Playload dispensing system

US6460445B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• Eric Paul Young · Greenville, US
• John L. Reynolds · Santa Clarita, US
• Brian Hershberger · San Fernando, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 7, 2002
• Grant date: Oct 8, 2002
• Expiry date: Jan 7, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64D1/06
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A payload dispensing system for an aircraft is disclosed that includes a housing mounted to the aircraft. A hollow shaft is mounted to the housing having an open first end and a closed off second end with a hole therethrough. The payload includes an aperture having a first end on an external surface thereof and a second end in the interior therein. A wire cable releasably secures the payload to the housing such that the hollow shaft extends into the aperture of the payload. A compression spring is mounted at least partially within the hollow shaft, having a first end in contact with the second end of the hollow shaft and a second end in contact with the second end of the aperture within the payload, the spring having a compressed position when the hollow shaft is within the aperture in the payload and asserts a force tending to separate the payload from the aircraft. A cable cutter is used to cut the cable to release the payload from the housing, such that the spring forces the payload away from the aircraft and the hollow shaft guides the payload during separation.