Parachute ground disconnecting devices
US5687931A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 1995 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 20, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64D17/38
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Reusable parachute ground disconnecting devices provide constant release load percentages within a range of 25 to 70 percent of the load weight for more reliable delatching characteristics on ground contact even in the presence of high ground winds, and with virtually no risk of premature delatching occurring while airborne. Non-linear main springs consisting of stacked disk springs provide ever diminishing deflection to the load suspending assembly as the load size increases, in combination with fixed latch geometry produce constant load release characteristics for the entire capacity rating for a given device. Various time delay means, including an hydraulic dampened load release timer provide added safety and reliability by isolating the delatching system when fluctuations in load weight occur during initial deployment. Disclosed concepts are readily adaptable to high capacity devices for loads of up to 30 tons, and even more.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.