Patent ID: 6494435
Filing Date: 2002-12-17
Classification: B60P,B66D

Abstract:
A load restraint system for securing an elongated load hold-down member in secured, tensioned relation, including a winch having a rotatable drum; first capstan means for rotating the drum in a first loading direction to wind-on and apply load-securing tension to the hold-down member; first ratchet means to prevent over-hauling of the drum by the tensioned hold-down member, and spring-loaded tensioning means connectable to the drum in tensioned relation, to drive the drum in tensioning relation with the hold-down member, said spring-loaded tensioning means including spring means; second capstan means for rotating said spring means in a second direction opposed to said first direction, in tensioning relation with said spring; and second ratchet means connecting said spring with said rotatable drum in load transfer relation therewith, whereby in use, upon diminishment of tile load-securing tension in the hold-down member, the spring-loaded tensioning means operates to rotate the winch drum, to thereby sustain tension in the hold-down member.