Rigidized assisted opening system for high altitude parafoils
US9561858B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 22, 2016 |
| Grant date | Feb 7, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 22, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64D17/70
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Described are a parafoil for operation at high altitudes, in low density air, or at low airspeeds, and methods for opening same. The parafoil comprises flexible members connected to the parafoil canopy. When the parafoil canopy is in a stowed configuration, the members are deformed, storing elastic energy. When the canopy is released from its stowed configuration, the members spring back to their undeformed shapes, thereby opening or assisting with opening the canopy. The flexible members may also be attached to a base structure, which is attached to the payload. The members may comprise rods or hollow tubes that can be flexed using a fulcrum near the base structure, or a spacer plate, so that the ends connected to the canopy are restrained by a parachute bag containing the stowed or packed canopy. The parachute bag can be opened prior to or during detachment of the parafoil from the flight vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.