SafeWinch makes Dutch innovation award shortlist
The SafeWinch from Dutch winch manufacturer Machine- & Lierenfabriek C. Kraaijeveld BV was one of two innovative products to be nominated for that nation’ s 2008 Maritime Innovation Award.
The new E2S Hootronic from European Safety Systems Ltd has been successfully trialled at the Port of Felixstowe, where the container cranes cannot operate without a functioning warning device.
The SafeWinch offers a simple and robust solution to prevent slack wires and overloading by adding a ratchet to the winch. The patented ratchet automatically separates the torque in the hold direction to the brake side and in the pull direction to the drive side. The operational handling and controls have also been improved for limited human action and safe operation during towage.
The SafeWinch has great market potential by delivering a notable improvement set against marginal cost. It increases the safety of tug operations when providing assistance and was developed in cooperation with IMC.
The other nominee for the Maritime Innovation Award was Huisman for their Combi Pipe Laying System.
The award is an initiative of Holland Marine Equipment Association. The event highlighted four other Dutch maritime awards: Ship of the Year Award (KNVTS), the Timmers Award (VNSI), the HISWA Excellence Award, and the KVNR Shipping Award.
