The Automated Log Load Securing project has three pieces of technology now at the commercialisation stage:
- Chain Thrower, which places the chains across the load automatically via remote control. This eliminates the risk of repetitive strain injuries to truck drivers, and opens up the task to a wider demographic of potential drivers to include people who are less physically strong.
- Auto-tensioning winch which tensions the load securing chains and maintains the tension while the loaded logging truck is travelling. The winch eliminates the need for manual chain tensioning, reducing the risk of driver injury, and ensures loads are safe. There are other similar systems on the market, but this New-Zealand-designed winch operates at higher tensions than other models.
- Load Monitoring System – this part of the system measures the tension on each load restraint and transmits the tensions to the driver’s cab. The shackle on each chain has a built in load cell and Bluetooth® transmitter to alert the driver to any loss of tension. The monitoring system is currently being tested by the log trucking industry.
The three products can stand alone or operate together. Although the likely total capital costs of around $68,000 per truck for all three elements may seem expensive, a cost-benefit analysis indicates the life-time costs will be about $6 per load, or 22 cents/tonne. Benefits include fewer injuries, extended driving careers, and better use of trucks as a larger pool of drivers become available.
Manufacturing partners: Trinder Engineers Ltd and Waimea Engineering Ltd (Nelson)
