WO2020243451A1 - Dispositif de mécanisme de libération, systèmes de parachute et stabilisation de parachute - Google Patents

Dispositif de mécanisme de libération, systèmes de parachute et stabilisation de parachute Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020243451A1
WO2020243451A1 PCT/US2020/035153 US2020035153W WO2020243451A1 WO 2020243451 A1 WO2020243451 A1 WO 2020243451A1 US 2020035153 W US2020035153 W US 2020035153W WO 2020243451 A1 WO2020243451 A1 WO 2020243451A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
release
parachute
lever
release mechanism
hook
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2020/035153
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
William John COE
Ignatius KAPP
Original Assignee
P.D. Of Miami, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US16/886,726 external-priority patent/US11667389B2/en
Application filed by P.D. Of Miami, Inc. filed Critical P.D. Of Miami, Inc.
Priority to AU2020282766A priority Critical patent/AU2020282766B2/en
Priority to EP20746369.6A priority patent/EP3976471A1/fr
Priority to CA3142219A priority patent/CA3142219A1/fr
Publication of WO2020243451A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020243451A1/fr
Priority to AU2023237202A priority patent/AU2023237202A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D1/00—Dropping, ejecting, releasing, or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
    • B64D1/02—Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles
    • B64D1/08—Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles the articles being load-carrying devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D1/00—Dropping, ejecting, releasing, or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
    • B64D1/02—Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles
    • B64D1/08—Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles the articles being load-carrying devices
    • B64D1/12—Releasing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D17/00—Parachutes
    • B64D17/22—Load suspension
    • B64D17/38—Releasable fastening devices between parachute and load or pack
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
    • F16B45/00—Hooks; Eyes
    • F16B45/02—Hooks with pivoting or elastically bending closing member
    • F16B45/021—Hooks with pivoting or elastically bending closing member the closing member being operable remotely, e.g. by cables, chains or rods

Definitions

  • Versions and embodiments of the present invention relate generally to line release mechanisms and systems, and more particularly to devices, mechanisms and systems for reducing tensile release forces of taut lines such as ropes, cords, wires, rods, and the like.
  • the invention may be utilized in any field requiring reduced force release of a line under load, such as parachute equipment and systems, boating equipment, traps, lifting equipment, marine vessel and vehicular tow equipment, climbing equipment, and the like.
  • aspects of the invention may be utilized in cargo parachute systems used by operators to release parachutes at high tensile activation force loads carried in drogue-fall and as a mechanism to release a drogue parachute from its cargo load and/or causing release of the main parachute.
  • aspects of the invention may also be utilized in towing applications such as towing road vehicles, marine vessels, and aircraft/glider operations. Further aspects of the invention relate to a parachute stabilization system for stabilizing a parachute disposed in a deployment bag during a drogue fall.
  • Prior art solutions have been a“single Latch system” device with minor mechanical advantage and prone to premature release of the drogue at high altitude and high wind blast exit forces.
  • Another prior art solution uses a pyrotechnic explosive cutter to sever the drogue parachute from the main parachute. This solution had negative consequences such as premature releases, and a consumable item which was disliked by the users. Additional negatives are difficulty of shipping hazardous materials within a country and heightened regulatory scrutiny when importing/exporting hazardous materials to foreign countries.
  • release mechanism for tensile forces and“triggers” and other activation devices.
  • release mechanism for tensile forces and“triggers” and other activation devices.
  • the skilled person would recognize the utility of the presently disclosed release mechanisms, triggers, activation devices and systems using such release mechanisms in numerous fields which may benefit from releasing a line utilizing reduced release force.
  • release mechanisms may be beneficially utilized in cranes, aerial, marine, and terrestrial tow systems, mountain climbing, canopy release systems for parachutes as well as terrestrial canopies, and the like.
  • the mechanism may be uniquely calibrated to have variable reduction in the required release forces as desired by the operator. These uniquely calibrated mechanisms may be made during manufacture by adjusting the lever arm lengths, lever hinge locations, lever contact points, etc.
  • a tension release mechanism having a closed state and an open state
  • the release mechanism comprising a support frame defining an operational plane, a fixed anchor region disposed in the frame or coupled thereto, and a plurality of interlockable levers operational to controllably maintain the release mechanism in closed state, and to release at least one tensioned line from the release mechanism responsive to transitioning of the interlocking levers, and thus the release mechanism, from the closed state to an open state.
  • the interlockable levers are interlocked when the release mechanism is in the closed state.
  • the release mechanism comprises a trigger lever 12 comprising a retaining region and a trigger fulcrum.
  • the trigger lever is rotatable about the trigger fulcrum;
  • a middle lever 10 has a middle lever abutment 140, and is rotatable about a middle lever fulcrum.
  • the middle lever is disposed such that when the mechanism is operationally in the closed state the middle lever abutment 140 rests against the trigger lever 12 at a trigger lever load region;
  • a release lever 11 has a release lever abutment 135 and is rotatable about a release lever fulcrum 18.
  • the release lever further comprises a hook retainer 130A.
  • the release lever is disposed such that when the release mechanism is operationally in the closed state the release lever abutment 135 rests against the middle lever 10 at a middle lever load region.
  • a hook 13 is rotatable about hook fulcrum 17 and has a hook abutment 120, the hook is disposed such that when the release mechanism is operationally in closed state, the hook abutment directly or indirectly engages the hook retainer 130A. At least a portion of the hook cooperates with at least a portion of the frame, to define a closure dimensioned to receive and retain the operationally tensioned line or an extension thereof.
  • a trigger is coupled to the trigger lever 12 retaining region, the trigger being operative to selectively maintain the trigger lever at a locked state where the trigger lever prevents the middle lever from rotating away from the release lever, therefore maintaining the release mechanism in the closed state
  • the release mechanism is configured such that operationally when the trigger lever is not in the locked state, i.e. when the trigger does not maintain the trigger lever in the locked state, the middle lever is capable of rotating away from the release lever, allowing the release lever to rotate and release the hook abutment from the hook retainer 130A, and thus transition the release mechanism from the closed state to the open state.
  • the trigger comprises a trigger line routed outside of the frame.
  • the trigger line terminates at a loop routed through an opening.
  • a release line is disposed to selectively retain and release the trigger line loop.
  • the trigger comprises solenoids, electric and/or pneumatic motors and or pistons.
  • the frame comprises a first and a second plate and at least the hook and the release lever are disposed between the first and second plate.
  • the first and/or the second plates has a void therein.
  • the frame may comprise a single backing plate.
  • the closure is defined by a portion of the frame substantially opposite the fixed anchor point and by a portion of the hook disposed between the hook hinge and the hook abutment.
  • the closure may form a partially open periphery, the periphery dimensioned so as to retain the tensioned line therein when the mechanism is in the closed state, and release the tensioned line therefrom when the mechanism is in the open state.
  • the release lever further comprising a protrusion disposed at an angle to a longitudinal axis of the release lever, comprises the hook retainer 130A being coupled to, or integral with the protrusion.
  • the fixed anchor point is connected to a tension inducing object at a connection region.
  • the fixed anchor point is configured to receive a line therein.
  • a tension release mechanism having a closed state and an open state
  • the release mechanism comprising a support plate, a fixed anchor region disposed in the plate or coupled thereto, and a plurality of interlockable levers in mechanical sequential communication therebetween disposed on the plate.
  • Each of the levers has a retaining region having a retainer or an abutment, a rotatable fulcrum point within a fulcrum region, and a load point within a load region, the first lever in the mechanical sequence operates as a trigger lever to start a release sequence, the last lever in the mechanical sequence forms a releasable rotatable hook to end the release sequence.
  • the levers interlock in a first pre-determined configuration in the closed state and unlock into a second predetermined configuration in the open state.
  • the levers are arranged such that when the release mechanism is operationally in tension between the fixed anchor region and the releasable hook load region, and while in the closed state configuration the trigger lever is prevented from rotating. Allowing the trigger lever to rotate, allows the interlocking levers in mechanical sequential communication to release the rotatable hook lever, transitioning the release mechanism into the open state.
  • the release mechanism is utilized in a cargo parachute system.
  • Such system includes a load, a main parachute optionally disposed in a deployment bag, a drogue parachute and an actuator.
  • the parachute is operationally coupled to the load, and when such system is being dropped from a drop altitude, the release mechanism being coupled between the drogue parachute and the main parachute, and/or the deployment bag, wherein the release mechanism is being controlled by the actuator which transitions the release mechanism from a closed state to an open state.
  • the drogue is functional to slow down the fall rate of the load while when in the closed state.
  • the drogue When the release mechanism reaches the open state, in some embodiments the drogue is operational to release a deployment bag closure, in some embodiments the drogue is operational to impart extraction force to the main parachute, and in some embodiments the drogue performs a combination of both functions. It is important to recognize that the a portion of the novelty of this aspect constitute the recognition of the need for a release mechanism in a parachute cargo system and its selection based on the novel advantages of reducing the release forces required for releasing the drogue, with the resulting increase in load capacity, while preventing premature parachute openings.
  • the actuator may be selected from an altitude sensing actuator, a timer controlled actuator, a speed sensor controlled actuator, an acceleration sensor controlled actuator, a location sensor controlled actuator, a radio controlled actuator, a light controlled actuator, a guidance system controlled actuator, temperature sensing actuator, pressure sensing actuator and any combination thereof.
  • the cargo parachute system further comprises a guidance system 326, such as a navigation system or a remote-control system to urge the parachute system to a desired path.
  • a guidance system 326 such as a navigation system or a remote-control system to urge the parachute system to a desired path.
  • the navigation system is a satellite-based navigation system, a radio-based navigation system, laser-based navigation system, artificial vision-based navigation system, or Inertial Navigation System (INS).
  • INS Inertial Navigation System
  • activation of the actuator is controlled by the guidance system.
  • actuator comprises the guidance system or a portion thereof.
  • a parachute bag stabilization system in a cargo parachute system having a drogue parachute, a main parachute initially disposed in a deployment bag, and a cargo load coupled to the main parachute via an intermediate load attachment platform, the parachute bag stabilization system being functional to secure the main parachute deployment bag containing the main parachute to the platform during a drogue fall, the parachute bag stabilization system comprising at least one operationally taut retention line extending between the parachute bag and the platform, and coupled to at least one of the deployment bag or the platform by a releasable stabilization anchor, the stabilization anchor being releasable responsive to a dislodgment of a pull pin coupled directly or indirectly to the drogue parachute.
  • the stabilization anchor comprises an anchor plate defining a passage therethrough, a retainer member operationally and removably disposed partially through the passage, and the pull pin being disposed to maintain the retainer member disposed through the passage when the retainer member is engaged by the pull pin, and release the retainer member to be removed from the passage when the pull-pin is dislodged.
  • the retainer member may be, by way of non-limiting example, an eyelet coupled to at least one retention line, a bight formed in at least one retention line, or an anchor pin extending partially through the passage and prevented from being released from the passage by the pull pin.
  • the stabilization anchor may be disposed on the deployment bag, on the platform on both. In numerous applications a plurality of retention lines is utilized, each with its respective stabilization anchor.
  • the anchor plate may be affixed to the retention bag, the platform, or coupling between segments of the retention line. In some embodiments the anchor plate is embodied as a passage defined in a portion of the platform.
  • the release mechanism disclosed herein may be utilized to release taut lines between towed vehicles, vessels, and/or aircrafts. Further optional use for the release mechanism is in cranes or other cargo handling/securement devices, where an expedited release of a taut line is required, utilizing far smaller release force than the tension of the line.
  • a tension release mechanism 100 having a closed state and an open state, the release mechanism having a support frame 1, a fixed anchor region 3, 150 disposed in the frame or coupled thereto, the release mechanism 100 characterized by an arrangement of sequentially interlockable levers rotatably coupled to the frame, the arrangement comprising: a) a trigger lever 12 rotatable about a trigger lever fulcrum 14, the trigger lever having a retaining region 145;
  • a middle lever 10 rotatable about a middle lever fulcrum 9 the middle lever having a middle lever abutment 140, and being disposed such that when the release mechanism is operationally in the closed state the middle lever abutment rests against the trigger lever at a trigger lever load region;
  • a release lever 11 rotatable about a release lever fulcrum 18, the release lever having release lever abutment 135 and a hook retainer 130A, the release lever being disposed such that when the release mechanism is operationally in the closed state the release lever abutment rests against the middle lever at a middle lever load region;
  • the trigger Fth comprises a trigger line routed outside of the frame through an opening therein.
  • the trigger further comprising a release pin 6 disposed to selectively retain and release the trigger line.
  • the mechanism further comprises a protrusion 130 disposed at an angle to a longitudinal axis of the release lever 11, the hook retainer 130A being coupled to, or integral with the protrusion 130.
  • the frame comprises a first 1 and a second 2 plate and at least the rotatable hook 13 and the release lever 11 are disposed between the first and second plate. Further optionally at least one of the first and second plates has a void 195 therein. However optionally the frame comprises a backing plate 1.
  • a tension release mechanism 100 having a closed state and an open state, the release mechanism having a support plate 1, a fixed anchor region 3, 150 disposed in the plate or coupled thereto, the release mechanism being characterized by a plurality of interlockable levers in mechanical sequential communication rotatably disposed on the plate; each of the levers having a retaining region having a retainer or an abutment, a rotatable fulcrum point within a fulcrum region, a load point within a load region; the first lever 12 in the mechanical sequence operates as a trigger lever for starting a release sequence; the last lever in the mechanical sequence operates as a rotatbly releasable hook 13 for ending the release sequence; wherein the levers interlock in a first pre-determined configuration in the closed state and unlock into a second pre-determined configuration in the open state;
  • the closure 110 when the release mechanism is in the closed state, is defined by a portion of the frame and by a cooperating portion of the hook disposed between the hook fulcrum and the hook abutment.
  • the closure forms a partially open periphery, the periphery dimensioned so as to retain the tensioned line therein when the mechanism is in the closed state, and release the tensioned line therefrom when the mechanism is in the open state.
  • the closure forms a closed periphery, the periphery dimensioned so as to retain the tensioned line therein when the mechanism is in the closed state, and release the tensioned line therefrom when the mechanism is in the open state.
  • the fixed anchor region 3 is configured to be coupled to a standing line.
  • the fixed anchor region 150 is configured to be coupled to an operationally tension-inducing object.
  • An aspect of the invention utilizing any of the release mechanism disclosed herein provides a cargo parachute system 301 for parachuting a cargo load, the system having a main parachute 350 coupleable directly or indirectly to the cargo, a cargo drogue bridle 320 or a cargo platform bridle 321, couplable directly or indirectly to the cargo or to a load attachment platform 327, and a drogue parachute 305 having a drogue bridle 310, the parachute system characterized by an actuator 325; a release mechanism 100 as disclosed herein, the release mechanism being operationally coupled between the drogue bridle 410 and the cargo drogue bridle 320 or the cargo platform bridle 321, and the trigger Fth of the release mechanism 100 being operationally controlled by the actuator 325 such that operationally the actuator selectively transitions the release mechanism from the closed state to the open state; the cargo parachute system being rigged such that a main parachute deployment sequence is initiated subsequent
  • the main parachute 350 is disposed in a deployment bag 335 openable subsequently to the release mechanism transitioning from closed state to an open state.
  • a main activation line 315 operationally coupled between the parachute and the drogue parachute, and wherein the main activation line becomes taught subsequent to the transition of the release mechanism 100 between closed and open state, thereby activating the main parachute deployment sequence.
  • the actuator 325 is selected from an altitude sensing actuator, a timer controlled actuator, a speed sensor controlled actuator, an acceleration sensor controlled actuator, a location sensor controlled actuator, a radio controlled actuator, a light controlled actuator, a guidance system controlled actuator, and any combination thereof.
  • the parachute system further comprising a guidance system 326 operative to direct the glide path of the parachute system.
  • the guidance system 326 comprises a navigation system.
  • the guidance system 326 further comprises the actuator 325 or is configured to activate the actuator.
  • a parachute stabilization system in a cargo parachute system having a drogue parachute 305, a main parachute 350 disposed in a deployment bag 335, and a cargo load 340 coupled to the main parachute via an intermediate load attachment platform 327, the parachute bag stabilization system being operative to secure the deployment bag 335 to the platform 327 during drogue fall, the parachute bag stabilization system characterized by having at least one operationally taut retention line 375 extending between the parachute bag 335 and the platform 327, and coupled to at least one of the deployment bag or the platform by a releasable stabilization anchor 380, 380’, the stabilization anchor being releasable responsive to a dislodgment of a pull pin 390 coupled directly or indirectly to the drogue parachute 305.
  • an anchor plate 410, 411 defining a passage 425, 455 therethrough, a retainer member 420, 450, 450’, 451 operationally and removably disposed partially through the passage, wherein the pull pin 390 is disposed to maintain the retainer member disposed through the passage when the retainer member is engaged by the pull pin, and release the retainer member to be removed from the passage when the pull-pin is dislodged.
  • the retainer member comprises an eyelet 451 coupled to at least one retention line.
  • the retainer member comprises a bight 450 in the retention line or an anchor pin 420 extending partially through the passage and prevented from being released from the passage by the pull pin.
  • the anchor plate is embodied by a wall of the platform 327, and the passage is formed in the wall.
  • Fig. 1 depicts schematically a parachute system utilizing a release mechanism with the drogue parachute and release mechanism in the closed state.
  • Fig. 2 depicts schematically a parachute system utilizing a release mechanism with the drogue parachute and release mechanism in the open state, and the main parachute being deployed.
  • Fig. 3 depicts a front view of an embodiment of a release mechanism of Fig. 1 in closed position.
  • Fig. 4 depicts a side view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 in closed position.
  • Fig. 5 depicts a section view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 in closed position.
  • Fig. 6 depicts a front view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 in open position.
  • Fig. 7 depicts a side view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 in open position.
  • Fig. 8 depicts a section view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 in open position.
  • Fig. 9 depicts an expanded view of the release mechanism of Fig. 3 disassembled into component parts.
  • Fig. 10 depicts a simplified force diagram of the active levers in the release mechanism, in a closed state and while being under tension between the standing and running lines.
  • Figs. 10A and 10B depict other optional arrangements of levers within the release mechanism.
  • Fig. 11 depicts a front view of another embodiment of the release mechanism in closed state.
  • Fig. 12 depicts a side view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in closed state.
  • Fig. 13 depicts a section view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in closed state.
  • Fig. 14 depicts a front view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in open state.
  • Fig. 15 depicts a side view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in open state.
  • Fig, 16 depicts a section view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in open position.
  • Fig. 17 depicts an expanded view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11 disassembled into component parts.
  • FIGs. 18 and 18A depict schematically a cargo parachute system utilizing a release mechanism, at two stages of the parachute deployment.
  • FIGs. 19 and 19A depict schematically a cargo parachute system according to an embodiment utilizing a sling to couple the parachute system and the cargo, at two stages of the parachute deployment.
  • Fig. 20 depict schematically a cargo parachute system utilizing a parachute stabilization arrangement and a release mechanism.
  • Figs.21 and 21A depict schematically two exemplary embodiments of a parachute stabilization system.
  • Fig. 22, and 22A-C depict various exemplary embodiments of stabilization anchors of the parachute stabilization system.
  • Fig. 23 depicts schematically the cargo parachute system after the main parachute is drawn out its
  • Figs. 24-26 depict various portions of cargo parachute system including a release mechanism and other components.
  • Fig. 27 depicts schematically an optional use of a release mechanism in glider towing.
  • Fig. 28 depicts schematically an optional use of towing vehicles.
  • Fig. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of a version of a cargo parachute system utilizing the release
  • Fig. 2 depicts a schematic diagram of the parachute system of Fig. 1 with the release mechanism 100 in open state, allowing the main parachute to deploy and inflate.
  • Fig. 2 also depicts a left steering spool(s) 341 and right steering spool(s) 342 that are coupled to a guidance system which physically steer the deployed main parachute 350 to land on the intended drop zone target.
  • the two spools are shown as a single spool due to the relative orientation of the two spools in the drawing, however the skilled in the art would recognize that one spool is located behind the other.
  • the steering spools manipulate the steering lines 343 to control the main parachute 350.
  • the spools may be used as an actuator to trigger the release mechanism 100.
  • Figs 3-5 depict an embodiment of the release mechanism 100 in a closed state.
  • Fig. 3 depicts a front view and
  • Fig. 4 depicts a side view of the release mechanism 100.
  • Fig. 4 depicts the front plate 1 and rear plate 2.
  • the depicted embodiment utilizes front and back plates having a void, however other versions utilize solid plate in both or either of the front plate and/or back plate.
  • At least one of the plates, and preferably both plates in combination, form a support frame.
  • At least one of the plates define an operational plane. Optionally only a single plate is utilized.
  • the top mount plate 3 acts as the fixed anchor region of the release mechanism.
  • Fig. 5 depicts a cross section of the release mechanism along axis A-A of Fig. 4, Additional components of the embodiment of Fig. 5 are shown with top mount plate 3, top right pin 4, top left pin 5, release activation line 6, release activation loop 7, release activation loop opening 50, release activation line housing 8, middle lever hinge pin 9, first middle lever 10, release lever 11, trigger lever 12, rotatable hook 13, trigger lever hinge pin 14, hollow spacer 15, hollow spacer 16, rotatable hook hinge 17, and release lever hinge pin 18.
  • Figs. 6, 7, and 8 depicts the release mechanism in an opened state.
  • Fig. 6 is a frontal view of the release mechanism in an open state.
  • Fig. 7 depicts a side view of the release mechanism shown in open state.
  • Fig. 8 depicts a cross-section along line B-B.
  • An optional feature of the design of release lever 11 depicted in Fig. 8 includes a positioning protrusion
  • the positioning protrusion 11A may optionally be dimensioned to limit movement of rotatable hook 13 while the release mechanism is in the closed state.
  • FIG. 9 the components of a version of the release mechanism in Figs. 3-8 are shown in exploded view, with front plate 1 and rear plate 2 (displaced for clarity). Also shown are top mount plate 3, top right pin 4, top left pin 5, release activation line 6, release activation loop 7 attached to trigger lever 12, release activation loop opening 50, release activation line housing 8, middle lever hinge pin 9, middle lever 10, trigger lever 12, and hook lever acting as rotatable hook 13, rotatable hook lever hinge pin 17, hollow spacer 15, hollow spacer 16, rotatable hook hinge pin 17, release lever hinge pin 18, and screws 19, 20, 21,
  • the rotatable hook 13 acts as the last lever in the sequence of levers depicted in that embodiment.
  • the insertion direction of the screws may be from the front plate and/or rear plate and the direction of insertion is an engineering choice.
  • hinge pins such as 9, 14, 17, and 18 in the embodiment of Fig’s 3-8 act as, and are equated with by way of example, the respective fulcrums of the levers, also referred to as hinge points.
  • Other hinge mechanisms may be utilized such as ball and socket, indentation, joint, axle, gimbals, roller bearing, bushing and the like, however the hinges mechanism serves as the fulcrum of the respective lever regardless of the specific mechanism selected.
  • Alternative fasteners and securement methods may be utilized.
  • the release mechanism 100 shown in Figs. 3-9 controllably holds and/or releases at least two lines (not shown) under tension.
  • the lines shall be termed a standing line and a running line, which is the line being released when the release mechanism is opened.
  • the standing line is the line that stays attached to the release mechanism after the running line is released.
  • the standing line is attached to the fixed anchor region.
  • a standing line is not needed, as the release mechanism is attached to the tension inducing object.
  • the terms‘standing line” and“running line” indicate a single or a plurality of lines.
  • the release mechanism is capable of transferring tension between the fixed anchor region and the
  • top mount plate 3 depicts a cavity which acts as the fixed anchor region 105, for holding a standing line.
  • the top spacer plate 150 acts as the top mount plate and forms a fixed anchor region which is attached to a tension forming object.
  • At least a portion of the rotatable hook 13 cooperates with at least a portion of the frame, to define a closure 110 dimensioned to receive and retain the running line(s).
  • a closure may be utilized, and a closure does not have to define a closed shape, but must be able to hold the running line attached to the release mechanism when the release mechanism is in the closed state, and allow the running line to separate from the release mechanism when in the open state. Closed shape closures are also explicitly considered.
  • Fig. 10 depicts a simplified force diagram of the active levers in the release mechanism, in a closed state and while being under tension between the standing and running lines. Moment arms are shown by dash-dot lines. Only the rear plate 2 is shown, schematically. A standing line (not shown) or a load object is coupled to the fixed anchor region 105 and operationally imparts a heavy force Fs in one direction, while the running line (not shown) is coupled to closure 110 via rotatable hook 13 and imparts a heavy force Fr opposite force Fs. The force Fr also forms the hook load which defines a hook load region at the region of contact between the running line and the hook.
  • Rotatable hook 13 is a lever which has a hook hinge end and a hook abutment end.
  • the hinge end is hingedly coupled to the frame at a hook hinge point which is embodied in the depicted embodiment by hinge 17 which enables the hook to rotate about the fulcrum in a plane parallel to the operational plane.
  • the hook abutment end has an abutment 120 which is depicted schematically with a triangle, however it is noted that any portion of the hook abutment end may act as an abutment point or points, and the triangle depicts any contact point which acts as an abutment where one lever contacts the other and exert force on each other. Oftentimes the abutment is at the edge of the lever.
  • the abutment may also protrude from the lever, or be embodied by any arrangement that allows transfer of forces between levers, or allows one lever to hold another in a predetermined position.
  • the release mechanism When the release mechanism is in the closed state the abutment of the rotatable hook 13 is held in the closed position by the retention portion 130 of release lever 11.
  • the contact point 120 between the rotatable hook and the release lever acts as a hook retainer 130A.
  • the hook acts as a lever, with its short arm Ahl extending between the hook hinge point 17 which acts as the hook fulcrum and a point where a load force Fr is applied, and its long arm Ah2 extending between the fulcrum 17 and the abutment point 120, which acts as the hook effort point.
  • the force Fr imparted by the running line is reduced at the abutment by the mechanical advantage provided by the hook acting as a lever.
  • the hook abutment imparts as effort half the force Fr to the retention portion of the release lever 11.
  • the region of the release lever to which the hook effort force is applied forms the release lever load region.
  • release lever 11 has an elongated portion 125 and a retention portion 130 angled to the elongated portion.
  • the release lever is hinged to the frame at a release lever hinge point which is disposed at or about the connection region between the elongated and retention portions.
  • the release lever hinge point is embodied in the drawing by hinge 18, which acts as a release lever fulcrum.
  • the release lever has an abutment 135 along the elongated portion 125, and when the release mechanism is in the closed state and under tension the abutment acts as the release lever effort region point and imparts a release lever effort force to the middle lever.
  • the region of the middle lever to which the release lever effort force is applied forms the middle lever load region.
  • the release lever provides a mechanical advantage that is proportional to the ratio of the arm Arl
  • the effort force imparted by the release lever abutment 135 to the middle lever 10 is about one tenth of the force applied to the release lever by the hook abutment, or 1/20 of the force Fr.
  • the middle lever load force, applied by the release lever abutment 135 to the middle lever load region is reduced l/20 ,h of the load force imparted by the running line to the hook.
  • Middle lever 10 is elongated and has a hinge end and abutment end.
  • the hinge end is hinged to the frame at a middle lever hinge point, depicted by hinge 9, and acting as the middle lever fulcrum.
  • the middle lever 10 is rotatable about its fulcrum 9.
  • the middle lever abutment 140 imparts an effort force to trigger lever 12, when the release mechanism is operational and closed.
  • the mechanical advantage of the middle lever is about the ratio of the arm Ami extending between the middle lever fulcrum 9 and the middle lever load region, and the arm Am2 extending between the fulcrum 9 and the middle lever abutment 140, which acts as the middle lever effort point.
  • Trigger lever 12 is elongated and has a hinge end and an opposing retaining region 145.
  • the trigger lever hinge end is hinged to the frame at a trigger lever hinge point acting as the trigger lever fulcrum, depicted in the drawings by hinge 14.
  • the trigger lever is rotatable about the fulcrum 14 in a plane substantially parallel to the operational plane.
  • the trigger lever provides mechanical advantage approximately proportional to the ratio of the arm At2 beginning at the fulcrum 14 and extending to the trigger lever load region where the abutment point 140 of the middle lever meets with the trigger lever and applies trigger load force thereto, and the arm Atl extending from the fulcrum 14 and the middle lever retaining end which is the region where a trigger holding force Fth is applied to the trigger lever to prevent it from swinging away from the middle lever.
  • the trigger lever provides a 1 : 10 mechanical advantage the force Fth required to maintain the release mechanism closed would be 1/2000 of the force Fr.
  • Fig. 10A depicts another example embodiment of the release lever 11 where the retention portion lies along the longitudinal axis further away from the release lever fulcrum 18, and the hook retainer 130A is formed as notch or depression in the release lever, dimensioned to accept the hook abutment 120.
  • Fig. 10B depicts yet another example of the numerous options of pre-arranged lever configurations available as technical choices opened to the release mechanism designer in light of the disclosure of the present invention.
  • a release lever 11 and trigger lever 12 are utilized, but the skilled in the art would recognize that similar to the arrangement depicted in other figures, the release lever abutment 135 applies a trigger lever load force to the trigger lever 12 at a trigger lever load region, and the trigger lever is held by the trigger holding force Fth at the trigger lever retaining region 145, at the trigger lever end opposite the trigger lever fulcrum 14.
  • the trigger holding force Fth may be applied by numerous mechanisms, all of which shall be referred herein for brevity merely as a trigger, and any type of trigger mechanism may also be generally denoted by the trigger Fth it exerts, due to the flexible nature and numerous possible trigger arrangements.
  • the trigger may be a plunger extending from above, below, or sideways to the retaining end of the trigger lever.
  • a trigger line is coupled to the trigger lever and applies the desired trigger hold force Fth thereto.
  • the trigger line coupled to the trigger lever retaining region comprises a release activation loop 7 which is held by a pull pin.
  • the pull pin is formed by the end of release activation line 6.
  • the release activation line may be embodied in numerous ways, which results in a release of the trigger line in response to activation of the release activation line 6.
  • the active portion of release activation line may be embodied in a pin, a wire, a plunger, and the like, holding the release activation loop.
  • release activation loop 7 is released, and stops applying the trigger holding force Fth to the trigger lever, initiating the operational transition of the release mechanism from the closed state to the open state.
  • Other embodiments of triggering may be utilized, including inter alia a solenoid, a brake, a plunger holding the first lever in the sequence of interlocking levers, and similar arrangements that would be clear to the skilled in the art in light of the requirement of removing Fth.
  • the trigger lever When the retaining end of the trigger lever is released the trigger lever responds to the trigger lever load force exerted thereupon by the middle lever abutment 140 and rotates about its fulcrum 14 away from the middle lever abutment, thus allowing the middle lever 10 to rotate about fulcrum 9 away from the release lever abutment 135, which in turn allows the release lever 11 to rotate such that the retention portion 130 release the hook abutment 120, allowing the hook 13 to release the running line, completing the transition of the release mechanism to the open state.
  • the release mechanism in its open state may be seen in Figs. 6-8 and 14-16.
  • the rotatable hook may take any shape and a literal hook shape is not mandated.
  • Fig. 11 depicts a front view of another version of the release mechanism, more attuned for selective connection directly between a running line and an object to which the release mechanism is coupled.
  • Fig. 12 which depicts a side view the release mechanism of Fig. 11 in closed position.
  • Fig. 13 depicts the section view of the release mechanism of Fig. 11.
  • This embodiment may optionally utilize solid front plate/back plates with no openings in both or either plate if desired.
  • At least one of the plates, and preferably both plates in combination, form a support frame.
  • At least one of the plates define an operational plane.
  • any part of the support frame may be utilized to attach the release mechanism directly to objects.
  • Fig. 13 depicts a cross section of the embodiment of the release mechanism depicted in Figs.
  • Figs. 14, 15, and 16 depicts the embodiment of the release mechanism depicted in Figs. 11-12 in an open state.
  • Fig. 14 is a frontal view of this embodiment of the release mechanism in an open state.
  • Fig. 15 depicts a side view of this embodiment of the release mechanism shown in open state.
  • FIG. 17 the components of a version of the release mechanism in Figs. 11-12 are shown in exploded view, with front plate 1 and rear plate 2 (displaced for clarity). Also shown are top spacer plate 150, top right pin 4, release lever 11 release activation line loop opening 50, middle lever 10, trigger lever 12, rotatable hook 13, rotatable hook hinge pin 17, hollow spacer 16, and release lever hinge pin 18, screws 19, 20, 22.
  • the most notable difference between the embodiments depicted in Figs. 3-9 and 11-17 is the fixed anchor region which in Figs 3-9 facilitates attachment and controlled detachment between two tensioned lines while in the embodiments depicted in Figs. 11-17 the fixed anchor region facilitates attachment of the release mechanism between an object and a running line(s).
  • the insertion direction of the screws may be from the front plate and/or rear plate and the direction of insertion is an engineering choice.
  • Figs. 18 and 18A depict in schematic manner yet another aspect of the invention, consisting of a cargo parachute system 301 utilizing the release mechanism.
  • the parachute deployment system utilizes the release mechanism depicted in Figs. 3-9.
  • the cargo parachute system is steerable and controlled by a guidance system 326 as shown by way of example in Fig.18 and 18A.
  • the actuator 325 is depicted as comprising a guidance system 326, with two spools, 341 and 342 respectively which guide the parachute via steering lines 343.
  • the actuator may be a separate entity from the guidance system, and the guidance system as a whole is optional.
  • Fig 18 depicts the cargo parachute system in drogue fall, shortly after it is dropped from an aircraft.
  • the system is dropped from the aircraft it is coupled to a static line (not shown) which deploys a drogue 305.
  • the drogue is coupled to the cargo 340 by a drogue bridle 310, via release mechanism 100 and cargo drogue bridle 320.
  • a main parachute 350 is coupled to the cargo.
  • the main parachute 350 is held in a folded state by a deployment bag 335 which retains the main parachute and releases it in response to an activation force exceeding a predetermined level.
  • the release of the main parachute may be affected in various ways, but generally the drogue parachute provides the needed force to begin the main parachute deployment.
  • a main activation line 315 is coupled between the drogue and the parachute deployment bag 335, and commonly but not necessarily, to the main parachute 350 itself.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled to a main parachute retention arrangement, which selectively maintains the main parachute 350 in the deployment bag 335, or allows the release the main parachute for deployment.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled to the main parachute 350.
  • Fig. 18A depicts the cargo parachute system of Fig. 18 at the stage where the drogue 305 is utilized to deploy the main parachute 350.
  • An actuator 325 triggers the release of release mechanism 100 by activating the release mechanism trigger. This is achieved by pulling the release activation line 6 which releases the release activation line loop 7, which in turn allows the release mechanism 100 to release the rotatable hook 13, releasing the tension between the drogue bridle 310 and the drogue cargo bridle 320.
  • the release mechanism is opened the main activation line 315 is brought under tension and transfers the drogue induced drag to the main parachute 350 and/or the main parachute retention arrangement, which holds the parachute deployment bag 335 closed. The drogue induced drag is sufficient to release the main parachute retention arrangement and to deploy the main parachute 350.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled to the drogue by a line 315’ which also acts as a line to collapse the drogue, known colloquially known in the art as a“kill line”.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled to the drogue bridle.
  • a kill line 315’ may be utilized, but is not depicted in Figs 19 and 19A.
  • FIGs. 19 and 19A depict yet another embodiment of the cargo parachute system.
  • Figs. 19 and 19A depict an embodiment with an intermediate load attachment platform.
  • the platform 327 is coupled between the cargo and the main parachute. Prior to dropping the cargo parachute system such platform is commonly attached by weak link attachments that are designed to tear-off or shear under the tension between the drogue and the cargo.
  • a bridle 373, colloquially known as a“sling” couples between the cargo 340 and the platform 327, and the main parachute 350 is coupled to the platform.
  • the drogue 305 is also coupled to the platform 327.
  • the platform provides a stable basis for the actuator 325 and to other optional equipment such as the guidance system 326 and/or other sensors, as well as a power source 328.
  • Fig 19 depicts a cargo parachute system utilizing the platform 327 in drogue fall, shortly after it is dropped from an aircraft.
  • a static line (not shown) which deploys a drogue 305.
  • the drogue is coupled to the platform by a drogue bridle 310, via release mechanism 100 and platform drogue bridle 321.
  • the drogue 305 may optionally be coupled to the platform 327 via an intermediate member such as straps or other lines attached to the deployment bag.
  • a main parachute 350 is coupled to the platform and is held in a folded state by a deployment bag 335 which retains the main parachute and releases it in response to an activation force exceeding a predetermined level.
  • the release of the main parachute may be affected in various ways, but generally the drogue parachute provides the needed force to begin the main parachute deployment.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled between the drogue bridle 310 and the parachute deployment bag 335, and optionally but not necessarily, to the main parachute 350 itself.
  • the main activation line 315 is coupled to the main parachute retention arrangement, which selectively maintains main parachute in the deployment bag 335, or allows the release the main parachute for deployment.
  • the main activation line 315 does not exert sufficient force, if any, on the main parachute retention arrangement to release main parachute 350 from the deployment bag 335, since the drag caused by the drogue 305 is transferred to the cargo 340 by the drogue bridle 310, the release mechanism 100 the platform drogue bridle 321, the platform 327, and the sling 373 which are under tension, while the main activation line 315 is not under significant tension, and commonly is not under any tension other than wind drag operating on the main activation line, as long as the release mechanism 100 is in the closed state.
  • Fig. 19A depicts the parachute cargo system of Fig. 19 at the stage where the drogue 305 is utilized to deploy the main parachute 350.
  • a portion of the guidance system 326 acts as the actuator 325.
  • the guidance system 326 acting also as actuator 325 which triggers the release of release mechanism 100 by activating the release mechanism trigger. This may be achieved by a dedicated portion of the guidance system or by pulling the release activation line 6 utilizing steering spools 341 and 342 which are coupled, commonly indirectly, to the release activation line 6.
  • Release activation line 6 releases the release activation loop 7 which in turn causes the release mechanism 100 to release the rotatable hook 13, releasing the tension between the drogue bridle 310 and the platform drogue bridle 321. More detailed example of a guidance system acting as the actuator may be seen in Fig. 24. As the release mechanism is opened the main activation line 315 is brought under tension and transfers the drogue induced drag to the main parachute 350 and/or the main parachute retention arrangement, which holds the parachute deployment bag 335 closed. The drogue induced drag is sufficient to overcome the main parachute retention arrangement and to deploy the main parachute 350.
  • the actuator 325 may be embodied in numerous mechanisms.
  • An altitude sensing actuator would actuate the release mechanism when an altitude sensor senses that the cargo parachute system is at a pre-configured altitude.
  • An altitude sensor may be pressure activated, temperature activated or activated by radio telemetry.
  • a timer-controlled actuator would actuate the release mechanism after a certain delay after being dropped from an aircraft.
  • a speed sensor or acceleration sensor-controlled actuator would actuate the release mechanism upon reaching a pre-determined fall speed or acceleration.
  • the actuator 325 may also be actuated by a location sensor which optionally may be embodied in the guidance system 326.
  • the actuator may also be a radio- controlled actuator, a light controlled actuator, and the like.
  • multiples sensor systems and/or multiple actuators may be utilized in any combination of the above.
  • the guidance system 326 may be either a remote steering system operated by radio signals and or light signals like a laser light, or an autonomous navigation system which may be inertial, radio, or satellite based.
  • the guidance system actuates the actuator, and further optionally, the actuator is integral in the guidance system, as seen by way of example in Fig. 24.
  • a parachute stabilization system is depicted schematically in Figs 20,21 and 21 A.
  • the parachute stabilization system is depicted in relations to a cargo parachute system utilizing a an intermediate load attachment platform 327, however the skilled in the art would readily recognize that the stabilization system may alternatively be easily adapted to a cargo parachute system which does not utilize the platform 327, by attaching the parachute deployment bag 335 via the retention line(s) 375 to the cargo 340.
  • the parachute bag stabilization system is functional to secure the main parachute deployment bag 335 to the platform 327 during drogue fall.
  • the stabilization system comprises at least one retention line which is taut during the drogue fall, and is released only after the release mechanism 100 is operated.
  • the stabilization system comprises retention line(s) 375 extending tautly between the parachute bag 335 and the platform 327. Any retention line 375 may be fixedly coupled to the deployment bag 335, or to the platform 327. In an embodiment where the retention line is fixedly coupled to the platform, it is operationally coupled to the deployment bag via a releasable stabilization anchor.
  • the retention line is fixedly coupled to the deployment bag, it is operationally coupled to the platform via a releasable stabilization anchor attachment.
  • a first portion of the retention line segment is coupled to the platform and a second portion of the retention line segment is fixedly coupled to the deployment bag, and the two portions of the line segment are operationally coupled by a releasable stabilization anchor attachment.
  • the stabilization anchor is releasable in response dislodgment of a pull pin coupled directly or indirectly to the drogue parachute.
  • Figs. 20, 21, and 21A depict a parachute stabilization system aspect of the invention.
  • Fig. 20 depicts schematically the parachute stabilization system as it is applied to the parachute system of Figs 19 and 19A.
  • Figs. 21 and 21A are two exemplary arrangements of the parachute stabilization system shown as an enlargement of system elements encircled by segmented circle Cl in Fig. 20.
  • Figs. 22 and 22A-C detail exemplary stabilization anchor attachments. It is noted that Fig. 20 depicts a first embodiment of a stabilization anchor attachment depicted in Fig. 22, while Figs. 21 and 21 A depict other embodiments, depicted in Figs. 22A-C.
  • the parachute deployment bag 335 is held firmly in place by taut retention lines 375, preventing excessive movement from the deployment bag prior to the release of the main parachute, thus stabilizing the parachute prior to its release.
  • the retention lines 375 are coupled, directly or indirectly to the platform 327, and extend therefrom to respective stabilization anchor attachments coupled to the main parachute deployment bag 335.
  • the retention lines are released when a bag release line 385 is pulled.
  • Bag release line 385 may be attached directly or indirectly to the drogue 305 such that it is pulled only after the opening of the release mechanism 100.
  • bag release line 385 is coupled to main activation line 315 which operationally becomes taut only after the opening of release mechanism 100.
  • a kill line 315’ is coupled to the main activation line.
  • Figs. 20, 21, and 21A depict a plane marked schematically by dashed-doted line Xi-Xi extending generally disposed at the interface between the cargo attachment platform 327 and the parachute deployment bag, and a Y direction extending orthogonally to the Xi-Xi plane, the Y direction is considered to be vertical, and the arrow in the end of the line depicting the Y direction is considered to point upward.
  • the Xi-Xi plane shall be termed in these specifications as the“interface plane.
  • the interface plane and the Y direction are conceptual and created only to facilitate understanding of certain aspects of the invention, are relative to, and defined by, respective operational elements of the invention, and do not refer to any absolute orientation of the respective components.
  • the interface plane Xi-Xi is shown parallel and below the actual interface between the platform 327 and the parachute deployment bag 335.
  • the parachute deployment bag 335 is equipped with a plurality of stabilization anchors
  • Fig. 21 depicts a single retention line 375 on the right, a second retention line is shown divided into two segments, 375A and 375B.
  • a second retention line is shown divided into two segments, 375A and 375B.
  • the line segment 375A may be disposed at any non-zero angle a to the interface plane, and segment 375B may or may not be used.
  • the line 375 may be considered as having two active segments, 375A and 375B.
  • Segment 375A extends from the platform 327 to the respective stabilization anchor attachment 380 while forming an angle a with the interface plane.
  • Segment 375B extends diagonally from the platform 327 to the stabilization anchor 380, while forming an angle b with the interface plane, and forming a non-zero angle r with segment 375A. Segments 375A and 375B may be separate line pieces or a continuous line folded at the stabilization anchor attachment.
  • the depicted system utilizes two stabilization anchor attachments on the depicted side of the deployment bag, and the stabilization anchor attachments are disposed to both sides or the longitudinal center of the deployment bag, the longitudinal dimension of the deployment bag is considered parallel to the interface plane.
  • only a single stabilization anchor may be utilized per side, and such anchor attachment is preferably located substantially about the longitudinal center.
  • the retention lines arrangement on the opposite side of the deployment bag may be similar to the depicted side or differ therefrom.
  • a single stabilization anchor attachment may be utilized with an arrangement of lines and/or flaps utilized to stabilized the parachute deployment bag which are operationally deployable to stabilize the deployment bag while the pin 390 is deployed in the respective retention member, and allow the release of the main parachute from the deployment bag once the pin is displaced.
  • the angle b is smaller than the angle a .
  • diagonal 375B line segment in the opposite side of the longitudinal center of the side of the bag would provide opposing horizontal forces for maintain the desired lateral disposition of the deployment bag, while cooperating vertical forces exerted by cooperating segments 375A on the two stabilization anchor attachments would maintain the desired vertical disposition of the deployment bag.
  • Fig. 21A depicts a similar force arrangement to the embodiment depicted in Fig. 21 however the retention lines 375 and 375’ are fixedly attached to the main parachute deployment bag 335, and the stabilization anchor attachments 380 and 380’ are coupled to the platform.
  • Fig. 21A depicts a similar force arrangement to the embodiment depicted in Fig. 21 however the retention lines 375 and 375’ are fixedly attached to the main parachute deployment bag 335, and the stabilization anchor attachments 380 and 380’ are coupled to the platform.
  • FIG. 21 A also depicts two differing stabilization anchor attachments, namely 380 which is similar to the one depicted in Fig. 21 A and is shown in greater detail in Fig. 22A, and 380’, which is embodied as a hole in the platform 327 in cooperation with retention line 375’ and pin 390’.
  • Any combination of stabilization anchor attachment may be utilized in any embodiment of the invention as long as the stabilization anchor attachment provide for directly or indirectly tautly anchoring the retention line to the stabilization anchor attachment when the pull pin is engaged and to release the retention line when the pull pin is dislodged.
  • Figs. 22, 22A, 22B, and 22C depict four exemplary stabilization anchor attachment point 380 construction.
  • stabilization anchor attachment 380 comprises an anchor pin 420 coupled to the parachute deployment bag 335 or to the platform 327, in accordance with an embodiment of the stabilization system.
  • the anchor pin has a pin cavity 435 defined therein, the pin cavity is dimensioned to receive a pull pin 390, having a ring portion 415 or any other line coupling mechanism in one end thereof, sufficient to act as an attachment point for bag release line 385.
  • a plate 410 is coupled to at least one retention line 375 or retention line segment in any convenient manner, such as hole 430 by way of example.
  • the plate further has an anchor passage 425 dimensioned to receive the anchor pin therethrough.
  • the plate 410 When preparing the cargo parachute system for operation, the plate 410 is placed over the anchor pin 420 through passage 425 and positioned so that the pull pin 390, when inserted in the pin cavity 435 prevents the plate 410 from departing the deployment bag 335 as the plate is trapped between the deployment bag 335 or platform 327 and the pull pin. When the pull pin 390 is removed from the pin cavity 435 the plate 410 is free to disengage from the anchor pin 420 and thus to release the deployment bag 335.
  • Fig. 22A depicts an embodiment of stabilization anchor attachment 380 of the type depicted in Fig. 21, and on the left side of Fig. 21 A.
  • An anchor plate 411 is anchored to the deployment bag 335 or to the platform 327.
  • the upper area 440 of plate 411 is fixedly attached to the deployment bag or the platform.
  • a hole 455 in the plate forms a passage through which a bight 450 in the retention line 375 may be formed, allowing the pull pin 390 to retain retention line 375 by engaging the bight 450 If desired an auxiliary tensioner may be utilized to pass the bight 450 in the passage sufficiently to pass pull pin 390 through the bight.
  • the auxiliary tensioner may, by way of example include a line loop passing inside the bight and through the passage 455. Other tension producing aids may be utilized in order to tighten the deployment bag to the platform.
  • the bight 450 divides the retention line 375 into segments 375A and 375B.
  • the pull pin 390 traps the retention line 375 until it is dislodged, allowing line 375 to escape the passage and the release of the deployment bag from the platform.
  • Fig. 22B depicts a stabilization anchor attachment somewhat similar to the stabilization anchor shown in Fig. 22A however the passage 455’ is formed in the body or the wall of the platform 327, instead of in the body of an anchor plate.
  • a bight 450’ in the retention line 375’ is passed through the passage 455’ and pull pin 390 is inserted into the bight 450.
  • the dashed portions of line 375’ shown in Fig. 21 A show an arrangement where the line segments pass on the internal side of the platform wall, and the bight 450’ is transferred to external side of the platform wall.
  • Fig. 22C depicts an embodiment of a stabilization anchor similar to the ones shown in Fig. 22A and 22B however in the embodiment of Fig. 22C an eyelet 451 formed at the end of a retention line or is coupled to a retention line either directly or by a short line segment. The eyelet operates similarly to the bight in Figs.
  • Anchor plate 412 is but one more example of the possible variations open to the designer of such plate, to best fit attachment of the plate to the respective bag 335, line 375, or platform 327.
  • a stabilization anchor is considered, such the plate being replaced by a first line loop, and a second line loop or bight being routed via the first line loop acting as a retainer member when the pull pin acts to trap the retaining member to the first line loop.
  • the stabilization anchor may be made of any material fitting for the purpose it is respectively intended.
  • the stabilization anchor plate may be formed of metal, plastic, fabric, fabric mesh, wood, and the like. It is further noted that the release of stabilizations anchor(s) may only allow release of the deployment bag 335 and opening the bag may be accomplished by a separate mechanism, or the release and opening of the bag may both be achieved by the release of the stabilization anchor(s).
  • the release mechanism 100 activates and releases the tension between the drogue bridle 310 and the drogue cargo bridle 320, the tension of the drag from the drogue 305 is transferred to the main activation line 315 as described supra.
  • the main activation line pulls the respective bag release lines 385 which are coupled to the respective pull pins 390, thus drawing the pull pins from the respective pin cavities or line bights, and allowing the respective retention lines 375 to disengage the respective stabilization anchor attachments, releasing the deployment bag 335 and allowing the main parachute 350 to deploy.
  • the deployment bag opens after the stabilization anchor attachments are released, however optionally release of additional closing mechanism(s) is required for the deployment bag to open.
  • the drogue exerts forces to deploy the main parachute.
  • Fig. 23 depicts schematically the cargo parachute system after the main parachute 350 is drawn out its deployment bag, prior to full inflation.
  • the drogue 305 is shown as it begins to collapse.
  • the pull pins 390 are also shown after being pulled from their respective anchor pins 420, bight 450 in a retention line, or an eyelet 451 coupled to retention line.
  • the main parachute begins to inflate and slows the descent of the cargo 420, which is connected to platform 327 by sling 373.
  • Sling 373 may be embodied by a single line or plurality of lines, which are commonly webbings.
  • steering lines 343 are coupled to steering spools 341 and 342 of the guidance system 326.
  • the guidance system 326 may be made sufficiently sturdy to act as an intermediate load attachment platform 327.
  • Figs 24-26 are drawings of an exemplary embodiment of portions of a cargo parachute system depicting certain components.
  • Fig. 24 shows a parachute deployment bag 335 which contains the main parachute 350
  • actuator 325 which in the depicted embodiment is embodied by guidance system 326, as well as deployment bag retention line 375 coupled to the deployment bag by a stabilization anchor attachment 380.
  • the steering spools 341 and 342 may initiate the release activation line 6 by both spools pulling downward to pull steering lines 343, and thus pull and withdraw the activation line 6 from the release activation loop 7, allowing the release mechanism to transition to the open state.
  • the guidance system 326 acts as actuator 325, and as seen, in this embodiment the guidance system packaging acts as the platform 327.
  • the steering lines 343 are coupled to the main parachute 350 and are routed behind the bag flap 348 prior to the deployment of the main parachute.
  • the steering spools may both pull the steering lines 343 downward or upward to manipulate the steering lines and steer the main parachute 350 after it has been deployed from the deployment bag.
  • the discontinuous depiction of activation line house 8 the drawing does not show the whole length of the activation line and optionally the activation line housing, as it extends to the release mechanism 100 during the drogue fall.
  • Fig. 24 depicts yet another embodiment of the retention system, in which the retention line 375 is routed as a loop, beginning with an end attached to the deployment bag, and slidingly routed via a platform anchor 442, and thence to the stabilization anchor 380, which in this embodiment is of the type depicted in Fig. 22C.
  • the pull pin of the stabilization anchor is dislodged from the eyelet by a bag release line 385, which is routed behind deployment bag upper flap 348’.
  • This embodiment requires only an anchor point on the platform capable of slidingly supporting a retention line.
  • Fig. 25 shows the release mechanism 100 with a standing line, embodied by drogue bridle 310 coupled to fixed anchor point 135, and a running line embodied by drogue cargo bridle 320 or drogue platform bridle, coupled to the release mechanism hook 13.
  • Release activation line 6 is disposed in activation line housing 8 and maintains the release mechanism 100 in closed state.
  • release activation line 6 is withdrawn the release mechanism 100 opens, allowing the drogue bridle 310 and drogue cargo bridle 320 to separate.
  • the drogue platform bridle or the drogue cargo bridle are coupled via the main parachute deployment bag.
  • Fig 26 shows a drogue disposed within drogue bag 305A, coupled to drogue bridle 310 which is coupled to release mechanism 100.
  • the drogue bridle couples to main activation line 315 which in turn is coupled to bag release lines 385 and then to respective pull pins 390.
  • rear plate 2 is placed on a work surface and the remaining components of the mechanism are added in any logical order.
  • the placement and location of the various components for this embodiment are clearly shown in the drawings Figure 3, Figure 4, Figure 5, Figure 6, Figure 7, Figure 8 and Figure 9 as will be clear to a person skilled in the art.
  • the components may be made from hard plastic injection, 3D printer, cut out from suitable bulk raw material, machined metal, etc. or any other suitable material,
  • parachute drogue arrangement one would attach a standing line, such as a drogue parachute (or other drag- inducing device or tensile load inducing object) by way of example to the fixed anchor point 105 in top mount plate 3, and, with the mechanism in the open state, attach the running line coupled to a tensile load inducing object, such as parachute deployment bag by way of example to rotatable hook 13, then close the rotatable hook and interlock the levers in a pre-configured arrangement such that the retention portions of the release lever 11 retains the hook abutment, and the middle and trigger levers cooperate to maintain the release lever in the closed position. Arranging the levers in such arrangement brings the release mechanism to a closed state.
  • a standing line such as a drogue parachute (or other drag- inducing device or tensile load inducing object) by way of example to the fixed anchor point 105 in top mount plate 3
  • a running line coupled to a tensile load
  • release activation loop 7 protrudes through the right-side release activation loop opening 50, ready to accept the release activation pin 6 through the loop.
  • the activation line may be pulled through the loop via any suitable pulling/tension device; spring, piston, manually, intermediate line, hydraulic, electric motor, electric spools, pneumatic, magnetic, or any other device/method suitable to exert sufficient tensile force in the activation cable to withdraw the cable from the loop.
  • Pin 6 may be embodied in a cable, a pull pin, a pin coupled to an electromagnet or motor, a wire, and the like.
  • An actuator 325 causes the release activation pin 6 to release the activation loop 7 of release mechanism 100.
  • the actuator may release the activation pin based on input from a sensor, such as an altitude sensing actuator, a timer actuator, a speed sensor actuator, an acceleration sensor actuator, a location sensor actuator, a radio controlled actuator, a light controlled actuator, a guidance system controlled actuator, and any combination thereof.
  • Another exemplary use for the embodiments of the release mechanism is for powered airplanes towing glider aircraft for glider soaring primarily without the aid of an engine.
  • Both the tow aircraft and the glider have prior art conventional releases with minimal force reductions, in the tail of the tow aircraft and/or on the nose of the glider.
  • the powered tow aircraft is connected to the glider aircraft with a tow rope while stationary on the mnway. Then the tow aircraft accelerates down the runway and takes off, allowing the towed glider to take off and following behind the tow aircraft, climbing to the release altitude, typically 2,500 feet Above Ground Level (AGL).
  • AGL Above Ground Level
  • the glider s conventional release in the nose of the glider, releases the tow rope, rides rising warm air (thermals) and“soars” above the release altitude, getting thermal lift and staying aloft for extended periods of time without an engine. If either of the conventional releases malfunction (fails to release) if needed in the event of a mechanical emergency of the tow plane/glider or other in-flight emergency during towing, disaster results, potentially ending in loss of life for those in the tow aircraft and/or glider.
  • a simplified example of aircraft towage is depicted schematically ion Fig. 27.
  • release mechanism any force reduction release mechanism
  • the release mechanism would be coupled to the tow aircraft 271 tail structure.
  • the rotatable hook 13 is shown in this figure, in largely exaggerated, not to scale manner.
  • a release activation cable 6 (with optional release activation housing 8 if desired) is inserted though the release activation loop 7 and the opposite end of the cable extended into the tow aircraft cockpit and accessible to the tow pilot.
  • the tow pilot may cause the release of the glider by manually pulling the release activation cable enough to extract it from the release activation loop, releasing the glider.
  • the activation cable may be pulled through the loop via any suitable pulling/tension device; spring, piston, intermediate line, hydraulic, electric motor, electric spools, pneumatic, magnetic, or any other device/method suitable to exert sufficient tensile force in the activation cable to withdraw the cable from the loop.
  • any force reduction release mechanism 100 as disclosed herein may be installed in the glider 272, in a similar manner as described herein, to release the glider from the tow in lieu of the conventional release installed from the glider. It is noted again that the drawings are directed at understanding various aspects fo the invention and are not to scale.
  • FIG. 28 Another use for a depicted embodiment of the release mechanism is for powered vehicle towing applications, and is depicted schematically in Fig. 28 which uses a towing vehicle 281 coupled to a towed vehicle 282 via a tow running line 284, where the two line couples the two vehicles utilizing a release mechanism 100.
  • Fig. 28 uses a towing vehicle 281 coupled to a towed vehicle 282 via a tow running line 284, where the two line couples the two vehicles utilizing a release mechanism 100.
  • the skilled person would realize that similar arrangement may be utilized for towing barges or other vessels in the water.
  • force reduction release mechanisms 100 installed on either the towed or towing vessels, (or on both, or therebetween) in the typical manner as described above for tow planes and land vehicles, could save at least one of the vessels in an emergency and avoid damage to life and/or property, improving safety.
  • the lever(s) may be any suitable shape sufficient to accomplish the intended purpose i.e.
  • the rotatable hook acts as the last lever in the sequential flow of levers operational to selectively maintain or release a running line and may as well as other levers may be embodied with any suitable shape sufficient to accomplish that intended purpose, alone or in cooperation with other components.
  • the rotatable hook lever is not limited to any specific shape.
  • the release mechanism may be attached or built into an object and the fixed anchor point is the object as a whole, or any portion of the release mechanism frame or attachment plates.
  • Connecting a tension load to the rotatable hook 13 may be all of any releasable type - loop, aperture, webbing bridle, sling, snap shackle, connector link (either hard or“soft” as known in the art), thread, rope, twine, hook, ring, shackle, eyelet, releasable connector, and/or any other connecting arrangement, either attached temporarily and or releasably coupled to a second object forming, in combination with the object coupled to the fixed anchor point tensile tension therebetween.
  • a taut line may be held by the rotatable hook indirectly by an intervening object and the usage of such intervening object should be construed as falling under the scope various aspects of the invention.
  • Versions of the invention may be made with any and all suitable materials desired as needed for the appropriate use and the invention and embodiments thereof are not limited by the type of materials used in implementing thereof. Versions are scalable and may be made any suitable size. Versions of the invention may be retrofitted to existing (used) conventional parachute cargo systems, canopy release systems, and the like, and/or manufactured as new systems.
  • release force as used herein relates to force required to directly or indirectly be applied to a portion of the trigger, such as by way of example, a release activation line through the release activation loop to affect a release the trigger lever and subsequently release a taut line held by the rotatable hook as explained above, or to forces required to be applied directly or indirectly to another portion of the release mechanism to maintain the tensile tension between the miming and standing lines.
  • lines encompass actual lines - ropes, cables, wires, cords, webbing, and the like, group or groups of lines, such as a plurality of separate lines, as well as rods, shackles, eyelets, hooks, links, and the like. Any combination of lines and extensions thereof such as shackles, eyelets, and the like should be construed as the line itself.
  • line also extends to a portion of an object which constitutes one part of a load which is applied to the release mechanism in the closed state, and released thereby when the release mechanism is in the open state.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Emergency Lowering Means (AREA)
  • Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)
  • Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un article manufacturé, un mécanisme de libération à réduction de force (100) et un système pour maintenir et libérer sélectivement des composants sous tension de traction, le mécanisme de libération offrant un gain mécanique de sorte que la force requise pour activer une libération entre les composants représente une simple fraction de la force de tension de traction lourde. D'autres aspects de l'invention comprennent un nouveau système de parachute de marchandises utilisant le mécanisme de libération et un agencement de stabilisation de parachute utilisant au moins un ancrage de stabilisation amovible.
PCT/US2020/035153 2019-05-29 2020-05-29 Dispositif de mécanisme de libération, systèmes de parachute et stabilisation de parachute WO2020243451A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2020282766A AU2020282766B2 (en) 2019-05-29 2020-05-29 Release mechanism device, parachute systems and parachute stabilization
EP20746369.6A EP3976471A1 (fr) 2019-05-29 2020-05-29 Dispositif de mécanisme de libération, systèmes de parachute et stabilisation de parachute
CA3142219A CA3142219A1 (fr) 2019-05-29 2020-05-29 Dispositif de mecanisme de liberation, systemes de parachute et stabilisation de parachute
AU2023237202A AU2023237202A1 (en) 2019-05-29 2023-09-29 Release mechanism device parachute systems and parachute stabilization

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201962853863P 2019-05-29 2019-05-29
US201962853841P 2019-05-29 2019-05-29
US62/853,863 2019-05-29
US62/853,841 2019-05-29
US202062704736P 2020-05-26 2020-05-26
US62/704,736 2020-05-26
US16/886,726 2020-05-28
US16/886,726 US11667389B2 (en) 2019-05-29 2020-05-28 Release mechanism device, parachute systems and parachute stabilization

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WO2020243451A1 true WO2020243451A1 (fr) 2020-12-03

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EP (1) EP3976471A1 (fr)
AU (2) AU2020282766B2 (fr)
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WO (1) WO2020243451A1 (fr)

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CN114180073A (zh) * 2022-02-16 2022-03-15 四川腾盾科技有限公司 一种无人机吊舱降落伞开伞机构及延时开伞方法
US20220324368A1 (en) * 2021-04-09 2022-10-13 Capewell Aerial Systems Llc Automatic Single Point Release System
US11767122B2 (en) 2021-06-13 2023-09-26 P.D. Of Miami, Inc. Cargo parachute system intermediate load attachment platform having reduced force release and parachute systems using same
CN117985250A (zh) * 2024-04-07 2024-05-07 四川凌空天行科技有限公司 一种快速脱伞系统及飞行器
CN117985250B (zh) * 2024-04-07 2024-07-02 四川凌空天行科技有限公司 一种快速脱伞系统及飞行器

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EP0699579A1 (fr) * 1994-09-01 1996-03-06 Irvin Industries Canada Ltd. Dispositif de libération d'un parachute au sol
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WO2011011708A2 (fr) * 2009-07-24 2011-01-27 Atair Aerospace Ligne statique de libération de parachute à faible poids de charge utile
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DE1217794B (de) * 1962-05-08 1966-05-26 Harley Patents Int Fallschirmkupplung
US3425739A (en) * 1966-11-25 1969-02-04 Us Army Releasable coupling
EP0699579A1 (fr) * 1994-09-01 1996-03-06 Irvin Industries Canada Ltd. Dispositif de libération d'un parachute au sol
US5816535A (en) * 1996-04-10 1998-10-06 Lockheed Martin Corporation Emergency cargo extraction parachute jettison system
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WO2011011708A2 (fr) * 2009-07-24 2011-01-27 Atair Aerospace Ligne statique de libération de parachute à faible poids de charge utile
EP3293116A1 (fr) * 2016-09-08 2018-03-14 Airborne Systems Limited Ensemble de liaison de sécurité pour un appareil de distribution aérienne
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US20220324368A1 (en) * 2021-04-09 2022-10-13 Capewell Aerial Systems Llc Automatic Single Point Release System
US11767122B2 (en) 2021-06-13 2023-09-26 P.D. Of Miami, Inc. Cargo parachute system intermediate load attachment platform having reduced force release and parachute systems using same
CN114180073A (zh) * 2022-02-16 2022-03-15 四川腾盾科技有限公司 一种无人机吊舱降落伞开伞机构及延时开伞方法
CN117985250A (zh) * 2024-04-07 2024-05-07 四川凌空天行科技有限公司 一种快速脱伞系统及飞行器
CN117985250B (zh) * 2024-04-07 2024-07-02 四川凌空天行科技有限公司 一种快速脱伞系统及飞行器

Also Published As

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CA3142219A1 (fr) 2020-12-03
EP3976471A1 (fr) 2022-04-06
AU2020282766A1 (en) 2021-12-02
AU2023237202A1 (en) 2023-10-19
AU2020282766B2 (en) 2023-07-13

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