Randy G Toddy

US Patent:

6622347, Sep 23, 2003

Filed:

Feb 22, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/080205

Inventors:

Gary L. Cottrill - Wadsworth OH
Randy G. Toddy - Wadsworth OH

Assignee:

Clampco Products, Inc. - Wadsworth OH

International Classification:

B65D 6300

US Classification:

24 70R, 24272

Abstract:

A latching device ( ) is designed to tension a clamp ( ) or the like which has open ends ( A, B). The device ( ) includes at least one ratchet link ( ) pivotally carried by a support ( ) which is affixed to one end ( B) of the clamp ( ). A handle assembly ( ) and a pawl ( ) are pivotally carried by a bracket ( ) which is affixed to the other end ( A). A yoke ( ) is pivotally carried by the handle assembly ( ). The pawl ( ) is adapted to engage a tooth ( ) of the ratchet link ( ) to maintain a degree of tension on the clamp, and the yoke ( ) engages another tooth ( ) such that upon rotation of the handle assembly ( ), the yoke ( ) pulls the ratchet link ( ) and advances the engagement of the pawl ( ) to another tooth ( ). In view of the relationship of the various pivoting axes, the handle assembly ( ) is of the âovercenterâ type such that when the desired tension of the clamp ( ) is reached, the handle assembly ( ) may be locked in place.