Abstract:
A handcuff assembly comprising a pair of handcuff bodies retained to one another by one or more linkages. Each body extends between a pivot end and a body latching end. A locking arm is pivotally assembled to the handcuff body pivot end. A series of ratcheted teeth extend along a portion of each locking arm proximate an arm latching end. A first locking pawl is integrated into each handcuff body, wherein the first locking pawl is operated by a key to engage the pawl with the ratcheted teeth, retaining the handcuff assembly in a locked configuration. A second locking mechanism is provided at the pivot assembly, wherein the second locking mechanism resists pivotal motion of the locking arm when oriented into a locked configuration by way of rotating a key. The handcuff assembly requires rotation of two separate locking mechanisms by two separate key motions to unlock each locking arm.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation-In-Part Application claiming the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional Utility application Ser. No. 12/848,667, filed on Aug. 2, 2010, which is a Continuation-In-Part claiming benefit from U.S. Non-Provisional Utility application Ser. No. 12/468,421, filed on May 19, 2009 (currently abandoned), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/092,747, filed on Aug. 28, 2008 (now expired), all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure generally relates to improvements in handcuff safety or efficacy, and more particularly to handcuffs having an additional and improved locking mechanism design. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Handcuffs are used by various parties, such as law enforcement officers, corrections, security, military, and the like, to restrain an individual for any reason, such as suspicion of a crime, a potential for physical violence, uncertain mental health conditions, under the influence of a substance, and the like. Such restraint is necessary to maintain control of the subjects and to prevent the subject from possibly escaping or causing injury to others or themselves. Standard handcuffing protocol sets forth that the subject be handcuffed with his/her hands behind his/her back for many reasons. One reason for positioning the hands behind the back of the individual is that it may improve the safety of others or themselves by limiting the movement and mobility of the individual. Another reason is to prevent the individual from attempting to pick the lock mechanism while placing or holding a key or picking device in his/her mouth. Still, another reason for handcuffing behind the back is that this position may make it more difficult for the individual to attempt to defeat or pick the lock with any object that he/she may have access to (e.g., a stationary sharp or pointed object) or to try to break the attachment or connection between the two handcuffs. Yet, another reason, is that such position may prevent the individual from having a visual or view of the location of a lock or keyhole on the handcuff, thus making lock manipulation or picking more difficult. Additionally, subjects are more limited when their hands are placed behind their back. The subject&#39;s ability to run and general mobility and use of their hands/arms are all limited. Typically, the keyhole or lock is exposed on the “up” side of the handcuff away from the individual&#39;s fingers. Having one-sided access to the lock or keyhole makes it more difficult for the individual to access the keyhole. For example, it may be more difficult for the individual to place or position an object in or around the keyhole when it is located on the “up” side. That is, the “up” side of the handcuffs is more obstructed by the individual&#39;s wrists, arms and/or body whereas the “bottom” side placement is only obstructed by his/her fingers. 
     While conventional handcuffs have proven satisfactory, the locks of these traditional handcuffs are vulnerable to unauthorized opening because (i) they may be picked by one who has access to a picking device; (ii) it is possible for the lock to be opened by one who has gained unauthorized access to a key; (iii) they could be opened by forcefully jarring or pressing down on the locking plate when the handcuffs are not double locked, (iv) handcuffs, regardless of type, generally utilize a universal key, which could be carried by any individual, and (v) some models of handcuffs include keyholes on both sides, allowing the restrained individual to access the key opening more easily. Because prior art locking mechanisms locate the locks in the middle of the handcuff assembly (i.e., at a base portion of each handcuff in the handcuff assembly), between the handcuff shackles, an individual wearing the handcuff assembly may be able to reach the lock with his/her fingers or with a key or pick device in his/her mouth and proceed to pick or open the lock(s). The proximity of the locks to the individual&#39;s fingers poses an immediate possible threat to the safety of the personnel responsible for the control and custody of the individual, and ultimately to the safety of the general public. This threat can be at least partially minimized by orienting the handcuffs so that the lock keyhole to the locks is oriented away from the wearer&#39;s fingers. However, determining such orientation without a distinctive orientation feature is difficult when the handcuffs are applied in a stressful environment such as at initial apprehension of a suspected perpetrator. 
     Another contributing element enabling the individual restrained by the handcuffs to access the lock keyholes is the design, length and flexibility of the intermediary segment retaining the two bracelet sections attached to one another. The intermediary segment needs to be flexible enough to provide a reasonable amount of limited movement to the individual&#39;s wrists and arms to ensure comfort while providing safety to the law enforcement personnel. The greater the flexibility of the intermediary segment, the higher the risk for escape. 
     Accordingly, there has arisen a need to provide in a handcuff of this type additional protection against picking or opening the handcuff lock. 
     The death or injury of law enforcement operators is unfortunate, especially when due to a prisoner “picking” handcuffs or to handcuff restraint malfunction, or gaining access to a key. In 2002, two Tampa, Fla. detectives were investigating a suspect when the suspect escaped his handcuffs and murdered the detectives. The suspect was carrying his own handcuff key. This suspect later hijacked a truck, killed a pursuing Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Officer, and then, after a hostage standoff, the suspect killed himself. If the suspect had not escaped his handcuffs, then the three law enforcement operators might be alive today. Accordingly, law enforcement operators have a need for more secure handcuffs that are quickly deployed to secure about the wrists of a suspect as well as handcuffs that are less susceptible to picking and/or malfunction. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, according to exemplary embodiments, by methods, systems, or an apparatus that incorporates improvements in handcuff safety or efficacy, and more particularly to a pivot lock handcuff assembly having an additional and improved locking mechanism design proximate to the pivot point of the shackle or to the locking arm. 
     One aspect of the present invention is a handcuff that includes a body defining an interior cavity and having upper and lower parallel strands extending laterally from the body and terminating at a pivot end. A primary locking mechanism is supported within the interior cavity and includes a pawl having ratcheted teeth for selectively capturing oppositely oriented ratcheted teeth. A locking arm having a free end and a pivot end is pivotally affixed to the pivot end of the upper and lower parallel strands. The locking arm further includes a plurality of ratcheted teeth at an outer edge of the free end for selective engagement with the pawl ratcheted teeth. A pivot locking mechanism is positioned at the pivot end of the strands for selective engagement to prevent pivoting of the locking arm with respect to the body. 
     Another aspect of the invention is a handcuff including a body having a set of substantially planar cheek plates lying in substantially parallel planes. A locking arm has a pivot end pivotally connected to the body and is selectively positionable at a first mated, lockable portion of the body and a free end selectively positionable at a second mated, lockable portion of the body. The locking arm also has a concave engaging surface. A primary locking mechanism is located on the body for receiving the free end of the locking arm and defines a first keyhole into a first keyway for accessing a first locking position of the free end of the locking arm. The primary locking mechanism further includes a pawl positioned within the body and has pawl teeth, wherein the free end of the locking arm includes opposing ratchet teeth for engaging the pawl teeth. A pivot locking mechanism is located on a shackle portion proximate to a pivot point connecting the locking arm with the body. The pivot locking mechanism defines a second keyhole into a second keyway for accessing a second locking position of the pivot end of the locking arm. The pivot locking mechanism also has a pawl positioned within the second mated, lockable portion of the body and includes pawl teeth, wherein the pivot end of the locking arm further includes an inner surface portion having ratcheted teeth for engaging the pawl teeth of the second mated, locked portion of the body. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention is a method for using a triple locking handcuff assembly of two interconnected handcuffs. Each handcuff is of the type including a body having a set of substantially planar cheek plates lying in substantially parallel planes and having a locking arm comprising a pivot end pivotally connected to the body. The locking arm is selectively positionable at a first mated, lockable portion of the body and a free end selectively positionable at a second mated, lockable portion of the body and also has a concave engaging surface. The handcuff further has a primary locking mechanism located on the body for receiving the free end of the locking arm, the second locking mechanism defining a first keyhole into a first keyway for accessing a first locking position of the free end of the locking arm, the primary locking mechanism further comprising a pawl positioned within the body and including pawl teeth, wherein the free end of the locking arm includes opposing ratchet teeth for engaging the pawl teeth. A pivot locking mechanism is located on a shackle portion proximate to a pivot point connecting the locking arm with the body, the pivot locking mechanism defining a second keyhole into a second keyway for accessing a second locking position of the pivot end of the locking arm, the pivot locking mechanism further comprising a pawl positioned within the second mated, lockable portion of the body and including pawl teeth, wherein the pivot end of the locking arm further includes an inner surface portion having ratcheted teeth for engaging the pawl teeth of the second mated, locked portion of the body. The method includes the steps of positioning a first handcuff of the triple locking handcuff assembly on a first wrist of an individual, then locking the first locking mechanism of the first handcuff. Then either a second handcuff can be positioned on a second wrist of the individual and the first locking mechanism of the second handcuff is locked or the second locking mechanism of the first handcuff is then locked. If the second handcuff is positioned on the second wrist immediately after application of the first handcuff on the first wrist, then once both first locks of the first and second handcuffs are positioned, the second locks on each of the first and second handcuffs can be engaged. If the second locking mechanism of the first handcuff is locked prior to positioning of the second handcuff on a second wrist, a second handcuff of the triple locking handcuff assembly is positioned on a second wrist of the individual whereupon the first locking mechanism of the second handcuff is locked and then the second locking mechanism of the second handcuff is locked. Each of the first locking mechanisms locks automatically during the clasping process. If kept in the locked position, the pivot locks will engage automatically and manual application is not required. 
     According to other aspects, the pivot lock is difficult to access by the individual wearing the handcuffs. The pivot locks work by preventing the shackle to open or release unless each pivot lock is unlocked in addition to the unlocking of the traditional lock—that is, both the pivot lock and the traditional lock must be unlocked. The innovative placement of each pivot lock prevents the individual from picking or opening the handcuff, thereby requiring assistance to remove. Without inflicting injury to the individual, the triple locking handcuff restricts the movement of the wrists and hands of the individual and places each pivot lock so far out of reach of the individual&#39;s fingers that the pivot lock cannot be unlocked or picked open, without assistance from a second individual. Additionally, each of the pivot locks for the triple locking handcuff assembly must be opened or otherwise defeated along with each of the conventional locks (proximate to the base plate) in order for the individual to be able to escape. Accordingly, the pivot lock supplements and strengthens the conventional lock and security of the handcuff design. 
     According to additional aspects, a portion of the locking arm, one side of the double strand, and the connection of the two are modified to incorporate the pivot lock. This modification will result in a set of handcuffs that are slightly thicker but not wider, than traditional handcuffs. This small increase in size will not compromise the standard regulation carry because the improved handcuffs will fit in exactly the same manner and space on an officer&#39;s uniform (typically along the belt) as traditional handcuffs, the only difference will be that the improved handcuffs will extend away from the body slightly because of the increased width that accommodates the additional locks. 
     In yet more aspects, the portion of the locking arm at the pivot point incorporates ratcheted teeth that mate with one or more grooves of the locking mechanism to facilitate adjustment in positioning of the locking arm to fit the wrist of the individual wearing the triple locking handcuffs. When the pivot lock is locked into position, the mated ratcheted teeth are secured in position until unlocked with a key. According to additional aspects, the triple locking handcuffs may incorporate standard locks appropriate for the ratcheted teeth and grooves. 
     According to further aspects, the pivot locks may be protected by a spring loaded or sliding keyhole cover to restrict access to the keyhole. The cover may be manually or automatically deployed to cover the opening to the keyhole of the pivot lock and provides additional security to the lock mechanism of the pivot lock. This cover adds security because it must be moved out of the way or if it is spring-loaded it must be held out of the way while the pivot lock is accessed or manipulated. This keyhole cover provides additional protection from foreign materials entering and or interfering with the locking mechanism of the pivot lock. 
     According to still further aspects, the triple locking handcuffs may also incorporate touch verifiable alignment features, such as a raised bump on the “up” side of the base portion of each handcuff as well as a complimentary depressed smooth dimple or indentation on the “bottom” side of the corresponding base portion of the handcuff. Alternate embodiments may incorporate additional alignment features, such as color-coding a portion of the cuff to indicate proper orientation (i.e., “up” or “down” orientation). Such markings allow the operator to orientate proper placement by either touch, feel, or both; without needing visual inspection during cuffing. 
     Another aspect includes a method of using the triple locking handcuff that incorporates the pivot lock, the alignment features, and/or the protective pivot lock cover. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention is a pivot lock for use in a handcuff of the type having a body containing a primary locking system and having parallel strands extending laterally therefrom terminating at a pivoting end, which supports a pivoting locking arm with a plurality of ratcheted teeth for engaging the primary lock. The pivot lock is positioned at the pivoting end and includes a pivot gear affixed to the locking arm at a pivoting juncture of the strands and the locking arm. The pivot gear has a plurality of teeth about its periphery. A locking pawl has at least one detent and a projection therefrom and is supported by one of the parallel strands. The locking pawl is selectively rotatable between a locked position wherein the projection is in engagement with the plurality of teeth of the pivot gear and an open position wherein the projection is disengaged from the plurality of teeth. A plunger engages the at least one detent for maintaining the locking pawl in a selected rotated position. 
     Still another aspect of the present invention is a handcuff having a body defining an interior cavity and having upper and lower parallel strands extending laterally from the body and terminating at a pivot end. A primary locking mechanism is supported within the interior cavity and includes a pawl having ratcheted teeth for selectively capturing oppositely oriented ratcheted teeth. A locking arm has a free end and a pivot end pivotally affixed to the pivot end of the upper and lower parallel strands. The locking arm further includes a plurality of ratcheted teeth at an outer edge of the free end for selective engagement with the pawl ratcheted teeth. A pivot locking mechanism is positioned at the pivot end of the strands for selective engagement to prevent pivoting of the locking arm with respect to the body. The pivot locking mechanism further comprises a pivot gear having a plurality of teeth about a periphery thereof affixed to the locking arm at a pivoting juncture of the strands and the locking arm. A locking pawl having at least one detent and a projection therefrom is supported by one of the parallel strands. The locking pawl is selectively rotatable between a locked position wherein the projection is in engagement with the plurality of teeth of the pivot gear and an open position wherein the projection is disengaged from the plurality of teeth. A plunger engages the detent for maintaining the locking pawl in a selected rotated position. 
     Other systems, methods, and/or computer program products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or computer program products be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like numerals denote like elements and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a handcuff assembly illustrating the location of the pivot locks according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of the handcuff of  FIG. 1  illustrating the cuff body, the pivot point, and the locking mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged top segmental view of a pivot lock of the handcuff of  FIG. 2  and shown by the enclosed area  3  of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an elevation view of a prior art pivot joint portion of a handcuff; 
         FIG. 5  is an elevation view of the pivot joint portion of the handcuff of  FIG. 2  according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged top segmental view of an alternate embodiment pivot lock of the handcuff; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of a single cuff incorporating a pivot lock; 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the single cuff illustrated in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a partially segmented top view of the single cuff of  FIG. 7  illustrating the pivot locking mechanism in an unlocked state; 
         FIG. 10  is a partially segmented top view of the single cuff of  FIG. 7  illustrating the pivot locking mechanism in a locked state; 
         FIG. 11  is an elevation cross-section of the single cuff of  FIG. 7  taken along the section line  11 - 11 ,  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a key for unlocking the pivot locking mechanism. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “rear”, “right”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in  FIG. 1 . Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     Exemplary embodiments of the triple locking handcuff incorporate a pivot lock that is located proximate to a top, outer edge of each shackle, in the position farthest away from the fingers of an individual wearing the triple locking handcuffs. The pivot locks supplement or otherwise increase security of prior art handcuff assemblies because each triple locking handcuff now has an additional pivot lock on each handcuff. The pivot locks work by preventing movement of the locking arm and maintains the cuffs in a locked position. In addition, the placement of each pivot lock prevents or otherwise significantly reduces the ability of the individual to pick or otherwise open the lock and requires assistance of a second individual to unlock the pivot locks. The various embodiments described herein may be constructed of steel, titanium, nickel, composites, and/or other materials that meet or exceed all National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards (NIJ Standard-0307.01) and testing requirements or other equivalents. 
     Referring now to the drawings,  FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective top view of a triple locking handcuff assembly  20  that includes a pair of left and right handcuffs  30 , each having a body portion  32  also referred to as a shackle. Left and right handcuffs  30  are mirror image constructions one of the other and are herein referred to interchangeably. Left and right shackles  32  are interconnected by one or more linkages  22  attached to an inner edge  34  of shackles  32 . Each handcuff shackle  32  defines an interior cavity which supports a first primary locking mechanism  50  located at a base plate  36  and a pivot locking mechanism  60  located proximate to a pivot end  38  of shackle  32 . Pivot end  38  includes an upper strand  39  and a lower strand  41  defining a slot  42  therebetween and to which is pivotally affixed a single strand locking arm  40  such that locking arm  40  is captured between strands  39  and  41 . Locking arm  40  includes ratcheted teeth  43  at a free end  44  thereof. Ratcheted teeth  43  engagingly mate with a pawl assembly (not shown) within base plate  36  and also having oppositely oriented ratcheted teeth (not shown). Such use and configuration of ratcheted teeth in combination with the primary lock  50  of handcuff assembly  20  is well known in the art and is thus not described further herein. The primary lock  50  is commonly designed to meet existing and/or future National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards or their equivalent. 
     According to exemplary embodiments, the primary locking mechanism  50  is only accessible on one side—that is, the “top” side as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . The placement of the primary locking mechanism  50  corresponds with the orientation and placement of the known prior art handcuff locks. Key orientation of primary locking mechanism  50  is also similar to conventional handcuff locking mechanisms known in the art. While primary locking mechanism  50  automatically reverts to a locked state (allowing the capture of ratchet teeth  43  by the internal pawl) upon removal of the key, pivot lock  60  may be configured to stay in the open position when unlocked. It is understood that while  FIG. 2  illustrates the primary locking mechanism  50  on the “top” side, the primary locking mechanism  50  may be oriented on the opposing side, that is, the “bottom” side in another embodiment. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , locking arm  40  pivots about hinge  46  and rotates towards base plate  36  as indicated by arrow ‘A’ to engage ratcheted teeth  43  with the mating pawl in base plate  36 . To release locking arm  40 , primary locking mechanism  50  and pivot lock  60  are both disengaged permitting locking arm  40  to rotate about hinge  46  in an opposite direction as indicated by arrow ‘B’. 
       FIGS. 3-5  illustrate an embodiment of a pivot lock  60  wherein  FIG. 3  shows a top cut away view of the exemplary embodiment of pivot lock  60  in upper strand  39 . As illustrated, handcuff assembly  20  includes pivot locks  60  at each pivot end  38  of shackles  32  to prevent the handcuff  30  from being opened or released unless manually unlocked or otherwise disengaged. Referring to  FIG. 3 , a pivot end  47  of locking arm  40  is affixed to pivot end  38  of shackle  32  at hinge  46 . Pivot end  47  includes a plurality of locking arm teeth  62 . Upper strand  39  of shackle  32  defines a recess  68  housing a locking pawl  64  of pivot lock  60 . Locking pawl  64  includes pawl teeth  66  configured such that pawl teeth  66  interengage with locking arm teeth  64  when locking pawl  64  is translated from an ‘open’ position to a ‘locked’ or engaged position. Locking pawl  64  can be translated to an engaged position by either a spring or by a key activated mechanism within recess  68 . 
     Pivot lock  60  incorporates a push-pin or slot-activated mechanism that is similar to the double locking feature incorporated in prior art primary locks  50 . When engaged, this mechanism stops the cuff  30  from ratcheting tighter, thereby protecting an individual from laceration, or decreased circulation, reducing the potential for unwanted opening, and reducing the likelihood of having to re-open a triple handcuff assembly  20  for further adjustments (e.g., placed too tight on the wrists of an individual wearing the handcuffs). This feature thereby introduces yet another level of protection from unauthorized and avoidable opening. The deadbolt style design does not allow movement in any direction, either tighter or looser. In addition to using a spring design similar to prior art handcuff locks; the pivot lock  60  may also incorporate a standard double locking mechanism (Reference  FIG. 6 ). The pivot lock  60  uses the same universal handcuff key as used in the primary lock  50 . However, the pivot locks  60  can also be configured to use high-security keys or other key types. If primary lock  50  is double locked, handcuff  30  will not tighten and there is no need to engage a second double lock on pivot lock  60  to prevent tightening. However, security would be improved by engaging the double lock on both the primary lock  50  and pivot lock  60  thereby limiting movement of the lock elements making the mechanism tighter. 
     The pivot lock  60  differs from conventional locks in that once unlocked or released, the pivot lock  60  remains in the open or released position (in the same way a car door lock would). Such design allows an operator (e.g., law enforcement personnel) to then remove the key and unlock each pivot lock  60  along with each primary lock  50  to release an individual wearing the triple locking handcuff assembly  20 . This is achieved by a second spring or mechanism holding the lock open or unlocked. The operator can then unlock the primary lock  50  that is under constant tension. Once the individual wearing the triple locking handcuff assembly  20  is released, the operator then resets the pivot lock  60  with the key. To reset, the operator inserts the key into the pivot lock  60  and turns it, thereby releasing the mechanism or the spring holding it in the open or unlocked position. The primary spring holds the mechanism in the locked or closed position. The pivot lock  60  can also be automatically re-set or re-locked by cycling cuff  30  or pushing the single strand locking arm  40  through the cuff body. There may be multiple resets that would engage upon fully opening or reclosing the handcuff. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2 , attachment of one handcuff  30  to an opposite handcuff  30  is illustrated as a chain-link design. It is understood that handcuff to handcuff coupling configuration can be utilized, such as a hinged design and the like. According to some embodiments the coupling configuration secures the individual&#39;s hands in a parallel position one to another and may provide further security and safety by restricting movement of the hands. The chain-link design of the attachment attaches to the handcuff  30  via two or more hinges  24 . Alternate attachment may also include connecting a pair of triple locking handcuffs  30  with a link, a cable, or a blocked, rigid handcuff assembly (all known in the art). The blocked, rigid style assembly (not shown) can include a fixed plastic or metal block between the handcuffs. While such a blocked, rigid design is bulkier for an individual to carry, it prevents rotation of the cuffs, and permits several variations in cuffing, such as, for example, with one hand cuffed, an individual wearing the one cuff may be controlled or otherwise restrained. 
       FIGS. 1-2  illustrate the triple locking handcuff assembly  20  with additional features that provide ease of orientation and increased security. The pivot lock  60  may also incorporate a sliding cover  80  to protect the lock  60  from being picked and from collecting debris. As appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the cover  80  could be moved manually or spring loaded. In addition, handcuffs  30  may further incorporate touch verifiable markings such as raised surface  86  for easy orientation. Raised surface  86  may be stippled or otherwise have frictional markings that may be used to denote the “up” or “top” side for proper cuff orientation. Still, further exemplary embodiments may incorporate color-coding of surface  86  to denote proper orientation. 
     An alternate embodiment handcuff assembly  120  similar to handcuff assembly  20  with an alternate embodiment pivot lock  160  is illustrated in  FIG. 6 . Handcuff assembly  120  includes a locking arm  140  pivotally affixed to strands  139  and  141  at hinge  146 . Pivot end  147  of locking arm  140  is configured to include ratchet teeth  162 . Upper strand  139  defines a recess in which is housed locking pawl  164 . Locking pawl  164  includes ratcheted pawl teeth  166  configured such that ratcheted pawl teeth  166  interengage with locking arm ratcheted teeth  162 . The location of the locking teeth  162 ,  166  corresponds with the locking of the ratchet teeth in the prior art primary lock  50  (i.e. they both lock at the same time when the cuff is closed, the pivot locks will not engage or lock when the cuff is open). For example and as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , ratcheted teeth  43  at the free end  44  of the locking arm  40  engage the pawl in the primary locking mechanism  50  at base plate  36 . Referring again to  FIG. 6 , ratcheted teeth  166  of locking pawl  164  are biased against ratcheted teeth  162  of locking arm  140  by compression springs  170 . A key (not shown) is utilized to selectively activate a locking cam  176  which in turn causes a dead bolt  172  to engage and disengage from a recess  178  in pawl  164 . Engagement of dead bolt  172  in recess  178  prevents teeth  162  and  166  from ratcheting with respect to each other, thus providing a third lock of handcuff assembly  120 . Subsequent activation of locking cam  176  with the key will overcome compression springs  170  and  174  to withdraw deadbolt  172  and pawl  164  allowing the rotation of locking arm  140  to place handcuff assembly  120  in an ‘open’ condition. 
     A raised index or reset mechanism on the pivot end  147  of locking arm  140  releases the lock mechanism from the open position in the same way that the key does and releases the lock to return to the locked position. The raised index is located on the ratchet teeth  162 . This ensures that the handcuff is returned to the locked position before the cuff is closed when the ratchet teeth  162  first come in line or contact with the pivot lock mechanism  160 . The raised index effectively reactivates the lock before the cuff is placed in the closed position. The ability to reset the mechanism with the key is necessary in the event that the operator unlocks a cuff  130  to loosen or adjust it. In instances when a cuff  130  is being loosened or adjusted, the locking arm  140  will not be cycled through so the raised index will not re-lock the cuff or reset pivot lock mechanism  160 . When the cuff  130  is being loosened the operator must re-lock the pivot lock  160  (when the design in use is not one under constant spring tension). In alternate exemplary embodiments, the pivot locks  160  are under constant spring tension similar to the primary lock mechanism  50  and a key must be inserted and turned and held in place while the cuff is being opened. This is necessary to overcome the spring tension that holds the pivot lock mechanism  160  in place or locked. If such a pivot lock  160  were utilized, it would then require the operator or operators to simultaneously unlock both locks  50 ,  160  (with two keys) while releasing the triple locking handcuff assembly  120 . Such a configuration may be desirable in high security environments. 
     One of the advantages of handcuff assembly  20  including pivot lock  60  is increased security when the triple handcuff assembly  20  is used to restrain individuals having large wrists. That is, for individuals having large wrists, only one or two teeth  43  of locking arm  40  may engage the locking assembly of each handcuff  30 . By locking the pivot locks  60 , the triple handcuff assembly  20  provides an additional locked position that prevents movement of locking arm  40  if primary locking mechanism  50  fails. 
       FIGS. 4 and 5  illustrate side elevation views of a prior art handcuff  10  ( FIG. 4 ) and triple locking cuff assembly  20  ( FIG. 5 ). Prior art handcuff  10  has a locking arm pivotally captured between an upper strand  13  and lower strand  14 . The body and operation of a primary locking mechanism is as previously disclosed and known in the art. For the safety locking handcuff  20  the pivot lock  60  prevents the locking arm  40  from opening or unlocking unless unlocked. Furthermore, the pivot end  47  of the locking arm  40  is oversized to incorporate locking arm teeth  62 . This oversized body design allows the locking arm  40  to rotate and operate in a similar manner as the conventional handcuff. That is, the pivot lock  60  does not interfere with the range of motion or the cycling of the locking arm  40 . 
     Typically, the pivot end  47  is of a greater height than in conventional handcuffs (see representative height of arm  12 ,  FIG. 3 ). Enlarged pivot end  47  permits the pivot lock  60  to function in the same manner as the traditional design. According to exemplary embodiments, the pivot end  38  of strand  39  of the handcuff body  32  is enlarged to accommodate the pivot lock mechanism  60 . According to additional exemplary embodiments, locking arm teeth  62  are raised or extend out further than the pivot point hinge  46 . This allows the locking arm teeth  62  to engage pivot lock mechanism  60  (e.g., a pawl component  64 ). When the teeth  62  are not engaged or when the handcuff  30  is open there is no engagement or friction. This allows the handcuff  30  to rotate freely or unobstructed when pushed, similar to prior art handcuffs. Teeth  62  may be a full gear with gearing all the way around the pivot or in other designs, a gear in sections, corresponding with the orientation of the primary lock mechanism  50 . 
     According to exemplary embodiments, the opening or access to the pivot lock  60  is located on the topside of the handcuff. Preferably, the keyhole is not open or otherwise accessible on the bottom side. Furthermore, the orientation and positioning of the keyholes for each pivot lock  60  in the assembly  20  is oriented similarly with complimentary orientation on the topside. 
     According to still further exemplary embodiments, when the locking arm  40  is positioned through or in the open position, the locking arm teeth  62  on the pivot end  47  are not engaged with pawl  64 . This allows the handcuff to rotate freely in a similar manner as prior art handcuffs by not creating any drag or obstruction. This lock configuration on the pivot end  47  further allows the handcuff to be closed or tightened and does not allow the handcuff to be opened or loosened when applied to an individual until it is unlocked. It will however allow the locking arm  40  to be pushed through or tightened as it would in the prior art handcuff assemblies. Pushing through occurs when the handcuffs are not applied to an individual or are empty. When empty there is no wrist in the way and the cuff rotates or pushes through the locking body in a forward motion. 
     The pivot locks  160  with ratcheted teeth  162  permit pushing through but not pulling back in the same manner as primary locks  50  operate and facilitate “speed-cuffing”. “Speed-cuffing”occurs when the operator places or pushes the cuff against the individual&#39;s wrist with a force that will allow the locking arm to push through or cycle. When the handcuff cycles through it then locks once it encircles the individual&#39;s wrist and reaches the locked position. This method is quicker than opening the handcuff with a key and then encircling the individual&#39;s wrists. The “spring loaded” variation of the exemplary embodiment would still allow for “speed-cuffing” because the second pivot lock could engage automatically without the use of a key but would require a key to unlock, thereby adding increased security. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the triple locking handcuff assembly  20  may be constructed of steel, titanium, nickel, other metals, composites and combinations thereof that meet or exceed all National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards (NIJ Standard-0307.01) and testing requirements. According to some of the embodiments, the triple handcuff assembly may have an anodized, black oxide, nickel, rubber, polymer, composite, penetrate, and/or other finish. The handcuffs fold flat for storage, fit over a belt without protruding and fit most standard handcuff cases. The handcuffs can be carried in a standard handcuff case or pouch and work with typical duty belt placement. Still in further exemplary embodiments, the pivot locks  60  help to provide additional security to the lock while preventing the cuffs from tightening. The pivot locking mechanism  60  with the primary locking mechanism  50  function properly when the user double locks the primary lock  50  (i.e. by double locking it prevents the cuff from tightening, this would therefore prevent the pivot lock  60  from tightening since they are connected to the same locking arm  40  but for added security the pivot lock  60  could also be locked separately). However, pivot lock  60  can also include a double locking mechanism similar to primary locking mechanism  50  for additional security. 
     In further exemplary embodiments, the triple locking handcuffs includes additional markings, differentiating planar colors, or distinguishable indicia (e.g., marking black alphanumeric characters and/or symbols on a white surface) for orientation of the handcuffs. This could be achieved through a variety of methods, such as, for example, handwriting, affixing a computer-generated or handwritten label, thermal printing, etching, painting, or molding a portion of the handcuffs with a portion of a raised surface area or a concave aperture. For example, the marking may be stamped or pressed into a metal. Alternatively, the marking may be accomplished by applying a film, a substrate, magnetic material, or the like to the handcuff. 
     Yet another embodiment handcuff  230  is illustrated in  FIGS. 7-12 . Handcuff  230  includes a shackle or body portion  232  that has parallel upper and lower strands  239  and  241  respectively extending therefrom terminating in a pivoting end  238 . Body portion houses therein a locking mechanism  250  as the primary lock for the handcuff. Handcuff  230  also had a single strand locking arm  240  that is pivotally attached to upper and lower strands  239 ,  240  at pivot hinge  246 . Locking arm  240  also includes ratcheted teeth  243  along an outer edge for engaging with primary locking mechanism  250 . All of these features are well known in handcuff construction and are discussed above. Handcuff  230  further includes an alternate embodiment pivot lock  260 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-8 , upper strand  239  at pivot end  238  is configured to accept the mechanism of pivot lock  260 , which is enclosed therein by pivot lock cover  281 . Pivot lock cover  281  defines a keyhole for receiving an end of a locking/unlocking key  254  ( FIG. 12 ). The visible surface of cover  281  can also be embossed with an “O” and an “L” to designate the direction in which key  254  is to be turned to ‘open’ or ‘lock’ pivot lock  260 . The underside of upper strand  239  can also include an access cover  288  to facilitate access to the mechanism of pivot lock  260 . The pivot lock cover  281  can be fabricated of a forging, casting, machining, and the like. 
     Pivot locking mechanism  260  is illustrated in  FIGS. 9-10  wherein  FIG. 9  illustrates the ‘open’ or unlocked state of handcuff  230 , and  FIG. 10  illustrates the ‘locked’ state of handcuff  230 . Locking arm  240  has affixed thereto a pivot gear  261 . Pivot gear  261  is fixed to locking arm  240  in a stationary manner and positioned to rotate around hinge  246  as locking arm  240  rotates about hinge  246 . Pivot gear  261  includes a plurality of uniform triangular teeth  262  positioned about its periphery. 
     Proximate to pivot gear  261  and coplanar therewith, a locking pawl  264  is rotatably mounted in pivot end  238  of upper strand  239 . Locking pawl  264  defines a key recess  290  for receiving therein key  254  by which locking pawl can be rotated in a clockwise (open) or counterclockwise (locked) manner. An upper periphery of locking pawl  264  has a projection  296 , here shown as an end of an arcuate guide  295  that is movable into and out of engagement with teeth  262  of pivot gear  261 . 
     A lower periphery of locking pawl  264  defines first and second detents  292 ,  294  respectively and separated by triangular cam surface  274 . An axially movable plunger  274  is biased into engagement with detents  292 ,  294  by biasing compression spring  270 . 
     In use, and when in an unlocked state as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , locking pawl is positioned in its clockwise-most position wherein plunger  274  is engaged in first detent  292 . Detent  292  is configured such that plunger  272  maintains its clockwise-most position and is completely disengaged from teeth  262  of pivot gear  261 . In this ‘open’ state, locking arm  240  is free to pivot about hinge  246  in either direction ‘A’ or direction ‘B’ depending on whether primary lock  250  is in its locked or unlocked state. Incorporation of pivot lock  260  including plunger  272  in combination with locking pawl  264  permits handcuff  230  to be continually cycled forward or completely pushed through strands  239  and  241 . Consequently, there is no need to incorporate in lock  260  an additional mechanism to permit resetting of lock  260  as disclosed with respect to pivot locks  60  and  160  as described above. 
     To lock pivot lock  260 , shaft  256  of key  254  ( FIG. 12 ) is inserted in keyhole  283  and rotated counterclockwise with the fingers of a user applying the required rotational force against enlarged portion  255  whereupon blade  257  of key  254  engages locking pawl  264 . As key  254  is rotated counterclockwise, locking pawl  264  is likewise rotated and cam  297  axially displaces plunger  274  against the bias of spring  270 . Once cam  274  over-centers with respect to plunger  274  biasing spring begins to extend plunger  274  into second detent  294  until locking pawl  264  is in its counterclockwise most position. In this position, projection  296  of locking pawl is in engagement with teeth  262  of pivot gear  261 . An advantage of pivot lock  260  is that lock  260  can be left in a locked position and locking arm  240  can still be cycled forward, thereby locking automatically once place on the wrist when left in the locked position. In this manner, the operator does not have to remember to activate pivot lock  260 . However, a double locking mechanism can be added to pivot lock  260  locking plunger  274  in place in detent  294  and thereby preventing the cycling or tightening of locking arm  240 . 
     Projection  296  is configured to prevent locking arm  240  from rotating in direction ‘B’, here shown as teeth  262  bearing against the outer arcuate surface of arcuate guide  295 , thus providing a secondary lock in addition to primary lock  250  engaging ratchet teeth  243  on locking arm  240  as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . However, when locking pawl is in the locked position, locking arm  240  can still be rotated in direction ‘A’. As locking arm is rotated in direction ‘A’, teeth  262  of pivot gear  261  cam against projection  296  and rotate locking pawl  264  in a clockwise direction overcoming the biasing of spring  270  on plunger  274 . The camming action of teeth  262  against projection  296  is insufficient to over-center cam  297  thus plunger  274  again fully engages in second detent  294  by the force of biasing spring  270  and maintains pivot lock  260  in its ‘locked’ state. Pivot lock  260  maintains its ‘locked’ state until key  254  is again inserted in keyhole  283  and rotated in a clockwise direction until cam  297  again over-centers to engage plunger  274  in first detent  292  to unlock pivot lock  260 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 12 , key  254  can be a known handcuff key configuration having an enlarged portion  255  to which the user&#39;s fingers can apply a desired rotational force. A shaft  256  extends therefrom for insertion in keyhole  283  of cuff  230  and has at an end thereof a blade  257  for engaging pawl  264  and transferring the rotational force to pawl  264 . A hole or recess  258  can be defined in the end of shaft  256  to receive a pin (not shown) of pivot locking mechanism  260  for proper alignment of key  254  with respect to locking pawl  264 . 
     In one variation of pivot lock  260 , lock  260  is held in a fixed locked position by spring tension similar to the existing base plate on known handcuff designs. When the cuffs are opened, the base plate would be held back or opened. Upon removal of the key, the lock mechanism would remain in the locked position. Such a configuration requires that both locks be opened simultaneously to release the cuff from a wrist and thus provide a higher security cuff. 
     Those practiced in the art will recognize that pivot lock  160  as illustrated in  FIG. 6  and pivot lock  260  as illustrated in  FIGS. 7-11  permit the cuff to be tightened once the cuff has been positioned on the wearer&#39;s wrist. A deadbolt mechanism would not allow tightening and would have to be manually applied or locked once placed in position. A disadvantage of a deadbolt mechanism is that the operator would have to remember to lock the pivot lock. An advantage of the deadbolt mechanism is that it would not require a double locking mechanism as the components would already be locked or held in place when applied and the lack of movement will contribute to strength and longevity. 
     While  FIGS. 7 ,  9 , and  10  illustrate pivot lock  260  as being enclosed in strand  239  with a cover  281  that is held in place with screws, those practiced in the art will readily recognize that other methods such as welding can be utilized to enclose pivot lock  260  within strand  239  as well as incorporating alternate methods of forming the recess in which pivot lock is housed. In an alternative embodiment, the strands  239  can be fabricated having a uniform or unitary construction, thus reducing or eliminating the number of screws. 
     It is understood that the locking mechanism  250  can utilize the pivot lock  260  can include a section of the pivot gear or ratchet can be designed incorporating a non-engaging section, wherein the pivot gear or ratchet can be cycled between an engaging configuration and an unrestricting configuration oriented enabling unrestricted rotation of the single strand locking arm  240 . The locking mechanism  250  can be designed enabling cycling into a locked configuration only upon insertion of the single strand locking arm  240  therein. 
     This feature ensures that the pivot lock  260  engages only when the cuff is closed. A benefit of this feature is appreciated when subjected to a scenario wherein the prisoner is resisting arrest. The unrestricted motion of the cuff enables the office to rotate the single strand locking arm  240  in either direction. This eliminates the requirement that the officer cycle the single strand locking arm  240  through the locking configuration and fully around to a staged configuration. Essentially, the rotation of the single strand locking arm  240  can be reduced to a small opening rotational motion (such as 5-20 degrees), compared to a nearly complete circular motion (such as 340-355 degrees). When trying to cuff a resisting prisoner that is physically restrained (such as a condition where the prisoner is restrained on the ground, against a wall or against another fixed object) it may not be possible to cycle the single strand locking arm  240  through due to position or space constraints. 
     It would be desired that the handcuff is placed upon a prisoner having the pivot lock  260  directed on the upside of the prisoner. This orients the keyway in a position that is readily visible and accessible to the operator to easily operate and open the handcuffs  230  and remove them from the prisoner. 
     Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. 
     The above description is considered that of the preferred embodiments only. Modifications of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the invention. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.