Patent ID: 7431363
Filing Date: 2008-10-07
Classification: B66C

Abstract:
1. An automatic release hook comprising: a body; a hook; and a locking arm; wherein the body includes a first end and a second end, wherein the body includes a primary body attachment means formed proximate the first end, such that the body may be suspended, via the primary body attachment means, wherein the body includes a hook pivot pin means proximate the second end of the body, wherein the hook pivot pin means is formed such that a hook may be pivotally coupled to the body, via the hook pivot pin, and wherein the body includes a locking arm pivot pin aperture formed between the first end and the second end, wherein the locking arm pivot pin aperture is formed such that a locking arm may be pivotally coupled to the body, via a locking arm pivot pin; wherein the hook includes a hook aperture formed in the hook such that the hook may be pivotally coupled to the body, via the hook pivot pin, and wherein the hook includes a locking portion formed such that the hook may be maintained in a closed position by the locking arm when the weight of a load is suspended by the hook and automatically released by the locking arm when the weight of the suspended load is no longer carried by the hook; and wherein the locking arm includes a first end and a second end, wherein the locking arm includes a locking arm pivot pin formed between the first end and the second end, such that the locking arm may be pivotally coupled to the body, via the locking arm pivot pin aperture, such that the locking arm is pivotable between a closed position and an opened position, and wherein the locking arm includes a counterweight proximate the first end, wherein the counterweight is of a sufficient weight to bias the locking arm in the opened position when the weight of the suspended load is no longer carried by the hook.