Abstract: Load lifting systems include a load lifting structure configured with at least two attach points defining at least one axis between two attach points of the at least two attach points, a flexible suspension member suspended from the load lifting structure at the at least two attach points, and a carriage configured to have a load suspended therefrom having at least one guide element arranged along the at least one axis and configured to move relative to and along the suspension member along the at least one axis such that the carriage follows a curved path having a continuously varying radius of curvature based on the at least two attach points.

Abstract: The present invention is a controllable hook assembly having an actuator operably connected to an arm motor assembly and a drive assembly configured to move independently a plurality of hook arms between an open and closed position capture and release a load. A controller is configured to operate each drive assembly to move the hook arms cooperating with screw threads in said actuator to provide rotation about a pivot point to drive each of the hook arms between an open and a closed position so as to allow for independent actuation of each of the hook arms.

Abstract: The present invention a controllable hook assembly having a structurally connected main body portion between upper and lower assemblies. The main body encloses actuator that connects by a clutch to drive assembly disposed in the lower assembly whereby the clutch is configured to limit the connection to a predetermined linear force applied to the actuator. The drive assembly is configured to move a plurality of hook arms between an open and closed position and is adapted capturing a line attached to a load. A controller interacts with the actuator to energize a motor and gearbox to provide linear motion and drive an actuator output shaft against the drive assembly, whereby when the actuator is energized the linear motion of the actuator output shaft moves the hook arms between an open and a closed position.

Abstract: The present invention is a controllable hook assembly having an actuator connected by a clutch to a drive assembly configured to limit the connection to a predetermined linear force applied to the actuator. The drive assembly and actuator of the controllable hook assembly also is configured to move a plurality of hook arms between an open and closed position and is adapted capturing a line attached to a load. A controller is configured to operate the drive assembly to move gear teeth in the hook arms cooperating with screw threads in said actuator to provide rotation about a pivot point, drive an actuator output shaft such that when the actuator is energized the linear motion of the actuator output shaft moves the hook arms between an open and a closed position so as to allow for repeated capture of loads by helicopter or other lifting devices without the need for extensive setup for such load capture.