Ratchet mechanism

Abstract

A linkage method and apparatus for linking a support frame and a pawl axle in a tie-down tool used on vehicles. The linkage includes an interface between a support frame and pawl axle, with the pawl axle inserted through the support frame, with the pawl fitted on the pawl axle and located on the outside of the support frame, with the pawl axle being a pin axle with a larger diameter head portion. The head portion of the pawl axle is located on the inside of the support frame, with a fastening mechanism at the outer end of the pawl axle to prevent the pawl from falling off the axle. The linkage between the support frame and pawl axle simplifies the manufacturing process through elimination of a welding step due to inserting the pawl axle inside-out through the support frame, and the use of a fastening device at the end of the pawl axle to prevent the pawl from falling off the axle. The secure connection between the two improves the safety and reliability of the ratchet during use, sustains a larger reaction force for the operation, and improves the useful life of the ratchet.

1 . A ratchet comprising: 
 a support frame;    a pawl axle, said pawl axle being received through a bore of said support frame;    a pawl, said pawl being received onto said pawl axle outwardly of said support frame, said pawl axle being a pin axle having an enlarged diameter head portion at an inner end thereof, said head portion of said pawl axle being disposed inwardly of said support frame; and    a fastening mechanism, said fastening mechanism being disposed at an outer end of said pawl axle, said fastening mechanism being adapted to prevent said pawl from detaching from said pawl axle.    
   
   
       2 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said head portion includes a countersunk head portion, said head portion having a face flush to an inner surface of said support frame.  
   
   
       3 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein a mating of said support frame and said pawl axle is tight-fit.  
   
   
       4 . ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said fastening mechanism includes a riveted piece disposed at said outer end of the pawl axle, said riveted piece being securely connected to the pawl axle.  
   
   
       5 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said fastening mechanism includes a nut, and wherein said outer end of the pawl axle includes an external thread, and wherein said pawl axle is connected to the nut by said external thread.  
   
   
       6 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said fastening mechanism includes a pin, and wherein said outer end of the pawl axle includes a pin hole, said pin hole being adapted to receive the pin therewithin.  
   
   
       7 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said fastening mechanism includes a screw, and wherein said outer end of the pawl axle includes an internally threaded hole, said internally threaded hole being adapted to receive said screw therewithin.  
   
   
       8 . A ratchet according to  claim 1 , wherein said pawl axle is adapted to receive a washer thereon, said washer being disposed between said fastening mechanism and said pawl.  
   
   
       9 . A ratchet according to  claim 6 , wherein said pawl axle is adapted to receive a washer thereon, said washer being disposed between said pin and said pawl.  
   
   
       10 . A ratchet according to  claim 5 , wherein said pawl axle is adapted to receive a washer thereon, said washer being disposed between said nut and said pawl.