GB266345A - Improvements in or relating to parachutes - Google Patents

Abstract

266,345. McClintock, H. R., (Assignee of Russell, J. M.). Feb. 17, 1926, [Convention date]. Parachutes.-A parachute has an upper central load-sustaining surface of slightly convex shape and a continuation which extends downwardly and inwardly to form a peripheral lobe. In the construction shown, the canopy is formed of radial panels 3, Fig. 1, made up of a number of sections 6 - - 9, Fig. 4, sewed together on the bias with the bias of the fabric of adjacent panels arranged at an angle, to maintain a taut construction. The outer edges 11 of the panels are attached to a flexible fabric band 12 at points 14 in such a manner that a fulness at the edges permits the formation of scoops 24. Suspension lines 15, Fig. 2, extending from the load point 23, are attached to the band 12 and to the corners 13 of the panels, and extend upwardly to points 17 on the periphery of the upper portion 1, where they enter the panel seams end run to the apex 18. The length of the panels between the, points 13 and 17 is considerably greater than the free length of the lines 15 between these points, so that when the canopy is fully expanded the upper portion 1 assumes a slightly convex shape, whilst the outer portion is bellied out to form a peripheral lobe 2. Fig. 5 shows the shape of the canopy when the device is beginning to open : the lobe 2 is folded back against the side walls of the upper portion 1. Attached to the central portion of the lobe 2 at four equidistant points and extending to the point 23 are control cords 19, 20, Fig. 2, whereby the aviator can deform a part of the lobe for steering purposes.