Connecting coupling for webbing straps used with e-track lock-down stowage means

Abstract

Disclosed embodiments provide a coupling configured to be compatible with E-fittings used in an E-track system. The coupling can be used for securing loads within a cargo container. The coupling includes a body having a rectangular shape or cylindrical shape. Multiple slots are formed in the body, each slot of the plurality of slots configured to receive an E-fitting. The coupling enables connection to straps that are too short to be used in a single E-track connection arrangement for the securing of a freight load.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A coupling for securing loads within a cargo container, comprising:
 a body having a rectangular shape; and   a plurality of slots formed in the body, each slot of the plurality of slots configured to receive an E-fitting;   wherein the body is open on a top side and a bottom side to facilitate access to the plurality of slots.   
     
     
         2 . The coupling of  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of slots comprises four slots. 
     
     
         3 . The coupling of  claim 1 , wherein the coupling is comprised of metal. 
     
     
         4 . The coupling of  claim 3 , wherein the coupling is comprised of steel. 
     
     
         5 . The coupling of  claim 3 , wherein the coupling is comprised of aluminum. 
     
     
         6 . The coupling of  claim 1 , wherein each slot of the plurality of slots is configured and disposed to engage with a latching portion of an E-fitting. 
     
     
         7 . The coupling of  claim 1 , wherein each slot of the plurality of slots has a length ranging from 5 centimeters to 15 centimeters. 
     
     
         8 . A coupling for securing loads within a cargo container, comprising:
 a body having a cylindrical shape; and   a plurality of slots formed in the body, each slot of the plurality of slots configured to receive an attachment strap;   wherein the body is open on a top side and a bottom side to facilitate access to the plurality of slots.   
     
     
         9 . The coupling of  claim 8 , wherein the plurality of slots comprises four slots. 
     
     
         10 . The coupling of  claim 8 , wherein the coupling is comprised of metal. 
     
     
         11 . The coupling of  claim 10 , wherein the coupling is comprised of steel. 
     
     
         12 . The coupling of  claim 10 , wherein the coupling is comprised of aluminum. 
     
     
         13 . The coupling of  claim 8 , wherein each slot of the plurality of slots is configured and disposed to engage with a latching portion of an E-fitting. 
     
     
         14 . The coupling of  claim 8 , wherein each slot of the plurality of slots has a length ranging from 5 centimeters to 15 centimeters. 
     
     
         15 . A method of securing cargo within a cargo container, the method comprising:
 providing a coupling having a body with a plurality of slots formed therein;   securing a first E-fitting into a first slot of the plurality of slots;   securing a second E-fitting into a first slot of the plurality of slots;   securing attachment straps to the first E-fitting and the second E-fitting;   adjusting the attachment straps to secure cargo; and   tensioning the attachment straps to stabilize the cargo within the cargo container.   
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 15 , wherein providing a coupling comprises providing a rectangular coupling. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 15 , wherein providing a coupling comprises providing a cylindrical coupling. 
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 15 , wherein providing a coupling comprises providing a coupling comprised of aluminum. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 15 , wherein providing a coupling comprises providing a coupling comprised of steel. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 15 , wherein providing a coupling comprises providing a coupling comprising four slots.