Patent ID: 6547218
Filing Date: 2003-04-15
Classification: B60P,Y10T

Abstract:
A tensioning assembly for tightening and releasing a lashing strap and a lead strap, comprising:a ratchet buckle for incrementally tensioning the lashing strap, including, a bifurcated frame member having a pair of opposing parallel arms between which a reel member, around which a free end of the lashing strap is wound, and ratchet wheels are rotatably mounted, and a latching plate slidably mounted between said arms for latching said ratchet wheels when said ratchet wheels are not being rotatably driven, and a level member rotatably mounted on said reel member and having a pair of opposing side members between which a ratchet drive plate is slidably mounted for engaging and driving said ratchet wheel when the lever member is actuated; and a cam buckle constructed and arranged to slidingly engage and release the lead strap, said cam buckle connected adjacent to said ratchet buckle by an apparatus other than said lead strap and said securing strap, said cam buckle including, a housing adapted to slidably receive the lead strap, said housing including a pressure plate having a first restraining surface over which the lead strap slides; and a pawl, having a second restraining surface, movably mounted to said housing, said pawl biased in an engaged position to cause said first and second restraining surfaces to engage and prevent movement of the lead strap in a direction that loosens the lead strap, wherein in a disengaged position, said second restraining surface is spaced from said first restraining surface so as not to prevent lead strap movement.