Multi-Ring Release Mechanism to Prevent Loop Lock Up

Solution Overview

Problem

The multi-ring release mechanism in parachute systems experiences delays in disengagement due to loop lock up, leading to higher loads that can cause damage to the restraint system.

Innovation Solution

A ring release system is introduced, comprising a first ring connected to a first webbing, a second ring connected to the first webbing, and a third ring connected to a second webbing. The system includes a release pin assembly and grommet motion lanyards that displace the grommet, allowing the rings to disengage prior to main parachute pack lift, thereby mitigating potential loop lock up.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the multi-ring release mechanism is designed to hold high static loads, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the disengagement speed deteriorates due to loop lock up

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload-bearing capacityVSAvoiddisengagement speed

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The grommet motion lanyard is pre-configured to automatically pull the grommet away from the closure loop as soon as the release pin is extracted, before the main parachute pack begins to lift. This preliminary action prevents loop lock up from occurring in the first place, allowing the rings to disengage rapidly while maintaining the ability to hold high static loads during normal operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If the release pin is extracted to initiate disengagement, then the release function is activated, but loop lock up occurs causing delay in ring separation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverelease functionVSAvoiddisengagement delay

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The grommet motion lanyard serves as an intermediary element between the release pin and the grommet. When the release pin is extracted, the lanyard automatically engages and pulls the grommet away from the closure loop, mediating the disengagement process to prevent loop lock up and ensure rapid ring separation without requiring additional manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the grommet remains in the closure loop during release, then the structural integrity is maintained, but loop lock up prevents smooth disengagement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoiddisengagement smoothness

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The grommet motion lanyard is pre-configured to automatically pull the grommet away from the closure loop as soon as the release pin is extracted, before the main parachute pack begins to lift. This preliminary action prevents loop lock up from occurring in the first place, allowing the rings to disengage rapidly while maintaining the ability to hold high static loads during normal operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250074603A1Multi-ring release load reduction method and apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.03.06 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

Ring releases systems and methods to disengage ring systems are disclosed. The ring release systems and the methods to disengage ring systems employ devices that provides for lowering the loads experienced by multi-ring mechanisms and thus mitigate potential hardware damage.