Propane Tank Tie Down System and Method of Use
Patent Number: US 11130438 Grant Date: 2021-09-28 Filing Date: 2019-09-28
Overview
This patent describes a practical, restraint-focused solution for securing cylindrical containers during vehicle transport. Filed in September 2019 and granted in September 2021, the invention—developed and applied for by inventors based in Round Rock, TX—combines an adjustable perimeter strap assembly with multiple vehicle-attachment options to eliminate loose, unsecured tanks. The design integrates ring buckles and a hook-and-loop closure to create a variable-diameter strap that stays with the tank throughout its useful life, plus one or more snap-hook assemblies sized and spaced to attach to common anchor points such as truck utility hooks, child car connection points, or seat-belt systems. A belt-loop assembly and an optional strap magnet further simplify installation and retention inside vehicle cabins.
Our drafting team captured both the practical installation details and the manufacturing choices ( sewn multi-strap construction, differing snap-hook gap depths and strap lengths) to secure broad, enforceable claim scope that addresses typical failure modes and use cases.
Key Features
- Adjustable perimeter strap with ring-buckle and hook-and-loop locking
- Dual snap-hook assemblies with different lengths and catch-gap depths for multiple anchor types
- Integrated belt-loop seatbelt configuration and strap magnet for cabin use
- Heavy-duty stitching and modular, multi-strap construction for durability
By framing a simple, adaptable mechanical solution for everyday safety, this patent has immediate relevance to consumer, retail and fleet transport markets and to broader vehicle-safety accessory development.
Invention Details
Abstract: A tank tiedown system for securing a tank during transport in a vehicle. The tank tiedown system comprises a perimeter strap assembly, a first hook-and-loop fastener assembly having a first fastener portion and a second fastener portion, a one or more snap hook assemblies, and one or more ring buckles, the one or more ring buckles comprise at least a second ring buckle. The perimeter strap assembly comprises a first end and a second end. The second ring buckle is attached to the second end of the perimeter strap assembly. The first fastener portion and the second fastener portion are attached to the first end of the perimeter strap assembly with the first fastener portion more proximate to the first end than the second fastener portion.
Summary of the Invention: a tank tiedown system 100 for securing a tank 104 during transport in a vehicle 118. Said tank tiedown system 100 comprises a perimeter strap assembly 120, a first hook-and-loop fastener assembly 208 having a first fastener portion 208a and a second fastener portion 208b, a one or more snap hook assemblies 210, and one or more ring buckles 204, said one or more ring buckles 204 comprise at least a second ring buckle 204b. Said perimeter strap assembly 120 comprises a first end 212 and a second end 214. Said second ring buckle 204b is attached to said second end 214 of said perimeter strap assembly 120. Said first fastener portion 208a and said second fastener portion 208b are attached to said first end 212 of said perimeter strap assembly 120 with said first fastener portion 208a more proximate to said first end 212 than said second fastener portion 208b. Said perimeter strap assembly 120 comprises a strap length 226. Said strap length 226 is long enough to secure said tank tiedown system 100 around said tank 104 by wrapping said perimeter strap assembly 120 around said tank 104, doubling a portion of said first end 212 back through a first ring buckle 204a, and attaching said first fastener portion 208a to said second fastener portion 208b of said first hook-and-loop fastener assembly 208. Said tank tiedown system 100 can comprise a variable diameter 114, and said tank 104 can comprise a tank diameter 116. Said tank tiedown system 100 can be configured to adjust said variable diameter 114 to match said variable diameter 114 and securely tighten around said tank 104. Said one or more snap hook assemblies 210 comprise at least a first snap hook assembly 210a.
Patent Document
Related: Mechanical Engineering | Oil & Gas | Packaging And Logistics | Safety Systems | Transportation | Round Rock, Texas | Shannon Warren, Patent Attorney