Patent Publication Number: US-2017355297-A1

Title: Cargo Tie-Down

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     The present disclosure relates to tie-down assemblies and anchoring systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to tie-down assemblies and anchoring systems for cargo being transported by a vehicle. 
     Background 
     Vehicles are often used for transporting loads, freight, cargo, equipment, goods, etc. For example, cargo can be transported in the bed of a pickup truck. In order to secure the load, it is advantageous to have tie-down points for ropes, straps, hooks, bungee cords, etc. Certain vehicles have tie-down points that allow the insertion and securement of tie-down assemblies into pre-designated holes located in a wall of the truck bed. Inserting and attaching a tie-down assembly can be difficult due to the small amount of space within the wall of the vehicle truck bed. It can also be difficult to secure the tie-down assembly within the hole at the tie-down point because the user does not have physical or visual access to the interior of the wall to help manipulate the rear of the tie-down assembly, which is disposed in the interior of the wall. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     In certain embodiments, a tie-down assembly for a vehicle can include a bolt having a head and a shaft, a face plate having an aperture configured to receive the bolt therethrough, a carrier, and a lock plate. The carrier can include an attachment surface configured to engage the face plate, a first extension portion extending from the attachment surface, the first extension portion having a first stop tab, and an aperture configured to receive the bolt therethrough. The lock plate can be configured to be disposed about the bolt. The lock plate can include an aperture configured to receive the bolt therethrough and a first edge configured to engage the first stop tab of the first extension portion, thereby preventing rotational movement of the lock plate in a first direction. In certain embodiments, a spring can be disposed around the shaft of the bolt between the carrier and the lock plate. 
     In certain embodiments, the bolt can be an eye-bolt and the head can include an aperture. In certain embodiments, the head of the bolt can include a base having an interior surface configured to face or contact the face plate. In certain embodiments, the shaft of the bolt can be threaded. In certain embodiments, the aperture of the lock plate can be threaded and the shaft of the bolt can be configured to rotate within the aperture of the lock plate. In certain embodiments, the bolt can be configured to rotate within the aperture of the lock plate when the first edge of the lock plate is engaged with the first stop tab of the first extension portion. 
     In certain embodiments, the bolt can include a stop member at a distal end of the shaft. In certain embodiments, the stop member can be configured to be disposed in a groove in a rear surface of the lock plate. In certain embodiments, the stop member can be a pin disposed through a hole in the distal end of the shaft. In certain embodiments, the pin can have a first end and a second end that extend out of the hole. In certain embodiments, the ends of the pin can be configured to be disposed in a groove in a rear surface of the lock plate. 
     In certain embodiments, the stop member can be a clip disposed around the distal end of the shaft. In certain embodiments, the clip can be disposed entirely around a circumference of the distal end of the shaft. 
     In certain embodiments, an exterior surface of the face plate can have a raised portion and an interior surface having a corresponding indentation. In certain embodiments, the carrier can be configured to be disposed within the indentation of the interior surface. 
     In certain embodiments, the carrier can include a second extension portion extending from the attachment surface. The second extension portion can include a second stop tab. In certain embodiments, a second edge of the lock plate can be configured to engage the second stop tab of the second extension portion, thereby preventing rotational movement of the lock plate in the first direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the carrier can include one or more protrusions extending from the attachment surface. The protrusions can be configured to mate with one or more corresponding through-holes in the face plate to releasably couple the carrier with the face plate. In certain embodiments, at least one protrusion can have an extension portion and a flange disposed at an end of the extension portion. The flange can protrude through a corresponding through-hole in the face plate. 
     In certain embodiments, the first edge of the lock plate can have a first notch. In certain embodiments, the first notch can be configured to engage the first stop tab of the first extension portion, thereby preventing rotational movement of the lock plate in a second direction. In certain embodiments, the second edge of the lock plate can have second a notch. In certain embodiments, the second notch can be configured to engage the second stop tab of the second extension portion, thereby preventing rotational movement of the lock plate in the second direction. 
     In certain embodiments, the face plate can be configured to contact an exposed surface of a wall of the vehicle. In certain embodiments, the lock plate and at least a portion of the carrier can be configured to be disposed in a void space within the wall of the vehicle. 
     In certain embodiments, the bolt can be configured to receive an attachment element. In certain embodiments, the attachment element can be a rope. 
     In certain embodiments, an anchoring system can include a bolt having a head with an aperture and a threaded shaft. The anchoring system can include a face plate having an aperture configured to receive the shaft therethrough, where the face plate is configured to contact a first side of a wall. The anchoring system can also include a carrier and a lock plate. In certain embodiments, the carrier can be coupled to the face plate. In certain embodiments, the carrier can include a first stop tab and an aperture configured to receive the shaft therethrough. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the carrier can be configured to be disposed on a second side of the wall. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can include an aperture having threading, and the shaft can be configured to rotate within the aperture of the lock plate. In certain embodiments, a first edge of the lock plate can be configured to engage the first stop tab upon rotation of the bolt in a first direction, thereby preventing rotational movement of the lock plate in the first direction. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can be configured to be disposed on the second side of the wall. 
     In certain embodiments, the wall can be a wall of a vehicle. In certain embodiments, the wall of the vehicle can be the wall of a truck bed. 
     In certain embodiments, rotation of the bolt in the first direction can move the lock plate along the shaft of the bolt in a direction toward the face plate. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can engage the first stop tab at 90 degrees of rotation. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can be disposed in a first configuration during insertion through an aperture in the wall, and the lock plate can be disposed in a second position upon rotation in the first direction such that the lock plate engages the first stop tab. In certain embodiments, the second position can be perpendicular to the first position. 
     In certain embodiments, the carrier can include a second stop tab and a channel between the first stop tab and the second stop tab. In certain embodiments, a second edge of the lock plate can be configured to engage the second stop tab upon rotation of the bolt in the first direction. In certain embodiments, rotation of the bolt in the first direction can move the lock plate along the shaft in a direction toward the face plate within the channel. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can be prevented from rotating in a second direction opposite the first direction when the lock plate is disposed in the channel. In certain embodiments, the first direction can be counter-clockwise. 
     In certain embodiments, a method of attaching a tie-down assembly to a vehicle can include providing a tie-down assembly. The tie-down assembly can include a bolt having a head and a threaded shaft, a face plate having an aperture configured to receive the bolt therethrough, a carrier detachably coupled to the face plate having an aperture configured to receive the bolt therethrough and a first extension portion having a first stop tab, and a lock plate having a first edge configured to engage the first stop tab of the first extension portion and a threaded aperture configured to rotatably receive the bolt therethrough. In certain embodiments, the method can include inserting the tie-down assembly through a hole in a wall of the vehicle such that the face plate contacts a first side of the wall, at least a portion of the carrier is disposed on a second side of the wall, and the lock plate is disposed on the second side of the wall in a first orientation. In certain embodiments, the method can include rotating the bolt such that the lock plate rotates in a first direction to a second orientation where the first edge of the lock plate engages the first stop tab and such that lock plate moves along the shaft of the bolt in a direction toward the face plate. In certain embodiments, the first direction can be counter-clockwise. In certain embodiments, the lock plate can remain in the second orientation when rotating the bolt after engaging the first stop tab. In certain embodiments, rotating the bolt can secure the tie-down assembly to the wall of the vehicle. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein form part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the embodiments and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and use the embodiments. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an exploded view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a bolt, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a bolt, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of a face plate, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of a face plate and a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a rear perspective view of a face plate, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a rear perspective view of a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a perspective view of a lock plate, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a rear perspective view of a lock plate, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates an exploded view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a side view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a perspective view of face plate and a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a vehicle having a tie-down assembly in a wall of the truck bed, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a tie-down assembly installed in a wall of a vehicle, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 22  illustrates a perspective view of a tie-down assembly installed in a wall of a vehicle, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a cross-sectional view of a tie-down assembly installed in a wall of a vehicle, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 24  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly installed in a wall of a vehicle in an insertion configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly in a wall of a vehicle in a transitional configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 26  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly installed in a wall of a vehicle in a secured configuration, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 27  illustrates an exploded view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 28  illustrates a side view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 29  illustrates a rear perspective view of a tie-down assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 30  illustrates a rear perspective view of a face plate, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 31  illustrates a perspective view of a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 32  illustrates a rear perspective view of a carrier, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail herein with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to indicate identical or functionally similar elements. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “in certain embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
     The following examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of the present embodiments. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. 
     The tie-down assemblies  10  disclosed herein are described with reference to a vehicle, for example, a pickup truck. More specifically, as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the tie-down assemblies can be fastened within a hole  620  in a wall  610  of a vehicle  600 . However, the tie-down assemblies  10  may be used as an anchoring system in other environments, for example, but not limited to an interior or exterior wall of a building or other structure, a storage container (e.g., a toolbox or cargo box), or a piece of furniture (e.g., a bookcase, a shelving unit, or a desk). Within the vehicle environment, the tie-down assembly  10  can be disposed in locations on the vehicle other than the interior of a truck bed wall  610 . For example, the tie-down assembly can be disposed on an exterior side of the vehicle, including on a door, hood, side panel, tailgate, or any other portion of a vehicle where it may be useful to have a securement point. 
     Tie-down assembly  10  can be used as a tie-down or securement point for ropes, straps, hooks, bungee cords, etc. to secure a load on a vehicle. These tie-down points can include a pre-fabricated hole  620 , for example, in a wall  610  of the interior of the truck bed, as shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21 . The truck bed can have multiple holes  620 , so that one or more tie-down assembly  10  can be disposed at various locations depending on the size, shape, and nature of the load to be secured. 
     Generally, inserting and attaching a tie-down assembly can be difficult due to the small amount of room within the wall of a vehicle truck bed. The wall typically has an interior panel (i.e., the interior of the truck bed) and an exterior panel (i.e., the exterior side panel of the vehicle), with a void space in between. This void space is typically less than 2 inches in width between the interior and exterior panels of the wall. In some vehicle models, the void space can be 1 inch or less. This small space can make it difficult to secure a tie-down assembly to the wall of the vehicle, particularly because the tie-down assembly must be secured firmly enough to withstand heavy loads, for example, up to 250 pounds. It can also be difficult to secure the tie-down assembly within the hole at the tie-down point because the user does not have access to the interior of the vehicle wall to see or manipulate the rear of the tie-down assembly, which is disposed in the interior void space of the wall. 
     As described in further detail herein, embodiments of the disclosed tie-down assemblies  10  provide one or more advantages over present devices, which often require bulky “butterfly” designs, similar to a wall molly, and are unable to fit within smaller void spaces in vehicle walls. For example, embodiments of the tie-down assemblies  10  are smaller in depth and can therefore fit within smaller void spaces in vehicle walls. This is accomplished, for example, by the unique configuration of the carrier  300  and lock plate  400 , which minimizes the size during the insertion configuration of the tie-down assembly  10 . The smaller size means that the tie-down assemblies  10  can be used with a greater variety of vehicle models. 
     Another advantage of the tie-down assemblies  10  described herein is that the assembly is prevented from becoming disassembled while disposed within the wall of the vehicle. Upon unfastening traditional tie-down assemblies, because the portion of the assembly in the interior of the wall is hidden from view, it is easy to over-rotate the bolt portion, resulting in the “butterfly” clamp falling off the end of the bolt and into the interior void space of the wall, where it cannot be retrieved. The tie-down assemblies  10  described herein can include a stop member  126 , which can prevent the lock plate  400  from becoming unthreaded from the shaft  120  of the eye-bolt  100 , thereby preventing unwanted disassembly. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an exploded view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the primary components of tie-down assembly  10  are bolt  100  (e.g., an eye-bolt), face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 . Each of these primary components and additional components will be described herein in detail with reference to the figures. In particular,  FIGS. 6-14  illustrate embodiments of each component. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates bolt  100 , according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, bolt  100  can be an eye-bolt. A person of skill in the art would understand that where bolt  100  is referred to as an “eye-bolt,” another type of bolt can be used and the embodiment is not limited to an eye-bolt. Eye-bolt  100  can include head  110  and shaft  120 . Head  110  can be used as a gripping point to rotate eye-bolt  100 . In certain embodiments, head  110  can include an eye  112 , which can be an aperture through head  110 . Eye  112  can include an inner rim  113 . The head  110  of eye-bolt  100  can provide a tie-down point for attaching ropes, straps, hooks, bungee cords, etc. to tie-down assembly  10 . For example, a hook, clip, or carabineer can extend through eye  112  and engage with inner rim  113  of head  110  when an attached rope is pulled taught. An end of the rope itself can be fed through eye  112  and the rope can be tied directly to head  110 . 
     Eye-bolt  100  can be made of any suitable material, for example, metal. In certain embodiments, eye-bolt  100  can be steel. Generally, eye-bolt  100  should be made of a material strong enough to withstand the tension and load forces placed on eye-bolt  100  by the attachment devices and loads that will be secured to tie-down assembly  10  via eye-bolt  100 . 
     In certain embodiments, eye-bolt  100  can include base  114  having an exterior surface  115  and an interior surface  116 . In certain embodiments, base  114  can be generally circular. Exterior surface  115  is visible when eye-bolt  100  is assembled to the wall of a vehicle. Interior surface  116  can face the face plate  200  and be disposed in contact with the face plate  200  when tie-down assembly  10  is assembled. In certain embodiments, interior surface  116  can be disposed in contact with one or more portions of carrier  300  (e.g., clips  324  and/or protrusions  322 ) extending through holes  222  of face plate  200 . In this manner, these portion(s) of carrier  300  can act as a bearing surface for base  114  as eye-bolt  100  is rotated to fasten the tie-down assembly  10  to the wall of a vehicle. 
     Eye-bolt  100  can include an elongated shaft  120  extending from head  110  and/or base  114 . The size and shape (e.g., diameter) of shaft  120  can be configured to fit through apertures  220 ,  320 , and  420  in face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 , respectively. For example, in certain embodiments, shaft  120  can be cylindrical and apertures  220 ,  320 , and  420  can be circular. A proximal end  122  of shaft  120  can extend from base  114 . In certain embodiments, shaft  120  can include threading  121 , which can correspond to threading on lock plate  400 , thereby allowing lock plate  400  to be translated along shaft  120  upon rotating eye-bolt  100 . In certain embodiments, a length of shaft  120  can be less than 2 inches so that tie-down assembly  10  can be secured to a wall  610  having an interior void space that is less than 2 inches between the interior and exterior panel of the wall. In certain embodiments, the length of shaft  120  can be 1 inch or less so that tie-down assembly  10  can be secured to a wall  610  having an interior void space that is 1 inch or less between the interior and exterior panel of the wall. 
     In certain embodiments, shaft  120  can include a through-hole  125  near a distal end  124  of shaft  120 . As shown, for example, in  FIG. 7 , in certain embodiments, a stop member  126  can be disposed within through-hole  125 . Stop member can be any suitable material, for example, plastic or metal. In certain embodiments, stop member  126  can be a pin having a first end  127  and a second end  128 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . The pin can be secured within through-hole  125 , for example, by friction fit or by an adhesive such that first end  127  and a second end  128  protrude from through hole  125 . In certain embodiments, the pin-type stop member  126  can be protrusions extending from shaft  120  that are integrally formed with shaft  120 . As shown, for example, in  FIG. 3 , in certain embodiments, stop member  126  can engage a channel  405  in lock plate  400 . This can facilitate rotation of lock plate  400 , particularly to initiate rotation of lock plate  400  from the insertion configuration  20  through the transitional configuration  30  (see  FIGS. 24 and 25 ). With stop member  126  initially disposed within channel  405 , as eye-bolt  100  is rotated, force is imparted to lock plate  400  to initiate rotation of lock plate  400  as well. 
     In certain embodiments, stop member  126  can be a “c-clip” as shown, for example, in  FIG. 15 . In such an embodiment, stop member  126  can be disposed about shaft  120 . In certain embodiments, stop member  126  can be a ring disposed about distal end  124  of shaft  120 . Other types of stop members can be used, for example, deformed threading, an increased shaft diameter, a washer, or a nylon patch at the distal end  124  of shaft  120 . 
     An advantage of stop member  126  is that is configured to prevent lock plate  400  from detaching off the distal end  124  of shaft  120 , for example, when removing tie-down assembly  10  from the wall of a vehicle. Without stop member  126 , it would be possible for lock plate  400  to fall off the distal end  124  of shaft  120  as the user unscrews eye-bolt  100  because the user cannot see how far along shaft  120  the lock plate has been displaced when the tie-down assembly  10  is installed in the wall of the vehicle. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates face plate  200 , according to an embodiment. Face plate can be made of any suitable material, for example, metal. In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can be steel. Generally, face plate  200  should be made of a material strong enough to withstand the load forces placed on face plate  200  by the loads that will be secured to tie-down assembly  10 , as face plate  200  acts with lock plate  400  to clamp tie-down assembly  10  to wall  610  of vehicle  600 . 
     Face plate  200  can include exterior surface  202  and aperture  220 . Aperture  220  can be sized and shaped such that shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can be disposed therethrough. In certain embodiments, aperture  220  can be disposed in a center of face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, aperture  220  can be circular. Exterior surface  202  of face plate  200  can be visible when tie-down assembly  10  is installed in the wall of a vehicle. In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can include a raised portion  204  and trough  206 . The curvature of face plate  200  can be configured to correspond to a curvature of a vehicle wall, for example, as shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 . This can reduce sliding of tie-down assembly  10  when secured within hole  620  of wall  610 . 
     In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can include one or more through-holes  222 . As shown, for example in  FIG. 9 , in certain embodiments, protrusions  322  and/or clips  324  of carrier  300  can extend through the through-holes  222  of face plate  200  to couple carrier  300  with face plate  200 . For example, protrusions  322  can provide a friction fit between carrier  300  and face plate  200  and clips  324  can provide a snap-fit between carrier  300  and face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, protrusions  322  and/or clips  324  can provide a bearing surface for the interior surface  116  of base  114  of eye-bolt  100  as eye-bolt  100  is rotated. Carrier  300  can be disposed partially within (i.e., under) raised portion  204  of face plate  200 . This can serve to further reduce the overall depth of the tie-down assembly  10 , enabling it to fit inside a smaller void space of a vehicle wall. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a rear perspective view of face plate  200 , according to an embodiment. Face plate  200  can include interior surface  212 , which can have an indentation  214  corresponding to raised portion  204  of the exterior surface  202 . As discussed above, carrier  300  can be disposed partially within indentation  214  of face plate  200 . Similarly, interior surface  212  can have a ridge  216  corresponding to trough  206  of the exterior surface  202 . As shown, for example in  FIG. 22 , when tie-down assembly  10  is installed in the wall  610  of a vehicle, face plate  200 , and more specifically interior surface  212 , can be disposed against a first side  612  of wall  610 . In certain embodiments, a curvature of face plate  200  can correspond to a curvature of wall  610 , such that face plate  200  is disposed within the curvature of the wall. Interior surface  212  of face plate  200  can contact the wall  610  to help maintain tie-down assembly  10  in place. 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  illustrate carrier  300 , according to an embodiment. Carrier  300  can be made of any suitable material. In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can be plastic to reduce the overall weight of tie-down assembly  10 , since carrier  300  does not bear as much force as face plate  200  or lock plate  400  when securing tie-down assembly  10  to wall  610  of the vehicle  600 . 
     Carrier  300  can be configured to be removably coupled with face plate  200 . For example, as described with respect to  FIG. 9 , carrier  300  can include one or more protrusions  322  and/or one or more clips  324  which can extend through the through-holes  222  of face plate  200  to couple carrier  300  with face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can have two protrusions  322  and two clips  324 . In certain embodiments, clips  324  of carrier  300  can include an extension  325  and a flange  326 , to physically couple carrier  300  with face plate  200 . For example, extension  325  can extend through a through-hole  222  of face plate  200  and flange  326  can engage exterior surface  202  of face plate  200  to couple carrier  300  with face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, attachment surface  302  of carrier  300  can contact interior surface  212  of face plate  200 , for example, along indentation  214 . In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can be sized and shaped to fit within indentation  214  of interior surface  212  of face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can have a generally oval shape. In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can be rectangular with rounded ends. 
     Carrier  300  can include aperture  320 . Aperture  320  can be sized and shaped such that shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can extend therethrough. In certain embodiments, aperture  320  can be disposed in a center of carrier  300 . In certain embodiments, aperture  320  can be circular. 
     As shown, for example, in the rear perspective review of  FIG. 12 , in certain embodiments, carrier  300  can include one or more portions  304 ,  308  extending from rear surface  318  of carrier  300 , referred to herein as first extension portion  304  and a second extension portion  308 , respectively. In certain embodiments, the extension portions  304 ,  308  can be extensions from rear surface  318  of carrier  300 , for example, but not limited to posts, columns, protrusions, or flanges. In certain embodiments, extension portions  304 ,  308  can be semi-circular in shape. In certain embodiments, extension portions  304 ,  308  can be taller than they are wide. In certain embodiments, extension portions  304 ,  308  can include a hollow space  314  within an interior of the extension portion. This can reduce the weight of carrier  300 . 
     In certain embodiments, first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308  can include a first wall  305  and a second wall  309 , respectively. In certain embodiments, first wall  305  and second wall  309  can be generally flat. In certain embodiments, first wall  305  and second wall  309  can be parallel to one another. As shown, for example in  FIG. 12 , first wall  305  and second wall  309  can delineate an empty space or channel  312  between first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308 . When lock plate  400  is rotated from its insertion configuration  20  (see  FIG. 24 ), it can be drawn along shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  and guided within channel  312 . Therefore, channel  312  is slightly wider than a width between first edge  406  and second edge  408  of lock plate  400 . In certain embodiments, the width of channel  312  is such that first edge  406  and second edge  408  of lock plate  400  contact and slide along first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308 , respectively, as lock plate  400  moves along shaft  120 . 
     In certain embodiments, one or both extension portions  304 ,  308  can include a protrusion, referred to herein as a stop tab  310 . In certain embodiments, the extension portions  304 ,  308  can be the stop tabs  310 . In certain embodiments, stop tab  310  can be a protrusion extending from a face of extension portions  304 ,  308 . In certain embodiments, stop tab  310  can cover less than half the face of extension portions  304 ,  308 . Stop tabs  310  can inhibit rotation of lock plate  400  beyond a configuration where lock plate  400  is engaged with stop tabs  310 . Stop tabs  310  can include respective first surfaces  310   a  and second surfaces  310   b.  In certain embodiments, first surface  310   a  and second surface  310   b  can be perpendicular. In certain embodiments, second surface  310   b  can be coplanar with the respective first wall  305  and second wall  309 . 
     In certain embodiments, for example as shown in  FIG. 24 , in the insertion configuration  20 , first portion  406   a  (or notch  410 ) of first edge  406  of lock plate  400  can be disposed adjacent to or in contact with first surface  310   a  of the stop tab  310  of first extension portion  304 . Similarly, first portion  408   a  (or notch  410 ) of second edge  408  of lock plate  400  can be disposed adjacent to or in contact with first surface  310   a  of the stop tab  310  of second extension portion  308  in the insertion configuration  20 . In certain embodiments, first surfaces  310   a  can prevent rotation of the lock plate in a clockwise direction. Once lock plate  400  is rotated, respective second portions  406   b,    408   b  of first and second edges  406 ,  408  can contact respective second surfaces  310   b  of the stop tabs  310 . In certain embodiments, second surfaces  310   b  can prevent rotation of the lock plate in a counter-clockwise direction. One of skill in the art would understand that the components could also be configured such that first surfaces  310   a  can prevent rotation of the lock plate in the counter-clockwise direction and second surfaces  310   b  can prevent rotation of the lock plate in the clockwise direction. 
     In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can include one or more flange  316  extending from a first extension portion  304  and a second extension portion  308 . The flanges  316  can facilitate locating and securing carrier  300  within indentation  214  of interior surface  212  of face plate  200 . 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  illustrate lock plate  400  according to an embodiment. Lock plate  400  can be made of any suitable material, for example, metal. In certain embodiments, lock plate  400  can be steel. 
     Lock plate  400  can have a contact surface  402 , a first edge  406 , and a second edge  408 . Lock plate  400  can have an aperture  420 . Aperture  420  can be sized and shaped such that shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can extend therethrough. In certain embodiments, aperture  420  can be circular. In certain embodiments, aperture  420  can include threading  421  such that shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can rotate within the aperture  420  of lock plate  400 . Lock plate  400  is the counterpart to face plate  200  that acts to clamp tie-down assembly  10  to wall  610  of vehicle  600 . As lock plate  400  is drawn along shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  within channel  312  of the carrier  300 , the wall  610  of vehicle  600  is sandwiched or pinned between the contact surface  402  of lock plate  400  and the interior surface  212  of face plate  200 . Eye-bolt  100  can be rotated until tie-down assembly  10  is firmly secured to wall  610 . 
     In certain embodiments, first edge  406  can include first portion  406   a,  second portion  406   b,  and angled portion  409  disposed between first portion  406   a  and second portion  406   b.  In certain embodiments, second edge  408  can have first portion  408   a,  second portion  408   b,  and angled portion  409  disposed therebetween. The angled portions  409  and first portions  406   a,    408   a  can form respective notches  410  in first edge  406  and second edge  408 . As discussed above, first portions  406   a,    408   a  of the first and second edges  406 ,  408  can be configured to engage first surfaces  310   a  of stop tabs  310  and second portions  406   b,    408   b  of the first and second edges  406 ,  408  can be configured to engage second surfaces  310   b  of stop tabs  310 . In certain embodiments, a notch  410  of lock plate  400  can be sized and shaped to correspond to stop tab  310  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 24 ). 
       FIG. 14  illustrates a rear perspective view of lock plate  400 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 14 , in certain embodiments, a distal surface  404  of lock plate  400  can include a channel  405 . Channel  405  can be configured to receive a stop member  126  of shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . In certain embodiments, the stop member  126  can be disposed within channel  405  of lock plate  400 . Rotation of eye-bolt  100  can thus result in rotation of lock plate  400 . As lock plate  400  is drawn along shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  by further rotation of eye-bolt  100 , the stop member  126  can disengage from channel  405  of lock plate  400 . 
       FIGS. 2-5  illustrate components of tie-down assembly  10  in an assembled configuration, according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 2 , eye-bolt  100  extends through face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 . This compact configuration allows tie-down assembly  10  to fit within a small interior void space of a vehicle wall. The carrier  300 , lock plate  400 , and shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can be inserted through a hole in the vehicle wall such that interior surface  212  of face plate  200  contacts first side  612  of the wall  610  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 22 ). The distal end  124  of the shaft  120 , the lock plate  400 , and at least a portion of carrier  300  are disposed on an opposite of the wall, within the interior void space of the wall  610  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 23 ). 
       FIG. 3  illustrates tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment, from a rear perspective view.  FIG. 3  illustrates tie-down assembly  10  after rotating eye-bolt  100  such that lock plate  400  has rotated approximately 90 degrees counter-clockwise (as viewed from the rear) from the insertion configuration  20  (see  FIG. 24 ). Stop member  126 , which can be disposed within channel  405  of lock plate  400 , can facilitate this rotation. First edge  406  and second edge  408  then engage stop tabs  310  of first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308 , respectively, which prevents further counter-clockwise rotation of lock plate  400 . As eye-bolt  100  is rotated further (in a clockwise direction as viewed from the front, for example, as shown in  FIG. 2 ), lock plate  400  is drawn along threading  121  of shaft  120  in a direction toward rear surface  318  of carrier  300  within the channel  312  between first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a side perspective view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. As eye-bolt  100  is rotated, lock plate  400  will be drawn toward face plate  200  along the shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . Lock plate  400  can be guided toward face plate  200  within the channel  312  between first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308  of carrier  300 . The lock plate  400  can be drawn toward face plate  200  until the wall  610  of the vehicle is pinned between contact surface  402  of lock plate  400  and interior surface  212  of face plate  200 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a cross-sectional view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 5 , shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can extend through face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 . The stop member  126  can extend through a though-hole  125  of shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . In certain embodiments, first extension portion  304  and/or second extension portion  308  can have a hollow space  314  within an interior of the respective extension portion. 
       FIGS. 15-19  illustrate tie-down assembly  10 , according an embodiments. Many of the features of tie-down assembly  10  of the embodiment in  FIG. 15  are the same or similar to those in the embodiment of tie-down assembly  10  in  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 15 , the primary components of tie-down assembly  10  are eye-bolt  100 , face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 . 
     In certain embodiments, tie-down assembly  10  can include spring  500 . In certain embodiments, spring  500  can be disposed between carrier  300  and lock plate  400 . A first end  502  of spring  500  can engage carrier  300  and a second end  504  of spring  500  can engage lock plate  400 . Spring  500  can provide pressure against lock plate  400  to facilitate unfastening tie-down assembly  10 . For example, spring  500  can impart a force onto lock plate  400  to facilitate movement of lock plate  400  from within channel  312  of carrier  300  as lock plate  400  moves toward distal end  124  of shaft  120  when rotating eye-bolt  100  in a direction opposite to the fastening direction. 
     Spring  500  can have a plurality of coils  506 . In certain embodiments, spring  500  can be a conical spring, where a first end  502  of spring  500  has a smaller diameter than a second end  504 , or vice versa, as illustrated for example in  FIG. 27 . 
       FIG. 16  illustrates eye-bolt  100  assembled with face plate  200 , according to an embodiment. Base  114  of eye-bolt  100  can engage exterior surface  202  of face plate  200 , for example, at a raised portion  204  of face plate  200 . As shown in  FIG. 15 , in certain embodiments, aperture  220  in face plate  200  can be an elongated slot. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a side view of tie-down assembly  10  in an assembled configuration, according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 17 , coils  506  of spring  500  can be disposed about threading  121  of shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 15-19 , stop member  126  is a “c-clip” disposed about and coupled to a distal end  124  of the shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . Much like the pin shown in  FIG. 1 , the “c-clip” can prevent lock plate  400  from disengaging off the distal end  124  of shaft  120 . As also shown in  FIG. 17 , protrusions  322  of carrier  300  can provide a bearing surface for interior surface  116  of base  114  of eye-bolt  100 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates face plate  200  coupled with carrier  300 , according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, aperture  220  of face plate  200  can be a slot through face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, a protrusion  322  from attachment surface  302  of carrier  300  can be configured to fit within the slot aperture  220  of face plate  200 . In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can include one or more flange  221 , which can engage attachment surface  302  of carrier  300  to couple carrier  300  with face plate  200 . 
       FIG. 19  illustrates a rear perspective view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 19 , stop member  126  can be disposed about shaft  120 , thereby preventing lock plate  400  from unthreading off the distal end  124  of shaft  120 . In certain embodiments, first edge  406  and/or second edge  408  of lock plate  400  can include a notch  410 . In certain embodiments, notch  410  can be sized and shaped to correspond to a shape of stop tabs  310  of first extension portion  304  and second extension portion  308 . As such, when lock plate  400  is disposed in an insertion configuration  20 , as shown for example in  FIG. 24 , stop tabs  310  can be disposed within notches  410  of lock plate  400 . As lock plate  400  is rotated due to its coupling to shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 , first edge  406  and second edge  408  can engage stop tabs  310  of carrier  300 . This can prevent rotation of lock plate  400  beyond stop tabs  310 . 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a portion of a vehicle  600  having a tie-down assembly  10  attached thereto, according to an embodiment. More specifically, tie-down assembly  10  can be attached to a wall  610  of vehicle  600 . For example, tie-down assembly  10  can be attached to a wall  610  of a vehicle in the bed of a truck. As shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , face plate  200  and head  110  of eye-bolt  100  are exposed an accessible to the user when tie-down assembly  10  is secured to wall  610 . Therefore, tie-down assembly  10  provides a location to attach ropes, straps, hooks, bungee cords, etc. As discussed above, other locations for tie-down assembly  10  are contemplated. Tie-down assembly  10  can be disposed anywhere along first side  612  of wall  610 . Tie-down assembly  10  can also be disposed on an exterior surface of vehicle  600 , for example, an exterior of a side panel or the tailgate. In certain embodiments, tie-down assembly  10  can be disposed above a wheel well  616  of wall  610 . Wall  610  can have multiple holes  620 , so that more than one tie-down assembly  10  can be used or so that the location of tie-down assembly  10  can be changed. 
       FIG. 22  shows a close up view of tie-down assembly  10  attached to wall  610 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 22 , tie-down assembly  10  can be disposed in a hole  620  in wall  610 . In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can contact the first side  612  of wall  610 . In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can have a curvature configured to match a curvature of hole  620  in wall  610 . When attached to wall  610 , head  110  of eye-bolt  100  is accessible to the user. As shown in  FIGS. 24-26 , for example, the user can rotate head  110  of eye-bolt  100  to secure tie-down assembly  10  onto wall  610 . 
       FIG. 23  illustrates a cross sectional view of tie-down assembly  10  inserted through wall  610 , according to an embodiment. Carrier  300  and lock plate  400  can be inserted through hole  620  of wall  610 . The distal end  124  of shaft  120 , the lock plate  400 , and at least a portion of carrier  300  are disposed within the interior void space of wall  610  between the interior and exterior panels of the wall  610 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , interior surface  212  of face plate  200  can contact first side  612  of the interior panel of wall  610 . As eye-bolt  100  is rotated, lock plate  400  can be drawn toward proximal end  122  of shaft  120  and thus toward second side  614  of wall  610 . Upon further rotation, contact surface  402  of lock plate  400  can engage second side  614  of wall  610 , thereby securing tie-down assembly  10  to wall  610  by the forces imparted from face plate  200  onto first side  612  of wall  610  and by lock plate  400  onto second side  614  of wall  610 , pinning wall  610  between face plate  200  and lock plate  400 . 
       FIGS. 24-26  illustrate insertion and securement of tie-down assembly  10 , according to embodiments, from a rear perspective view (i.e., from the interior of the void space in wall  610 ).  FIG. 24  illustrates an insertion configuration  20 , according to an embodiment. Lock plate  400  can be disposed such that the perimeter profiles of lock plate  400  and carrier  300  are generally aligned. This reduces the area of the hole  620  in wall  610  needed to insert the tie-down assembly  10 . In certain embodiments, stop tabs  310  can be disposed within notches  410 . If lock plate  400  is rotated in the clockwise direction (as viewed from the rear in  FIG. 24 ), stop member  126  will prevent lock plate  400  from unthreading off the distal end  124  of shaft  120 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 25 , as eye-bolt  100  is rotated, for example, in a clock-wise direction, lock plate  400  can rotate in a counter-clockwise direction, from the insertion configuration  20  shown in  FIG. 24 , to the transitional configuration  30  shown in  FIG. 25 . As the user continues to rotate eye-bolt  100 , lock plate  400  can continue to rotate until it engages stop tabs  310  of carrier  300 , as shown in  FIG. 26 . In certain embodiments, lock plate  400  can rotate 90° before engaging stop tabs  310 . In certain embodiments, first edge  406  and second edge  408  of lock plate  400  can engage stop tabs  310 . Because lock plate  400  cannot rotate any further in the counter-clockwise direction, lock plate  400  is then drawn along shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  toward the proximal end  122  of shaft  120 . The user can rotate eye-bolt  100  until lock plate  400  engages second side  614  of wall  610 , thereby securing tie-down assembly  10  to wall  610  in secured configuration  40 . 
       FIGS. 27 through 32  illustrate a tie-down assembly  10  and elements of the tie-down assembly, according to embodiments. Many of the features are the same or similar to those described above, for example, with respect to  FIGS. 1 through 19 , with like reference numerals used to indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Operation is the same or similar as described, for example, with respect to  FIGS. 20 through 26 . 
       FIG. 27  illustrates an exploded view of a tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. Tie-down assembly  10  can include eye-bolt  100 , face plate  200 , carrier  300 , and lock plate  400 . 
     In certain embodiments, tie-down assembly  10  can include washer  700 . Washer  700  can be disposed between eye-bolt  100  and face plate  200  to provide a bearing surface when rotating eye-bolt  100 . For example, washer  700  can have an upper surface  702  configured to engage interior surface  116  of base  114  of eye-bolt  100 . A lower surface  704  of washer  700  can be configured to engage exterior surface  202  of face plate  200 . For example, lower surface  704  can contact raised portion  204  of face plate  200 . Washer  700  can include an aperture  720  having a size and shape configured such that shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100  can be disposed therethrough. In certain embodiments, washer  700  and/or aperture  720  can be circular. In certain embodiments, washer  700  can have an outer diameter equal to an outer diameter of the base  114  of eye-bolt  100 . Washer  700  can be made of any suitable material, for example, plastic or metal. 
     In certain embodiments, tie-down assembly  10  can include spring  500 . In certain embodiments, spring  500  can be disposed between carrier  300  and lock plate  400 , as discussed above with respect to  FIG. 15 . A first end  502  of spring  500  can engage carrier  300  and a second end  504  of spring  500  can engage lock plate  400 . Spring  500  can provide pressure against lock plate  400  to facilitate unfastening tie-down assembly  10 , for example, imparting a force onto lock plate  400  to facilitate movement of lock plate  400  from within channel  312  of carrier  300  as lock plate  400  moves toward distal end  124  of shaft  120  when rotating eye-bolt  100  in a direction opposite to the fastening direction. Spring  500  can have a plurality of coils  506 . In certain embodiments, spring  500  can be a conical spring, where a first end  502  of spring  500  has a smaller diameter than a second end  504 , or vice versa. This can allow spring  500  to deform to a smaller compressed height because the coils  506  will not stack on top of each other when the spring  500  is compressed. Instead, the coils  506  form concentric rings when fully compressed. 
     In certain embodiments, tie-down assembly  10  can include stop member  126 . Stop member  126  can prevent disassembly of lock plate  400  from shaft  120  of eye-bolt  100 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , in certain embodiments, stop member  126  can be a nut having an aperture  129  sized to receive shaft  120 . The nut can be threaded or unthreaded. In certain embodiments, the nut can be secured on shaft  120  by an adhesive, for example, but not limited to epoxy, glue, resin, etc. In certain embodiments, the nut can be threaded onto distal end  124  of shaft  120 , with or with an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the nut can be disposed about an unthreaded portion of distal end  124  of shaft  120  and secured in place by friction fit or an adhesive. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a side view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. Washer  700  forms a bearing surface between base  114  of eye-bolt  100  and exterior surface  202  of face plate  200 . Stop member  126 , in this embodiment a nut, is threaded about the distal end  124  of shaft  120 . When lock plate  400  is rotated 90 degrees from the insertion configuration shown in  FIG. 28 , for example, by turning eye-bolt  100 , it can be drawn toward proximal end  122  of shaft  120  within channel  312  of carrier  300 . This can compress spring  500 , which is shown disposed between rear surface  318  of carrier  300  and contact surface  402  of lock plate  400 . 
       FIG. 29  illustrates a rear perspective view of tie-down assembly  10 , according to an embodiment. In  FIG. 29 , tie-down assembly  10  is in an insertion configuration. In certain embodiments, in the insertion configuration, first edge  406  and second edge  408  can contact stop tabs  310  of carrier  300 . Stop tabs  310  can prevent rotation of lock plate  400  in the clockwise direction as viewed in  FIG. 29 . In certain embodiments, lock plate  400  can have a shape as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . For example, lock plate  400  can be generally rectangular. In certain embodiments, lock plate  400  can include curved region  412  along first edge  406  and/or second edge  408 . Curved region  412  can be disposed at a location corresponding to the aperture  420  through lock plate  400 . 
       FIG. 30  illustrates a rear perspective view of face plate  200 , according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, face plate  200  can include aperture  220  and one or more flanges  224  extending from interior surface  212 . In certain embodiments, flanges  224  can be disposed adjacent to one or more through-holes  222 . Flanges  224  can facilitate coupling face plate  200  with carrier  300 . For example, flanges  224  can be configured to be disposed within corresponding hollow spaces  314  in attachment surface  302  of carrier  300 , which are shown, for example, in  FIG. 31 . 
       FIG. 31  illustrates a perspective view of carrier  300 , according to an embodiment. Carrier  300  can have many of the same elements described above, for example, with respect to  FIGS. 11 and 12 . For example, carrier  300  can include attachment surface  302  having one or more hollow spaces  314 , first and second extension portions  304 ,  308 , having a channel  312  therebetween, stop tabs  310 , and one or more flanges  316 . 
       FIG. 32  illustrates a rear perspective view of carrier  300 , according to an embodiment. In certain embodiments, stop tabs  310  can be protrusions extending from extension portions  304 ,  308 . In certain embodiments, stop tabs  310  can include respective first surfaces  310   a  and second surfaces  310   b,  which can be flat or curved. In certain embodiments, carrier  300  can include first wall  305  and second wall  309 . In certain embodiments first and second wall  305 ,  309  can be curved. For example, first and second wall  305 ,  309  can correspond to a curvature of curved portion  412  of lock plate  400 . First and second walls  305 ,  309  can form a channel  312  therebetween. In certain embodiments, aperture  320  can include a rim  321  extending from rear surface  318  of carrier  300 . 
     The embodiments have been described above with the aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. 
     The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill and art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from general concept of the present embodiments. Therefore, such adaptation and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented therein. It is to be understood that phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interrupted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance. 
     The breath and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.