Aerial Cargo Unloading By Parachute Extraction Patents (Class 244/137.3)
  • Patent number: 11511856
    Abstract: A drone delivery system provides to send or to receive the package conveniently and safely without going out of the building by using the platform installed at the vicinity of the window. The drone delivery system includes the drone having a first docking device, a standard box having a second docking device corresponding to the first docking device and a third docking device and a platform having a fourth docking device corresponding to the third docking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Inventor: Jeongchoul Park
  • Patent number: 11235878
    Abstract: A latch assembly (1) is presented which comprises a safety latch (2) and a trigger latch (4). The safety latch (2) is releasable to raise from a lowered end position into a raised end position for, in use with an object, locking the object. The trigger latch (4) is adapted for fixing the safety latch (2) in its lowered end position and operable for releasing the safety latch (2). The safety latch (2) is adapted to be reset from its raised end position into its lowered end position for unlocking the object. Moreover, a storage compartment having at least one latch assembly (1) is presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: SAFRAN CABIN GERMANY GMBH
    Inventors: Dennis Hausner, Thomas Schaefer, Thomas Wiegand
  • Patent number: 10994843
    Abstract: Aircraft cargo lock assemblies are capable of positionally restraining movement of a cargo load pallet in both vertical and horizontal planes relative to the cargo deck of the aircraft. According to certain embodiments, the lock assemblies will include an actuator case and a restraint element which comprises at least one restraint plate and restraint detent, the restraint element being connected to the actuator case for pivotal movements between locked and released conditions relative to an edge of a cargo load pallet positioned on a cargo deck of an aircraft so as to positionally restrain the cargo load pallet against movement in both vertical and horizontal planes relative to the cargo deck. An actuator assembly is operably connected to the restraint element for moving the restraint element between the locked and released conditions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: EMBRAER S.A.
    Inventors: Mario Tadeu Crema Junior, Saint Clair Trisotto, Carlos Rogulski Filho, Guilherme Peneluppi Correa, Douglas de Moura Germano, Jean Carlo de Carvalho Kruger
  • Patent number: 10745131
    Abstract: A load beam for an aerial vehicle comprises an elongate beam having a bottom. There is a plurality of load attachment points disposed along the bottom of the elongate beam. Each of the load attachment points is configured to selectively couple to a load such that the load is coupled to a first one of the load attachment points, or the load is coupled to a second one of the load attachment points and a third one of the load attachment points, whereby the load is connected to the load beam so as to be airlifted by the aerial vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: BOOST HUMAN EXTERNAL CARGO SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Derek Thomas, Jeff Yarnold
  • Patent number: 10689115
    Abstract: An air delivery lock for a cargo located in an aircraft includes a housing, a restraining device having an engagement end for contacting and restraining the cargo, and a force reaction end, a bell crank having a bell crank joint for swivably mounting the bell crank, an elastically deformable force introduction unit, and a latching unit. The restraining device is swivably mounted on a leg of the bell crank around a restraining device axis. The force introduction unit is attached to a second leg of the bell crank and the force reaction end of the restraining device. A first guide attached to the housing and a second guide attached to the restraining device prevent rotation of the bell crank until a predetermined release force is reached on the engagement end of the restraining device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Airbus Defence and Space GmbH
    Inventor: Mario Kalanja
  • Patent number: 10604256
    Abstract: A system and method for detaching an extractable unit from an extraction unit pulling the extractable unit in an extraction direction out of a cargo bay of an aerospace vehicle for aerial delivery. The system includes a detachment unit which is connectable to an extractable unit and which is operable for controllably detaching an extraction unit from the extractable unit, a guiding system and a release unit. The release unit is movably attached to the guiding system and physically connected to the detachment unit such that the release unit is movable with an extractable unit to which the detachment unit has been connected in the extraction direction along the guiding system. The release unit is controllable to operate the detachment unit to which the release unit is connected for detaching an extraction unit from the extractable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventor: Roland Gad
  • Patent number: 10532914
    Abstract: A device for lifting and transporting a load attached by a sling includes a hook comprising a throat opening intended to receive a loop on a sling. The device includes a latch that can pivot between an open position and a closed position in which said throat opening is obstructed. The device includes a locking device including a locked position in which said locking device prevents the latch from turning in the closed position, and an unlocked position in which the latch can rotate; a lever including a loaded position in which said lever holds the locking device in the locked position and a released position in which said lever does not hold said locking device. A rotation of the latch from the closed position to the open position triggers the lever from the loaded position to the released position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: LISI AEROSPACE
    Inventors: Christophe Autissier, Guillaume Meyniel
  • Patent number: 10486813
    Abstract: A dispenser for storing and launching countermeasures from an aircraft, comprising an elongate body provided with at least one launch opening adapted for storing the countermeasures in cartridges, where the dispenser comprises a pivot able cover arranged in the launch opening, where the cover, in a closed state, is adapted to close the launch opening such that the cartridges are covered. The cover is adapted to open when a force from a fired countermeasure is acting on a mounting plate. The advantage of the invention is that a cover covering the countermeasure scan be opened in a fully mechanical way, by the use of the reactional force of the countermeasure. This allows for a simple, reliable and cost-effective solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: SAAB AB
    Inventors: Christer Zaetterqvist, Knut Olof Joensson
  • Patent number: 10385784
    Abstract: A clevis for use in a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator is provided comprising a first side; a second side parallel to the first side; a first set of parallel pivot holes; second set of parallel pivot holes; a set of parallel through holes; and a helicoil blind hole. The second side rigidly connected to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace. The first side having a first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes, a first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes, and a first hole of the set of parallel through holes. The second side having the hole pattern reflective of the first side, composed of second holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Bortoli, Paul Henry Verstrate
  • Patent number: 10137995
    Abstract: A one-time flare mechanism system for use with an aerial payload system is described which uses minimal actuation force to produce a reliable flare with minimal shock to the payload, parafoil and rigging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Earthly Dynamics, LLC
    Inventors: Mark F Costello, Michael Brian Ward, Edward James Scheuermann
  • Patent number: 10131436
    Abstract: An apparatus, method for making, and product by process for a parachute, the parachute having a conductive network and a set of fabrics; the conductive network including a set of conductive elements and a set of devices; wherein a first subset of conductive elements of the set of conductive elements is incorporated with a second subset of fabrics of the set of fabrics and third subset of devices of the set of devices incorporated is incorporated with a fourth subset of fabrics of the set of fabrics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Joseph John D'Angelo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10023313
    Abstract: A rope suspension device with at least one rope suspension module that is adapted for suspension of at least one rope from a rotorcraft, the rope suspension module comprising at least one lockable load beam that is rotatable around an axis of rotation between a locked state and an unlocked state and that is adapted for supporting in the locked state at least one rope that is to be suspended from the rope suspension module, the at least one lockable load beam being, upon unlocking in operation, rotatable from the locked state around the axis of rotation into the unlocked state at least on the basis of a load that is applied to the at least one lockable load beam by means of at least one rope that is supported by the at least one lockable load beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Behrens, Rainer Stuetz
  • Patent number: 9988154
    Abstract: An apparatus, method for making, and product by process for a parachute, the parachute having a conductive network and a set of fabrics; the conductive network including a set of conductive elements and a set of devices; wherein a first subset of conductive elements of the set of conductive elements is incorporated with a second subset of fabrics of the set of fabrics and third subset of devices of the set of devices incorporated is incorporated with a fourth subset of fabrics of the set of fabrics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Inventor: Joseph John D'Angelo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9932112
    Abstract: A cargo handling system may have power drive unit (PDU), which may include a motor and a PDU controller. The PDU controller may be in communication with the motor and configured to receive a command signal including an address corresponding to a location of the PDU. The PDU controller may comprise a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. The PDU controller may be configured to determine the location of the PDU by reading an RFID tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Scott Harms, Shad Kish
  • Patent number: 9580173
    Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a retractable payload delivery system. The payload delivery system can lower a payload to the ground using a delivery device that secures the payload during descent and releases the payload upon reaching the ground. The location of the delivery device can be determined as it is lowered to the ground using image tracking. The UAV can include an imaging system that captures image data of the suspended delivery device and identifies image coordinates of the delivery device, and the image coordinates can then be mapped to a location. The UAV may also be configured to account for any deviations from a planned path of descent in real time to effect accurate delivery locations of released payloads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventors: James Ryan Burgess, Joanna Cohen
  • Patent number: 9457902
    Abstract: A cost-effective pack adapted to be distributed from an aircraft in the event of a natural, military, political, or other disaster includes an outer package, at least one item in the outer package for aerial delivery, and at least one aerodynamic component formed on the outer package and methods and systems for making the pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: The SkyLIFE Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J Potter, Matthew J. Medlin, Greg J. Konczal, Rory T. McDonnell
  • Patent number: 9399515
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system includes at least one container mounted on a platform, an impact attenuator initially interposed between the container and the platform, an activation tether arranged to cause contents of the container to disperse, and rigging material attached to the impact attenuator, the platform and the activation tether and configured to rotate the platform to face upward and the impact attenuator to face downward during aerial delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America as represnted by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Justin Riley, Andrew Meloni
  • Patent number: 9340286
    Abstract: An automated transport device for moving a cargo unit within an aircraft cargo compartment is provided. The transport device comprises a base body and shifting means, wherein the base body is to carry the cargo unit. The shifting means is to generate a movement of the base body along a floor of the cargo compartment perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft and, after that, along the longitudinal axis of the aircraft without rotation of the base body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Panzram, Sascha Nowarre, Hans-Joachim Schoen, Claudio Uriarte, Patrick Dittmer, Thies Andreas Ernst-Friedrich Beinke
  • Patent number: 8979031
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The releasable securing mechanisms may utilize one or more rotatable latch plates. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150069185
    Abstract: A cushioned platform system and an aerial delivery method employ at least one airbag module. The airbag modules are mounted at the underside of a platform which supports the payload. Parallel roller pads are disposed below the at least one airbag module when the module is in a non-deployed mode and facilitate rolling the platform and payload onto the aircraft. The platform and payload are extracted from the aircraft with an extraction parachute. A mechanism is automatically activated to release the airbag module to a deployed mode prior to impact. The deployed airbag module may be repacked to the non-deployed mode for subsequent usage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Stephen T. Parkinson, Charles R. Sandy
  • Patent number: 8864080
    Abstract: Methods and systems for aerial delivery utilize expendable materials. An expendable aerial delivery system comprises wood, textile and/or other expendable materials, for example materials suitable for disposing via burning or crushing in a forward area. In this manner, valuable and/or expensive metal platforms can be eliminated from airdrops, thus preventing insurgent repurposing of these platforms into improvised explosive devices and other implements of warfare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Roy L Fox, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8788127
    Abstract: A beacon receiving system on a pallet of a container cargo bundle is airdropped from a cargo airplane. The beacon receiving system comprises a sensor that detects during descent a beacon signal generated from a beacon placed at the target drop location. The sensor provides signals to a microcontroller that ascertains an angle at which the beacon signal is received. An inertial measurement unit provides signals indicating a tilt of the pallet during descent, which is used by the microcontroller to determine an offset angle of the received beacon signal. This information is used to steer the container cargo bundle during descent to achieve high precision in landing at the desired target drop location. The beacon signal may comprises a modulated light signal which can be distinguished by the sensor from other light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Dale F. Waldo, David Ray Riley, Thomas Lyman Weaver
  • Publication number: 20140084111
    Abstract: A system for deploying loads out of an aircraft comprises an aerial delivery parachute with an aerial-delivery parachute line and an activation means for placing the aerial delivery parachute in an enveloping flow past the aircraft. Within the aircraft a receiving device can be positioned that receives a tractive force acting on the aerial-delivery parachute line, which tractive force has been determined by a force measuring device and has been transmitted by way of a transmitting device. With the knowledge of the tractive force it is possible both to implement emergency release and to assess whether an aerial delivery parachute has correctly deployed in the flow enveloping the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Airbus Operations GmbH, Airbus SAS
  • Patent number: 8567724
    Abstract: An extraction force transfer coupling device is particularly adapted for use with certain cargo aircraft systems for aerial delivery of a load. The extraction force transfer coupling device employs a drop arm which prevents inadvertent actuation of the actuator arm. Prior to aerial delivery, the actuator arm is obstructed by the drop arm. When the platform is forwardly extracted from the aircraft, the drop arm slides along and eventually disengages from the aircraft floor which eventually results in actuation of the cable release to provide for opening of a suspension parachute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Capewell Components Company, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen T. Parkinson
  • Patent number: 8534607
    Abstract: A multiple bundle sling load system including a sling for attachment to an aircraft, a support system suspended from the sling for carrying a plurality of bundles, a load release mechanism interconnecting each bundle with the support structure, a parachute associated with at least one of the bundles, a parachute release mechanism interconnecting each parachute with the support structure. And an actuator for remotely operating each release mechanism for selectively releasing each load release mechanism and not releasing the associated parachute release mechanism for an air drop operation and selectively releasing each load release mechanism and each associated parachute release mechanism for a land drop operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Marc Tardiff, George N. Moorachian, Jr., Todd Grenga, William S. Ricci, Richard John Benney
  • Publication number: 20130193272
    Abstract: Methods and systems for aerial delivery utilize expendable materials. An expendable aerial delivery system comprises wood, textile and/or other expendable materials, for example materials suitable for disposing via burning or crushing in a forward area. In this manner, valuable and/or expensive metal platforms can be eliminated from airdrops, thus preventing insurgent repurposing of these platforms into improvised explosive devices and other implements of warfare.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, JR.
  • Patent number: 8480035
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments, an aerial delivery system configured to be deployed from an aircraft comprises a base, a sleeve generally configured to be positioned on the base, a bag configured to receive at least one liquid and a lid assembly attached to the bag using at least one strap. In some embodiments, the strap is attached to the bag in a manner that causes the bag to be selectively compromised once the aerial delivery system is deployed from an aircraft. In one embodiment, the system comprises a cellulose-based material. In other arrangements, the bag comprises polypropylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Caylym Technologies International, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Goddard, Michael Perlongo
  • Patent number: 8480034
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments, an aerial delivery system configured to be deployed from an aircraft comprises a base, a sleeve generally configured to be positioned on the base, a bag configured to receive at least one liquid and a lid assembly attached to the bag using at least one strap. In some embodiments, the strap is attached to the bag in a manner that causes the bag to be selectively compromised once the aerial delivery system is deployed from an aircraft. In one embodiment, the system comprises a cellulose-based material. In other arrangements, the bag comprises polypropylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Caylym Technologies International, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Goddard, Michael Perlongo
  • Patent number: 8403267
    Abstract: An ejection system for ejecting a payload from a payload delivery vehicle is provided. The ejection system includes an airbag ejection system configured to eject the payload from the payload delivery vehicle, a payload separation system configured to selectively couple the payload to the airbag ejection system, and a controller configured to inflate the airbag ejection system and further configured to signal the payload separation system to release the payload from the airbag ejection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Thomas A. Olden
  • Patent number: 8387917
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transporting containers in an aircraft. A number of containers is loaded into the aircraft. The aircraft is comprised of first and second outer planar structures, a number of planar structures located between the first outer planar structure and the second outer planar structure, a wing, and a support structure. The first outer planar structure, the second outer planar structure, and the number of planar structures are substantially parallel to each other, are coupled to each other to form a fuselage structure, and are configured to receive the number of containers. The support structure connects the wing to a first bottom end of the first outer planar structure, a second bottom end of the second outer planar structure, and a number of bottom ends of the number of planar structures. The aircraft is operated to transport the number of containers to a destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Robert Erik Grip, Blaine Knight Rawdon
  • Patent number: 8387920
    Abstract: A device for launching unmanned missiles from an aircraft with a pallet, on which at least one container is provided to receive a missile. The container has an upper container section that has a pylon for the suspended, detachable support of the missile. The container has a lower container section that is embodied as a support area for the missile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: MBDA Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Grabmeier
  • Publication number: 20120280085
    Abstract: A system including an extraction force transfer coupling link assembly is provided that extracts a cargo from an airborne aircraft with an extraction parachute and then deploys the cargo with a descent parachute. During a normal extraction the link assembly transfers a force from an extraction line to a deployment lanyard that deploys a descent parachute. In the event of a failed extraction, the assembly severs the deployment lanyard and jettisons the extraction parachute. The extraction force transfer coupling link assembly includes an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene rope that has one end of the deployment lanyard braided with the extraction line. The rope acts as both the extraction line for the cargo and the deployment lanyard for the descent parachute. By virtue of the ability to use a single rope, the link assembly is of simple construction and employs pyrotechnic cutters to effect the release of the extraction line and deployment lanyard rather than conventional mechanical interlocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Robert James Sinclair, John Allen Barnett, Robert Kelly Bresnahan Schauer
  • Publication number: 20120228432
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The releasable securing mechanisms may utilize one or more rotatable latch plates. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, JR.
  • Patent number: 8186624
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120061519
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, JR.
  • Patent number: 8123171
    Abstract: A load assisted release system for releasably connecting cargo to a primary delivery vehicle, including a releasable connector and a bridle. The bridle includes a bridle attachment point, a slack loop, a first stage release link connecting a slack loop upper end to a slack loop lower end, and a responsive point in the bridle responsive to a releasing of the first stage release link to cause the releasable connector to release the bridle from the primary delivery vehicle once the first stage release link is released and the responsive point has moved away from the slack loop upper end the second predetermined distance. The releasable connector is configured to connect the bridle to the primary delivery vehicle, and a release force required to move the responsive point in the bridle the second predetermined distance is generated by the cargo as it moves away from the primary delivery vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: S.E., Inc.
    Inventors: Charles O. McHugh, Scott Hilton, Frank Deazley
  • Patent number: 8083184
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8070104
    Abstract: A releasable deployment line for a parachute system is provided. The releasable deployment line may include a first segment of material including an aircraft end configured to be operably connected to an aircraft, and a release end configured to be operably connected to a first section of a multi-ring release system. The replaceable deployment line may further include a second segment of material including a container end configured to be operably connected to a parachute container, and a ring end configured to be operably connected to a second section of the multi-ring release system and a third segment of material. The third segment of material may include a parachute end configured to be operably connected to a parachute within the parachute container, and a pin end configured to be operably connected to a retaining pin associated with the first section of the multi-ring release system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Strong Enterprises
    Inventor: Francis Deazley
  • Publication number: 20110209602
    Abstract: A device for launching unmanned missiles from an aircraft with a pallet, on which at least one container is provided to receive a missile. The container has an upper container section that has a pylon for the suspended, detachable support of the missile. The container has a lower container section that is embodied as a support area for the missile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: LFK-LENKFLUGKORPERSYSTEME GMBH
    Inventor: Michael GRABMEIER
  • Publication number: 20110133036
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments, an aerial delivery system configured to be deployed from an aircraft comprises a base, a sleeve generally configured to be positioned on the base, a bag configured to receive at least one liquid and a lid assembly attached to the bag using at least one strap. In some embodiments, the strap is attached to the bag in a manner that causes the bag to be selectively compromised once the aerial delivery system is deployed from an aircraft. In one embodiment, the system comprises a cellulose-based material. In other arrangements, the bag comprises polypropylene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventors: Richard Goddard, Michael Perlongo
  • Patent number: 7926764
    Abstract: A device for launching unmanned missiles from an aircraft with a pallet, on which at least one container is provided to receive a missile. The container has an upper container section that has a pylon for the suspended, detachable support of the missile. The container has a lower container section that is embodied as a support area for the missile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: LFK-Lenkflugkoerpersysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Grabmeier
  • Patent number: 7922123
    Abstract: A releasable deployment line for a parachute system is provided. The releasable deployment line may include a first segment of material including an aircraft end configured to be operably connected to an aircraft, and a release end configured to be operably connected to a first section of a multi-ring release system. The replaceable deployment line may further include a second segment of material including a container end configured to be operably connected to a parachute container, and a ring end configured to be operably connected to a second section of the multi-ring release system and a third segment of material. The third segment of material may include a parachute end configured to be operably connected to a parachute within the parachute container, and a pin end configured to be operably connected to a retaining pin associated with the first section of the multi-ring release system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Strong Enterprises
    Inventor: Francis Deazley
  • Patent number: 7891608
    Abstract: An aircraft for carrying cargo in one or more containers. The aircraft includes a fuselage structure having a plurality of nodes and a plurality of elements connecting the nodes to form a space frame in which to carry cargo. At least some of the nodes are positioned in the space frame based on dimensions of the one or more containers. The fuselage structure is more compact, lighter and less expensive compared to conventional semi-monocoque fuselages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Blaine K. Rawdon, Robert E. Grip
  • Patent number: 7861972
    Abstract: An object is deployed from an aircraft using gravity extraction of the object with the aid of a small parachute. The object is restrained in the fore and aft directions on either side of the center of gravity by fore and aft loading chains which hold the object to a loading deck. The chains are attached to the object by pear shaped rings mounted to a load plate. The load plate is supported on a lower attachment plate mounted to the object and is attached by a pin to an upper attachment plate also mounted to the object. Pulling the pin causes the load plate to rotate about a hinge formed on the lower attachment plate followed by release of the load plate from the lower attachment plate and the object to be deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Airlaunch LLC
    Inventors: Martinus M. Sarigul-Klijn, Nesrin Sarigul-Klijn
  • Patent number: 7845595
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an aerial delivery system that provides for the controlled delivery of items from an aircraft into a selected drop zone. In accordance with the present invention, the aerial delivery system includes a base and a sidewall arrangement adjacent the base. The sidewall arrangement generally acts as a sleeve defining an inner volume. Within the inner volume is a tray or cassette configured to be moveable within the inner volume. Adjacent the sidewall arrangement opposite the base is a top cover. The top cover is generally oversized relative to the shape defined by the sidewall arrangement. A plurality of straps connects the top cover, sidewall arrangement and, optionally, the material within the inner volume. The aerial delivery system is activated by an air stream that catches the oversized top cover, forcing the separation between the top cover and the other portions of the aerial delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Caylym Technologies International, LLC
    Inventor: Richard V. Goddard
  • Patent number: 7690438
    Abstract: Characterized in that in a first stage are loaded or produced on board in a mother aircraft at least a product or mixed of products to act on forest fires, pests or atmospheric phenomena; in a second stage the said product is stored in a glider container with gliding flight ability and equipped with a precision guidance system; in a third stage the glider container is dropped from the mother aircraft and guided towards the release point of the load; in a fourth stage the glider container releases of its interior the load of product on the release point, and in a fifth stage the glider container is recovered for a following reusing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Luís María Bordallo Álvarez
  • Publication number: 20090302164
    Abstract: An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Roy L. Fox, JR.
  • Patent number: 7584928
    Abstract: A parachute control system is actuated primarily by drogue parachute drag force. Drag force is used as a proxy for vehicle airspeed. The control system uses altitude and force sensors combined with a chronograph to determine the state of a deployed drogue parachute. It then compares the sensed condition with a condition defined by preset altitude, force, and time values. Once both altitude and drogue parachute drag force are below certain maximum values and within pre-determined time windows, an event trigger signal is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: BRS, Incorporated
    Inventor: Frank Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7458544
    Abstract: A system for launching a launch vehicles mounted beneath an aircraft. A mechanism which separates the launch vehicle from the carrier aircraft engages the launch vehicle, and prevents the launch vehicle from coming into contact with the carrier aircraft as the launch vehicle is dropped away from the launch vehicle. A lanyard extends from the carrier aircraft applies an impulse to the launch vehicle as it is separated from the aircraft causing the launch vehicle to rotate upwardly of the pitch plane. A drogue parachute applies a rearward force to the launch vehicle holding the rigid trapeze in engagement with the launch vehicle, and damping the rate of rotation in the pitch plane as the rotation of the pitch plane brings a launch vehicle to a substantially vertical launch attitude, were powered flight of launch vehicle is begun. The launch vehicle follows a trajectory that crosses behind the carrier aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Airlaunch LLC
    Inventors: Marti Sarigul-Klijn, Nesrin Sarigul-Klijn
  • Patent number: 7448577
    Abstract: An apparatus for dissipating shock load in a parachute delivery system has at least one strip of material having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a predetermined length. The apparatus also has a piercing member having a first portion for piercing through the strip of material and a second portion that defines an opening. The strip of material passes through the opening in the piercing member. The first end of the strip of material is configured to be attached to parachute suspension lines. In a preferred embodiment, the strip of material is a strip of woven webbing. When a predetermined tensile force acts upon the strip of material and the piercing member such that the first end of the strip of woven webbing is pulled in one direction and the piercing member is pulled in an opposite direction, tension is produced which causes the piercing member to stretch and break the lateral fibers of the strip of woven webbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James Sadeck