Winch hook holder

US6409240B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventor

• Don Ferguson · Sherwood Park, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 18, 2000
• Grant date: Jun 25, 2002
• Expiry date: Sep 18, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16B45/021
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A winch hook holding device includes a body having a proximal end connected to an elongated handle and a distal portion including a hook-shaped curved cradle for at least temporarily holding a winch hook. The cradle features a curved recess corresponding to the back surface of the hook and an opening corresponding to the opening of the hook, enabling the hook to be supported in the cradle and brought to the eyelet and released from the cradle once engaged. An alternative embodiment further includes a biasing element such as a spring-loaded lever disposed within a portion of the groove for applying pressure to the hook for active retainment therein. The connector at the proximal end of the handle preferably includes a threaded connector that mates with an elongated handle having a threaded end, thereby allowing handles available for other purposes to be utilized. Custom handles may also be provided according to the invention, including telescoping varieties. Preferably the hook-holding body is a unitary piece of molded plastic.