Helicopter Sling Securing Device with Cascade Reduction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helicopter sling securing systems face risks of accidental load drop due to potential malfunction of the load hook, and redundant systems are bulky, costly, and difficult to install in existing helicopters.
Innovation Solution
A securing device comprising multiple straps with a connecting mechanism and actuator that reduces the force required to open the mechanism, allowing for manual release of loads up to 1500 kg, which can be installed on existing helicopters without structural modifications, using a cascade reduction mechanism with rings to minimize the force needed for opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a redundant hook system is used to eliminate accidental load drop, then safety is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the hook and the sling, providing automatic safety locking without requiring a redundant hook system. The locking mechanism engages automatically when the hook closes, preventing accidental opening while maintaining a single-hook configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is self-activating through the natural closing motion of the hook itself. The hook's closing action automatically triggers the locking mechanism to engage, eliminating the need for separate control systems or redundant components while ensuring safety.
2Reliability
If a redundant hook system is installed, then safety is improved, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the existing hook structure, combining the safety function with the primary fastening component. This integration allows the system to be installed as a single unit on existing helicopters without requiring separate mounting of redundant hooks or complex structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be universally applicable to existing hook configurations. It can be installed on various helicopter models without requiring model-specific modifications, reducing certification requirements and installation complexity while providing enhanced safety.
3Strength
If a securing device with high strength is used to support 1500 kg loads, then load capacity is improved, but the force required to open the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses dynamic force transformation through mechanical advantage. During normal operation, the mechanism maintains high locking force to support 1500 kg loads. When opening is required, the actuator exploits the mechanical advantage ratio to transform a small input force into sufficient unlocking force, enabling easy operation despite high load capacity requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes its force characteristics based on operational state. In the locked state, it provides high resistance force to maintain load support. During opening, the actuator temporarily alters the force parameters by applying force at a different point in the mechanical advantage system, reducing the required input force while maintaining the ability to support heavy loads when closed.
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 solution effectively eliminates the risk of accidental load drop, allows for safe manual release of heavy loads, and can be installed on existing helicopters without additional certification, reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the connecting mechanism comprising cascade reduction means configured to reduce the force resisting the opening of the connecting mechanism induced by the support of the sling so that the input mechanical force is less than 20 kg for a tractive force of 1500 kg induced by the support of the sling
Data Source
AI summary
A device for securing at least one sling for transporting a load under a helicopter, the securing device comprising at least a first strap and at least a second strap, a connection mechanism configured, in the closed state, to connect the straps, to form a comprehensive security strap capable of supporting a sling and, in the open state, to release the straps for releasing the sling, and an actuator configured to open the connection mechanism following a mechanical effort being introduced, the connection mechanism comprising cascading reduction means configured to reduce the resistance force during the opening of the connection mechanism generated by the load connected to the sling.