GB998647A - Improvements in or relating to parachutes - Google Patents

Abstract

998,647. Parachutes. G. Q. PARACHUTE CO. Ltd. July 2, 1964 [July 3, 1963], No. 26297/63. Heading B7G. A parachute comprises a canopy constructed of segments connected together by means which break under predetermined strains so that the number of segments effective, or the gaps between the segments varies with the speed at which the canopy is deployed. In one embodiment (Fig. 1) the segments 11 are connected by stitching from the apex downwards. The distance for which this connection extends determines the inflation of the canopy on deployment and is arranged so that part of stitching breaks when a predetermined load on the canopy is exceeded. Alternatively, a series of breaking ties 22 may connect adjacent segments, the ties being stronger near the apex. The segments are also connected at the apex by a cord 13 passing through loops 12. The segments have reinforcing tapes along some or all of their edges, and may have load-bearing tapes extending, e.g. centrally of each segment from the apex to the hem. In another embodiment (Fig. 3), series 17, 18, 19 of segments are attached to a central rigging line 21 by ties of different strength, the ties to 18 breaking, for example, at a deployment speed of 300 ft./sec. the ties to 19 breaking at 600 ft./sec., and the ties to 17 being strong enough to hold under the maximum load anticipated. The segments 17 may be connected by fine netting to improve stability. Since the maximum loads on the various segments are different, different materials may be used for them.