US Patent 7014227 Wedge bar locking mechanism

A wedge bar locking mechanism is provided including a locking pin, a bracket and a wedge bar. In operation, the locking pin and wedge bar are mechanically coupled such that rotation of the locking pin results in translational motion of the wedge bar. The wedge bar and locking pin are received in the bracket which prevents rotational motion of the wedge bar and translational motion of the locking pin. In a preferred embodiment, the bracket has retaining tabs permanently attached or integral thereto, and extending radially inward of a longitudinal cylindrical pathway for accommodating the locking pin therein. The tabs are received within a reduced diameter portion of the locking pin to prevent translation thereof.