Abstract: A hook gate or hoist hook having a hook gate that is designed to prevent dynamic rollout. The lockable gate includes one or more release mechanisms that allow the gate to unlock and open upon actuation of the release mechanisms. The release mechanisms reside within a circumferential guard that extends outwardly from the gate. The guards preferably extend at least as far as the release mechanism or beyond the extension of the release mechanism. The hook gate further includes anti-snagging flanges extending generally in the vertical direction from both the top and bottom portions of the guard. The circumferential guard and the anti-snagging flanges in combination make it nearly impossible for an attachment mechanism to become improperly oriented under a load and effectively eliminate the possibility of dynamic rollout.

Abstract: A quick release device having four release mechanisms and two levels of safety. The device includes a locking cover secured overtop a tumbler release mechanism. The locking cover includes two latches in opposing relation that are circumferentially guarded and require simultaneous actuation to unlock the cover. The cover can be translated about the main body of the device to reveal the tumbler release mechanism. The tumbler release mechanism requires simultaneous actuation of opposing release pins to release a tumbler carrying a load. Upon release, the tumbler falls from the quick release device. The two levels of safety that each require simultaneous actuation of their respective release actuators all but eliminate the possibility of accidental release of the load from the device.

Abstract: A quick release device having four release mechanisms and two levels of safety. The device includes a locking cover secured overtop a tumbler release mechanism. The locking cover includes two latches in opposing relation that are circumferentially guarded and require simultaneous actuation to unlock the cover. The cover can be translated about the main body of the device to reveal the tumbler release mechanism. The tumbler release mechanism requires simultaneous actuation of opposing release pins to release a tumbler carrying a load. Upon release, the tumbler falls from the quick release device. The two levels of safety that each require simultaneous actuation of their respective release actuators all but eliminate the possibility of accidental release of the load from the device.

Abstract: A hook gate or hoist hook having a hook gate that is designed to prevent dynamic rollout. The lockable gate includes one or more release mechanisms that allow the gate to unlock and open upon actuation of the release mechanisms. The release mechanisms reside within a circumferential guard that extends outwardly from the gate. The guards preferably extend at least as far as the release mechanism or beyond the extension of the release mechanism. The hook gate further includes anti-snagging flanges extending generally in the vertical direction from both the top and bottom portions of the guard. The circumferential guard and the anti-snagging flanges in combination make it nearly impossible for an attachment mechanism to become improperly oriented under a load and effectively eliminate the possibility of dynamic rollout.

Abstract: A low-profile life vest particularly suitable for use by pilots having helmets with integrated display and sighting systems. The life vest comprises an inflatable bladder and a generally U-shaped cover that houses the bladder in the deflated condition so that the bladder is as compact as possible. When the inflatable vest is activated, the bladder must have a means for egress or expansion through the cover, conveniently a zippered opening that extends longitudinally along the life vest. On the portion of the life vest that passes over the pilot's shoulder, the zippered opening is formed on one of the sides of the life vest and is spaced apart from its peripheral edge.