CN101885370B - Tie down assembly suitable to mount in the structure - Google Patents

Abstract

A tie down assembly suitable for installation in a structure, comprising: a cup; a cross bar removably secured and positioned within a recess in the cup; and a disc plate, the disc The shaped plate is detachably fastened to the cup and/or the crossbar. The crossbar is secured to the cup by a plurality of threaded fasteners, while the plate is secured to the cup and/or crossbar by at least one fastener. The cup fits within a hole formed in a first surface of the structure and the plate is positioned against an opposing surface of the structure. When the panel is installed, a compressive load is introduced that compresses the first and second surfaces of the structure together such that most of the load is on the center of the fasteners that mount the panel. With the structure of the tethering assembly of the present invention, the tethering assembly can bear heavy loads, and can be easily repaired and replaced in the deck.

Description

A tie-down assembly suitable for installation in structures

technical field

The present invention relates to a tether assembly, and more particularly to a tether assembly for naval and seagoing vessels.

Background technique

Tie down assemblies are common on naval and marine vessels because they facilitate the securing of cargo, vehicles such as aircraft, and other heavy items and equipment. Tie down assemblies are typically installed in-deck of a vessel. Tie down assemblies must be secured in the deck and withstand heavy loads. Furthermore, the tie down assembly should be easily repairable and replaceable in deck.

Contents of the invention

In one embodiment, the tie down assembly includes: a cup; a cross bar removably secured and positioned within a recess in the cup; and a disc plate removably securely attached to the cup and crossbar. In one embodiment, the crossbar is secured to the cup by a plurality of threaded fasteners, while the disc plate is secured to the cup and crossbar by threaded fasteners. In one embodiment, the cup fits within a hole formed in a first surface of the structure and the disc plate is positioned against an opposing surface of the structure. In one embodiment, when the disc plate is mounted on the cup and crossbar by tightening the threaded fasteners, a compressive load is introduced which presses against the center of the fasteners. In one embodiment, the disc plate is mounted on the cup by a plurality of fasteners.

Specifically, a tethering assembly suitable for installation in a structure is characterized in that the tethering assembly includes:

a cup having: a first end; a second end opposite the first end; a notch formed in the first end and defining a side wall, the side wall having a plurality of holes formed therein; a centrally located hole formed in the recess and at the second end; and a stem extending from the second end and including a hole, the hole extends the length of the rod, the hole of the rod being aligned with the centrally located hole of the notch;

a crossbar having: a plurality of parts, each part including a first end having a bore axially formed therein, each of the plurality of parts connected to each other at a central point; and a rod extending perpendicularly from a central point of the plurality of components, the rod comprising a first end having a bore axially formed therein, the crossbar positioned within the recess of the cup , so that each hole of the plurality of parts of the cross bar is aligned with a corresponding one of the side walls of the cup, the aligned holes of the side wall of the cup and the holes of the plurality of parts are sized and shaped to to receive one of the plurality of first fasteners, and the stem of the crossbar is aligned with the stem of the cup, such that the hole in the stem of the crossbar is aligned with the hole in the stem of the cup, and the alignment of the stem of the crossbar the hole and the hole of the stem of the cup are sized and shaped to receive the second fastener; and

The support plate specifically has a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a hole extending from the first surface to the second surface, and the support plate is detachably mounted on the crossbar, so that the The bore of the backing plate is sized and shaped to receive the second fastener.

Preferably, the structural member includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface including a first aperture formed therein, the first aperture being sized and shaped to receive the cup, The first surface of the plate is juxtaposed with the lower surface of the structure.

Preferably, the lower surface of the structure includes a second aperture formed therein that is sized and shaped to receive the second fastener.

Preferably, the cup includes a flange surrounding the periphery of the recess and having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, the flange of the cup being placed on the first surface of the structure .

Preferably, the bottom surface of the flange of the cup includes a groove formed therein that is sized and shaped to receive an O-ring.

Preferably, the side wall of the cup includes a plurality of protrusions extending outwardly from the side wall and positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the flange of the cup, the first surface of the structure including a a plurality of grooves each sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of protrusions of the cup so as to prevent the tethering assembly from first moving relative to the structure. The rotation of the surface.

Preferably, each aperture of said plurality of components includes internal threads for threadingly receiving a respective one of said plurality of first fasteners, and the aperture of the rod of the crossbar includes internal threads for threadingly receiving said first plurality of fasteners. Second fastener.

Preferably, the cup and plate are each manufactured from aluminium, and the crossbar from steel.

Preferably, said plurality of components comprises four components.

Preferably, each of the plurality of parts of the crossbar extends in the same plane.

Preferably, the tie down assembly further includes a washer positioned between the first end of the rod and the notch of the cup.

Preferably, each first end of said plurality of components includes a groove sized and shaped to receive an o-ring.

Preferably, the first and second surfaces of the plate are separated by a plurality of ribs.

Preferably, the structure is made of aluminium.

Preferably, the structure comprises the deck of a vessel.

A tethering assembly suitable for installation in a structure, characterized in that the tethering assembly comprises:

a cup having: a first end; a second end opposite the first end; a notch formed in the first end and defining a side wall, the side wall having a plurality of holes formed therein; and a centrally located hole formed in the recess at said second end;

a crossbar having: a plurality of members, each member including a first end having a bore axially formed therein, each of the plurality of members being connected to each other at a central point; and a rod extending perpendicularly from a central point of the plurality of components, the rod comprising a first end having a bore axially formed therein, the cross rod positioned within the recess of the cup such that, Each hole of the plurality of parts of the cross bar is aligned with a corresponding one of the side walls of the cup, each aligned hole of the side wall of the cup and the holes of the plurality of parts are sized and shaped to receive multiple parts. One of the first fasteners, with the stem of the crossbar aligned with the hole in the notch of the cup, the aligned hole of the stem of the crossbar and the hole in the notch of the cup are sized and shaped to receive the center fasteners; and

A plate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface is removably attached to the cup by a plurality of second fasteners.

Preferably, the structural member includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface including a first aperture formed therein, the first aperture being sized and shaped to receive the cup, The first surface of the plate is juxtaposed with the lower surface of the structure.

Preferably, the cup includes a flange surrounding the periphery of the recess and having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, the flange of the cup being placed on the first surface of the structure .

Preferably, the bottom surface of the flange of the cup includes a groove formed therein that is sized and shaped to receive an O-ring.

Preferably, the side wall of the cup includes a plurality of protrusions extending outwardly from the side wall and positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the flange of the cup, the first surface of the structure including a a plurality of grooves each sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of protrusions of the cup so as to prevent the tethering assembly from first moving relative to the structure. The rotation of the surface.

Preferably, each hole of said plurality of components includes internal threads for threadingly receiving a respective one of said first plurality of fasteners, and the hole of the rod of the crossbar includes internal threads for threadingly receiving said first plurality of fasteners. Two fasteners.

Preferably, the cup and plate are each manufactured from aluminium, and the crossbar from steel.

Preferably, said plurality of components comprises four components.

Preferably, each of the plurality of parts of the crossbar extends in the same plane.

Preferably, the tie down assembly further includes a washer positioned between the first end of the rod and the notch of the cup.

Preferably, each first end of said plurality of components includes a groove sized and shaped to receive an o-ring.

Preferably, the structure is made of aluminium.

Preferably, the structure comprises the deck of a vessel.

With the structure of the tethering assembly of the present invention, the tethering assembly can bear heavy loads, and can be easily repaired and replaced in the deck.

Description of drawings

Example embodiments will be described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1A is a top perspective view of a tether assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 1B is a bottom perspective view of the tether assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 2A is a top plan view of the tether assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the tether assembly shown in Figure 2A along the line A-A and viewed in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 3A is an exploded top perspective view of the tether assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 3B is an exploded bottom perspective view of the tether assembly shown in Figure 1B;

Figure 4A is a top perspective view of a cup used with the tie down assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 4B is a top plan view of the cup shown in Figure 4A;

Figure 4C is a side elevational view of the cup shown in Figure 4A;

Figure 4D is a bottom plan view of the cup shown in Figure 4A;

Figure 4E is a cross-sectional view of the cup shown in Figure 4D along line C-C and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 4F is a sectional view of the cup shown in Figure 4B along the line A-A and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 4G is an enlarged view of detail B of the cup shown in Figure 4F;

Figure 4H is a sectional view of the cup shown in Figure 4F along the line D-D and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 5A is a top perspective view of a crossbar used with the tie down assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 5B is a top plan view of the crossbar shown in Figure 5A;

Figure 5C is a side elevational view of the crossbar shown in Figure 5A;

Figure 5D is a bottom plan view of the crossbar shown in Figure 5A;

Figure 5E is a cross-sectional view of the crossbar shown in Figure 5B along the line A-A and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 5F is an enlarged view of detail B of the crossbar shown in Figure 5E;

Figure 6A is a top perspective view of the cup shown in Figure 4A and the crossbar shown in Figure 5A mounted to each other;

Figure 6B is a top plan view of the cup-crossbar assembly shown in Figure 6A;

6C is a cross-sectional view of the cup-crossbar assembly shown in FIG. 6B along line A-A and viewed in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 7A is a bottom perspective view of a plate used with the tether assembly shown in Figure 1A;

Figure 7B is a top plan view of the plate shown in Figure 7A;

Figure 7C is a cross-sectional view of the plate shown in Figure 7B along the line A-A and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 7D is a cross-sectional view of the plate shown in Figure 7C along line B-B and in the direction of the arrow;

Figure 7E is a cross-sectional view of the panel shown in Figure 7D along line C-C and viewed in the direction of the arrow;

8 is a cross-sectional view of the tie down assembly shown in FIG. 2B installed on the deck of a boat.

9A to 9D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

10A to 10B show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

11A to 11B show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

12A to 12D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

13A to 13C show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

14A to 14D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

15A-15D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

16A to 16D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

17A to 17D show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

18A to 18C show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

19A to 19C show a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

20A to 20C illustrate a tether assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed ways

Cross References to Related Applications

This application is to Section 111(a) of our co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/216166, entitled "TIE DOWN ASSEMBLY," filed on This document is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety on May 14, 2009.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B and FIGS. 2A and 2B , in one embodiment, a tether assembly 10 includes: a funnel-shaped cup 12 ; a cross-shaped crossbar 14 removably secured to the cup. 12; and a disc-shaped plate 16, which is detachably fixed to the cup-shaped member 12 and the crossbar 14. 2B, 3A and 3B, in one embodiment, the crossbar 14 is secured to the cup 12 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 18, while the plate 16 is secured by threaded fasteners 20 with associated washers 22. It is fixed on the cup 12 and the cross bar 14 . In one embodiment, cup 12 includes an O-ring 24, the purpose of which will be described later. In one embodiment, a gasket 26 is located between the cup 12 and the crossbar 14 (see particularly FIG. 3A ), and each of a plurality of O-rings 28 is located between the fastener 18 and the crossbar 14 (see Figures 3A and 3B).

In one embodiment, cup 12 and plate 16 are each made of aluminum and crossbar 14 is made of steel. In another embodiment, cup 12, crossbar 14, and plate 16 are fabricated from other suitable materials known in the art, such as other types of metals or metal alloys. In one embodiment, cup 12, crossbar 14 and plate 16 are manufactured by forging. In another embodiment, the cup 12 and plate 16 are manufactured by machining. Although cup 12 is funnel-shaped, it may include other shapes and sizes according to other embodiments. Although crossbar 14 is cross-shaped, it may include other shapes and sizes according to other embodiments. Although plate 16 is disc-shaped, it may include other shapes and sizes according to other embodiments. The features and functions of the cup 12, crossbar 14 and plate 16 will be described later.

Referring to FIGS. 4A through 4D , in one embodiment, the cup 12 includes a funnel-shaped base 30 having an outer surface 32 and an inner surface 34 defining a circular indentation 36 . In one embodiment, the base 30 tapers from its top end 38 to its bottom end 40 to converge at a stem 42 which has a circular aperture 44 . In one embodiment, the base 30 also includes a sidewall 46 and a plurality of apertures 48 formed therein that extend from the outer surface 32 to the inner surface 34 . In one embodiment, the cup 12 includes four of said holes 48 arranged in a cross pattern (ie positioned at 90 degrees to each other). In other embodiments, the cup 12 includes more or less than four holes 48 .

Referring also to FIGS. 4A-4D , in one embodiment, the cup 12 includes a circular flange 50 that surrounds the perimeter of the notch 36 . In one embodiment, flange 50 includes a top surface 52 and a bottom surface 54 opposite the top surface. In one embodiment, a circular groove 56 is formed in the bottom surface 54 of the flange 50 (see FIG. 4G in particular) for receiving the O-ring 24 . In one embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 58 project outwardly from sidewall 46 and are located directly below bottom surface 54 of flange 50, as best shown in FIGS. 4C-4E. In one embodiment, the cup 12 includes four of said protrusions 58 arranged in a cross pattern (ie positioned at 90 degrees to each other). In other embodiments, the cup 12 includes more or less than four protrusions 58 . In one embodiment, each of said protrusions 58 is circular in shape (see Figures 4C and 4D). In other embodiments, each of the protrusions 58 has a rectangular shape (see FIGS. 1B and 3B ). In other embodiments, each of the protrusions 58 includes other shapes and sizes, such as square, rectangular, and the like. Additional cross-sectional views of the cup 12 are shown in FIGS. 4E to 4G .

5A to 5F, in one embodiment, the crossbar 14 includes a plurality of tubular members 60, each tubular member 60 has a first end 62 connected at a central point 64 to another end 62; and free end 66. In one embodiment, the components 60 are in the same plane. In one embodiment, each member 60 includes: a centrally located circular hole 68 formed in the free end 66 of the member; and a circular groove 70 surrounding the hole 68 . In one embodiment, each hole 68 includes internal threads 72 (see FIGS. 5E and 5F ) that threadably engage a corresponding one of the fasteners 18 . Crossbar 14 also includes a tubular rod 74 extending perpendicularly from member 60 at center point 64 . In one embodiment, the rod 74 has a first end 76 connected to the center point 64 and a free end 78 having a centrally located circular hole 80 (see FIG. 5D ). In one embodiment, bore 80 includes internal threads (not shown) that threadably engage fastener 20 .

In one embodiment, FIGS. 6A to 6C show crossbar 14 secured to cup 12 by fasteners 18 . In this way, the crossbar 14 is positioned within the notch 36 of the cup 12 such that a hole 68 of one part 60 is aligned with a corresponding one of holes 48 of the cup 12 . Furthermore, the rod 74 of the crossbar 14 is aligned with the rod 42 of the cup 12 such that the hole 80 of the rod 74 is aligned with the hole 44 of the cup 12 (see FIG. 6C ). In one embodiment, the washer 26 is positioned at the free end 78 of the rod 74, while each O-ring 28 is positioned within a corresponding one of the grooves 70 of one component 60 (not shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C, but see FIG. 3A) . In one embodiment, each fastener 18 is inserted into a corresponding one of the holes 48 of the cup 12 and is in turn threadedly engaged with a corresponding one of the holes 68 of a member 60 to secure the crossbar 14 to the cup 12. . In another embodiment, the bore 68 of the member 60 is filled with a sealant to provide a seal when the fastener 18 is installed. In one embodiment, the fasteners 18, 20 are bolts.

7A to 7E, in one embodiment, the plate 16 includes a circular first surface 82 and a circular second surface 84 opposite the first surface, which are separated by a plurality of ribs 86 that form A plurality of gaps 88 . In one embodiment, each of the first and second surfaces 82, 84 of the plate 16 includes other shapes and dimensions, such as square, oval, polygonal. In one embodiment, ribs 86 provide strength and rigidity to panel 16 and gaps 88 allow panel 16 to reduce mass and weight. In one embodiment, the plate 16 includes a centrally located circular countersink 90 extending from the first surface 82 to the second surface 84 . In one embodiment, the diameter of the countersink 90 at the second surface 84 is greater than the diameter of the countersink 90 at the first surface 82 . In one embodiment, the fastener 20 is inserted into the counterbore 90 of the plate 16 from the second surface 84 to the first surface 82 and threadedly engages the hole 80 of the rod 74 of the crossbar 14 .

Referring to FIG. 8 , in one embodiment, the tie down assembly 10 is installed in a deck 92 of a watercraft, the deck 92 having an upper deck 94 and a lower deck 96 . In one embodiment, deck 92 is fabricated from aluminum. In other embodiments, deck 92 is fabricated from other materials, such as metals and metal alloys. In one embodiment, deck 92 comprises a solid portion. In another embodiment, deck 92 is corrugated. In another embodiment, the deck 92 is a multiple hollow extrusion. In another embodiment, the deck 92 is characterized by a manufactured complex geometric deck structure. In one embodiment, holes are drilled into the upper and lower layers 94, 96 of deck 92 (not shown). In one embodiment, the diameter of the hole is substantially equal to the diameter of the base 30 of the cup 12 . In one embodiment, an additional hole (of a smaller size than the aforementioned hole) is drilled into the upper layer 94 of the deck 92 and is sized and shaped and arranged to receive the protrusion 58 of the cup 12 (FIG. not shown). The crossbar 14 is secured to the cup 12, as described above, with the base 30 of the cup 12 in the aforementioned larger hole and the protrusion 58 in the aforementioned smaller hole (not shown). Thus, the flange 50 of the cup 12 rests on the top surface of the upper layer 94 of the deck 92 and sits flush such that the crossbar 14 is exposed within the upper layer 94 .

In one embodiment, the panel 16 is positioned below the lower layer 96 of the deck 92 such that the first surface 82 of the panel 16 is juxtaposed with the lower layer 96 . In one embodiment, the fastener 20 is inserted into the counterbore 90 of the plate 20 and then inserted into the hole 44 of the cup 12 and threadedly engaged with the hole 80 of the stem 74 of the crossbar 14 . In one embodiment, when the fasteners 20 are tightened, a compressive load is introduced that presses the upper and lower layers 94, 96 of the deck 92 together. In one embodiment, the tie down assembly 10 is preloaded when installed so that there is no gap between the flange 50 of the cup 12 and the upper layer 94 of the deck 92, and there is no gap between the plate 16 and the lower layer 96 of the deck 92. There is no gap. That is, fastener 20 is preloaded with a predetermined torque rating to create a preload that compresses the assembly, thereby retaining assembly 10 within deck 92 during use. In one embodiment, fastener 20 is preloaded to a torque rating in the range of about 150 foot-pounds to about 250 foot-pounds. In one embodiment, fastener 20 is preloaded with a moment rating of approximately 190 foot-pounds. In one embodiment, the entire preload is carried by fastener 20 in the span between cup 12 and spacer 22 . Above this span, in one embodiment, the load is split where approximately half of the load goes up into the crossbar 14 and out to the flange 50 of the cup 12 and into the deck 92, while approximately the other half of the load passes through the cup The base 30 of the shape, then out to the flange 50 and into the deck 92.

In one embodiment, a seal is formed between the tie down assembly 10 and the deck 92 that prevents corrosion from foreign matter, such as seawater. In one embodiment, the flange 50 of the cup 12 is disposed substantially flush with the upper layer 94 of the deck 92 to minimize protrusion of the assembly 10 above the deck 92 . In one embodiment, the protrusion 58 of the cup 12 prevents the tether assembly 10 from rotating relative to the deck 92, thereby maintaining the stability of the assembly 10 during use.

In one embodiment, crossbar 14 is sized and shaped to receive various tether connectors, such as hooks, clips, cables, ropes, etc. (not shown). In one embodiment, the loads borne by the tie down assembly 10 are carried by the fasteners 20 , as described above, and the shear forces are carried by the fasteners 18 .

In one embodiment, when the tie down assembly 10 requires repair or replacement, it is removed from the deck 92 by loosening the fasteners 20 from the crossbar 14 and cup 12 . Thus, the cup 12 and rail 14 assembly can be lifted out of the holes in the upper layer 94 of the deck 92 .

In one embodiment, the cup 12 and plate 16 are fabricated from aluminum, while the crossbar 14 is fabricated from steel, thereby saving about 50% by weight.

商标的涂层，由Springdale，Arkansas的NanoMech，LLC d/b/a Duralor提供)。在其它实施例中，可以使用本领域已知的其它合适防磨损涂层。In one embodiment, the crossbar 14 is coated with a coating to prevent wear from which the connectors engage the crossbar 14 . In one embodiment, the coating composition comprises an aluminum/stainless steel mixture manufactured by Alcoa, Inc. and which is the subject of U.S. Patent Nos. 5,884,388 and 6,290,032, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety in the text. In other embodiments, the coating includes an electroless nickel-phosphorus coating (such as a NIBORE ^™ trademark coating), a diamond chrome coating, a hard chrome coating, or a nickel-cobalt alloy coating, all of which are available from Downers Grove, Bales, Illinois. Provided by Mold Service Inc. In other embodiments, the coating includes wear-resistant cubic boron nitride, hard powder coatings such as TUFFTEK

Coating of the ® trademark, provided by NanoMech, LLC d/b/a Duralor of Springdale, Arkansas). In other embodiments, other suitable anti-wear coatings known in the art may be used.

Pull testing of tie down assembly 10 was performed on crossbar 14 using a strain gauge test hook with a load of 32,000 lbs. A visual inspection of the tie down assembly 10 was performed and there was no apparent material yielding. Further visual inspection on fasteners 18 and 20 showed no signs of yielding. Additionally, a tether leak test was performed to demonstrate that the gasket 26 and O-rings 24, 28 do not leak. In this regard, a no-pull leak test is performed by filling the cup 12 with water and then checking. The results showed no leaks. Also, a 32,000 pound pull leak test was performed by submerging the tie down assembly 10 in water. The test was run for 10 minutes and no leaks were detected. The tether assembly 10 was then rotated 90 degrees and tested for 15 minutes, resulting in no leaks.

9A to 9D show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a tether assembly 110 includes a cup 112, a crossbar 114, and a plate 116 secured to the cup 112 and crossbar by fasteners 120. 114 on. In one embodiment, tether assembly 110 is similar in structure and function to tether assembly 10, except that tether assembly 110 includes a solid disc-shaped plate 116 without ribs or gaps. Tie down assembly 110 is mounted within deck 92 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to tie down assembly 10 (see FIG. 9D ).

10A and 10B show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 210 includes: a cup 212; In the port 236; and the tubular sleeve 217. In one embodiment, cup 212 and sleeve 217 are fabricated from aluminum, while crossbar 214 and fastener 218 are fabricated from stainless steel. In one embodiment, cup 212 is welded to one end of sleeve 217 by welding means known in the art (eg, MIG, etc.). In one embodiment, a bottom cup (not shown) is welded to the other end of the sleeve. In one embodiment, tie down assembly 210 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

11A and 11B show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 310 includes: a cup 312; inside the port 336; a tubular sleeve 317; and a bottom plate 316 attached to the sleeve 317. In one embodiment, tether assembly 310 is identical to tether assembly 210 except that notch 336 of cup 312 has a larger diameter and volume to accommodate a larger sized crossbar 314 .

12A and 12B show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a tether assembly 410 includes: a cup 412; inside the mouth 436; the tubular sleeve 417; and the bottom cup 416. In one embodiment, cup 412, sleeve 417, and cup 416 are fabricated from aluminum, while crossbar 414 and fastener 418 are fabricated from stainless steel. In one embodiment, cup 412 is welded to one end of sleeve 417 and cup 416 is welded to the other end of sleeve 417 by welding means known in the art (eg, friction welding, etc.). In one embodiment, tie down assembly 410 is welded to aluminum deck 92 .

13A and 13C show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 510 includes: a cup 512; a crossbar 514 fitted within a notch 536 of the cup 512; barrel 517; and bottom cap 516. The crossbar 514 includes a plurality of members 560 and a ring 561 surrounding the members 560 . In one embodiment, cup 512, sleeve 517, and cap 516 are fabricated from aluminum, while crossbar 514 is fabricated from steel. The crossbar 514 is positioned by the notch 536 of the cup 512 and is attached to the notch 536 by any mounting means known in the art (eg, friction stir welding, adhesives). In one embodiment, crossbar 514 and cup 512 are attached to each other mechanically (eg, keyed). In one embodiment, cup 512 and cap 516 are welded to sleeve 517 . In one embodiment, tie down assembly 510 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

14A to 14C show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 610 includes: an annular collar 611; a crossbar 614 attached to the collar 611; a funnel-shaped cover 612, the funnel The shaped cap 612 has a notch 636 ; a sleeve 617 ; and a cap 616 . In one embodiment, collar 611, crossbar 614, cap 612, sleeve 617, and cap 616 are fabricated from aluminum. In one embodiment, the crossbar 614 is welded into a slot 616 formed in the bottom surface of the collar 611, the cover 612 surrounds the crossbar 614, the crossbar 614 is positioned in the notch 636, and the cover 612 is welded in. On the bottom surface of the collar 611. In one embodiment, collar 611 and cap 616 are welded to sleeve 617 . In one embodiment, tie down assembly 610 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

15A to 15D show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 710 includes: an annular collar 711; a crossbar 714 attached to the collar 711; a funnel-shaped cover 712, the funnel shaped cap 712 has a notch 736; and sleeve 617. In one embodiment, the collar 711, crossbar 714, cap 712, and sleeve 717 are fabricated from aluminum. In other embodiments, cover 712 is fabricated from other metallic or non-metallic materials. In one embodiment, the crossbar 714 is welded to the bottom surface of the collar 711 and the cover 712 surrounds the crossbar 714 and is welded to the bottom surface of the collar 711 . In one embodiment, collar 711 and cap 716 are welded to sleeve 717 . In one embodiment, tie down assembly 710 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

16A to 16D show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a tether assembly 810 includes: a cylindrical base 812 having a circular notch 836; and a crossbar 814 positioned on inside the notch 836 . In one embodiment, tether assembly 810 includes a hollow inner portion 811 having a rib 813 and a plurality of protrusions 815 . Ribs 813 provide strength and rigidity to tether assembly 810 while enabling reduced mass. In one embodiment, tether assembly 810 is a unitary unit manufactured by investment casting. In one embodiment, a circular closure cap 816 is welded onto the protrusion 815 . In one embodiment, a wear coating substance is added to the crossbar 814 (not shown). In one embodiment, tie down assembly 810 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

17A to 17D show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a tether assembly 910 includes: a cylindrical base 912 having a notch 936; and a crossbar 914 positioned in the notch Inside 936. In one embodiment, tether assembly 910 includes a hollow inner portion 911 having a protrusion 915 . In one embodiment, tether assembly 910 is a unitary unit manufactured by machining. In one embodiment, a circular closure cap 916 is welded onto protrusion 915 . In one embodiment, a wear coating substance is added to the crossbar 914 (not shown). In one embodiment, tie down assembly 910 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

18A to 18C illustrate another embodiment of the invention wherein a tether assembly 1010 includes a tubular sleeve 1012 , a collar 1011 and a crossbar 1014 . In one embodiment, the collar 1011 includes two portions 1013a, 1013b that are sized and shaped to match each other to form a circular groove 1015 . In one embodiment, the crossbar 1014 includes a plurality of members 1060 and a ring 1061 surrounding the members 1060 . In one embodiment, ring 1061 is received within groove 1015 of collar 1011 to interlock crossbar 1014 . In one embodiment, bottom cap 1016 is welded to sleeve 1012 . In one embodiment, collar 1011, crossbar 1014, and sleeve 1012 are fabricated from aluminum. In another embodiment, crossbar 1014 is fabricated from steel. In one embodiment, crossbar 1014 is welded to sleeve 1012 . In one embodiment, tie down assembly 1010 is welded to an aluminum deck (not shown).

19A to 19C show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tether assembly 1110 includes: a tubular housing 1112, the tubular housing 1112 has a recess 1136 and a flange 1150; 1114 is mounted within recesses 1136 of housing 1112 by a plurality of fasteners 1118; and a collar 1116 is mounted on the housing by a plurality of tapered pins or keys (not specifically shown in the drawings) , these tapered pins or keys compress the assembly 1110 together. In one embodiment, the housing 1112 includes a hollow interior portion 1111 that includes ribs 1113 to provide stiffness and strength, and to enable mass reduction. In one embodiment, housing 1112 and collar 1116 are fabricated from aluminum, while crossbar 1114 is fabricated from steel. In one embodiment, housing 1112 and collar 1116 are machined. The tether assembly 1110 is secured to the aluminum deck 92 (see FIG. 19C ).

20A to 20C show another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a tether assembly 1210 includes a cup 1212, a crossbar 1214 and a plate 1216 secured to the cup 1212 by a plurality of fasteners 1218. superior. In one embodiment, tether assembly 1210 is similar in structure and function to tether assembly 10 , except that fasteners 1218 for attaching plate 1216 to cup 1212 do not engage crossbar 1214 . Tie down assembly 1210 is mounted within deck 92 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to tie down assembly 10 (see FIG. 9D ).

It should be understood that the tether assembly described herein is an example only, and that various changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the tie down assembly 10 includes a failsafe feature that allows the assembly 10 to fail in the event of an overload before damaging the deck, thereby saving significant repair costs. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the tether assembly may be used in environments other than naval and marine vessels, such as rail, aerospace, and automotive transportation. Accordingly, all such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (28)

1. a tie down assembly that is applicable to be installed in the structure is characterized in that, this tie down assembly comprises:

Cup shell, this cup shell has: first end; The second end, this second end is relative with first end; Recess, this recess is formed in the first end, and defines sidewall, and this sidewall has formation a plurality of holes in the inner; The hole of centralized positioning, the hole of this centralized positioning are formed in the described recess and are positioned at described the second end place; And bar, this bar extends from the second end, and comprises the hole, the length of this hole extension rod, and align with the hole of the centralized positioning of described recess in the hole of this bar;

Cross bar, this cross bar has: a plurality of parts, each parts comprises first end, and this first end has axial formation hole in the inner, and each in described a plurality of parts is connected to each other in central spot; And bar, this bar vertically extends from the center-point of described a plurality of parts, this bar comprises first end, this first end has axial formation hole in the inner, described cross bar is positioned in the recess of cup shell, like this, align with a corresponding hole of the sidewall of cup shell in each hole of a plurality of parts of described cross bar, the size and dimension of each in the aligned hole of the sidewall of cup shell and the hole of described a plurality of parts is configured to receive in a plurality of the first fasteners, and the bar of cross bar and the pole pair of cup shell are neat, like this, align with the hole of the bar of cup shell in the hole of the bar of cross bar, the size and dimension in the hole of the aligned hole of the bar of cross bar and the bar of cup shell forms and receives the second fastener; And

Back plate, this back plate specifically has first surface, the second surface relative with this first surface and the hole that extends to second surface from first surface, this back plate is removably mounted on the cross bar, and like this, the size and dimension in the hole of this back plate forms and receives described the second fastener.

2. tie down assembly according to claim 1, it is characterized in that: this structure comprises first surface and the second surface relative with this first surface, first surface comprises formation the first hole in the inner, the size and dimension in this first hole forms the reception cup shell, the lower surface juxtaposition of the first surface of described back plate and this structure.

3. tie down assembly according to claim 2, it is characterized in that: the lower surface of this structure comprises formation the second hole in the inner, the size and dimension in this second hole forms and receives the second fastener.

4. tie down assembly according to claim 3, it is characterized in that: described cup shell comprises flange, and this angle staple is around the periphery of recess, and has top surface and the basal surface relative with this top surface, and the flange of cup shell is placed on the first surface of this structure.

5. tie down assembly according to claim 4, it is characterized in that: the basal surface of the flange of cup shell comprises formation groove in the inner, the size and dimension of this groove forms and receives O shape ring.

6. the tie down assembly shown in according to claim 5, it is characterized in that: the sidewall of cup shell comprises a plurality of protuberances, these protuberances stretch out from sidewall, and be positioned adjacent to the basal surface of the flange of cup shell, the first surface of this structure comprises formation a plurality of grooves in the inner, the size and dimension of each in described a plurality of groove forms corresponding in the described a plurality of protuberances that receive cup shell, in order to prevent that tie down assembly is with respect to the rotation of the first surface of this structure.

7. tie down assembly according to claim 1, it is characterized in that: each hole of described a plurality of parts comprises negative thread, be used for screw thread and receive corresponding of described a plurality of the first fasteners, the hole of the bar of cross bar comprises negative thread, is used for screw thread and receives described the second fastener.

8. tie down assembly according to claim 1, it is characterized in that: cup shell and back plate are manufactured from aluminium separately, and cross bar is by steel making.

9. tie down assembly according to claim 1, it is characterized in that: described a plurality of parts comprise four parts.

10. tie down assembly according to claim 9, it is characterized in that: each in a plurality of parts of described cross bar extended in same level.

11. tie down assembly according to claim 10 is characterized in that: also comprise packing ring, this packing ring is positioned between the recess of the first end of bar and cup shell.

12. tie down assembly according to claim 11 is characterized in that: each first end of described a plurality of parts comprises groove, and the size and dimension of this groove forms and receives O shape ring.

13. tie down assembly according to claim 1 is characterized in that: the first and second surfaces of back plate by a plurality of ribs separately.

14. tie down assembly according to claim 1 is characterized in that: this structure is manufactured from aluminium.

15. tie down assembly according to claim 14 is characterized in that: this structure comprises the deck of ship.

16. a tie down assembly that is applicable to be installed in the structure is characterized in that, this tie down assembly comprises:

Cup shell, this cup shell has: first end; The second end, this second end is relative with first end; Recess, this recess is formed in the first end, and defines sidewall, and this sidewall has formation a plurality of holes in the inner; And the hole of centralized positioning, the hole of this centralized positioning is formed in the recess and is positioned at described the second end place;

Cross bar, this cross bar has: a plurality of parts, each parts comprises first end, and this first end has axial formation hole in the inner, and each in described a plurality of parts is connected to each other in central spot; And bar, this bar vertically extends from the center-point of described a plurality of parts, this bar comprises first end, this first end has axial formation hole in the inner, cross bar is positioned in the recess of cup shell, like this, align with a corresponding hole of the sidewall of cup shell in each hole of a plurality of parts of described cross bar, the size and dimension of each in the aligned hole of the sidewall of cup shell and the hole of described a plurality of parts forms one that receives in a plurality of the first fasteners, and the bar of cross bar aligns with the hole of the recess of cup shell, and the size and dimension in the hole of the aligned hole of the bar of cross bar and the recess of cup shell forms the receiving center fastener; And

Plate, this plate have first surface and the second surface relative with this first surface, and this plate removably is attached on the cup shell by a plurality of the second fasteners.

17. tie down assembly according to claim 16 is characterized in that: this structure comprises

First surface and the second surface relative with this first surface, first surface comprise formation the first hole in the inner, and the size and dimension in this first hole forms the reception cup shell, the lower surface juxtaposition of the first surface of this plate and this structure.

18. tie down assembly according to claim 17 is characterized in that: described cup shell comprises flange, and this angle staple is around the periphery of recess, and has top surface and the basal surface relative with this top surface, and the flange of cup shell is placed on the first surface of this structure.

19. tie down assembly according to claim 18 is characterized in that: the basal surface of the flange of cup shell comprises formation groove in the inner, and the size and dimension of this groove forms and receives O shape ring.

20. the tie down assembly according to claim 19, it is characterized in that: the sidewall of cup shell comprises a plurality of protuberances, these protuberances stretch out from sidewall, and be positioned adjacent to the basal surface of the flange of cup shell, the first surface of this structure comprises formation a plurality of grooves in the inner, the size and dimension of each in described a plurality of groove forms corresponding in the described a plurality of protuberances that receive cup shell, in order to prevent that tie down assembly is with respect to the rotation of the first surface of this structure.

21. tie down assembly according to claim 16, it is characterized in that: each hole of described a plurality of parts comprises negative thread, be used for screw thread and receive corresponding of described a plurality of the first fasteners, the hole of the bar of cross bar comprises negative thread, is used for screw thread and receives described the second fastener.

22. tie down assembly according to claim 16 is characterized in that: cup shell and plate are manufactured from aluminium separately, and cross bar is by steel making.

23. tie down assembly according to claim 16 is characterized in that: described a plurality of parts comprise four parts.

24. tie down assembly according to claim 23 is characterized in that: each in a plurality of parts of described cross bar extended in same level.

25. tie down assembly according to claim 24 is characterized in that: also comprise packing ring, this packing ring is positioned between the recess of the first end of bar and cup shell.

26. tie down assembly according to claim 25 is characterized in that: each first end of described a plurality of parts comprises groove, and the size and dimension of this groove forms and receives O shape ring.

27. tie down assembly according to claim 16 is characterized in that: this structure is manufactured from aluminium.

28. tie down assembly according to claim 27 is characterized in that: this structure comprises the deck of ship.

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