Parachute Container Link Unlocking via Cutting Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for closing parachute containers using a link between eyelets face challenges in maintaining consistent tension due to variable parachute volume and spring thrust, leading to unpredictable actuation forces and risks of premature opening or excessive effort during deployment.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cutting tool that can sever the closure link, allowing manual actuation to reduce the force required for unlocking, featuring a movable shuttle and retention mechanisms to manage tension variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the loop length is adjusted to control tension, then the actuating force on the opening handle can be controlled, but the adjustment is not repeatable and not sustainable throughout the folding period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-adjusts the loop length to an optimal value before deployment. This preliminary adjustment ensures that the loop has the correct initial tension characteristics, eliminating the need for repeated adjustments during the folding period and ensuring sustainable operation throughout the parachute's service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, fixed loop length design that does not require complex adjustment mechanisms. The loop is designed to be reliable for its intended service period without needing maintenance or re-adjustment, treating the adjustment as a one-time preliminary action rather than an ongoing requirement.
2Ease of operation
If the loop is set too long, then the closing system can be easily unlocked, but there is a risk of unexpected disengagement of the pin due to lack of tension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the loop length parameter to a specific value that balances two opposing requirements: it is long enough to allow easy unlocking operation, but short enough to maintain sufficient tension on the closing pin. This precise parameter selection eliminates the need for complex adjustment mechanisms while ensuring both ease of operation and reliability.
3Reliability
If the loop is set too short, then the pin remains securely locked, but excessive operating forces are required on the opening handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selects an optimal loop length parameter that prevents excessive tension while maintaining secure pin retention. This optimized parameter ensures that the loop is not so short as to require excessive force for unlocking, while still being short enough to maintain reliable pin engagement throughout the folding period.
4Power
If the spring power is increased to propel the parachute beyond the depression zone, then the extraction capability is improved, but the tension of the closing loop and actuating force increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-adjusts the loop length to account for the high spring power extractor. By setting the loop length optimally before deployment, the system compensates for the high tension that will be generated by the powerful spring, ensuring that the actuating force remains manageable even with increased extractor thrust.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the loop length parameter specifically to work with high-power spring extractors. This parameter optimization allows the system to maintain manageable actuating forces despite the increased spring power, by precisely controlling the initial tension characteristics of the closing loop.
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
This solution stabilizes the actuation force, ensuring consistent unlocking of the parachute container regardless of tension changes, reducing the risk of untimely openings and simplifying the extraction process.
Implementation Method 1
a thrust exerted by a spring of an extractor device placed in the container between the compressed parachute and the flaps of the container
Implementation Method 2
a cutting tool capable of cutting the link to unlock the closure system
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
This device for unlocking a system for closing a container by means of a tie (12), such as a rope or strap, in particular a tie tensioned between closing eyelets, comprises a cutting tool (O) capable of cutting the tie in order to unlock the closing system. It comprises an actuation member (16) linked to the cutting tool, said actuation member being capable of being manipulated manually by the user in order to cause the cutting tool (O) to move into a position for severing said tie.