Abstract: A reefing system to delay the development of a parachute wing is disclosed. single line system in conjunction with a slider and a two line system are described.

Abstract: Maximum lifting force is achieved in a dome-shaped parachute by fabricating he canopy of upper and lower spaced canopy membranes. A plurality of circumferentially spaced, radially disposed, flexible rib sections are connected between the canopy membranes to form a plurality of ram air cells, each cell having a ram air inlet port at the canopy hem, and a ram air outlet port at a central vent at the canopy apex. The rib sections can be provided with porous sections to equalize the ram air pressure between adjacent cells. The bottom canopy wall in each ram air cell may also be provided with a porous section for admitting the positive air beneath the canopy into each cell. A pull down vent line can be connected to the canopy apex for changing the camber or angle of attack, and therefor the parachute drag.

Abstract: A clamp assembly is provided for a dual parachute release mechanism for a litary personnel-type parachute which enables the automatic power cable to be in a condition to function for initiating parachute deployment, even though the manual ripcord cable and housing may have been previously released accidentally and prematurely.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for preventing premature, manual operation of a parute activated during ejection by airload tensional forces on the parachute container and harness riser strap system, which is accomplished by slidably mounting the ripcord handle assembly with respect to the riser strap.

Abstract: By providing a parachute canopy with a pull down vent line having predetened elastic properties, the inflation development time of the parachute can be automatically controlled commensurate with the parachute deployment airspeed. This construction will prevent the accidental development of an excessively deformed drag surface, especially at low air speeds, that can produce wide oscillations of the parachute, causing discomfort and possibly injury to the parachutist upon landing.

Abstract: A standard hemispherical parachute canopy can be converted optionally by parachutist during a deployment from its fully inflated dome-shaped condition to a high lift-over-drag configuration to enable the parachute to be propelled and maneuvered to a desirable pick up area to avoid capture by the enemy during wartime conditions, and to minimize injury by selecting a more favorable terrain for landing.

Abstract: An improved energy and shock absorber is provided using one standard off--shelf textile material for all the strap components having the same configuration and composition and varying only in length. Such a design enables the shock absorber to be fabricated and/or repaired economically and expeditiously at any installation or facility that has available a commercial sewing machine. The magnitude of shock absorption can be varied without the need for any research and development effort, and by operating personnel.