Rotary strap tensioning apparatus

Abstract

A strap tensioning apparatus ( 10 ) adapted to releasably engage and rotate the ratchet hub ( 100 ) of a strap tensioning ratchet wherein, the ratchet hub ( 100 ) is provided with a transverse bore ( 101 ) and the apparatus ( 10 ) includes a collar member ( 20 ) having a peripheral aperture ( 21 ) alignable with one end of the transverse bore ( 101 ) wherein, a lever arm ( 30 ) is pivotally connected to the collar member ( 20 ) and provided with a post ( 33 ) dimensioned to extend into the transverse bore ( 101 ) and the collar member ( 20 ) is further provided with a handle member ( 40 ) adapted to rotate both the collar member ( 20 ) and the ratchet hub ( 100 ) when the post ( 33 ) is engaged in the transverse bore ( 101 ).

1 . A strap tensioning apparatus for releasably engaging and rotating a strap tensioning ratchet hub having a transverse bore wherein, the tensioning apparatus comprises: 
 a collar unit including a cylindrical collar member provided with a peripheral aperture that is dimensioned for alignment with one end of the transverse bore of the ratchet hub;    securing means for connecting the collar member to said ratchet hub; and,    a handle unit including a handle member connected to said collar member and adapted to provide rotary motion to said collar member.    
   
   
       2 . The apparatus as in  claim 1;  wherein, said securing means comprises at least in part a post mounted for reciprocal movement relative to the aperture in the collar member and dimensioned to extend into a portion of the transverse bore of the ratchet hub.  
   
   
       3 . The apparatus as in  claim 2;  wherein, the securing means further includes a lever arm pivotally connected to the collar member wherein, one segment of the lever arm is provided with said post.  
   
   
       4 . The apparatus as in  claim 3;  wherein, the lever arm has a generally L-shaped configuration that includes a lower segment and an upper segment.  
   
   
       5 . The apparatus as in  claim 4;  wherein, said post depends downwardly from the lower segment of the lever member.  
   
   
       6 . The apparatus as in  claim 5  wherein, the spring element is attached to the upper segment of the lever arm.