Clockspring tamper proof external lock
US6059590A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 8, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 8, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R16/027
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An external locking clockspring assembly including a housing and a hub rotatably mounted in the housing. The housing having a first keyway. The hub having a second keyway. The first and second keyways being substantially coaxial in a locked position of the external clockspring assembly. A key insertable into both the first and second keyways. The key having a flexible tab. The hub having an indentation which is complementary to the flexible tab of the key when the flexible tab of the key is in a non-deformed state. An insertion tool is used to deflect the flexible tab of the key so that the key can be inserted into the first and second keyways. Upon insertion of the key into the first and second keyways, the flexible tab expands toward its undeflected position so as to engage the indentation of the second keyway of the hub. The engagement of the key with the second keyway prevents the key from falling out of the first and second keyways. The key has an extension which engages the first keyway of the housing when the key is in the locked position. The mutual engagement of the key with the first keyway of the housing and the engagement of the key with the second keyway of the hub pre…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.