Patent · US Expired

Anti-theft mounting knob

US5388434A · kind A · utility

21Cited by
11References
10Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateJul 29, 1993
Grant dateFeb 14, 1995
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 29, 2013

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T70/5867
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A theft prevention device for use in the mounting of automotive audio equipment, such as a two-way radio to a secure structure, such as a "U" bracket or trunnion. The invention is a generally conical-shaped mounting knob that threadably attaches the audio equipment to the mounting bracket. Attached to one end of the knob enclosure is a key lock and attached to the opposite end is a threaded stud that is able to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the enclosure. In operation, the knob, in its unlocked position, is rotated clockwise until the threaded stud is securely attached to its threaded counterpart on the radio. In this position, the lock assembly rotates a cam plate so that an engaging disc engages both the knob enclosure and a stud plate allowing torque applied to the enclosure to be transferred to the threaded stud. The knob is then locked. In this position, the lock assembly rotates the cam plate so that the engaging disc does not engage the stud plate, and a compression spring forcibly separates the engaging disc and stud plate. Torque is not transferred from the enclosure to the stud plate. The knob will rotate freely in either the clockwise or counterclockwise directio…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.