Abstract: A reel based closure device for tensioning a tension member is described herein. The reel based closure device includes a housing that defines a vertical axis, a plurality of teeth operably coupled with the housing, a spool rotatably positioned within the housing, and an engagement member comprising one or more teeth that engage with the plurality of teeth during a rotation of the spool. A dial or knob is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the dial or knob effects the rotation of the spool to wind the tension member about the spool. A length of each tooth that is operably coupled with the housing is substantially longer than a length of each tooth of the engagement member.

Abstract: A tightening device for tightening a ski boot includes an elongate panel having a proximal end and a distal end. The elongate panel is positioned about the ski boot's shell between opposing sides of the shell. A tensioning mechanism is coupled with the proximal end of the elongate panel. A tension member is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. At least one guide member is coupled with, or positioned on, the proximal end of the elongate panel adjacent to the tensioning mechanism. The tension member is coupled with the guide member to route or direct the tension member between the opposing sides of the shell and along a portion of the elongate panel.

Abstract: An Intermediate Load Attachment Platform (ILAP) for attaching a cargo load to at least one main parachute, the ILAP protects a release mechanism disposed at least partially therein, the release mechanism is coupled to a drogue mechanism, such that the drogue is released from the ILAP when the release mechanism is opened, thus beginning deployment of the main canopy.

Abstract: An article of manufacture, a force reduction release mechanism and system for selectively maintaining and releasing components under tensile tension, the release mechanism offering mechanical gain such that the force required to activate a release between the components is a mere fraction of the heavy tensile tension force. Other aspects of the invention include novel cargo parachute system utilizing the release mechanism and a parachute stabilization arrangement utilizing at least one releasable stabilization anchor.

Abstract: Methods of reducing wing type parachute opening shock during a parachute drop, and parachute systems with reduced opening shocks are disclosed, the opening force reduction is achieved by dynamic braking, i.e. dynamically adjusting the canopy control lines during the inflation stage of the canopy. Typically, the control lines are set to zero brake length when the parachute canopy is released from the deployment bag, and are at least shortened during the inflation stage, optionally all the way to full brake. Optionally the control lines are also lengthened prior to completion of the canopy inflation. Other features and parachute systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: A cargo parachute stabilization system, utilized with an Intermediate Load Attachment Platform (ILAP) operationally disposed between the parachute and a cargo load. The parachute stabilization system secures the deployment bag to the ILAP during drogue fall and is released in response to dislodgment of at least one pull pin coupled directly or indirectly to the drogue parachute.

Abstract: An Intermediate Load Attachment Platform (ILAP) for attaching a cargo load to at least one main parachute, the ILAP protects a release mechanism disposed at least partially therein, the release mechanism is coupled to a drogue mechanism, such that the drogue is released from the ILAP when the release mechanism is opened, thus beginning deployment of the main canopy.

Abstract: Methods of reducing wing type parachute opening shock during a parachute drop, and parachute systems with reduced opening shocks are disclosed, the opening force reduction is achieved by dynamic braking, i.e. dynamically adjusting the canopy control lines during the inflation stage of the canopy. Typically, the control lines are set to zero brake length when the parachute canopy is released from the deployment bag, and are at least shortened during the inflation stage, optionally all the way to full brake. Optionally the control lines are also lengthened prior to completion of the canopy inflation. Other features and parachute systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: An article of manufacture, a force reduction release mechanism and system for selectively maintaining and releasing components under tensile tension, the release mechanism offering mechanical gain such that the force required to activate a release between the components is a mere fraction of the heavy tensile tension force. Other aspects of the invention include novel cargo parachute system utilizing the release mechanism and a parachute stabilization arrangement utilizing at least one releasable stabilization anchor.