Patent ID: 8375525

Claim:
A strap-tensioning apparatus including: a frame including two slots defined therein; a handle pivotally connected to the frame; an automatic reel supported on the frame; a manual reel supported on the frame and formed with a slit; two ratcheted wheels connected to the manual reel so that the manual reel is rotated together with the ratcheted wheels; a strap including an idle section wound on the automatic reel and an active section inserted through the slit of the manual reel so that the active section of the strap is wound as the manual reel is rotated; a first detent movably supported on the handle for engagement with the ratcheted wheels to rotate the manual reel when the handle is pivoted on the frame in a direction; a detent movably supported on the frame for engagement with the ratcheted wheels to stop the manual reel when the handle is pivoted on the frame in an opposite direction; and a strap-damping unit including: a crossbar supported on the frame; and a pressing element biased toward the crossbar and formed with two sliding portions movably inserted in the slots, wherein the active section of the strap is inserted through a gap between the pressing element and the crossbar.