DOOR LOCKING SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

A door locking system and method includes a first latching member that defines a threaded opening and is configured to engage a first door member, a second latching member that has a groove and is configured to engage a second door member, and a clamping member that has an elongated shaft, a flange attached to a first end of the shaft, and a second threaded end configured to thread into the threaded opening; one end of the shaft defining a tool opening. An end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is configured to pass through the groove. When a tool is used to rotate the shaft about the threaded opening to move the flange toward the second latching member, the flange contacts the second latching member to connect the shaft and latching members together to secure the door members.

Description

DOOR LOCKING SYSTEM AND METHOD CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority over US provisional application No. 63 / 180,559 (filed on April 27, 2021), the full description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of Invention The types of products described herein refer to door locks for vehicles. Other types refer to external securing locks for cargo vehicles. Background of the Invention Some railcars and other freight vehicles include door panels for accessing the vehicle's interior cargo space. To prevent theft and vandalism, these door panels can be secured to prevent unauthorized access. However, many freight vehicles lack internal or built-in door locking mechanisms. Such vehicles may be equipped with devices similar to bolts and padlocks, but keyed locks are impractical for freight vehicles that cross jurisdictional borders and / or must be accessed by different operational entities in different geographic locations. For example, for vehicles transporting cargo between states, countries, or other entities over long distances, locking the door panels is impractical, as it is difficult to ensure that personnel at the unloading point (cargo removal) have the same key or keys.Furthermore, cutting the locks is time-consuming, expensive, and can damage the vehicle. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a vehicle door locking system that differs from existing vehicle door locks. Summary of the Invention According to one example or aspect, a door locking system (e.g., for railway or other vehicles) includes a first coupling installation, a second coupling installation, and a fastening member. The first coupling installation includes a first coupling member that defines a - 2 threaded opening and configured to pivotally join a first door member. The second engagement installation includes a second engagement member having a side groove extending through it and configured to join a second door member. The engagement member has an elongated shaft with a first end and a second end. A first flange engages the first end, and the second end is threaded to engage the threaded opening of the first engagement member. An end region of the shaft adjacent to the first end is configured to pass through the side groove of the second engagement member. Either the first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening (e.g., a tamper-resistant tool opening) configured to receive a tool head for shaft rotation.When the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft is rotated to thread the second end of the shaft into (e.g., further in) the threaded opening, the first flange moves toward the second engagement member and makes contact with it. This connects the shaft, the first engagement member, and the second engagement member to each other, securing the first door member to the second door member. According to one example or aspect, a door locking system (e.g., for railway or other vehicles) includes a first engagement installation, a second engagement installation, and a retaining member. The first engagement installation includes a first engagement member that defines a threaded opening and is configured to pivotally join a first door member. The second engagement installation includes a second engagement member that has a side groove and is configured to join a second door member. The retaining member includes an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft. The shaft has a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first engagement member. The first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening (e.g., a tool holder).A tamper-resistant tool opening is configured to receive a tool head for spindle rotation. An end region adjacent to the first spindle end is configured to engage in the side groove of the second engagement member when the first engagement member rotates to couple the spindle and the second engagement member. The first flange is formed when the end region engages in the side groove and the spindle rotates to further thread the second flange. - 3. Insert the end of the shaft into the threaded opening to move towards and make contact with the second coupling member. In this way, the shaft, the first coupling member, and the second coupling member connect to each other to secure the first door member to the second door member. Brief Description of the Figures of the Invention The objective of the invention can be understood from reading the following description of the non-limiting embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the following is stated: Figure 1 illustrates a first modality of a door locking system; Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a fastening member; Figure 3 illustrates one embodiment of a second latching member; Figure 4 illustrates one embodiment of a first latching member; Figure 5 illustrates one embodiment of a support plate; Figure 6 illustrates one embodiment of a retaining element; Figure 7 illustrates one embodiment of a fastener; Figure 8 illustrates one embodiment of another retaining element; Figure 9 illustrates one embodiment of another fastener; Figure 10 illustrates the door locking system of Figure 1 in a first operational state unlocked; Figure 11 illustrates the door locking system in a second intermediate operating state; Figure 12 illustrates the door locking system in a third locked operating state; Figure 13 illustrates an exploded view of the door locking system shown in Figure 1; Figure 14 illustrates one embodiment of a tamper-resistant fastener head and tool opening; Figure 15 illustrates an example of a tool head; Figure 16 illustrates another type of door locking system; Figure 17 illustrates the door locking system of Figure 16 in a first unlocked operating state; Figure 18 illustrates the door locking system of Figure 16 in a second locked operating state; -4Figure 19 illustrates one modality of a receiving member with one input, corresponding to the view of line 19-19 in Figure 13; Figure 20 illustrates another modality of a receiving member; Figure 21 illustrates another type of door locking system; Figure 22 illustrates a perspective view of another type of door locking system; Figure 23 illustrates an enlarged view of one modality of a second latching installation of a door locking system according to one modality; Figure 24 illustrates another type of door locking system; Figure 25 illustrates another type of door locking system; Figure 26 illustrates the door locking system shown in Figure 24 attached to the door members of a vehicle; Figure 27 illustrates an enlarged view of the door locking system shown in Figure 26 in a coupled state; Figure 28 illustrates an enlarged view of the door locking system shown in Figure 26 in an uncoupled state; and Figure 29 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for coupling a door locking system according to a modality. Detailed Description of the Invention The embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate to door locking systems, such as those that may be used to retrofit or otherwise equip car carriers, other railway cars, and other freight vehicles to secure access doors from the outside without the need for padlocks or other keyed locks requiring coordinated control of key sets. In one embodiment, the system includes a first coupling installation, a second coupling installation, and a fastening member. The first coupling installation includes a first coupling member that defines a threaded opening and is configured to engage a first door member. (As used herein, door member refers to any part of a door, e.g., door panels, parts that provide support to a door, e.g.)Door frames and parts that otherwise serve to establish a door function for selectively accessing an interior cargo space or other space, e.g., parts. - 5 of the vehicle frame that adjoin a door when the door is closed but are not directly connected to the door). The second engagement installation includes a second engagement member having a groove extending through it and configured to engage a second door member. The engagement member includes an elongated shaft with first and second ends and a first flange attached to the first end. The second end is threaded to engage in the threaded opening of the first engagement member. Either the first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening (e.g., a tamper-resistant tool opening) configured to receive a tool head for shaft rotation. An end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is configured to pass through the groove of the second engagement member.The first flange is formed when the end region is positioned through the side groove and the shaft is rotated (e.g., with a tool placed in the tool opening) to thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening, moving it toward and making contact with the second engagement member. This connects the two engagement members together, securing the first door member to the second door member. In these configurations, the first coupling member can be configured to pivotally attach to the first door member. The second threaded end of the shaft can be threaded into the threaded opening of the first coupling member and can pivot (relative to the door member) along with the first coupling assembly. The groove in the second coupling member is provided as a side groove; for example, it can extend through the second coupling member either from front to back or along one side of the second coupling member. The end region adjacent to the first shaft end is configured to engage in the side groove when the first coupling member rotates to engage the shaft and the second coupling member.When the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft rotates to further thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening, the flange moves toward the second locking member and makes contact with it. In this way, the two locking members are rigidly clamped together via the shaft, securing the first door member to the second door member. In other configurations, the first and second coupling members are permanently attached to the door members. The slot in the second coupling member is - 6 provides a through-hole, and the shaft of the fastening member is positioned through the through-hole, with the second threaded end facing the first engagement member. (As part of the manufacturing process, after the shaft is inserted through the through-hole, a second intermediate flange may be added to prevent it from being pulled out of the second engagement member in the field.) In operation, to secure the two gate members together, the shaft is moved toward the first engagement member, and a tool is used to rotate the shaft to thread the threaded end of the shaft into the threaded opening. The shaft and the first flange are positioned / sized so that the flange contacts the second engagement member once the threaded end of the shaft is screwed into the first engagement member. Returning now to the figures, Figures 1-13 show aspects of various configurations of a door locking system 30. The door locking system includes a first latching installation 32, a second latching installation 34, and a clamping member 36. The first latching installation includes a first latching member 38 that defines a threaded opening 40 and is configured to pivotally attach to a first door member 42. The first latching member can be provided, for example, as a first L-bracket 44 having a first base plate 46 and a support leg or a first clamping plate 48 attached at a right angle to a side edge of the first base plate. The first base plate defines a pivot connection hole 50; the hole can be formed in the base plate by drilling or another machining operation. The first clamping plate defines the threaded opening.The threaded opening may be tapped into the bracket leg using standard machining techniques, or the threaded opening may be provided by permanently fixing a nut or other pre-threaded element as part of the bracket leg, in alignment with an unthreaded hole extending through an adjacent portion of the bracket leg body. The second engagement installation includes a second engagement member 52 having a side groove 54 and configured to join a second gate member 56. The second engagement member may be provided, for example, as a second L-bracket 58, such as an L-bracket receiver having a second support base plate 60 and a receiver member or a second clamping plate 62 attached at a right angle to a side edge of the second base plate. The second base plate defines a connection hole 64; the hole may be formed in the base plate by drilling or other means. - 7. Machining operation. The second clamping plate defines the side groove 54, e.g., the side groove can be formed in the receiving member by machining. The side groove extends through the second clamping plate from front to back, and is also open to one side of the second clamping plate, e.g., the groove extends from an interior area of ​​the second clamping plate through an opening in the side of the second clamping plate. The side groove is generally elongated, having a long axis 66 that is parallel to a plane of the second base plate and a height 68 that can be shorter than the length of the long axis. The clamping member 36 includes an elongated shaft 70 having a first end 72 and a second end 74. A first flange 76 is attached to the first end, and the second end is provided with threads 78 that are complementary to the threaded opening of the first clamping member, so that the second end of the shaft is operatively threaded into (i.e., screwed into) the threaded opening. (In addition to the second end of the shaft being threaded, optionally, the entire shaft may be threaded.) Either the first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening 80 configured to receive a tool head 82 (see Figure 11) for shaft rotation; in the embodiment shown in the drawings, the first end of the shaft defines the tool opening. An end region 84 of the shaft adjacent to the first end of the shaft is dimensioned to fit into the side groove, e.g.A shaft diameter of 86 can be less than the side groove height of 68. The first flange has a diameter of 88 (widest cross-sectional dimension) that is greater than the shaft diameter and greater than the side groove height. For installation, e.g., on board a vehicle, the first coupling member 38 is pivotally connected to the first door member 42. For this purpose, in the embodiments, the first coupling assembly 32 may also include one or more first support plates 90 (also called spacing plates) for aligning the first and second coupling members even if the door members are uneven or misaligned. Each support plate is a plate, generally square or rectangular, that generally corresponds in size to the base 46 of the first coupling member and defines a connection hole 92 in the support plate. The first coupling assembly 32 also includes a first clamping unit 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping unit is a pivot connector assembly that has R! RW\f\l7.7(\7IBYCHM - 8 a first fastener 96 and a retaining element 98. For example, the first fastener may be a flanged bolt 100 (see Figure 9), a hex-head screw 102 (see Figure 13), or the like; the retaining element may be a nut 104 (see Figures 8 and 13), such as a lock nut. For attachment, the door member is provided with a hole (e.g., using a drill) that has a diameter large enough to accommodate a shaft portion of the first fastener 96 but small enough to prevent the passage of the retaining element and / or a head portion of the fastener. The first latch member and the bearing plate are positioned against each other, and the fastener shaft is passed through the pivot connection hole of the first latch member and through the connection hole of the bearing plate.The support plate is positioned against the door member, with the fastener shaft extending through the hole provided in the door member. On an inside side of the door member opposite the first engagement member, the retaining element is threaded into the fastener and tightened against the door member, thereby securing the fitting to the door member. (Optionally, the support plates can be positioned on both the inside and outside surfaces of the door, with the door member sandwiched between them, to provide a clamp-like connection with a larger contact surface area between the fitting and the door.) Washers 106 (see the embodiment in Figure 13 as an example) can be provided on both sides (e.g.between the retaining element and the inner side of the door member, and between the fastener head and the first member of the latch member), and / or a thread-locking compound can be applied to the threads of the fastener and / or the retaining element, to improve the mechanical connection. (The parts and methods for fastening and assembly as described herein are provided as examples, and it is possible to join or assemble the components using other parts, means, fastening methods and / or in a different order of steps or with fewer or more steps. For example, for a fixed connection, solders or adhesives may be used instead of, or in addition to, fasteners.) In other embodiments, with reference to Figure 13, the pivot connector 94 installation of the first hitch installation may also include a collar or bushing 108. The collar or bushing has an outside diameter and the fastener has a through hole that defines an inside diameter of the collar or bushing. - 9 The outer diameter is complementary to the diameter of the pivot connection hole 50 of the first latch member, so that the collar or bushing can be press-fitted or otherwise arranged in the pivot connection hole. The inner diameter is slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft of the first fastener, so that the first latch member pivots around the fastener as opposed to a fixed, rigid connection. In this embodiment, for joining, the collar or bushing is arranged in the pivot connection hole, and the shaft of the fastener passes through the collar or bushing and thus through the first latch member. The first latch member is positioned against the door member, with the shaft of the fastener extending through the hole provided in the door member. The retaining element is threaded into the fastener and tightened into place, as described above. Optionally, as shown in Figure 13, the installation can be provided with one or more first bearing plates 90°, for example, if the door members are misaligned and / or if there is a need or desire to provide a pivot surface on the outside of the door that is the same as the door member, e.g., to avoid scratching the door member. After fixing, the first bearing plates 90° bear directly or indirectly on the door member, i.e., they are interposed between the door member and the first engagement member, to provide a bearing and pivot surface. One or more bearing plates can be used on the engagement member side of the door member to accommodate situations where the door members are not coplanar or are offset or misaligned, e.g., due to age, damage, manufacturing variations, etc.Furthermore, as noted above, support plates can be arranged on either the inner or outer side surfaces of the door member. If support plates are not used, the collar or bushing would contact the door member when the assembly is tightened into place. Before or after attaching the first coupling member to the first door member, the second end of the coupling member's shaft is screwed into the threaded opening of the first coupling member, far enough so that the second end protrudes from the back of the opening. After doing so, in certain embodiments, a second flange 110 can be attached to the second end of the shaft. The second flange has a diameter (or other wider transverse dimension) that is larger than the diameters of the shaft and the opening. R / Rfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi - 10. Threaded. The second flange may include, for example, a washer, nut, C- or E-fastener, or other fastener, cotter pin, or similar. The second flange may be secured in place using, for example, welding, adhesive, threadlocking compound, a mechanical fastener, or similar means. Together with the first flange, the second flange may prevent the shaft from being easily removed from the threaded opening, thus reducing the risk of loss or misplacement in the field. The second flange may be located at the second end of the shaft, or toward the second end (closer to the second end than the first). To complete the installation of the door locking system, the second latch member 52 is permanently attached to the second door member 56. For this purpose, in the various embodiments, the second latch assembly 34 may optionally include one or more second support plates (bolting plates) 112 and a second fastening unit 114 (e.g., a fixed connector assembly) having a second fastener 116 and a second retaining element 118. For example, as shown in Figure 13, the second fastener may be a bolt, a hex-head screw, or the like, and the retaining element may be a nut, such as a lock nut. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second fastener may be a rivet 120 and the second retaining element may be a rivet immobilizing collar 122.One or more second bearing plates 112 are provided so that the second coupling member is generally coplanar and aligned with the first coupling member. Coupling installations may have different numbers of bearing plates for coupling member alignment even if the gate members are misaligned. (Optionally, bearing plates may be provided on both sides of the gate member, with the gate member sandwiched between them.) To fasten the second coupling member, the second gate member has a hole (e.g., drilled). The second coupling member and the bearing plate(s) (if used) are aligned with the hole, and the second fastener is passed through the aligned holes. After the bearing plate(s) (if used) are positioned, the fastener is securely fastened in place with the second retaining element.Before providing the hole in the second door member, measurements are taken, based on the position of the first latching installation and the length of the fastening member, to position the hole in the second door member and the second latching member in such a way that when the first. - 11. The coupling member and the clamping member pivot; the end region of the clamping member shaft will be received in the side groove. In operation, first with reference to Figure 10, the first coupling member 38 and the clamping member 36 are rotated in the direction of arrow P toward the side of the second coupling member 52 that has the opening of the side slot 54. (If necessary, the clamping member is first screwed / rotated relative to the first coupling member so that the first flange 76 and the shaft extend far enough from the first coupling member such that when the clamping member pivots, the end region 84 of the shaft will be received in the side slot and the first flange 76 will not impact the second coupling member to prevent the end region of the shaft from entering the side slot.) As shown in Figure 11, the first coupling member 38 and the clamping member 36 are rotated far enough so that the end region 84 of the shaft is received in the side slot 54.Next, a tool head 82 is moved to engage with the tool opening 80 and is used to rotate the shaft so that the threaded end of the shaft engages in the threaded opening of the first latch member, in a direction that causes the first flange to move toward the second latch member. As shown in Figure 12, the first flange 76 makes contact with the side surface of the second latch member and is held firmly in place. The latch member thus connects the first and second latch members together, preventing the door members from opening. To unlock the door members, the tool head is engaged with the tool opening and used to rotate the shaft of the latch member in a direction that causes the first flange to disengage from the second latch member.Next, the clamping member can be rotated to remove it from the second latching member, returning it to the unlocked operating state, as shown in Figure 10. As indicated above, the shaft end region adjacent to the first shaft end is sized to fit into the side groove. The first flange has a diameter larger than the diameter (or other lateral cross-sectional dimension) of the shaft and greater than the height of the side groove. Therefore, the end region is configured to engage in the side groove of the second coupling member when the first coupling member rotates or swings to bring the shaft and the second coupling member into contact. - The 12 flange is configured when the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft rotates to move the first flange towards the second engagement member, to make contact with the second engagement member for a locking connection.In the various configurations, the second engagement member may also include at least one projection 124 positioned adjacent to the side opening of the side slot and defining a clearance dimensioned to interfere with the first flange, preventing the axis of the clamping member from sliding out of the side slot when the first flange makes contact with the second engagement member. For example, as shown in Figure 3, there may be a first projection tab 126 attached to a receiving member (e.g., the second clamping plate 62 of the second L-bracket) at a right angle and positioned on one side of the side slot opening, and a second projection tab 128 attached to the receiving member also at a right angle and positioned on the other side of the side slot opening.The protruding tabs 126, 128 thus define an opening that corresponds to the height of the side groove but is narrower than the diameter of the first flange 76 of the fastening member. When the fastening member is threaded inward enough so that the first flange is adjacent to the side of the second fastening member, it is recessed with respect to the protruding tabs. Here, attempting to rotate the fastening member out of the side groove (e.g., if the fastening member is not fully engaged) results in the first flange impacting the protruding tabs, preventing the fastening member from being withdrawn from the side groove. Instead, the fastening member must be unscrewed sufficiently so that the first flange clears the protruding tabs when the fastening member is rotated.(In another embodiment, with reference to Figure 20, the projection can be defined by a reamed hole 129 in the receiving member, partially concentric around the innermost end of the groove 54, which is sized to receive the first flange). Therefore, the projection(s) 124 can prevent unauthorized persons from applying a sudden force to the shaft of the fastening member that could cause the shaft to detach from the second fastening member, even with the first flange pressed against the second fastening member, if the projections were not present. Optionally, with reference to Figures 13 and 19, the receiving member of the second coupling member may be provided with an inlet 125. The inlet RjRfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi - 13 includes at least one surface on the receiving member, positioned adjacent to the open end of the groove, that forms an angle with the lateral surface of the groove, such that the groove opening is wider than the diameter of the shaft of the fastening member. In other words, through the entry, the inner portion of the groove is only slightly larger than the shaft diameter, while the groove opening, which passes into the inner portion of the groove through the angled surface(s) of the entry, is wider than the shaft diameter (e.g., twice as wide). Therefore, if the shaft and groove become slightly misaligned over time, e.g., due to vibration or gate misalignment, the shaft, instead of impacting the leading edge of the receiving member and failing to engage the groove, will encounter the entry and slide along the angled surface(s) to guide itself into the inner portion of the groove.The inlet can also establish one or more projections 124, by extending the portion(s) of the receiving member that define the angled surface(s) beyond the thickness of the main body around the perimeter of the inner portion of the groove. In the embodiments, with reference to Figures 14-15 as an example, the tool opening 80 defined at one end of the shaft of the clamping member may be a tamper-resistant tool opening 130. The tamper-resistant tool opening 130 may be defined or partially defined by a clamping head 132 fixed to the end of the shaft. (In addition to defining or partially defining the tool opening, a projection portion of the head may also define one of the first flange 76 or the second flange 110.) Tamper-resistant aspects may include one or more of the following: the head is rounded or otherwise lacks opposing flat side surfaces, such that the head cannot be operatively engaged using a wrench, pliers, socket, or the like; the tool opening is annular, defined by a rim 134 (e.g.an outer rim) and a central pedestal 136 with an annular space 138 between them, such that it prevents the opening from being operatively coupled with a screwdriver, a hex key (Alien key), a Torx screwdriver or the like; the tool opening includes irregular coupling features such that the tool opening can only be operatively coupled with a specialized tool having complementary irregular coupling features; the tool opening is. - 14 asymmetric; the tool opening includes at least some mating features that are rounded, such that only a specialized tool 82 having the same complementary features is sufficient for operational mating, whereas non-specialized tools lacking the features will slip, even if portions of the non-specialized tool fit within the opening; the tool opening is otherwise shaped so that it cannot be operationally mated using standard tools such as screwdrivers, hex keys, Torx screwdrivers, drill bits, or the like; the tool opening is unique to a particular product or group of products sold by one or more related entities;and / or the distribution of the tool or tool head configured to operatively engage the tool opening is controlled, e.g., they are sold or otherwise distributed only to authorized persons / entities. (In the context of this section, operative engagement refers to one or more of: engaging the tool head or tool opening to rotate the spindle and unlock the clamping member without damaging the tool head or tool opening;Engage the tool opening to rotate the shaft to unlock the fastening member using a power drill / driver, and / or engage the head or tool opening to rotate the shaft and unlock the fastening member within a practical time period of 60 seconds or less). Fastener heads with tamper-proof tool openings or other features, and corresponding tool heads, similar to those shown in Figures 14-15, may be available from Bryce Security Fastener Company of Gilbert, Arizona. Figures 16 to 18 show another embodiment of a door locking system 140. The system 140 includes a first latching installation 142, a second latching installation 144, and a retaining member 146. The first latching installation includes a first latching member 148 defining a threaded opening 150 (e.g., a threaded blind hole) and configured to engage a first door member 152. The second latching installation includes a second latching member 154 having a groove 156 (e.g., a through hole) extending through it and configured to engage a second door member 158. The retaining member has an elongated shaft 160 with a first end 162 and a second end 164. A first flange 166 engages - 15 at the first end, and the second end is threaded to engage in the threaded opening 150 of the first connecting member. An end region 168 of the shaft adjacent to the first end is configured to pass through the groove of the second connecting member. The first end of the shaft defines a tool opening 170 (e.g., a tamper-resistant tool opening) configured to receive a tool head 82 for shaft rotation. The shaft is sized to fit through the groove, but the first flange 166 is sized wider than the groove, such that the first flange cannot pass through the groove. For installation, the first latch member 148 is fixed to the first door member 152, and the second latch member 154 is fixed to the second door member 158, e.g., using bolts / nuts or other fasteners. The two are joined such that the groove 156 is axially aligned with the opening 150. The shaft 160 of the latch member 146 passes through the groove 156 on one side of the second latch member such that the second threaded end of the shaft protrudes from the other side of the second latch member 154 into the opening 150. After being inserted through the groove in this manner, a second flange 172 (e.g., nut, fastener, washer, etc.) can be attached to the shaft at a location toward the second end of the shaft to prevent the latch member from being freely removed from the second latch member. With reference to Figure 17, in an unlocked operating state, the clamping member is loose in the groove of the second engagement member, with the threaded end of the shaft disengaged but aligned with the threaded opening of the first engagement member. A tool head 82 engages with the tool opening 170 and is used to move the clamping member toward the first engagement member and to rotate the shaft to thread the threaded end of the shaft into the threaded opening. This causes the first flange 166 to move to the side of the second engagement member and make contact with it, connecting the two engagement members together and securing the gate members closed, as shown in Figure 18. To unlock, the tool head is used to unscrew the threaded end of the clamping member's shaft from the threaded opening, back to the position shown in Figure 17. As shown, in the modalities, the second hitch member 154 - 16 may be provided with a recess or countersunk hole 174, concentric with the groove 156 on one side of the second mating member (the side configured to face outwards from the first mating member when the system is installed), which has a larger diameter than the hole and is sized to receive the first flange 166 (e.g., the hole 174 has a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the first flange 166). The hole 174 effectively establishes an annular projection (or, in other words, a recessed annular projection is formed on the mating member, defining the recess / countersunk hole); when the shaft of the mating member is threaded into the threaded opening, the first flange bears against the second mating member within the recess / hole 174. The first and second coupling members 148, 154 are shown as block-shaped elements in the drawings, but, alternatively, they may be similar to the coupling members shown in Figures 1-15 (as appropriate), e.g., each may include an L-bracket, the second coupling member 154 having a through-hole slot instead of a side slot. In the embodiments, the first engaging member 148 includes an entrance to the opening 150. For example, the opening includes an inner cylindrical portion, and the entrance may include a tapered annular surface extending from the outermost end of the cylindrical portion through the outer side surface of the first engaging member, e.g., funnel-shaped. Therefore, the entrance to the opening is wider than its threaded inner portion and also inclined, such that if the axis of the fastening member is misaligned when it moves toward the opening, it will find and slide along the entrance and be guided into place to engage with the threads of the opening. Figure 21 illustrates another embodiment of a door locking system 230. Similar to the door locking system shown in Figures 1 to 13, the door locking system 230 includes the first latching assembly 32, the second latching assembly 34, and the clamping member 36. The first latching assembly engages with the first door member 42, and the second latching assembly engages with the second door member 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the second latching assembly engages with the second door member in a non-pivoting joint. For example, the second latching assembly engages with the second door member via a - 17 second clamping unit 114 and a third clamping unit 214. In addition, the first latching assembly is pivotally connected to the first door member via the first clamping unit 94, which represents the pivot connector assembly. For example, the pivot connector assembly allows the first latching assembly to pivot in a first direction 206 toward an engaged state of the door locking system, or in a second direction 208 toward an unengaged state of the door locking system. For example, when the door locking assembly is engaged, the first end of the elongated shaft is positioned within the side groove of the second latching assembly, and when the door locking assembly is in the unengaged state, the first end of the elongated shaft is rotated to be positioned outside the side groove of the second latching member. The door locking system also includes a 202 bushing that extends around a portion of the extended axle. For example, the bushing includes a passage extending into it, and the portion of the axle extending between the first and second hitch installations is located within the passage. Optionally, the bushing may extend a length less than the length of the extended axle between the first and second hitch installations. The bushing can prevent access to the portion of the axle located within the bushing passage. For example, the bushing can provide a secondary level of protection, such as preventing an unauthorized person from cutting the axle to access cargo inside the vehicle. Optionally, the door locking system may include several bushings. For example, Figure 22 illustrates a door locking system 240 according to one or more embodiments. The door locking system includes the first and second locking installations and the elongated shaft of the retaining member that extends between the first and second locking installations when the door locking system is in the engaged state. Similar to the door locking system shown in Figure 21, the door locking system 240 includes the bushing 202 disposed between the first and second locking installations. In addition, the door locking system also includes a second bushing 204 disposed at the second end of the elongated shaft. For example, the second bushing includes one or more surfaces defining an internal passage, and a portion of the second end of the shaft is disposed within the passage of the second bushing.In the illustrated version. - 18 The second flange 110 is also located within the passage of the second bushing. The multiple bushings 202, 204 may prevent access to different portions of the shaft located within the inner passages of the bushings. The door locking system shown in Figure 22 also includes a first mounting plate extension 222 that engages with the first mounting plate 48 of the first engagement installation, and a second mounting plate extension 224 that engages with the second mounting plate 62 of the second engagement installation. The first and second mounting plate extensions extend toward each other. For example, the first L-bracket may be referred to as the first S-bracket, and the second L-bracket may be referred to as the second S-bracket. Similar to the plurality of bushings, the first and second mounting plate extensions may be designed to prevent access to portions of the elongated shaft that are located beneath the first and second mounting plate extensions, such as when the door locking system is engaged. Figure 23 illustrates an enlarged view of one embodiment of the second latching assembly 34 of a door locking system. The second latching assembly includes the second latching member having the side slot 54 extending from a side wall of the second mounting plate, and a second base plate 60 engaged with the second mounting plate. The second latching assembly engages with the second door member 56 via a second and third fastening unit 114, 214, with two support plates 112 arranged between the second base plate and the second door member. In the illustrated embodiment, the second fastening unit includes a fastener extending through the second base plate, each of the support plates, and the second door member.Alternatively, the third mounting unit includes a fastener that extends through only the second base plate and the second door member. Optionally, the second mounting assembly can be coupled with the second door member in an alternative configuration. The second coupling member includes a recess 210 located near an intersection between the second clamping plate and the second base plate. For example, the recess may be a gap or space between the clamping and base plates. In one embodiment, the recess may be a notch in the geometry of the second coupling member. For example, the notch may be required for the purpose of - 19 manufacturing, to provide space to allow the protruding tongue 126 and / or the inlets 125, or the like. Figure 24 illustrates another embodiment of a door locking system 330 according to one or more embodiments. Similar to the door locking systems shown in Figures 1-13, 21, and 22, the door locking system 330 includes the first and second latching installations 32, 34, with the clamping member 36 including the elongated shaft 70 extending between the first and second ends. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 24, the door locking system is in the coupled state. For example, the first latching installation has been pivoted such that the end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is received in the lateral groove of the second latching member to couple the shaft and the second latching member. The door locking system also includes a first guide 332 that engages with the end region adjacent to the first shaft end that includes the tool opening. Alternatively, the second shaft end may include the tool opening, and the first guide may engage with the second shaft end that defines the opening. In one or more embodiments, the first guide may be formed as a common or unitary structure with the elongated shaft, may be welded or otherwise fastened to the shaft end region, or the like. The first guide includes one or more inner surfaces 336 that define a cavity 338. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity includes an end surface that engages with the shaft end region and extends in a direction away from the second engagement member.The opening tool can be positioned within the cavity, and the tool head can be received within the cavity of the first guide for spindle rotation. In one or more embodiments, the inner surfaces of the first guide may include a recessed design, a ramp, a funnel feature, or the like, which can be used to help guide the tool head into the cavity. In one or more embodiments, the door locking system may also include a second guide 334. The second guide may be joined or coupled to the second door member, such as by means of one or more fasteners (not shown) received within the mating holes 346 of the second guide. Like the first guide, the second guide may include one or more inner surfaces 340 that define a passage 342 extending within the second guide. The second guide may be coupled to the second door member of - 20 such that the first and second guides can be aligned linearly with each other along axis 344. In one or more embodiments, the inner surfaces of the second guide may include a recessed design, a ramp, a funnel feature, or the like, which can be used to help guide the tool head through the passage and into the cavity of the first guide. Although the door locking system is in the engaged state (e.g., the end of the shaft defining the tool opening is positioned within the side groove), an operator can control the tool head's movement so that it enters the passage of the second guide, moves along the shaft in the linear direction toward the first guide, and engages within the first guide's cavity to meet the tool opening. The operator can then control the tool head's movement to rotate the tool opening to loosen or engage the door locking system. For example, rotating the tool head in a first direction rotates the tool opening in the same direction, moving the first flange away from the second engagement member to loosen the door locking system.Alternatively, by rotating the tool head in a second direction, the tool opening rotates in the same second direction and moves the first flange towards the second engagement member to make contact with the second engagement member and secure the door locking system. Figure 25 illustrates a door locking system 430 according to another embodiment. Similar to the door locking system shown in Figure 24, the door locking system 430 includes the first and second locking installations 32, 34, with the clamping member 36 including the elongated shaft 70 extending between the first and second ends. The door locking system also includes the first guide 332, which engages with the end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft, including the tool opening. The first guide includes the inner surfaces 336 that define the cavity 338 in which the tool opening is located. The door locking system also includes a second guide 434 that engages with the second vehicle door member via several fastening units 446. In the illustrated embodiment, the second guide includes a first surface 436 that engages with a second surface 438. The surfaces - 22 hitch installation. In the illustrated configuration, an operator stands at ground level and can control the movement of a 350 tool, including the tool head. Figure 27 illustrates an enlarged view of the door-locking system shown in Figure 26. While standing at ground level, the operator can control the tool's movement to guide the tool head (not shown), located at one end of the tool, through the passage of the second guide and into the cavity of the first guide. The tool head can engage with the tool opening located within the cavity of the first guide. Rotation of the tool and tool head causes the tool opening of the door-locking system to rotate, moving the door-locking system between the loosened and tightened states.For example, loosening the door locking system moves the first flange away from the second latch member, and tightening the door locking system moves the first flange toward the second latch member to secure the first and second door members together. While the door locking system is in the loosened state, the operator can control the movement of the clamping member to move it between the engaged and disengaged states. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 27, the clamping member is in the engaged state such that the end region adjacent to the first end of the elongated shaft is positioned within the lateral groove of the second clamping member. While the clamping member is in the engaged state, the door locking system can be loosened or tightened. Alternatively, Figure 28 illustrates a magnified view of the door locking system shown in Figure 25, but in the disengaged state. For example, the elongated shaft has been rotated in the second direction 208, and the end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft has been moved out of the lateral groove of the second clamping member.In one embodiment, an operator can climb into the vehicle to reach the door locking system, can stand on a ladder or elevated platform, or can use a tool (e.g., the 350 tool shown in Figures 25 and 26 or a different tool) to control the movement of the clamping member to pivot the first latching installation to move the elongated shaft in the second direction 208 away from the side slot (e.g., towards the uncoupled state) or in the first direction 206 towards the side slot. - 23 (e.g., towards the coupled state). Figure 29 illustrates a flowchart 2900 of an example of a method for coupling a door locking system according to a modality. In step 2902, a determination is made as to whether the door locking system is in a locked state. If the door locking system is in the locked state (e.g., the first and second door members are secured), then the method flow proceeds to step 2904. Alternatively, if the door locking system is not in the locked state (e.g., the first and second door members are not secured), then the method flow continues to step 2914. In step 2904, a determination is made as to whether it is necessary to unlock the door locking system. For example, if the door locking system is in the locked state, it may be necessary to unlock it, such as to access cargo placed on board the vehicle. If it is necessary to unlock the door locking system, the method flow can continue to step 2908. Alternatively, if it is not necessary to unlock the door locking system, the method flow can continue to step 2906, where the door locking system is left in its current state. In step 2908, to unlock the door locking system, a tool opening of the door locking system engages with a tool head. The movement of the tool head may be controlled manually, such as by a vehicle operator, or automatically, such as by a robotic system, or similarly. In one or more embodiments, the tool opening may be a tamper-resistant tool opening, and the tool head may be specifically designed to engage with the tamper-resistant tool opening. In step 2910, in response to the tool head engaging the tool opening, the tool head can rotate, causing the tool opening to rotate. Rotating the tool opening in one direction moves a first flange of the elongated shaft of the door locking system away from a second engagement member. Conversely, rotating the tool opening in a different direction moves the first flange toward the second engagement member to make contact with it. - 24 engagement. As the first engagement member moves away from the second engagement member, the door locking system goes into a loosened state. In step 2912, one of the first or second coupling installations rotates to move the elongated shaft away from a side slot of the other first or second coupling installation. For example, the second coupling installation may include the side slot, and the first coupling installation may pivot to move the elongated shaft away from the side slot. By rotating the coupling installation to move the elongated shaft out of engagement with and away from the side slot, the door locking system is moved to an uncoupled state. For example, the elongated shaft does not engage with the side slot while the door locking system is in the uncoupled state. The vehicle door members can open and close while the door locking system is in the uncoupled state. Returning to step 2902, if the door locking system is not in the locked state, the method flow continues to step 2914. In step 2914, it is determined whether the door locking system should be locked. If it is not necessary to lock the door locking system, the method flow can continue to step 2916, where the door locking system is left in its current state. Alternatively, if it is necessary to lock the door locking system, the method flow continues to step 2918. In step 2918, one of the first or second coupling installations can pivot to move the extended shaft into the side slot of the other first or second coupling installation. Moving the extended shaft into the side slot engages it, such that a portion of the shaft is positioned within the slot. The door locking system is engaged while this portion of the extended shaft is positioned within the side slot. In step 2920, the tool opening of the door locking system engages with the tool head, and in step 2922, the tool head rotates, causing the tool opening to rotate. Rotating the tool head and tool opening in one direction moves the first flange of the door locking system toward and presses against the second engagement member to secure the first and second door members of the vehicle. Alternatively, rotating the tool head and tool opening in a different direction causes the first flange to... R / Rfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi - 25 away from the second hitch member, where the first and second door members are not secured. According to one example, a door locking system includes a first latching installation, a second latching installation, and a retaining member. The first latching installation includes a first latching member that defines a threaded opening and is configured to pivotally engage a first door member. The second latching installation includes a second latching member that has a lateral groove extending through it and is configured to engage a second door member. The retaining member has an elongated shaft with a first end and a second end. A first flange engages the first end, and the second end is threaded to engage the threaded opening of the first latching member. An end region of the shaft adjacent to the first end is configured to pass through the lateral groove of the second latching member.The first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening (e.g., a tamper-resistant tool opening) configured to receive a tool head for shaft rotation. When the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft is rotated to thread the second end of the shaft into (e.g., further into) the threaded opening, the first flange moves toward the second engagement member and makes contact with it. This connects the shaft, the first engagement member, and the second engagement member to each other, securing the first gate member to the second gate member. Optionally, the clamping member may include a second flange attached to or toward the second end of the shaft. The second flange prevents the shaft from being removed from the threaded opening of the first clamping member. Optionally, the side groove of the second coupling member may extend from the inner region of the second coupling member through an opening on one side of the second coupling member. The height of the opening may correspond to the lateral cross-sectional dimension of the shaft. The second coupling member may include at least one projection positioned adjacent to the opening and defining a clearance dimensioned to interfere with the first flange, to prevent the shaft from sliding out of the side groove when the first flange makes contact with the second coupling member. Optionally, the first hitch member may include a first support - 26 in L and the second engagement member may include a second L-bracket. The first L-bracket may include a first base plate for joining to the first door member and a first clamping plate attached perpendicularly to the first base plate. The first clamping plate may define the threaded opening. The second L-bracket may include a second base plate for joining to the second door member and a second clamping plate attached perpendicularly to the second base plate. The second clamping plate may include the side slot. Optionally, the first attachment assembly may include a first support plate and a first clamping unit. The first support plate may make contact with the first door member, and the first clamping unit may pivotally connect the first base plate of the first L-bracket to the first support plate and connect the first support plate to the first door member. Optionally, the second attachment assembly can include a second support plate and a second clamping unit. The second support plate can make contact with the second door member, and the second clamping unit can connect the second base plate of the second L-bracket to the second support plate, and the second support plate to the second door member. Optionally, the door locking system may include a head attached to the first end of the second shaft that defines the tool opening. The head may include a central pedestal and a rim. The rim may extend around and be concentrically separated from the central pedestal. The rim and the pedestal may define the tool opening between them. A perimeter rim of the tool opening, defined by the rim of the head, may be irregular. Optionally, the door locking system may include one or more bushings that extend around one or more portions of the elongated shaft. The one or more bushings may prevent access to one or more portions of the elongated shaft located within the passages of one or more bushings. Optionally, the door locking system may include a first guide coupled to either the first or second end of the shaft that defines the tool opening. The first guide may extend away from the second engagement installation and may include one or more internal surfaces that define a cavity configured to receive the tool head. - 27 tool. The tool opening can be arranged inside the cavity. Optionally, the door locking system may include a second guide that can be attached to the second door member. The second guide may include one or more surfaces that define a passage that aligns linearly with the cavity of the first guide. The tool head may extend along the passage of the second guide and be received within the cavity of the first guide so that the tool opening receives the tool head. Optionally, a rail vehicle may include a door locking system, a first door member, and a second door member. The first door member and the second door member may be adjacent, and at least one of the first or second door members may open and close to access an interior cargo space of the rail vehicle. The first coupling assembly may be rotatably attached to the first door member on the exterior of the vehicle, and the second coupling member may be attached to the second door member on the exterior of the vehicle. According to one example or aspect, a door locking system (e.g., for railway or other vehicles) includes a first engagement installation, a second engagement installation, and a retaining member. The first engagement installation includes a first engagement member that defines a threaded opening and is configured to pivotally join a first door member. The second engagement installation includes a second engagement member that has a side groove and is configured to join a second door member. The retaining member includes an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft. The shaft has a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first engagement member. The first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening (e.g., a tool holder).A tamper-resistant tool opening is configured to receive a tool head for shaft rotation. An end region adjacent to the first shaft end is configured to engage in the side groove of the second engagement member when the first engagement member rotates to couple the shaft and the second engagement member. The first flange is configured, when the end region engages in the side groove and the shaft rotates to further thread the second shaft end into the threaded opening, to move toward and make contact with the - 28 second coupling member. In this way, the shaft, the first coupling member and the second coupling member are connected to each other to secure the first door member to the second door member. Optionally, the clamping member may include a second flange engaged with the second end of the shaft. The second flange prevents the shaft from being removed from the threaded opening of the first clamping member. Optionally, the tool opening can be a tamper-resistant tool opening. Optionally, the door locking system may include a head attached to either the first or second end of the shaft that defines the tool opening. The head may include a central pedestal and a rim. The rim may extend around and be concentrically separated from the central pedestal. The rim and pedestal may define the tool opening between them. A perimeter rim of the tool opening, defined by the rim of the head, may be irregular. Optionally, the door locking system may include one or more bushings that extend around one or more portions of the elongated shaft. The one or more bushings may prevent access to one or more portions of the elongated shaft located within the passages of one or more bushings. Optionally, the door locking system may include a first guide attached to either the first or second end of the shaft that defines the tool opening. The first guide may extend away from the second locking mechanism and may include one or more internal surfaces that define a cavity configured to receive the tool head. The tool opening may be located within the cavity. Optionally, the door locking system may include a second guide that can be attached to the second door member. The second guide may include one or more surfaces that define a passage that aligns linearly with the cavity of the first guide. The tool head may extend along the passage of the second guide and be received within the cavity of the first guide so that the tool opening receives the tool head. According to one example or aspect, a vehicle includes a chassis, a first door member, and a second door member. The first and second door members are attached to the chassis, are adjacent to each other, and at least one of them R / Rfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi - 29 The first door member or the second door member can be opened and closed to access an interior cargo space of the vehicle. One or more locking systems can be attached to the first and second door members to selectively secure the members at multiple points. Each of the one or more locking systems can include a first latching installation, a second latching installation, and a retaining member. The first latching installation includes a first latching member that defines a threaded opening. The second latching installation includes a second latching member that has a side groove. One of the first latching installations or the second latching installation is attached to the first door member, and the other is rotatably attached to the second door member. The retaining member includes an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft.The shaft includes a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first coupling member. An end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft can be received in the side groove of the second coupling member when the first or second coupling assembly is rotated to engage the shaft and the second coupling member. One of the first or second ends of the shaft can define a tool opening to receive a tool head for shaft rotation.The first flange can be configured when the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft is rotated to thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening so that the first flange moves towards the second engagement member, to make contact with the second engagement member to connect the shaft, the first engagement member and the second engagement member together to secure the first door member with the second door member. Optionally, the clamping member may include a second flange attached to or toward the second end of the shaft. The second flange prevents the shaft from being removed from the threaded opening of the first clamping member. As used herein, a feature or step cited in the singular and followed by the word "a" or "one" does not preclude the plural of such features or steps, unless such preclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to one embodiment of the invention do not preclude the existence of additional embodiments incorporating the cited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the embodiments comprising, including, having, or possessing a feature or a plurality of features RjRfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi - 30 elements having a particular property may include additional elements that do not have that property. In the appended claims, the terms "includes" and "wherein" are used as plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Furthermore, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used simply as labels and do not impose numerical requirements on their objectives. Additionally, the limitations in the following claims are not written in half-plus-feature format and are not intended to be construed on the basis of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and until such limitations in the claims expressly use the phrase "means" followed by a statement of feature devoid of any other structure. The foregoing description is illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the modalities described above (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with one another. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the subject matter without departing from its scope. Although the dimensions and types of materials described herein define the parameters of the subject matter, they are exemplary modalities. Other modalities will be evident to a person skilled in the art upon reviewing the foregoing description. Therefore, the scope of the subject matter shall be determined with reference to the appended claims, together with the full scope of the equivalents to which those claims are entitled. This written description uses examples to illustrate various embodiments of the subject matter, including the best mode, and to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments of the subject matter, including the manufacture and use of any device or system and the performance of any embodied method. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A door locking system comprising: a first latching installation comprising a first latching member defining a threaded opening and configured for pivotal attachment to a first door member; a second latching installation comprising a second latching member having a side groove and configured to engage with a second door member; and a retaining member comprising an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft, the shaft having a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first latching member, wherein the end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is configured to engage in the side groove of the second latching member when the first latching member is rotated to engage the shaft and the second latching member.wherein one of the first or second ends of the shaft defines a tool opening configured to receive a tool head for shaft rotation, and the first flange is configured, when the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft is rotated to thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening so that the first flange moves towards the second engagement member, to make contact with the second engagement member to connect the shaft, the first engagement member and the second engagement member to each other to secure the first gate member to the second gate member.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the clamping member further comprises a second flange attached to or towards the second end of the shaft, the second flange preventing the shaft from being withdrawn from the threaded opening of the first clamping member.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the side groove of the second coupling member extends from the inner region of the second coupling member through an opening on one side of the second coupling member, the height of the opening corresponding to the transverse dimension of the shaft, and wherein the second coupling member further comprises at least one projection positioned adjacent to the opening and defining a clearance - 32 dimensioned to interfere with the first flange, to prevent the shaft from sliding out of the side groove when the first flange makes contact with the second coupling member.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member comprises a first L-bracket, and the second engagement member comprises a second L-bracket, the first L-bracket having a first base plate configured to join the first door member and a first clamping plate attached perpendicularly to the first base plate, the first clamping plate defining the threaded opening, the second L-bracket having a second base plate configured to join the second door member and a second clamping plate attached perpendicularly to the second base plate, the second clamping plate having the side slot.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first attachment installation further comprises a first support plate and a first clamping unit, the first support plate being configured to make contact with the first door member and the first clamping unit being configured to pivotally connect the first base plate of the first L-bracket to the first support plate and to connect the first support plate to the first door member.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the second attachment installation further comprises a second support plate and a second clamping unit, the second support plate being configured to make contact with the second door member and the second clamping unit being configured to connect the second base plate of the second L-bracket to the second support plate and the second support plate to the second door member.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a head attached to the first or second end of the shaft defining the tool opening, the head having a central pedestal and a rim, wherein the rim extends around and is concentrically separated from the central pedestal, the rim and the pedestal defining the tool opening between them, wherein the perimeter rim of the tool opening defined by the rim of the head is irregular.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more bushings extending around one or more portions of the elongated shaft, the one or more bushings being configured to prevent access to one or more portions of the elongated shaft disposed within the passages of the one or more bushings.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first guide coupled to the first or second end of the shaft defining the tool opening, the first guide extending in a direction away from the second engagement installation, the first guide comprising one or more inner surfaces defining a cavity configured to receive the tool head, the tool opening being disposed within the cavity.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprising a second guide configured to join the second gate member, the second guide including one or more surfaces defining a passage that is linearly aligned with the cavity of the first guide, the tool head being configured to extend along the passage of the second guide and to be received within the cavity of the first guide so that the tool opening receives the tool head.

11. A railway vehicle comprising the door locking system of claim 1, the first door member and the second door member, wherein the first door member and the second door member are adjacent and at least one of the first door member and / or the second door member is configured to open and close to access an interior cargo space of the railway vehicle, and wherein the first coupling installation is rotatably attached to the first door member on the outside of the vehicle and the second coupling installation is attached to the second door member on the outside of the vehicle.

12. A door locking system comprising: a first latching assembly comprising a first latching member defining a threaded opening; a second latching assembly comprising a second latching member having a side groove, wherein one of the first latching member or the second latching member is configured for pivoting attachment to a first door member and the other of the first latching member or the second latching member is configured for non-pivoting attachment to a second door member; and a retaining member comprising an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft, the shaft having a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first latching member,wherein an end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is configured to be received in the side groove of the second coupling member when the first coupling member or the second coupling member is rotated to cause the shaft and the second coupling member to engage, wherein one of the first end or the second end of the shaft defines a tool opening configured to receive a tool head for rotation of the shaft, and the first flange is configured, when the end region is received in the side groove and the shaft is rotated to thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening so that the first flange moves toward the second coupling member, to make contact with the second coupling member to connect the shaft, the first coupling member and the second coupling member together to secure the first gate member to the second gate member.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the clamping member further comprises a second flange coupled to the second end of the shaft, the second flange preventing the shaft from being withdrawn from the threaded opening of the first clamping member.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the tool opening is a tamper-resistant tool opening.

15. The system of claim 12, further comprising a head attached to the first or second end of the shaft defining the tool opening, the head having a central pedestal and a rim, wherein the rim extends around and is concentrically separated from the central pedestal, the rim and the pedestal defining the tool opening between them, wherein the perimeter rim of the tool opening defined by the rim of the head is irregular.

16. The system of claim 12, further comprising one or more bushings extending around one or more portions of the elongated shaft, the one or more bushings being configured to prevent access to one or more portions of the elongated shaft disposed within the passages of the one or more bushings.

17. The system of claim 12, further comprising a first guide coupled to the first or second end of the shaft defining the tool opening, the first guide extending in a direction away from the second engagement installation, the first guide comprising one or more inner surfaces defining a cavity, the tool opening being disposed within the cavity.

18. The system of claim 17, further comprising a second guide configured to join one of the first door member or the second door member, the second guide including one or more surfaces defining a passage that is linearly aligned with the cavity of the first guide, the tool head being configured to extend along the passage of the second guide and to be received within the cavity of the first guide so that the tool opening receives the tool head.

19. A vehicle comprising: a chassis, a first door member, and a second door member, the first and second door members being attached to the chassis, wherein the first door member and the second door member are adjacent and at least one of the first door member and / or the second door member is configured to open and close to access an interior cargo space of the vehicle; and one or more locking systems attached to the first and second door members to selectively secure the members at multiple points, wherein each of the one or more locking systems respectively comprises: a first latching assembly comprising a first latching member defining a threaded opening; a second latching assembly comprising a second latching member having a side groove,wherein one of the first or second latching installations is attached to the first door member and the other of the first or second latching installation is rotatably attached to the second door member; and a clamping member comprising an elongated shaft and a first flange attached to a first end of the shaft, the shaft having a second threaded end operatively threaded into the threaded opening of the first latching member, wherein the end region adjacent to the first end of the shaft is configured to be received in the side groove of the second latching member when the first or second latching installation is rotated so that the shaft and the second latching member are engaged, wherein one of the first or second end of the shaft defines a tool opening configured to receive a tool head for rotating the shaft,and the first flange is configured, when the end region 5 is received in the side groove and the shaft is turned to thread the second end of the shaft into the threaded opening so that the first flange moves towards the second engagement member, to make contact with the second engagement member to connect the shaft, the first engagement member and the second engagement member together to secure the first gate member with the second gate member.

20. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein the fastening member further comprises a second flange attached to or towards the second end of the axle, the second flange preventing the axle from being withdrawn from the threaded opening of the first coupling member.

Images