Patent ID: 8740492
Filing Date: 2014-06-03
Classification: A61G,B66D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A coupling comprising: a hook, the hook comprising opposed upper and lower portions, with a pull axis extending generally between the upper and lower portions, the upper portion comprising a slot for receiving a lifting strap, and the lower portion comprising a circular cutout and an insertion opening extending from a periphery of the cutout to an outer edge of the hook, wherein the insertion opening extends at an angle relative to the pull axis; an elongate housing, the housing comprising opposing upper and lower ends, with a housing axis extending generally between the upper and lower ends, the lower end configured to connect to a lifting bracket, and the upper end of the housing comprising a lateral notch, the housing further comprising a circular opening extending through the upper end thereof extending substantially perpendicular to and intersecting the notch, wherein a width of the notch is greater than a thickness of the hook, such that the lower portion of the hook is insertable into the notch so that the circular cutout of the hook is aligned with the circular opening of the housing; and an elongate shaft, wherein the shaft is resiliently mounted to the housing via a biasing member so as to be slidable within the circular opening of the housing, the shaft comprising a cylindrical portion and a flattened portion opposite the cylindrical portion, the cylindrical portion defining a diameter substantially corresponding to a diameter of the circular opening, and the flattened portion defined by opposing flats extending substantially parallel to the housing axis; wherein the coupling is movable between: