Automatic Locking Keeper for Helicopter Cargo Hook Rollout Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing cargo hook systems face a safety risk due to dynamic rollout, where the load is inadvertently released from the hook due to the spring-loaded keeper mechanism, especially in dynamic environments like helicopter operations.

Innovation Solution

A cargo hook system with an automatic locking keeper control unit that locks and unlocks the keeper mechanism using internal linkages, springs, detents, cams, and electrical components to prevent unintended release of the load, ensuring the keeper remains locked during transport and resets when the cargo is removed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a spring-loaded keeper mechanism is used to automatically close and secure the cargo hook, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to the risk of dynamic rollout and inadvertent load release

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic keeper closureVSAvoidprevention of dynamic rollout

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A keeper control unit is introduced as an intermediary device between the operator and the keeper mechanism. This control unit prevents direct manual operation of the keeper, eliminating the risk of inadvertent release while preserving the automatic closure function. The control unit acts as a mediator that only permits keeper operation under controlled conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service through automatic keeper closure following load attachment. Once the load is secured to the hook, the keeper automatically closes and locks without requiring manual intervention, maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability through consistent automated operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If the keeper is made spring-loaded to automatically return to closed position, then the productivity is improved, but the object-generated harmful factors worsen due to the spring force enabling dynamic rollout

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverapid keeper responseVSAvoiddynamic rollout risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The spring force, which originally caused harmful dynamic rollout, is converted into a beneficial locking mechanism. The keeper control unit utilizes the spring's movement to trigger a positive locking action, where the spring force that once enabled rollout now activates detents or cam mechanisms that securely lock the keeper in the closed position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a purely mechanical spring-loaded keeper to a dynamic control system that adapts keeper behavior based on operational conditions. The keeper control unit monitors system state and dynamically adjusts keeper positioning, allowing rapid response while preventing rollout through intelligent control logic.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If manual operation of the keeper is allowed for quick load attachment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability worsens due to potential human error and inadvertent release

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanual keeper controlVSAvoidconsistency of keeper operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The keeper control unit implements feedback mechanisms that monitor keeper position, load attachment status, and system state. This feedback loop ensures that manual operation is only permitted when appropriate conditions are met, and provides confirmation to the operator that the keeper has successfully engaged or disengaged, eliminating human error through automated verification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The automatic locking keeper significantly reduces the likelihood of dynamic rollout, enhancing safety and security of external loads during helicopter operations by maintaining a secure connection to the aircraft, even in dynamic conditions.

Implementation Method 1

Typically, the keeper pivots and is typically spring-loaded closed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

internal linkages, springs, detents, cams, and electrical components

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS20230312094A1Cargo hook implementing an automatic locking keeper configured to increase safety, reduce a likelihood of dynamic rollout, and/or the like

Publication Date: 2023.10.05 BREEZE EASTERN LLC

AI summary

A cargo hook includes a main body; a load arm configured to be pivotally attached to the main body with a load arm pivot connection; a keeper configured to be pivotally attached to the main body through a keeper pivot connection; and a keeper control unit configured to have a keeper locked configuration that locks movement of the keeper about the keeper pivot connection with respect to the main body.