Locking cargo restraint with multiple retractable cables

Abstract

A locking cargo restraint having a plurality of retractable cables is provided for securing cargo to a base, surface or object. The locking cargo restraint generally consists of a housing, a retractable cable and a spool. The cable can be wound within the housing to occupy storage space of the device or to provide tension when securing cargo. The spool is spring biased to assist a user in pulling the cable into the housing. The cables can be independently operated, allowing an operator to secure objects of symmetrical or irregular shapes. The locking cargo restraint also has a mode selection knob that enables different operating modes of the device, such that the cable can be extended from the housing, retracted into the housing or tightened around cargo. In addition, the device includes a locking mechanism that, when engaged, limits the operation of the mode selection knob.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to currently pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 965,260, filed on January 24, 2020, and entitled “LOCKING CARGO RESTRAINT WITH MULTIPLE RETRACTING CABLES,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to restraints and, more particularly, to a locking cargo restraint having multiple telescoping cables that can be used to secure items during transport or storage. Background Art

[0004] People who enjoy outdoor recreation often transport large items that are stored in truck beds, trailers, or cargo compartments attached to vehicle hooks. Such large items include food and beverage coolers. If not restricted, these items may slide around the truck bed or slip out of the cargo compartment, causing damage to the items or their contents. In order to prevent the undesirable movement of items relative to the transport mechanism, users usually restrict the items with devices such as ropes, ratchet straps, and elastic cords. These restricting devices usually have flexible members that can be wrapped around objects, and connecting devices that connect the flexible members to goods or surfaces. By connecting one end of the restricting device to the goods, wrapping the flexible member around the goods and the object, and fastening the opposite end of the device to the object, the restricting device can be used to connect the goods directly to another object. The restricting device can also be used by connecting both ends of it to the first object and wrapping its flexible member around the second object. However, these traditional straps are bulky and difficult to use because they are easily tangled during the restriction process. In addition, these straps are difficult to store effectively and require users to manually wrap them to prevent tangling. Finally, straps can only effectively secure one item at a time or a few items that fit easily together.

[0005] Additionally, the outdoor recreation market has trended toward more expensive products. For example, manufacturers have developed premium tailgate-mounted coolers with extra features, high functionality, and luxury branding. These and other expensive products are often stored on the exterior of the vehicle, becoming targets for theft.

[0006] To prevent theft of cargo items, consumers turn to security devices such as keyed or coded anti-theft alarms (examples include cable locks, bicycle locks, and padlocks). Unfortunately, these devices do not adequately restrict unwanted movement of cargo. Furthermore, they work best when the cargo and storage location provide the appropriate operating characteristics for the lock.

[0007] Even flexible security devices that typically use a cut-resistant flexible member such as a wire rope or chain cannot prevent unwanted cargo movement. First, the coil of the flexible member typically has a fixed length that cannot be shortened or lengthened to tightly secure the cargo to another item. Second, variable-length security devices do not provide a mechanism for tensioning the flexible member to better restrain or secure the cargo. In effect, the flexible security device only restrains the cargo, not restricts cargo displacement.

[0008] Thus, the market has failed to develop a convenient and effective method for simultaneously inhibiting unwanted movement of cargo items and deterring theft of cargo items. Without a lock, conventional restraint methods are easily removed. Conventional locking ratchet straps are susceptible to tampering or cutting of the strap. Furthermore, as previously discussed, the security device is ineffective in restraining cargo.

[0009] To address the dual problem of restraining cargo items and preventing theft, some manufacturers have added integrated security cables to their luxury outdoor items. Disadvantageously, these cables add to the cost of the item and create a situation where securing cargo involves a tangle of security cables and cargo restraints for each individual item the user wishes to transport. Furthermore, failure of the cable mechanism in such an item renders the theft deterrent aspect of the item inoperable and requires repair of the mechanism, replacement of the entire item, or provision of external security methods at additional cost.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need in the market for a cargo restraint device that combines ease of use and storage while meeting the dual requirements of cargo restraint and cargo security for items of various shapes and sizes. Summary of the invention

[0011] The present invention overcomes many of the disadvantages and limitations of the above-mentioned prior art cargo restraint and security devices.

[0012] The present invention is an easy to carry locking cargo restraint that uses two or more cables to secure one or more items to a base or surface. First, the device is an effective restraint because the cables can be individually pulled to different lengths, allowing the cables to restrain multiple items or irregularly shaped items. Second, the cables are telescopically mounted within a central body for easy storage and retrieval, ensuring that the user does not have to worry about the cables becoming tangled. Third, the retractable cables can be individually spring biased to pull the cables into the central body after use, effectively storing the cables with minimal user intervention. Finally, the cables themselves can have connectors, such as hooked ends, to engage with available mounting points on the base or surface for securing the items. Alternatively, the connectors can engage with each other so that the cables surround the cargo item and the base for securing the cargo.

[0013] In addition, the device has an integrated security mechanism to prevent theft of the item. The cable and tensioning mechanism of the device are contained within a case to prevent unauthorized users from tampering with the device. In addition, the device may have a key lock that prevents unauthorized users from adjusting the tension of the cable, thereby preventing the cable from loosening the restraint to steal the item. In addition, the cable itself may be made of a cut-resistant material to prevent theft.

[0014] These and other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] For a better understanding of various embodiments of the present invention, reference may be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a locking cargo restraint having a plurality of retractable cables for restraining cargo at the rear of a representative passenger vehicle, the restraint being constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 is a top plan view of a locking cargo restraint having a plurality of retractable cables;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A top perspective view of a locked cargo restraint;

[0019] Figure 4 is contained in Figure 2 A top perspective view of an internal mechanism within a box of a cargo restraint, the internal mechanism including a selector assembly and a tensioner assembly;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A top perspective view of a selector assembly and a tensioner assembly;

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 a cross-sectional view of a selector assembly and a tensioner assembly;

[0022] Figure 7 Is assembled to Figure 4 An exploded view of a selector pawl of a selector arm;

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A cross section of a tensioner assembly and selector arm showing a mode selector knob;

[0024] Fig. 9 When the device is in extended mode, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0025] Fig.10 When the device is in free mode, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0026] Fig.11 When the device is in retracted mode, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0027] Fig.12 When the device is in tightening mode, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0028] Fig.13 When the unit is in retracted mode and the key lock is in the locked position, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0029] Fig.14 When the device is in tightening mode, Figure 4 A partial top plan view of the internal mechanism of the cargo restraint;

[0030] Fig.15 yes Figure 4 An exploded view of one embodiment of a tensioner assembly;

[0031] Fig.16 yes Figure 4 Bottom-up perspective view of the spool;

[0032] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 A top perspective view of a spool of thread;

[0033] Fig.18 yes Fig.11 A partial top perspective view of a tensioner assembly;

[0034] Fig.19 yes Fig.12 A partial top perspective view of a tensioner assembly;

[0035] Fig. 20 yes Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of an upper portion of the box;

[0036] Fig.21 yes Figure 4 a partial cross-sectional view of a selector arm and a detent plunger;

[0037] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 A partial cross-sectional view of the selector arm and detent plunger, perpendicular to Fig.21a cross section of

[0038] Fig.23 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the internal mechanism of a cargo restraint.

[0039] Although the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and specific embodiments given herein are not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed, but on the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents and substitutes within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the drawings. In order to clearly illustrate the features of the present invention, the proportion relationship of the elements in the drawings is not necessarily maintained.

[0041] Figure 1 A locking cargo restraint 100 having a plurality of retractable cables, hereinafter referred to simply as cargo restraint 100, is illustrated, which is installed to secure a representative cargo item 10. As illustrated in this embodiment, a plurality of cables 105 of cargo restraint 100 are attached to a representative base 20, wherein base 20 is attached to a representative vehicle 30. In this embodiment, each of cables 105 can be extended to a different length to allow a user to secure multiple cargo items. Here, cables 105 are also equipped with connectors 107, which are connected to the cargo restraint 100 at the bottom of the vehicle. Figure 1 Shown as a hook, connector 107 can selectively engage with a surface such as base 20 when connector 107 is attached to base 20.

[0042] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A first embodiment of a cargo restraint 100 is illustrated. A box or cover 110 may be provided with a mode selection knob 120 attached to an outer surface 130 of the box 110. The mode selection knob 120 may be rotated to select an operating mode from a number of possible operating modes. A key lock 140 may be used to prevent the mode selection knob 120 from being rotated in a first direction, thereby preventing the cargo restraint 100 from engaging a different operating mode without using a key (or other known or foreseeable unlocking device) to disable the key lock 140. As will be explained in more detail below, the mode selection knob 120 and the key lock 140 preferably interface with various internal mechanisms of the cargo restraint 100 to allow a user to manipulate the cable 105 in a variety of ways.

[0043] Go to Figure 3, a plurality of apertures 150 extend from the interior of the box 110 to the exterior thereof. The apertures 150 allow a plurality of cables to exit the box 110. Preferably, two or more cables 105 extend from the box 110 via the apertures 150.

[0044] Additionally, the tank 110 may include a tank top 160 . Figure 4 The box bottom 170 is shown, and when the box top 160 and box bottom 170 are fastened together, they form a cylinder. The interior volume of this cylinder preferably houses the internal mechanisms of the cargo restrictor 100.

[0045] Figure 4 Also illustrated are these various internal mechanisms of the cargo restraint 100 once the box top 160 of the box 110 has been removed from the body 180 of the cargo restraint 100. Although such mechanisms may be mounted to the box top 160, the box bottom 170 may provide a mounting point for the mechanisms within the interior of the box. In conjunction with the box top 160, the box bottom 170 protects the mechanisms from weather and damage. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the cargo restraint 100 includes four spools 190 that can rotate in a first direction or a second direction. In addition, each spool 190 can have a biasing spring 200 that can apply torque to the spool 190 in a first direction to wind the cable 105 onto the spool 190. In addition, each spool 190 can have a plurality of ratchet teeth 210 on its outer circumference. The teeth 210 can be engaged by the tensioner assembly 220 to rotate the spool 190 and further retract the cable 105 into the internal housing of the spool 190.

[0046] The cargo restraint 100 may also include a selector assembly 230 that may engage the teeth 210 to limit the rotation of the spool 190. The selector assembly 230 is preferably operably coupled to the mode selection knob 120. Thus, as a user selects a different operating mode via the mode selection knob 120, the selector assembly 230 may change position within the box 110. Additionally, the selector assembly 230 may be locked in position by the key lock 140. The key lock 140 may include a locking arm 240 that, when engaged by a user, may rotate to prevent the selector assembly 230 from releasing the spool 190 (e.g., Fig.13 exemplified).

[0047] Figure 5 and Figure 6One embodiment of a selector assembly 230 and a tensioner assembly 220 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the selector assembly 230 generally includes a selector arm 250, a selector pawl 260, and a selector spring 270. The selector assembly 230 rotates about a selector shaft 280. The pawl 260 can be mounted on a pivot at the end of the selector arm 250. When the pawl 260 is deflected in either the first direction or the second direction, the selector spring 270 on the same pivot as the pawl 260 preferably provides a restoring torque. The selector spring tab 290 can prevent one side of the selector spring 270 from rotating with the other side of the selector pawl 260 and the selector spring 270. Thus, the selector spring 270 can apply a restoring force to the selector pawl 260. The selector detent hole 300 provides a "seat" for the detent plunger 310 (not shown) to rest in the operating mode and prevent accidental changes in the operating mode.

[0048] In this embodiment, the tensioner assembly 220 is rigidly fixed to the mode selection knob 120, and the mode selection knob 120 pivots on the selector shaft 280. The tensioner assembly 220 may include a tensioner body 320, a tensioner pawl 330, and a tensioner tab 350 (the tensioner tab 350 is not shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The tensioner assembly 220 and the selector assembly 230 are mechanically connected by a tensioner spring 360 and a series of travel stops, including a tensioner tab 350, a tensioner stop 370, and a selector tab 380 (the travel stops are not shown). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The tensioner assembly 220 is mechanically coupled to the mode selector knob 120 via the selector shaft 280 via the selector assembly 230. Thus, when the mode selector knob 120 is turned in the “Tighten” direction, the tensioner pawl 330 engages the spool 190, applying additional tension to the cable 105.

[0049] Figure 7 An exploded detail view of the selector pawl 260 is provided. Figure 7 The illustrated components facilitate coupling the pawl 260 to the selector arm 250. The pawl pivot 390 is preferably inserted through the folded end of the selector arm 250 and the pawl 260, forming a pivot for the pawl 260. The portion of the pawl 260 through which the pivot 390 is inserted is itself inserted into the body of the selector spring 270. The arms of the selector spring 270 are placed on opposite sides of the selector spring tab 290 and the pawl spring tab 400. Thus, when the end of the pawl 260 is deflected, the selector spring 270 will apply a force to the selector spring tab 290 and the pawl spring tab 400 in a direction that returns the pawl 260 to the neutral position.

[0050] Figure 8The mode selection knob 120 coupled to the tensioner assembly 220 and the selector assembly 230 is illustrated. A screw or other fastening means as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art may rigidly attach the mode selection knob 120 to the tensioner assembly 220. The tensioner assembly 220 may be rotated in each of a first direction and a second direction. The tensioner tab 350 of the tensioner assembly 220 engages the selector tab 380 to limit rotation of the tensioner assembly 220 relative to the selector assembly 230 in the first direction. As shown, the tensioner spring 360 is a torsion spring that engages the tensioner tab 350 and the selector tab 380 to transfer torque from the tensioner assembly 220 to the selector assembly 230 in the second direction. The tensioner spring 360 applies a preload to the tensioner tab 350 and the selector tab 380 that keeps the tensioner tab 350 and the selector tab 380 in contact with each other when the mode selection knob 120 is rotated. In this embodiment, the tensioner assembly 220 may rotate in the second direction independently of the selector assembly 230 when the preload of the tensioner spring 360 is exceeded.

[0051] Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 The first, second, and third positions of the selector assembly 230 are illustrated. Movement of the selector assembly 230 to these positions corresponds to an "Extend" mode, a "Free" mode, and a "Retract" mode of operation of the cargo restraint 100. The "Extend" mode allows the cable 105 to be unwound while preventing the cable 105 from being retracted into the body of the cargo restraint 100, the "Free" mode allows the cable 105 to be moved into or out of the body of the cargo restraint 100, and the "Retract" mode allows the cable 105 to be retracted into the body of the cargo restraint 100 while preventing the cable 105 from being extended.

[0052] exist Fig. 9 1, the selector assembly 230 is in a first position, which in this embodiment corresponds to the "Extend" mode of the cargo restraint 100. In this mode, the selector assembly 230 is rotated in a first direction so that the selector pawls 260a and 260b engage the ratchet teeth 210 of the spools 190a and 190b to prevent the spools from rotating in a direction to retract the cable 105. In this mode, the biasing spring 200 cannot rotate the spools 190 to retract the cable 105, and the tensioner pawl 330 does not engage the ratchet teeth 210.

[0053] exist Fig.10100. In this embodiment, the selector assembly 230 is in the second position, which in this embodiment corresponds to the "Free" mode of operation of the cargo restraint 100. In this mode, the selector assembly 230 stays in the second position so that the selector pawls 260a and 260b are not engaged with the ratchet teeth 210 of the spools 190a, 190b, and 190c. Likewise, the tensioner pawl 330 is not engaged with the ratchet teeth 210. In this mode, the spool 190 is free to rotate, and the biasing spring 200 will rotate the spool 190 to retract the cable 105 unless external tension is applied to the cable 105.

[0054] exist Fig.11 1, the selector assembly 230 is in the third position, which in this embodiment corresponds to the "retract" mode of operation of the cargo restraint 100. In this mode, the selector assembly 230 has been rotated in the second direction so that the selector pawls (260a, 260b) engage the ratchet teeth 210 of the spools 190b, 190c to prevent the spools 190 from rotating in the direction in which the cables 105 are extended. In this mode, the biasing spring 200 can rotate the spools 190 to retract the cables 105, but tension applied to the cables 105 from the outside cannot rotate the spools 190 to extend the cables 105. In addition, in this mode, the tensioner pawl 330 is not engaged with the ratchet teeth 210.

[0055] exist Fig.12 In this mode, the mode selection knob 120 is rotated in the "tighten" direction, which allows the user to manually add tension to the cable 105. In this mode, the selector assembly 230 is in the third position, with Fig.11 The selector stop 410 prevents the selector assembly 230 from rotating in the second direction beyond the "retract" position. The tensioner spring 270 allows the tensioner assembly 220 to continue rotating and engage the ratchet 210 with the tensioner pawl 330. As the operator continues to rotate the mode selector knob 120 in the "tighten" direction, the tensioner pawl 330 on the tensioner assembly 220 rotates the spool 190 in the retract direction, applying additional tension to the cable 105.

[0056] The key lock 140 can be set to a locked position and an unlocked position. Fig.12 The key lock 140 is illustrated in an unlocked position, and Fig.13 The key lock 140 is shown set to the locked position. When the key lock 140 moves from the unlocked position to the locked position, the locking arm 240 rotates. In the locked position, the position of the locking arm 240 prevents the selector assembly 230 from leaving the "retracted" position.

[0057] Fig.14The interior of the cargo restraint 100 is illustrated when the key lock 140 is set to the locked position and the mode selector knob 120 is turned in the "tighten" direction. In this configuration, the mode selector knob 120 can be used to tighten the cable 105 even when the key lock 140 has been set to the locked position. The selector stop 410 prevents the selector assembly 230 from rotating in the second direction, while the locking arm 240 prevents the selector assembly 230 from rotating in the first direction. At the same time, the spool 190 is prevented from rotating in the second direction so that the tension on the cable 105 is not released.

[0058] Fig.15 is an exploded detail view of one embodiment of the tensioner assembly 220. In this embodiment, the tensioner assembly 220 includes a tensioner body 320 with tensioner pawls 330 and their appurtenances. A spring 420 is inserted into each tensioner pawl 330, and both the spring 420 and the tensioner pawl 330 slide on a post on the spring guide 430. The pawl guide 440 can then be inserted through a slot 450 in the tensioner body 320 and pinned to the tensioner pawl 330 via a pin 460. The spring 420 preloads the tensioner pawl 330 radially outward from the tensioner body 320 and against the end of the slot 450.

[0059] The tensioner pawl 330 may include a front end 470 and a rear end 480. In this embodiment, the rear end 480 of the tensioner pawl 330 includes an aperture 490 so that the spring 420 may be inserted into the body of the pawl 330 via the aperture 490. The tensioner pawl 330 and spring 420 may then be coupled to the tensioner assembly 220 as described in the previous paragraph.

[0060] When the tensioner assembly 220 rotates in the second direction relative to the selector assembly 230, the tensioner pawl 330 can engage the ratchet teeth 210 of the spool 190. As the tensioner assembly 220 continues to rotate relative to the selector assembly 230, the tensioner pawls 330 slide in the slots 450 to allow them to follow the curvature of the spool 190. The spring 420 applies a force to maintain the engagement between the tensioner pawl 330 and the ratchet teeth 210.

[0061] The surface of the front end 470 of the pawl 330 has a tapered shape. The tapered shape of the front end of the pawl 330 and the force applied by the spring 420 can be designed so that when a predetermined level of tension exists in the cables 105, the tensioner pawl 330 will jump over the ratchet teeth 210. This design allows the cables 105 to obtain a predetermined level of tension without over-tensioning any individual cable 105. The ends of the tensioner pawl 330 are shaped so that they can easily jump over the ratchet teeth 210 when the tensioner assembly 220 is rotated in the first direction as the mode selection knob 120 returns to the "retracted" position.

[0062] Fig.16 A bottom perspective view of the spool 190 is provided. The bottom surface 500 of the spool 190 has an aperture 510. In this embodiment, the aperture 510 has two end portions 520 and a center portion 530. The two end portions 520 are wider than the center portion 530, and the two end portions 520 have substantially the same diameter. Therefore, the end portions 520 and the center portion 530 of the aperture 510 form a barbell shape.

[0063] One end of the cable 105 passes through the aperture 510; this end of the cable 105 is equipped with a cable stopper 540. The cable stopper 540 may be an open cylinder attached to the cable 105 via a fastening device. The cable stopper 540 is narrower than the ends of the aperture, but wider than the center portion of the aperture. Therefore, the cable stopper 540 is caught on the center portion 530 of the aperture 510 to prevent the cable 105 from being completely unwound from the spool 190 or sliding around the spool 190. Fig.16 The illustrated embodiment is but one method known in the art of connecting a cable end to a rotating body.

[0064] Fig.17 is a top perspective view of the spool 190. The spool 190 has a top surface 550. The top surface 550 of the spool 190 has a spring limiter 560 disposed around its periphery to prevent the biasing spring 200 (not shown) from hitting other parts of the internal mechanism of the cargo limiter 100. The free end of the biasing spring 200 acts on one end of the spring limiter 560 to apply a retraction force to the spool 190.

[0065] Fig.18 is a top perspective view of the tensioner assembly 220 installed in the cargo restraint 100. In this figure, the mode selector knob 120 is set to "retract", which allows the cable 105 to be retracted into the spool 190 while preventing the cable 105 from being pulled out of the spool 190. Here, the tensioner tab 350 abuts against the selector tab 380 under the preload torque of the tensioner spring 360 (not shown).

[0066] Fig.19 is a top perspective view of the tensioner assembly 220 with the mode selection knob 120 rotated in the "TENSION" direction by the operator. The selector tab 380 and the selector assembly 230 are held stationary by the selector stop 410 while the tensioner assembly 220 has been rotated in the second direction against the tensioner spring 360, thereby opening the gap 570 between the tensioner tab 350 and the selector tab 380. When the selector tab 270 engages the tensioner stop 370 at the end of the slot in the tensioner body 320, the tensioner assembly 220 is prevented from further rotation.

[0067] Fig. 20 A bottom perspective view of the inner surface 580 of the case top 160 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the detent plunger 310 is attached to the case top 160. The detent plunger 310 is a cylinder having a first end attached to the case top 160 and a second end consisting of a spherical tip 590. The spherical tip 590 of the detent plunger 310 engages the selector pawl hole 300 on the selector assembly 230 (see Figure 5 ) to prevent the device from leaving the selected mode without input from the mode selection knob 120.

[0068] Likewise Fig. 20 As illustrated, the spring hub 600 is attached to the box top 160. In this embodiment, the spring hub 600 is a cylinder extending from the inner surface of the box top 160. The spring hub 600 has an aperture extending through the entire body of the cylinder and a slot 610 extending from the aperture of the spring hub 600 to its outer edge. The slot 610 of the spring hub 600 securely captures the tab (e.g., Figure 4 105 ). Preferably, each spool 190 has a spring hub 600. The spring hub 600 holds the first end of the bias spring 200 stationary when the second end of the bias spring 200 applies torque to the spool 190 in the direction in which the cable 105 is retracted.

[0069] Fig.21 A cross section of the detent plunger 310 and the selector arm 250 is illustrated. As illustrated, the spherical tip 590 of the detent plunger 310 is forced into one of the selector detent holes 300 under spring pressure to hold the selector arm 250 in place until the torque applied to the mode selection knob 120 exceeds a predetermined amount. The selector arm 250 can have multiple detent holes 230 to correspond to different operating modes of the cargo restrictor 100.

[0070] Fig. 22 A cross section of the detent plunger 310 and the selector arm 250 is illustrated, perpendicular to the Fig.21 In this embodiment, the selector arm 250 has three selector detent holes 300.

[0071] Fig.23An alternative embodiment of the cargo restraint 100 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the pivoting selector pawl 260 is replaced by a flexible mode selector finger 620. The flexible selector finger 620 is positioned at the end of the selector arm 250 along the perimeter of the box 110. In addition, each selector arm 250 has two sets of flexible selector fingers 620, only one set of which can engage the ratchet 210 of the spool 190 at any time. When the selector arm 250 is rotated to the "retract" position, the first set of flexible mode selection fingers 620 engages the ratchet 210 of the spool 190. In the "retract" mode, if the spool 190 is rotated in the retract direction, the selector finger 620 easily flexes and jumps over the ratchet 210; in contrast, if the cable 105 is pulled so that the spool 190 attempts to rotate in the extension direction, the selector finger 620 grabs the ratchet 210 and prevents the spool 190 from rotating. When the selector arm 250 is rotated to the "Extend" position, the second set of selector fingers 620 engage the spool 190. In this mode, if the spool 190 is rotated in the extension direction, the selector fingers 620 easily flex and jump over the ratchet teeth 210, and if the spool 190 is rotated in the retract direction, the selector fingers 620 grab the ratchet teeth 210 and prevent the spool 190 from rotating.

[0072] Likewise Fig.23 As illustrated, the tensioning mechanism 200, the sliding tensioning pawl 330, and the spring 420 are replaced by a tensioning mechanism 630. The tensioning mechanism 630 features a flexible tensioner finger 640 with an angled flange. When the mode selection knob 120 is rotated in the "tighten" direction, the angled flange engages the ratchet 210 of the spool 190 and rotates the spool 190 in the retracting direction. If the tension in one or more cables 105 reaches a predetermined level, the angled flange will slide off the ratchet by the flexing action of the tensioner finger 640. In this way, the tension in the cables 105 will not exceed the predetermined level. When the mode selection knob 120 and the tensioning mechanism 630 are rotated back to the "retract" position, the second face of the angled flange will slide along the opposite face of the ratchet 210 to flex the tensioner finger 640 so that the tensioning mechanism can return to the "retract" position while keeping the spool 190 stationary.

[0073] It is apparent from the foregoing description that certain aspects of the present invention are not limited by the specific details of the examples illustrated herein, and it is therefore expected that other modifications, applications, variations, or their equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art. However, after considering the specification and the drawings, many such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and applications of this construction will become apparent to those skilled in the art. In addition, unless otherwise indicated above, it should be noted that all drawings are not drawn to scale. All such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses in applications that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention are considered to be covered by the present invention, and the present invention is only limited by the following claims.

Claims

1. A locking cargo restraint for anchoring at least one item to a surface, the locking cargo restraint comprising: a tank body defining an interior region, the tank body including two or more apertures extending from the interior region to an exterior region of the tank body; two or more cable members, each of the two or more cable members comprising a first end and a second end; wherein a first end of each of the two or more cable members is contained within the interior region of the box body; wherein a second end of a first cable member of the two or more cable members extends to the outside of the box body through a first aperture of the two or more apertures, and a second end of a second cable member of the two or more cable members extends to the outside of the box body through a second aperture of the two or more apertures; a respective connector attached to the second end of each of the two or more cable members for attaching each of the two or more cable members to the surface; two or more spool members secured within the interior region of the tank body; wherein a first spool of the two or more spool members is mechanically connected to the first cable member, and wherein a second spool of the two or more spool members is mechanically connected to the second cable member; wherein, when at least one of the two or more spool members rotates in a first direction, the cable member mechanically connected to the at least one spool member is wound around the at least one spool member; wherein when the at least one bobbin member of the two or more bobbin members rotates in the second direction, the cable member mechanically connected to the at least one bobbin member is unwound from the at least one bobbin member; a tensioner assembly secured within the interior of the box body that engages the two or more spool members to rotate the two or more spool members in the first direction and apply additional tension to each of the two or more cable members; and a selector assembly fixed within the interior of the box body, for preventing the two or more spool members from rotating in the first direction and allowing the two or more spool members to rotate in the second direction when the mode selection knob is placed in the first position, and for preventing the two or more spool members from rotating in the second direction and allowing the two or more spool members to rotate in the first direction when the mode selection knob is placed in the third position.

2. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 1, wherein: The box body also includes a top portion and a bottom portion; and Wherein, the top portion and the bottom portion of the box body can be separated from each other.

3. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 1, wherein: The locking cargo restraint also includes a locking mechanism located on an outer surface of the box body to restrict movement of the selector assembly.

4. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 1, wherein: The tensioner assembly slides at a predetermined cable tension to prevent over-tensioning of the two or more cable members.

5. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 1, wherein: Each of the two or more spool members also includes a biasing spring that applies tension to each of the two or more cable members.

6. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 1, wherein: The outer surface of each of the two or more spool members also includes a plurality of teeth.

7. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 6, wherein: The tensioner assembly also includes a tensioner body and a tensioner pawl engageable with the plurality of teeth on the outer surface of the two or more spool members to increase tension in the two or more cable members by rotating the two or more spool members in the first direction.

8. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 6, wherein: The selector assembly further includes two or more selector arms including pawls mounted thereon, the pawls engageable with the plurality of teeth on the exterior of the two or more spool members; and The selector assembly can be placed in a first position, a second position or a third position.

9. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 8, further comprising: a latch secured to the box body; and Wherein the detent is engageable with a first selector arm of the two or more selector arms to hold the two or more selector arms in a preset position until the position of the two or more selector arms is changed by the mode selection knob.

10. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 9, wherein: The first selector arm further includes a plurality of apertures extending through a body of the first selector arm; and The detent also includes a detent plunger having a spherical tip that selectively engages the plurality of apertures in the first selector arm corresponding to the first position, the second position, and the third position of the mode selector knob.

11. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 10, wherein: The first position of the mode selector knob corresponds to a first position of the selector assembly, the second position of the mode selector knob corresponds to a second position of the selector assembly, and the third position of the mode selector knob corresponds to a third position of the selector assembly.

12. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 6, wherein: The tensioner assembly also includes a flexible tensioner finger having an angled flange that can engage with the plurality of teeth on the outer surface of the two or more spool members to increase tension in the two or more cable members by rotating the two or more spool members in the first direction.

13. The locking cargo restraint of claim 6, wherein: The selector assembly further includes two or more flexible selector fingers engageable with the plurality of teeth on an exterior of the two or more spool members; and The selector assembly can be placed in a first position, a second position or a third position.

14. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 13, wherein: The locking cargo restraint also includes a locking mechanism located on an outer surface of the box body to restrict operation of the selector assembly.

15. A locking cargo restraint for anchoring at least one item to a surface, comprising: a tank body defining an interior region, the tank body including two or more apertures extending from the interior region to an exterior region of the tank body; a first cable member and a second cable member, each of the first cable member and the second cable member comprising a first end and a second end; a first spool and a second spool, each spool having a cavity in an interior portion of the spool and each spool being secured to the interior region of the case body; wherein the first cable member is wound within the first spool when the first spool rotates in a first direction; wherein, when the first spool rotates in a second direction, the first cable member is unwound within the first spool; wherein the second cable member is wound within the second spool when the second spool is rotated in a first direction; and When the second spool rotates in the second direction, the second cable member is unwound in the second spool. wherein a first end of the first cable member extends through a first aperture of the two or more apertures and a first end of the second cable member extends through a second aperture of the two or more apertures; wherein the second end of the first cable member is mechanically connected to the first spool and the second end of the second cable member is mechanically connected to the second spool; and a tensioner assembly fixed to an interior of the box body and engaged with the first spool and the second spool to selectively rotate each of the spools in the first direction and apply additional tension to each of the first cable member and the second cable member; and A selector assembly is used to selectively prevent the first spool and the second spool from rotating in the first direction and allow rotation in the second direction, or prevent the first spool and the second spool from rotating in the second direction and allow rotation in the first direction.

16. The locking cargo restraint device of claim 15, further comprising: a mode selection knob attached to an outer surface of the box body; a latch attached to an inner surface of the box body; and wherein the detent is operably engaged with the selector assembly to retain the selector assembly in a preset position until the position of the selector assembly is changed by the mode selection knob.

17. The locking cargo restraint of claim 15, wherein: The locking cargo restraint also includes a locking mechanism located on an outer surface of the box body to restrict operation of the selector assembly.

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