Spencer Industries proposes dual-track development, prototyping and test of the 35K Innovative Tie-Down, centering on a common, new design Tensioner device and utilizing both legacy chain restraint media (Design 1) and new lightweight chain restraint media (Design 2). Design 1 provides an immediate solution that utilizes existing Fleet assets (chain tension media) and Design 2 provides further benefits from the use of lightweight chain and additional operational features. The Tensioner common to both Designs features a screw-in chain jaw to accommodate either chain type. Tensioners provided as Design 1 can be upgraded to Design 2 at low cost at Spencer's factory or in a depot or other shore-based operation. In form, fit, and function, the new tie-down provided by Design1 and Design 2 is a complete replacement for the existing 35K lashings, and requires no changes to either ship deck fittings or vehicles. The unit can replace 17K tie-downs as well. Both Design 1 and Design 2 for the Innovative Tie-Down attach to the deck using a bulb hook identical to the legacy tie-down, and to the vehicle fittings with a safety hook that has identical interface characteristics as the existing hook.
Benefit: Improved operational efficiency by allowing cargo lashing to be performed faster and more effectively. Reduced broken stow, permitting vehicular cargo to be more tightly packed. Lightweight and easily handled. Realizes weight savings for ships equipped with the new device. Fully compatible with the salt-water environment, and requires low maintenance. Potential commercial applications include commercial shipping operations (vehicle, rail, maritime)
Keywords: Lightweight Tie-Down , Cargo Lashing Device , Tie-down
