Abstract: Methods and systems for programming the automatic guidance unit of an aerial delivery system. The operator selects on a hand-held unit the desired flight parameters such as the latitude, longitude and altitude of the desired landing site, as well as the desired landing heading and default heading. A microprocessor converts this data into digital data that is stored on a removable EEPROM memory key. This key is then removed from the hand-held unit and at any convenient time, inserted into a mating female receptacle in the automatic guidance unit of the aerial delivery system. The programmed information originally entered in the hand-held unit is then transferred into the guidance unit of the aerial delivery system.

Abstract: A slider constructed of fabric is removably connected between the load suspension lines of a gliding parachute. During deployment of the parachute the slider moves longitudinally down the suspension lines to gradually restrain their transverse spreading. This slows down the inflation of the parachute and prevents dangerous explosive openings thereof. The slider is thereafter removed from the suspension lines in flight by pulling downward on a pair of handles to release tear away connectors. This reduces drag and makes the gliding action of the parachute quieter and more efficient.

Abstract: In a time-delayed device for opening a parachute, a spring-loaded cable is coupled to a cylindrical translational gear for conjoint movement. When the cable is released from a cocked position and spring-driven to a release position at which it opens the parachute, the translational gear is driven past the input gear of a gear train. As it moves, the translational gear engages and rotates the input gear along and through an effective gear engagement length which may be selectively varied by rotating the translational gear with respect to the input gear. An adjustable escapement contacts the gear train output gear and retards rotation of the input gear, and thus retards the rate of movement of both the translational gear and the cable, during engagement between the input gear and the translational gear through the selected effective engagement length.

Abstract: A compact aneroid actuated explosive initiator for releasing a parachute upon descent to a predetermined altitude includes a firing pin releasably restrained by a rotatable sear that is urged toward release position. Cocking is achieved by compressing a driving spring without moving the firing pin, but concomitantly releasing a first restraint upon release of the sear. A second restraint upon release of the sear is provided by trigger levers under control of an aneroid barometer whereby the sear can be released and the firing pin driven by the firing spring only after cocking has been accomplished and a selected barometric condition exists.