Secureload

Transporting and securing heavy equipment like tanks and humvees with manual chain binders is slow, dangerous, and unreliable. The Office of Naval Research realized that a faster and safer way of securing military equipment could be a game changer when projecting force on foreign soil. Even when tensioned, manual binders loosen as loads settle during transport—putting cargo, drivers, and missions at risk. Every extra minute tightening and re-checking chains puts timelines and people at risk.

PCDworks created a smart tie down for the Navy that checked all the boxes for a fast, safe, easy way to bind and release heavy equipment. PCDworks saw an opportunity to leverage the technology developed with a SBIR grant sponsored by ONR and fulfill a need in the private sector for an alternative to the manual load binder. Partnering with a group of investors, the SMART SecureLoad® Automatic Tensioner was developed to address this market. This breakthrough binder for the commercial hauler industry combines push-button simplicity, tension monitoring, and automatic re-tensioning during transit. Chains stay tight, loads stay secure, and safety risks were designed out of the process.

Safety First: Push-button operation eliminates the injuries common with manual binders. Efficiency Gains: Secure or release a chain in about 10 seconds—saving hours across a fleet each week. Peace of Mind: Automatic tensioning ensures chains remain tight through the entire trip, even over rough roads. Lower Costs: Reduced insurance claims, fewer load checks, and improved driver productivity. Proven Durability: Engineered for all-weather use, with long-life batteries and rugged construction tested on thousands of highway miles. Rapid ROI: While the cost is more than manual binders, the value offered is far greater. tThe return on investment is short based on time saved, injuries eliminated, DOT compliance and increased fleet up time.