Patent ID: 7752717
Filing Date: 2010-07-13
Classification: B60P,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A tensioning device for tensioning a threadable line, the tensioning device comprising: i) a frame extending from a first end to a second end, the frame including two spaced parallel plate members and a support surface, and the frame configured to be fixedly secured to a side of a open top trailer; ii) a rotatable drive element mounted to the frame at the first end, the rotatable drive element defining a slot through which to receive the threadable line, wherein the drive element is rotated to wind and tension the threadable line; iii) at least one ratchet wheel integrally connected to the rotatable drive element, the ratchet wheel including directionally oriented notches, wherein the directionally oriented notches of the ratchet wheel are oriented so that the drive stroke direction is a pull stroke direction relative to a user of the tensioning device; iv) a pivot lever mounted to the rotatable drive element, the pivot lever including a drive pawl, wherein the drive pawl of the pivot lever entrains one of the directionally oriented notches of the ratchet wheel when pivoted in a drive stroke direction to rotate the drive element, and wherein the drive pawl passes over other directionally oriented notches of the ratchet wheel when pivoted in a return stroke direction; v) a blocking assembly coupled to the frame, the blocking assembly including a blocking pawl and a first spring, the first spring being mounted on the support surface of the frame to brace the blocking pawl into blocking engagement with the ratchet wheel; vi) a guide member coupled to the frame at the second end, the guide member defining a slot through which the threadable line is threaded prior to being wound on the drive element.