe transport and/or stationary storage of cargo or other bulk items. The straps can be mechanically recoiled in the CSD to prevent entanglement.
During use, in at least one embodiment, the CSD is placed over, besides, or adjacent to a cargo to be secured. The retractable straps are extracted and connected to anchors. The central gear is driven, thereby driving the interfaced spool gears and thereby retracting and tightening the straps.
FIG. 1 shows an isometric projection of a CSD 100 with a top cover 150 with access holes 152 to gears (gears not shown in FIG. 1). Extending from the sides (i.e., the side periphery) of the assembled CSD 100 are tie-down straps 104 that include carabiners 105 at the end of the tie-down straps in this CSD example.
FIG. 2 shows a side elevation view of an CSD 100 with a top cover 150 and bottom cover 175. Extending from the sides of the CSD 100 are tie-down straps 104 that include carabiners 105 at the end of the tie-down straps in this CSD example. A cog-lock lever 301 is shown extending from the bottom cover 175 in this CSD 100.
FIG. 3 shows a side elevation view of a CSD 100 with the top cover 150 removed by operating flexible clips 151 provided on the inside of the top cover 150 and the bottom cover 175 removed by operating flexible clips 176 on the inside of the bottom cover thereby partially exposing the inner workings of the CSD 100. The partially exposed inner workings illustrated in FIG. 3 are provided between a top encasement 200 and a bottom encasement 300. Male ratcheting mechanisms 108 are shown extending above the top encasement 200. A cog-lock lever 301 is shown connected to the bottom encasement 300 in this CSD 100.
FIG. 4 shows an isometric projection of a CSD 100 with the top cover 150 removed and the bottom cover 175 removed by operating flexible clips 176 on the inside 177 of the bottom cover 175. The partially exposed inner workings illustrated in FIG. 4 are provided between top encasement 200 and bottom encasement 300. Male ratcheting mechanisms 108 are shown extending above top encasement 200.
FIG. 5 shows an isometric projection of a top encasement 200 and bottom encasement 300 for a CSD 100. Parallel and closely spaced male threaded standoffs 103, for example, serve to secure the bottom encasement 300 to the top encasement 200 by nuts 109 on of the standoffs 103 that extend through the top encasement 200. The standoffs 103 also serve as spacers to keep the top encasement 200 separated from the bottom encasement 300 at a desired spacing for proper operation of the internal mechanical workings. Slots 201 are shown in the top encasement 200 for flexible clips 151 on the inside of the top cover 150 (not shown). A slot 303 is shown on the bottom encasement 300 for a flexible clip 176 on the inside of the bottom cover 175 (not shown).
FIG. 6 shows an isometric projection of a bottom encasement 300 for a CSD 100 with a central gear 101 engaged with each of the smaller surrounding spool gears 102. Each spool gear 102 has a recoil spring 107 on top and each spool 102 a (See FIG. 13) contains coiled tie-down straps 104 that feed through parallel and closely spaced male threaded standoffs 103, for example. The standoffs 103 serve as web ringers for the tie-down straps 104 as well as spacers to keep the top encasement 200 separated from the bottom encasement 300 at a desired spacing for proper operation of the internal mechanical workings as previously shown and described for FIG. 5. The parallel and closely spaced male threaded standoffs 103 can also serve to secure the bottom encasement 300 to the top encasement 200 by nuts 109 on the threaded portion of the standoffs 103 that extend through the top encasement 200 (previously shown in FIG. 5). The ends of the tie-down straps 104 include carabiners 105 in the CSD 100 illustrated in FIG. 6.
FIG. 7 shows a close-up isometric projection of the partial internal workings for the CSD 100 previously shown in FIG. 6. A central gear 101 is engaged with surrounding spool gears 102. The spool gears 102 each contain coiled tie-down straps 104 that feed through parallel and closely spaced standoffs 103 that serve as web ringers and the ends of the tie-down straps include carabiners 105 in this example. A recoil spring 107 is shown on the top of each spool gear 102. A male ratcheting mechanism 108 is shown on top of each spool gear 102 and the central gear 101. A cog-lock lever 301 is partially shown on the bottom encasement 300.
FIG. 8 shows an isometric projection of a spool gear 102 with a recoil spring 107 on top and a coiled tie-down strap 104 wrapped around the spool 102 a associated with each spool gear 102. A male ratcheting mechanism 108 is shown on top of the spool gear 102. An individual gear cog 111 is shown on the spool gear 102.
FIG. 9 shows an isometric projection of a spool gear 102 with a disengagement spring 106 on the bottom and a coiled tie-down strap 104 wrapped around the spool 102 a associated with each spool gear 102. A male ratcheting mechanism 108 is shown on top of the spool gear 102. An individual gear cog 111 is shown on the spool gear 102.
FIG. 10 shows an isometric projection of a bottom encasement 300 and a top encasement 200 of a CSD such as CSD 100. Slots 303 provided in the bottom encasement 300 for flexible clips 176 on the inside 177 of the bottom cover 175 (as previously shown in FIG. 4). A cog-lock lever 301 is provided on the bottom encasement 300. Slot 304 is partially shown above the cog-lock lever 301 on the bottom encasement 300. Slot 304 allows for the lateral movement of a cog pin 302 (not shown) connected to the cog-lock lever 301 that locks the central gear by engagement between two individual cogs on the central gear (not shown). A fastener 306 is shown connected to the cog-lock lever 301.
FIG. 10 also shows parallel and closely spaced male threaded standoffs 103, for example, that serve as web ringers, as well as spacers to keep the top encasement 200 separated from the bottom encasement 300 at a desired spacing to thereby allow for proper operation of the internal mechanical workings. The bottom encasement 300 has, for example, countersunk holes 308 such that the threads 112 on the bottoms of the standoffs 103 can be secured on the bottom encasement 300 by nuts 109. As previously shown in FIG. 5, the threads 112 on the tops of the standoff 103 extend slightly above the top encasement 200 and are held by nuts 109, thereby securing the top encasement 200 to the bottom encasement 300.
FIG. 11 shows a partial isometric projection of spool gears 102 and a central gear 101. Each spool gear 102 can include a recoil spring 107 on top for recoiling a tie-down strap 104 (previously shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7) when the spool gear 102 is disengaged from the central gear 101, as further described in association with subsequent drawings. Slot 304 in the bottom encasement 300 shows a cog pin 302 laterally extended between two individual cogs of the central gear 101 in a locked position. The fastener 306 extends through the slot 305 in the bottom encasement 300 and supports the cog-lock lever 301 from the upper side of the bottom encasement 300 (not shown) allowing support and lateral movement of the cog-lock lever 301.
FIG. 12 shows an isometric projection of an isolated wrench 400 that can be used to turn and torque the spool gears 102 or the center gear 101. The wrench 400 includes a ratchet 402 and a female socket 404 for connection to the male ratcheting mechanism 108 (not shown) provided on central gear 101 or on spool gear 102 (previously shown in FIG. 7). The hold-down snaps 405 in the wrench 400 can be used to secure the wrench in a compartment, as will be described in association with subsequent drawings.
FIG. 13 shows an isometric projection of the partial internal workings of a CSD example previously shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 6 with the introduction of an isolated wrench 400 for the purposes of illustrating spool gear 102 activation and disengagement from a central gear 101. The wrench 400 has a wide head 401 connected to handle 403 and in the example illustrated in FIG. 13, wrench 400 can be pressed down on spool gear 102 to disengage spool gear 102 from central gear 101 by compression of disengagement spring 106 (previously shown in FIG. 9) beneath spool gear 102. The wrench 400 includes ratchet 402 and female socket 404 for connection to male ratcheting mechanism 108 provided on central gear 101 or on spool gear 102. Bottom encasement 300 shows a cog pin 302 and cog-lock lever 301.
FIG. 14 shows an isometric projection of a wrench 400 interfaced with the top cover 150 of a CSD. The wrench 400 is in position to extend the female socket 404 (previously shown in FIG. 12) through an access hole 152 in the top cover 150 to connect with a male ratcheting mechanism 108 on the central gear 101 (previously shown in FIG. 13). In this example, the wrench 400 could be pressed down on the central gear 101 to disengage the central gear 101 from the surrounding spool gears 102 by compression of a spring beneath the central gear 101 (not shown). In this example, each of the tie-down straps 104 can be uncoiled from the spool gears 102 and the carabiners 105 connected to an anchor (not shown). A compartment 500 forming part of, or connected to, the CSD can be used for storing an isolated wrench 400 when the wrench is not in use.
FIG. 15 shows a partial isometric projection of compartment 500 for storing isolated wrench 400 when not in use. Compartment 500 is connected to the CSD by a housing 501. Housing 501 enables the hold-down snaps 405 of wrench 400 to be secured in the compartment 500 during storage and transport.
FIG. 16 shows an isometric projection of a CSD application 600 securing a cargo container 601 in a centered application 602. Tie-down straps are shown in short positions 604 and long positions 605 such that the example CSD is in a centered application 602 in this example.
FIG. 17 shows an isometric projection of an example CSD application 600 for securing a cargo container 601 in an off-centered application 603. Tie-down straps are shown in short positions 604 and long positions 605 such that the example CSD is in an off-centered application 603 in this example.
FIG. 18 shows an isometric projection of a CSD example showing the internal workings as seen from the underside of top encasement 200. In this perspective (shown without tie-down straps 104) the spool gears 102 are visible along with the spool gear slots 113 used for securing the end of the tie-down straps in the center of the spool gears. Shrouds 114 for recoil springs 107 (not shown) are on the tops of the spool gears 102. Disengagement springs 106 are shown on the bottom of the spool gears 102. The cog-lock lever 301 and cog pin 302 are shown. Threads 112 on the bottom of the male threaded standoffs 103 are visible in this perspective.
FIG. 19 shows an isometric projection of a CSD showing the internal workings on the top side of bottom encasement 300. Shrouds 114 for recoil springs 107 (not shown) are connected to the tops of spool gears 102 and move vertically with spool gears 102 during disengagement from and reengagement with central gear 101. Fastener 306 connected to cog-lock lever 301 is shown with respect to slot 305 in bottom encasement 300 which allows cog-lock lever 301 to be moved laterally while being supported by bottom encasement 300. Holes 307 are provided for accommodating male threaded standoffs 103.
FIG. 20A shows a side elevation view of a CSD without the top cover 150 and bottom cover 175 (not shown). The internal workings are shown as provided in a CSD between the top encasement 200 and the bottom encasement 300 along with tie-down straps 104, and as an example, carabiners 105 attached to the ends of the straps. Disengagement springs 106 are shown on the bottom of the spool gears 102.
FIG. 20B shows the same side elevation view of a CSD example as FIG. 20A but without tie-down straps or carabiners for a clearer perspective of the internal workings. Spool gears 102 are shown with spool gear slots 113 provided on the spool of each spool gear 102. Spool gear slots 113 provide for securing the end of the tie-down straps 104 (not shown) in the center of the spool gears. The cog-lock lever 301 is shown supported from the upper side of the bottom encasement 300 by a fastener 306 allowing support and lateral movement of the cog-lock lever 301. Closely spaced male threaded standoffs 103, for example, serve to secure the bottom encasement 300 to the top encasement 200 by nuts 109 on the threaded portion of threads 112 (not shown) of the standoffs 103 that extend through the top encasement 200.
FIG. 21A shows the same side elevation view of a CSD example as FIG. 20B sliced through a central gear for a clearer perspective of the internal workings. Disengagement springs 106 are shown on the bottom of the spool gears 102. Cog-lock lever 301 is shown supported from the upper side of bottom encasement 300 by a fastener 306 allowing support and lateral movement of cog-lock lever 301. Cog pin 302 connected to the cog-lock lever 301 is also visible in the side elevation view of FIG. 21A.
FIG. 21B shows the same side elevation view of a CSD example as FIG. 20B without the bottom encasement 300 for a clearer perspective of the internal workings. Disengagement springs 106 are shown on the bottom of spool gears 102. The male threaded portion of thread 112 of standoffs 103 are shown at the bottom of the standoffs.
As shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 6 various embodiments of the CSD as mentioned herein can comprise top and bottom covers, a top and bottom encasements, a central gear, and a series of gears (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) with spool assemblies that are connected to a central gear. In the example CSD 100 eight spool gear assemblies are illustrated for securing objects, goods, loads, or freight of different shapes, sizes, geometries, or weights that may be stationary or in various modes of transport, which will sometimes be referred to herein as cargo. In application 600, the example CSD 100 could be centered (see FIG. 16) or off centered (see FIG. 17) depending for example, on the shape, size, or geometry of the cargo.
As illustrated in the Figures, CSD 100 can include a wrench 400 housed in its own compartment 500 coupled to CSD 100 when wrench 400 is not in use (FIG. 14 and FIG. 15). Wrench 400 can be used to press down on the center gear 101 (FIG. 14) to disengage the central gear 101 from the surrounding spool gears 102 by compression of a spring beneath the central gear 101. In an exemplary application, tie-down straps 104 could each be manually pulled out from the eight spool gears 102, and the carabiners 105 connected to anchors in cargo container 601.
In an exemplary application, once the tie-down straps are secured to anchors in the cargo container 601 by carabiners 105, the wrench 400 could then be used to torque the central gear 101 to tighten all eight tie-down straps simultaneously. Alternatively, any of the eight spool gears 102 in the example CSD 100 can be selectively disengaged from the central gear 101 (FIG. 13) to loosen individual tie-down straps 104; then, the carabiner 105 at the end of the loosened tie-down strap 104 can be used to connect with an anchor provided on the cargo container 601. After connection to the anchor, the individual spool gear can then be torqued (see FIG. 13) to secure the cargo. In one example, the cargo within cargo container 601 can be secured to three or more anchors in the cargo container 601.
Once it is no longer necessary to secure the cargo by the example CSD 100, the spool gears 102 of CSD 100 can be deactivated by pressing down on each individual male ratcheting mechanism 108 associated with each individual spool gear used for tie down of the cargo; the spool gears 102 of CSD 100 can alternately be deactivated by pressing down on the male ratcheting mechanism 108 and underlying disengagement spring 106 of the central gear 101 to disengage all of the spool gears simultaneously. Once the carabiners 105 are disengaged from the anchors in the cargo container 601, the tie-down straps 104 will be drawn back uniformly through the standoffs 103 that serve as web ringers, and recoiled around each spool gear through the spring-action of each compressed recoil spring 107; this provision can conveniently operate to prevent entanglement of the tie-down straps 104 after the carabiners have been disengaged.
The bottom and top encasements (FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5) of CSD 100 typically operate to retain and support the internal mechanics (e.g., spool gears, central gear, springs, and standoffs). The internal mechanics can be accessed if/when needed for cleaning or to replace tie-down straps 104, springs, or other mechanical components by removing the top encasement and/or the bottom encasement. In one example, access to the internal mechanics is gained by depressing the flexible clips 151 on the bottom of the top cover 150 (FIG. 3). Once the top cover is removed, nuts 109 can be removed from the top encasement 200 (FIG. 5) along with the top encasement itself (not shown). Once the top cover 150, nuts 109, and top encasement 200 are removed the internal mechanics are exposed as shown in FIG. 6 for cleaning and/or servicing, if needed.
In one example, access to the bottom encasement 300 can be gained by depressing the flexible clips 176 on the inside 177 of the bottom cover 175 (FIG. 4). Access to the bottom encasement 300 may be needed, for example, to service the cog-lock lever 301 or to clean the associated mechanical components (e.g., slot 304 for the lateral movement of a cog pin 302). Nuts 109 can be removed from the countersunk holes 308 on the bottom encasement 300 (FIG. 10), if needed. Once the bottom cover 175, nuts 109, and bottom encasement 300 are removed access is provided to clean and/or service the internal mechanics from the bottom side, if needed.
The top cover 150 and bottom cover 175 may be a durable and attractive mold (e.g., solid color or see-through material). The bottom cover may also be used to house other service tools, such as a small brush for cleaning components (not shown). The example wrench compartment (FIG. 14 and FIG. 15) may also serve as a handle for the CSD.
The tie-down straps 104 as shown in this embodiment can be in the form of nylon webbing that retracts and uniformly coils around the spool gears 102 by action of the recoil springs 107. In other embodiments, the straps can be in other forms such as wire cable, synthetic filament, cord, tape, yarn, chain, thread, twine, rope, other elongated material, and similar other mechanisms that can be coiled around the spools. Recoiling on the spools operates to minimize the entanglement of strapping. In one embodiment, carabiners 105 are attached to the ends of the straps for securement to fixed hold-down devices or anchors at some distance from the center of the CSD. In other embodiments, the ends of the straps may include other forms of securing mechanisms such as hooks, o-rings, metal loops with or without springs, screwed gates, and similar other mechanisms.
The length of the strapping is typically a function of the size and depth of the spool. Various embodiments can have longer, shorter, or variable strapping lengths and correspondingly different spool diameters and casement geometries.
As noted, the number of spools can be varied and customized for the securing application at hand. In embodiment as shown in FIG. 1, eight retractable spools are secured within the octagonal encasement. In other embodiments, the number of retractable spools varies, ranging from one to 12 24 or higher. Accordingly, the corresponding geometry of the encasements may vary with the number of retractable spools.
The current disclosure is also directed to tying down any physical object or objects using any of the CSDs disclosed herein. In one example, a method includes obtaining a CSD; positioning the CSD on or adjacent to the cargo to be secured; extracting at least two of the plurality of straps and securing them to an anchor; and applying torque to at least two individual spools. If all eight spool gears are released by the central gear and attached to anchors at some distance from the CSD, then torque will initially be applied to the central gear 101 for preliminary tightening. Spool gears 102 may then be individually tightened or released depending on the geometry of the cargo, cargo placement, and anchor positioning.
In various embodiments, CSD can include the inner mechanical workings, encasements, strapping, carabiners, covers, and a wrench as a preassembled product. The assembled CSD provides for a compact securing device and is ideal for storage and strapping does not become entangled.
In addition to the systems and methods disclosed herein, the present invention can also include a kit as well as provisions for replacement parts. Replacement parts can include strapping, springs, geared spools, the center gear, standoffs, and the wrench. Some embodiments of the kit can include interchangeable components (e.g., replacement spools with wider or longer strapping, or strapping rated for different load limits).
A cargo securement device (CSD) for securing cargo comprises a top encasement 200 and a bottom encasement 300, and a center gear 101 rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement 200 and the bottom encasement 300. The device further comprises one or more spools 102 a, each spool 102 a including a spool gear 102 for cooperatively engaging with the center gear 101; and a retractable strap 104 attached to the spool 102 a.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a securing mechanism (e.g., in the form of a carabiner 105) provided at a loose end of the strap 104.
According to one or more embodiments, each spool 102 a includes a coiling mechanism or spring mechanism such as, for example, recoil spring 107 configured to apply tension to the strap 104 to retract the strap and coil the strap about the spool 102 a.
According to one or more embodiments, the spring mechanism is configured to apply tension to the strap when the securing mechanism is removably attached to an anchor for securing a cargo.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises at least two spools and at most twelve spools.
According to one or more embodiments, at least two of the straps are configured to be released from the coiling mechanism or spring mechanism, attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a wrench 400 housed in a compartment 500 attached to the device.
According to one or more embodiments, the wrench 400 is configured for applying torque to one or more of the center gear 101 and the one or more spools 102 a.
According to one or more embodiments, the wrench 400 is further configured for releasably interfacing with at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement.
According to one or more embodiments, the securing mechanism comprises one or more of: a carabiner, a hook, an O-ring and a metal loop.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare strap or cord or wire, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.
Disclosed herein is a multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD) for securing a cargo item. According to various embodiments, the device comprises a top encasement and a bottom encasement, and a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further includes one or more spool, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and a cord attached to each spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the center gear is configured to releasably engaging the spool gear whereby the spool 102 a is configured to rotate freely when the center gear disengages the spool gear 102.
According to one or more embodiments, the cord is configured for mechanical retraction when the center gear is not engaged with the spool.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a securing mechanism provided at a loose end of the cord.
According to one or more embodiments, the device comprises two or more spools, wherein at least two of the cords are configured to be attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.
According to one or more embodiments, the device further comprises a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare cord, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.
Disclosed herein is method for securing a cargo item. According to at least one embodiment, the method comprises providing multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD). The CSD device comprises a top encasement and a bottom encasement, and a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement. The device further comprises two or more spools, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and a cord or strap attached to each spool. The method comprises positioning the device on or adjacent to the cargo to be secured; extracting at least two cords or straps and securing them to one or more anchors; and, applying torque to one or more of the center gear and at least one spool gear to secure the cargo.
According to one or more embodiments, the method further comprises disengaging a spool gear from the center gear, and mechanically recoiling the cord or strap attached to the disengaged spool gear upon completion of cargo securement.
According to one or more embodiments, the method further comprises applying torque to one or more of the center gear and the two or more spools with a wrench housed in a compartment attached to the device.
Various embodiments of the invention can advantageously provide various improvements in the art. In general, the embodiments can advantageously allow for increased options for securing cargo than would otherwise be possible by conventional tie-down devices. As a result, the safety of cargo transport is also increased. Further, embodiments as disclosed herein can allow for easy and intuitive use (e.g., without requiring detailed directions or instructions). Embodiments can also be easily used in a variety of cargo configurations (e.g., uneven loads, irregular shaped cargo, varying distances from fixed tie-down points). Embodiments can also be used to secure bulky items that are not transported (e.g., storage of boxes on garage, store, or warehouse shelves). Further, embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter can also minimize or prevent entanglement of cargo strapping, which is a common problem with loose cargo straps.
Numerous characteristics and advantages have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of structure and function. The disclosure, however, is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of parts, within the principle of the disclosure.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cargo securement device (CSD) for securing cargo, the device comprising:

a top encasement and a bottom encasement;

a center gear rotatably secured to at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement;

one or more spools, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and

a retractable strap attached to the spool.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a securing mechanism provided at a loose end of the strap.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein each spool includes a coiling mechanism or spring mechanism configured to apply tension to the strap to retract the strap and coil the strap about the spool.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the spring mechanism is configured to apply tension to the strap when the securing mechanism is removably attached to an anchor for securing a cargo.

5. The device of claim 3, wherein the device comprises at least two spools and at most twelve spools.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein at least two of the straps are configured to be released from the coiling mechanism or spring mechanism, attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.

7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a wrench housed in a compartment attached to the device.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the wrench is configured for applying torque to one or more of the center gear and a spool gear of the one or more spools.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the wrench is further configured for releasably interfacing with at least one of the top encasement and the bottom encasement.

10. The device of claim 2, wherein the securing mechanism comprises one or more of: a carabiner, a hook, an O-ring and a metal loop.

11. The device of claim 1, further comprising a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare strap, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.

12. A multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD) for securing a cargo item, the device comprising:

a top encasement and a bottom encasement;

a cord attached to each spool.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the center gear is configured to releasably engaging the spool gear whereby the spool is configured to rotate freely when the center gear disengages the spool gear.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the cord is configured for mechanical retraction when the center gear is not engaged with the spool.

15. The device of claim 12, further comprising a securing mechanism provided at a loose end of the cord.

16. The device of claim 12, wherein the device comprises two or more spools, wherein at least two of the cords are configured to be attached to an anchor, and torqued or tightened to hold cargo in place.

17. The device of claim 12, further comprising a kit for holding the device, wherein the kit comprises one or more of a: replacement part, spare cord, spare spring, spare spool, spare spool gear, spare center gear, and wrench.

18. A method for securing cargo, the method comprising:

providing multi-armed cargo securement device (CSD), the device comprising:

a top encasement and a bottom encasement;

two or more spools, each spool including a spool gear for cooperatively engaging with the center gear; and

a cord or strap attached to each spool.

positioning the device on or adjacent to the cargo to be secured;

extracting at least two cords or straps and securing them to one or more anchors; and,

applying torque to one or more of the center gear and at least one spool gear to secure the cargo.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

disengaging a spool gear from the center gear, and

mechanically recoiling the cord or strap attached to the disengaged spool gear upon completion of cargo securement.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

applying torque to one or more of the center gear and the two or more spools with a wrench housed in a compartment attached to the device.