Abstract: A parachute releasing apparatus is operable with a reserve static line for automatically releasing one riser after failure of a second riser, thus avoiding entanglement of the main parachute with the reserve parachute. First and second risers of the main parachute are releasably attached to a harness through quick releases devices for each riser. The reserve static line is connected between the first riser of the main parachute and a deployment pin of the reserve parachute. A connection is made between the first riser of the main parachute and the quick release device of the second riser for automatically releasing the second riser from the harness prior to the reserve static line deploying the reserve parachute. Thus, the main parachute is released from the harness before the reserve parachute deploys and avoids entanglement of the failed main parachute with the reserve parachute.

Abstract: A water-impact release mechanism has a hub with a first sleeve coupled thto. The first sleeve has a plurality of circumferentially distributed holes therein. A spring assembly, coupled to the hub, extends into the first sleeve. In a relaxed state, the spring assembly obstructs the holes while, in a compressed state, the spring assembly does not obstruct the holes. A second sleeve, concentric with the first sleeve, is elastically coupled to the hub and biased away therefrom. The second sleeve has an inwardly-facing annular groove. A ball resides in each of the holes and is large enough to extend beyond the confines of its hole. When the bias of the second sleeve is overcome, the annular groove aligns with the holes in the first sleeve thereby allowing the radial outward movement of the balls. A plate, coupled to the second sleeve, extends radially outward therefrom to define a water-impact surface.

Abstract: A parachute release mechanism is provided which is compact, lightweight, and free from external wire harnesses. The release mechanism includes a passage connected between a source of pressurized gas and a piston chamber having a piston disposed therein. A shear pin is disposed in an opening in the piston and in the piston chamber. Activation of the source of pressurized gas causes the piston to move forward shearing the shear pin and either deploying or releasing a parachute.

Abstract: The invention is a control system for the emergency jettison of a cargo container extraction parachute from a cargo container within an aircraft, the aircraft having a plurality of cargo containers onboard that are ejectable in sequence. In detail, the system includes a load transfer coupling coupled to each extraction parachute for releasing the extraction chute from the cargo container upon receipt of electrical power. A first circuit is coupled to the load transfer coupling, the first circuit for providing the electrical power to the load transfer coupling of the next ejectable cargo container upon receiving an actuation signal to release the extraction parachute. A second circuit is used to sense when each of the plurality of cargo containers has been ejected from the aircraft and to provide the cargo container ejection signal to the first circuit upon the cargo container being ejected from the aircraft.

Abstract: Reusable parachute ground disconnecting devices provide constant release load percentages within a range of 25 to 70 percent of the load weight for more reliable delatching characteristics on ground contact even in the presence of high ground winds, and with virtually no risk of premature delatching occurring while airborne. Non-linear main springs consisting of stacked disk springs provide ever diminishing deflection to the load suspending assembly as the load size increases, in combination with fixed latch geometry produce constant load release characteristics for the entire capacity rating for a given device. Various time delay means, including an hydraulic dampened load release timer provide added safety and reliability by isolating the delatching system when fluctuations in load weight occur during initial deployment. Disclosed concepts are readily adaptable to high capacity devices for loads of up to 30 tons, and even more.

Abstract: A releasable connector for a pair of tensioned elements, such as straps sorting a parachuted load, has a cylindrical body separable at a diametrical plane into a pair of blocks each adapted for connection of the block to one of the elements. A helical groove is disposed about the body and is wound in one circumferential direction with the majority of an endless line of para-aramid fiber. The line is tensioned to hold the blocks in engagement so that the elements are joined by the connector. The ends of the groove return helically in the opposite circumferential direction, and the remainder of the line is wrapped in this opposite direction about the majority of the line. The body has a pair of recesses extending radially inwardly from the groove and individually receiving a pair of pyrotechnic line cutters. Each cutter extends into the groove and, at the groove, has an eye through which the line extends for severing by either cutter to release the blocks from engagement and disconnect the tensioned elements.

Abstract: A load securing and releasing system for releasably attaching two objects gether, one of the objects preferably being a parachute. The secure and release system having a main load carrying component with a first end portion and a second end portion, a secure/release mechanism for securing the end portions together and for releasing the end portions. The secure/release mechanism being made up of plurality of interlocking members which provide a substantial mechanical advantage to the system. The system further includes a closure member for securing the interlocking members together. A detachment component is operably connected to the closure member for detaching the closure member from the interlocking members. By proper interrelationship of the interconnecting members the objects are secured together until such time when the detachment component is activated and the objects are thereby released.

Abstract: A parachute deployment system having a pack with an attached parachute and a detachably coupled handle. The handle is used to activate the deployment system by physically opening the pack via an internal rip cord pin in communication therewith. Further, the handle is used to pull a pilot bag, which holds the parachute, from the pack and into the air stream. The pilot bag provides sufficient drag for effectively deploying the parachute therefrom.

Abstract: A parachute extraction line severing apparatus comprising an extensible cutting head depending by means of a power cord from a power cord take-up assembly The cutting head includes a housing having one or more cutting devices and a viper line extending about a parachute extraction line and normally disposed in an out-of-the-way position along the interior walls of a cargo compartment. The opposite ends of the viper line are connected to and adapted to be wound about adjacent spools of a take-up reel mounted in said housing. In the event of a cargo airdrop malfunction, rotation of the spools is effective to gather the viper line into embracing relation with the extraction line to generate a reactive force drawing the cutting head and blades into engagement with the extraction line to sever the same. Once the extraction line is severed releasing the reaction force, a spring loaded spindle in the take-up assembly retracts the power cord carrying the cutting head therewith into its normal inoperative position.

Abstract: An environmentally-sealed parachute deployment system for bail-out parachutes comprising a spring-loaded pilot parachute, an environmentally sealed vacuum bag, a deployment bag having one or two elastic closure loops, and a man-rated parachute. The drag force exerted by the pilot parachute tears open the environmentally sealed bag, initiating deployment of the parachute.

Abstract: A mechanism for releasing one member from another. A piston is disposed partially in the bore of one member and partially in the bore of the other member to bridge the gap therebetween for maintaining attachment thereof. The piston is responsive to a propulsive force for movement forwardly to a second position wherein all of the piston is disposed in the other member. The other member bore has a reduced-diameter portion forward of and adjoining an increased-diameter rearward portion thereby providing a shoulder. The piston has a forward portion and a rearward portion having substantially the same diameters as the forward and rearward bore portions respectively of the other member. A tapered portion connects the piston forward and rearward portions and is impelled on the shoulder when the piston is moved to the second position.

Abstract: A parachute ring release mechanism with a spring incorporated to insure disengagement of the parachute risers. The ring release is structured such that the parachute risers may be released by either one of two rip cords.

Abstract: A releasing device for a parachute which is ready for use and folded and disposed in a receptacle and held together by securing string against the force of an unholding preloaded spring. The release device includes a breaking device for disconnecting the securing string and a control for actuating the breaking device at predetermined conditions. The control actuates the breaking device by an electric control signal derived after an initialization operation and depending on a barametric pressure which is present and further depending on the presence of a given pressure change rate. The breaking device comprises an energy storing device which is releasable by the electric control signal for disconnecting the securing string.

Abstract: Apparatus for sensing the electrical conductivity of fluid wherein when electrodes of the apparatus are exposed to fluid a voltage is developed on a capacitor which voltage has a magnitude determined by the condition of the electrical conductivity of the fluid to which the electrodes are exposed. A portion of the developed voltage is obtained, such as by means of a voltage divider connected across the capacitor, and this voltage portion is compared by means of a voltage comparator to a reference voltage. When the comparison indicates a predetermined relationship, for example equality, between the developed voltage portion and the reference voltage, a signal is produced which can be utilized to operate a load. In particular, the signal can operate a semiconductor controlled rectifier to complete a discharge path from the capacitor to the load. The load can be an electro explosive device included in a release mechanism for uncoupling a parachute canopy from its load upon landing in water.

Abstract: A parachute release apparatus having a spring powered release mechanism for coupling to the ripcord of the parachute, with a latch retaining a spring powered piston of the release mechanism against the force of the spring. A spring powered timing mechanism is locked out above a preestablished altitude by an aneroid assembly, but operative thereafter. A manually settable interlock coacts with a catch arm to set the spring of the timing mechanism upon winding, with an arming cable assembly actuating the interlock to a release position upon separation of the parachute wearing aviator from the seat or the aircraft. The timing mechanism includes a timing disc viewable through a window only when the release mechanism has been set and when the timing mechanism has been wound.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic mechanical apparatus comprising a container (1) placed within the equipment to be freed and from which leave two cables (3) within sheaths (2) which connect two controls retaining the loops of the equipment in the suspension straps worn by the parachutist.The apparatus serves to exert a simultaneous pulling on the two cables (3) with a sufficient delay to cause the liberation of the equipment, after opening and stabilization of the parachute.To this end, the container (1) contains a plunger (48) which is maneuverable by an inertia due to the deceleration caused by the opening of the parachute, the activation of a spring motor (25) having a decelerator whose slow rotation causes the delayed unlatching of a detent spring (11) causing the oscillation of a return lever (9) of the cables (3) for liberation of the equipment.

Abstract: A circuit for sensing the electrical conductivity of fluid comprising a pair of electrodes adapted to be exposed to the fluid, a voltage source connected to one of the electrodes, a load connected to the other of the electrodes, a firing circuit branch including a firing capacitor connected to the other electrode, a conductivity sensing circuit branch including a sensing circuit capacitor connected to the other electrode and to the voltage source, and characterized by a switch connected in controlled relation to the sensing circuit branch and in controlling relation to the firing circuit. In response to the electrodes being exposed to fluid having a predetermined condition of electrical conductivity, current flows in the sensing circuit branch which operates the switch to connect the firing circuit in a manner preparing it for firing, i.e. charging the capacitor therein. After a predetermined time, i.e.

Abstract: A parachute reefing/release device wherein when an actuator is activated and the device is subjected to a predetermined force, a multi-sectioned reefer will separate from a cylindrical housing causing separation of the multi-sectioned reefer into its components causing either a release of a submunition from a parachute or a reefing function of the parachute to take place.

Abstract: A mechanical device is provided to link a payload and a parachute together prior to and during parachute dropping of the payload and provide for automatic separation of the payload from the parachute after the payload and parachute have landed. The payload is secured to either a shaft or housing of the device, and the parachute is secured to the other. The forces acting on the device during parachute dropping of the payload arm a mechanical system for releasably dis-associating the shaft and the housing, and when the payload has landed, the different forces prevalent on the system cause mechanical releasing of the shaft and housing. The device according to the present invention provides a novel method of parachute/payload separation and avoids the use of, and problems inherent with the use of, detonators which have been previously used for such purposes.

Abstract: In the quick-release lock for a parachute, a measuring device (1, 2) is used for continuously measuring the distance of the parachutist from the surface on which he intends to land. In this arrangement, the measured distance values are repeatedly compared with predetermined values in a comparing device (3, 4, 7) during the descent. Only if the measured values agree with the predetermined values during the last section of the descent during, which the comparisons are carried out, is the parachute automatically released from the load, for example a person, when the distance 0 is reached.

Abstract: A device for the separation of a load from a belt assembly connected to it, especially of a parachute, which on impact with the earth compresses an impact component which is arranged on the impact side of the load and is released by the motion of impact. In order to achieve a safe separation which is free of delay, it will directly deal with the relative movement of the impact component or a mechanically connected part by the operation of the force of impact. The impact component can be developed as a landing shock absorber.

Abstract: A central belt lock, particularly for a parachute harness, includes a housing, a main pin or journal which is manually rotatable and axially movable therein, and an anchor plate which cooperates with a plurality of retaining bolts for the belt attachment or coupling members. There is dealt with the problem of allowing the belt attachment members to be released and thus disconnected from the lock even if the parachutist for some reason is unable to actuate the lock manually, after making a jump over the sea. Therefore, a central belt lock is provided to be activated by sea water and can be released thereby, without affecting the function thereof when operated manually. For this purpose, the main journal (2a) has at least one longitudinal bore in which a push rod (12) is mounted so as to be longitudinally movable. An actuator (20, 27) is associated with the push rod and is actuated when coming into contact with water, axially moving the push rod (12) and hence the anchor plate (5) with the retaining bolts (6).

Abstract: The compressed-gas device for the life-saving services which can be activated by water, more especially the automatic separating coupling for parachutes, comprises a channel (9) and two detector chambers (10, 11) which, via openings (12, 13), are connected to the channel (9) and, via openings (14, 15), are connected to one respective opposite outer surface (16, 17) of the device. The cross-section of the outwardly directed openings (14, 15) is larger than that of the connection openings (12, 13) to the channel (9). Only when the measuring block (2) is completely immersed in water are three pairs of electrodes (18, 19; 20, 21; 22, 23) bridged by water so that a fuel-gas charge is ignited via an electric circuit (7) with the aid of an igniter (8) (FIG. 2).

Abstract: A release mechanism is provided for releasably joining two objects such as straps, cables, ropes, or the like as well as two rigid members such as pipes, tubing, beams, columns, or the like. The mechanism is usable for releasing loads which are under tension and, in certain embodiments, also transmit compression and torsional forces. One mechanism includes a pair of pivoting plates connected to the ends of a bifurcated strap. The plates engage elongated surfaces on a root member connected to an opposite strap. An indexing arrangement is provided to prevent relative sliding movement. The plates are biased for outward movement. Outward movement is prevented by releasable securement links or straps. An alternative form of securement is provided in the form of a sliding enclosure. An alternative embodiment for flexible or rigid members is provided in the form of a central root surrounded by outwardly pivoting leaves. Pivoting members connected to the leaves engage projections on the root member.

Abstract: Lateral forces exerted on an air inflated, airfoil canopy of an aerial device during towline launching are balanced by slidable displacement of the coupling between the towline and a flexible guide attached at spaced locations to the aerial device. The flexible guide has a triangular configuration to control the distribution of towing force components and corresponding changes in orientation of the aerial device.

Abstract: Apparatus for sensing the electrical conductivity of fluid which can be used to detonate an electro explosive device for operating a release mechanism for uncoupling a parachute canopy from its load upon landing in water. An operating network connected to an ignition capacitor and to a conductivity sensing circuit and connected in controlling relation to a semiconductor switch has a voltage independent portion which controls the time at which the semiconductor switch is closed to define a discharge path to detonate the electro explosive device independent of the rate of voltage rise on the ignition capacitor. The operating network also has a voltage dependent portion which when a voltage of predetermined magnitude is developed on the conductivity sensing circuit in response to fluid not having the predetermined condition of conductivity, the voltage dependent portion closes the semiconductor switch to define the discharge path when the energy level is insufficient to detonate the electro explosive device.

Abstract: An explosive line cutting device is provided with a frictional igniter assembly permitting actuation throughout a broad range of positional attitudes. An insulating sleeve is provided around a pyrotechnic delay charge which substantially reduces deviations of the burning time. Explosive forces are concentrated behind the cutting blade by introducing a flow restriction that impedes release of pressure energy to non-useful parts of the device.

Abstract: A quick release device comprising two members which may be releasably engaged to transmit a tensile force. Each of the members has a load-connection end and an engagement end. The engagement end of the members comprises two flat, elongate branches, with each of the branches terminating in a flat, rigid paddle. The paddles of one member foldingly engage the paddles of the second member whereby the paddles fold together into an interlocking arrangement. A releasable latch holds the paddles securely in the folded position so that the members can transmit a tensile force so long as the latch is in place, and the members will disengage from one another when the latch is released, without passing through any rings, links, loops or buckles.

Abstract: A winch cable driven retrieval apparatus for retracting static lines slidably mounted on a fixed anchor cable or the like, wherein a retrieval spool is slidably mounted on the anchor cable and is attached to a winch cable through a pair of attachment members extending from opposite sides of the spool. The points of attachment are carefully chosen such that an imaginary line extending therebetween intersects the anchor cable and preferably the centerline of the anchor cable.

Abstract: Apparatus for sensing the electrical conductivity of field including a pair of electrodes and a capacitive type conductivity sensing circuit which in response to the electrodes being exposed to fluid of predetermined minimum conductivity under conditions involving a predetermined minimum rate of change of conductivity applies a gating voltage to the control terminal of a semiconductor device switching it into conduction to define a current flow path through a load. The load can be an ignition capacitor for an electro explosive device which, in turn, can be employed in a release mechanism for uncoupling a parachute canopy from its load upon landing in water. A semiconductor switch defines a discharge path for the ignition capacitor through the electro explosive device.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for releasing a storage container from an inflatable upport such as a parachute, comprising a container for holding the inflatable support, an attachment mechanism extending through the container, linear slide means engaging the attachment mechanism and a storage container when tension is applied to the attachment mechanism, and means for holding the attachment mechanism in tension until the inflatable support is inflated, whereby the storage container remains fixed to the inflatable support until tension on said attachment component is relieved.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for releasably attaching all strands or risers of a parachute from a harness of the parachutist and comprises a series of loops each attached to the strands, at least one of these loops attached to each of the strands, each loop being insertable through the preceeding loop of the series and a flexible thong releasably securing the last loop in the series.

Abstract: A water-activated canopy release mechanism having a detachable sleeve positioned between the arms of a buckle yoke. The sleeve contains a longitudinal passage having a release piston and bushing positioned therein and supporting the sleeve within the yoke. An explosive cartridge mounted at the piston end is fired by a sensor activated by water of predetermined conductivity and drives the release piston completely into the sleeve and wedges it there, thus freeing the end of the sleeve adjacent the cartridge. Simultaneously, the piston drives the bushing out of the other end of the sleeve and against a wedge carried by the yoke arm. As a result, both the piston and the bushing are held in a position which permits the sleeve to drop free of the yoke releasing the canopy from its load.

Abstract: A tow plate including a retention assembly and a removable clevis assembly made up of a main clevis member and a drogue clevis member engageable with the main clevis member. A first latch mechanism latches the main clevis member to the retention assembly. A second latch mechanism latches the drogue clevis member to the main clevis member. To effect force transfer, the entire clevis assembly is released by unlatching the main clevis member from the retention assembly, with the drogue clevis member latched to the main clevis member. To effect drogue jettison, the drogue clevis member alone is released by unlatching it from the main clevis member, while the main clevis member remains latched to the retention assembly.

Abstract: The disclosure concerns a parachute release mechanism which comprises a harness connector for releasably connecting the risers of a main parachute canopy to a harness which is worn by a parachutist and which further comprises an actuating system for sequentially actuating release of the main canopy from the harness and for then effecting deployment of a reserve canopy from its compartment within a container. The actuating system includes first and second cables which are respectively employed to actuate release of the main canopy and to actuate deployment of the reserve canopy. The first cable is pulled to a predetermined extent to effect release of the main canopy. Pulling of the first cable beyond the predetermined extent deploys the second canopy.

Abstract: A parachute release arrangement which is mounted on the parachute buckle lizes a pair of water sensors that are activated when they are immersed in sea water. Activation of one sensor results in the connection of a battery to a DC-to-DC converter which raises the battery voltage to a substantially higher level for charging a storage capacitor. If the other sensor is also activated, this storage capacitor is subsequently discharged through an electrical explosive device when the voltage across it reaches a predetermined value. The resultant explosive force disengages a release lever in the buckle from the parachute strap and allows the detachment of the parachute. A checkout circuit is provided for monitoring the standby status of the control circuit.

Abstract: A banner in the form of an elongated sheet of flexible material is attached to an air dropped sonobuoy for stabilization of the sonobuoy during descent as well as for descent speed control, entry angle control, and wave action damping once the sonobuoy is floating at the surface of the ocean. The banner is roller furled and stored on top of the sonobuoy. When the sonobuoy is dropped, the banner unrolls and streams out behind the sonobuoy during descent. It is a feature of this drogue apparatus that it is deployed by the time that the sonobuoy has descended a distance corresponding approximately to the length of the banner. The banner is not released when the sonobuoy hits the water in order to enable it to stream out over the surface of the water to provide wave damping action.

Abstract: A latch for use on an aircraft ejection seat and the like to permit the optional selection, prior to ejection, as to retention of a survival kit. The latch includes a housing for receiving a bolt which is retained in position by a detent spring, and a two-position toggle having a lever extending therefrom and maintained in position by a toggle detent. In one position, the toggle retains the bolt fixed in the housing and a lanyard passing through a hole in the bolt has one end attached to the survival kit and the other end to the ejection seat through a cord cutter. In this position the cutter is activated and the survival kit separates from the seat structure. With the toggle in the other position, the bolt slips out of the detent spring upon ejection and the lanyard with the bolt attached secures the survival kit to the ejection seat.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a device adapted to be mounted on a safety belt type of restraint in which a sheering means may be actuated by energy storing means, thereby to sever the restraint. The energy storing means may be set off by one or more detectors responsive to abnormal conditions such as fire or violent shock.

Abstract: In the legs of a clevis of a webbing connector are opposite aligned passages in which is journalled a pin for harness webbing. The pin is formed of a release body the hub of which fits between the legs. Parts of a pair of lock pins project the hub into the respective passages to hold the pin in place. The lock pins are fixed in the body by shear pins. Inside of the hub are a pair of plungers. A slot in each plunger riding on a set screw limits the outward movement of each plunger respectively to the adjacent end of the hub, whereby the adjacent lock pin is pushed totally into the leg passage and the release body is freed. The force for outward movement of the plungers is imparted through a thruster which includes a suitable expandable device which when expanded axially pushes the plungers apart for pushing the lock pins out of the hub of the release body.

Abstract: Drogue release apparatus for air-dropped sonobuoys is disclosed in which the drogue is attached to a spring-loaded release unit which is carried at the top surface of the sonobuoy, with an ejection spring positioned between the release unit and the top of the sonobuoy to eject the release unit upon water impact. A second spring acts normally as a detent to prevent ejection and is freed to permit ejection of the release unit upon impact by the momentary downward travel of the release unit as a result of the impact.

Abstract: A fabric activator includes a webbing strip with a bracket secured thereto which operatively connects the fabric strip to the slider of the female fitting of a conventional canopy release system. The slider is moved back and forth responsive to a force or pull on the strip in one direction or another. The strip is normally held in a first, upper position (canopy release system locked) by a quick release fabric fastener. A second transverse strip is folded with the ends releasably secured together across the first strip to act as a protective cover.

Abstract: A release mechanism adapted for coupling parachute canopy riser straps to parachute harnesses is described wherein the male and female members of the mechanism are held together by two axially aligned bolt elements (a broken bolt) disposed in a common coupling passageway defined through the male and female members. An integral electronic water-activated energizing mechanism drives the two element broken-bolt longitudinally in the coupling passageway allowing the male and female members of the mechanism to separate whereby one of the bolt elements stays with the female member and the other bolt element stays with the male member. The described release mechanism further includes protective cover means for isolating sensing electrodes of the electronic water-activated energizing mechanism from the external environment prior to deployment of the parachute canopy.

Abstract: A release mechanism is provided for separating a pendant from a load that operable by an electrical pyrotechnic squib activated by an electrical signal from a remote control station. The pyrotechnic squib is mounted within the yoke connector of a harness fitted to the load. The load is an aircrewman who is to be propelled from a cockpit by a rocket.

Abstract: Buckle for retarded automatic unlocking of safety belts and harnesses of parachuting equipment or of vehicles, which comprises a frame slideably mounted in a casing and a shaft in the frame for supporting a swinging bolt adapted to imprison the shackle of a strap, or release either instantaneously under the direct action of a manual control means or with a delay under the action of an automatic control means connected to the bolt and actuated by springs compressed by the shackle when the shackle is introduced inside the casing. The automatic control means is itself locked by means adapted to be slowly withdrawn, by means of a brake, under the action of a traction force exerted by the shackle on the bolt providing the sliding movement of the frame against the action of a return spring bringing back the frame to its initial position as soon as the traction force of the shackle on the strap substantially diminishes or ceases.

Abstract: Buckle for retarded automatic unlocking of safety belts and harnesses of parachuting equipment or of vehicles, which comprises a frame slideably mounted in a casing and a shaft in the frame for supporting a swinging bolt adapted to imprison the shackle of a strap, or release either instantaneously under the direct action of a manual control means or with a delay under the action of an automatic control means connected to the bolt and actuated by springs compressed by the shackle when the shackle is introduced inside the casing. The automatic control means is itself locked by means adapted to be slowly withdrawn, by means of a brake, under the action of a traction force exerted by the shackle on the bolt providing the sliding movement of the frame against the action of a return spring bringing back the frame to its initial position as soon as the traction force of the shackle on the strap substantially diminishes or ceases.