Gerald Clint Martin

US Patent:

53463463, Sep 13, 1994

Filed:

Nov 19, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/977767

Inventors:

Gerald D. Martin - West Chester OH
Joseph E. Martin - Covington KY

International Classification:

B60P 715
B61D 4500

US Classification:

410146

Abstract:

A pair of extenders are slidably carried in opposite ends of an elongated hollow-form cargo-engaging member. A latching clip is pivotally mounted on each of the extenders adjacent to its outer end and is adapted to releasably engage an E-Track secured to opposing interior walls of a semi-trailer, railroad car or ship's cargo hold. Diametrically opposing latch clip-receiving slots extend inwardly from each end of the cargo-engaging member a distance sufficient to permit the latch to be received within and protected by the cargo-engaging member when not in use. Diametrically opposing latch clip-receiving notches project inwardly from the outer end of each extender a distance sufficient to permit the extender to partially reinforce the latch clip during use without eliminating pivotal movement of the latch clip relative to the extender.

US Patent:

57854750, Jul 28, 1998

Filed:

Feb 19, 1993

Appl. No.:

8/021161

Inventors:

Terry C. Winstel - Cincinnati OH
Gerald D. Martin - West Chester OH

International Classification:

B60P 715
B61D 4500

US Classification:

410146

Abstract:

A cargo retainer for separating cargo and preventing shifting of cargo within a vehicle during transportation is disclosed. The cargo retainer includes an elongate outer tubular member and two tubes telescopically received within the outer tubular member. The outer tubular member and telescoping tubes are preferably formed of polymeric material. Short metal reinforcement tubes are inserted in the outer ends of the telescoping tubes to strengthen the connection point between the cargo retainer and the support structure in the vehicle's cargo compartment. Latch members are attached at the outer ends of the telescoping tubes for attaching the cargo retainer across the width of a vehicle's cargo compartment. The latch members preferably pivot about an axis normal to the axis of the cargo retainer. A retraction mechanism is provided in the form of a tension spring connecting the inner ends of the telescoping tubes together.