Automated Payload Disconnect Assembly for Rapid Lashing Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional disconnect assemblies for payloads from delivery platforms are inefficient, particularly in hostile locations, as they require significant time to release lashings, often necessitating cutting which renders the lashings unusable, and are cumbersome when dealing with multiple lashings.
Innovation Solution
A disconnect assembly featuring a releasable connection between the payload and delivery platform, actuated by an automated trigger mechanism that can detect landing, use a timer, or receive a signal to release the payload without operator intervention, utilizing a 3-ring release mechanism and actuation cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lashing release methods (ratchet handle or tensioning lever) are used, then the lashing can be released without cutting, but the release process takes significant time especially in hostile locations
Solution Approach 1:
The lashing system is divided into multiple independent lashing units, each with its own quick-release mechanism. This segmentation allows individual lashings to be released independently and rapidly, reducing the total time required to release all lashings compared to manual methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release mechanisms are pre-configured with release cords or triggers that can be actuated remotely or automatically. The release function is prepared in advance, allowing instantaneous activation without the need for manual manipulation of ratchet handles or tensioning levers during the critical release phase.
2Loss of time
If lashing strap is cut through for rapid release, then release time is reduced, but the lashing cannot be re-used and new expensive lashings are required
Solution Approach 1:
The lashing system uses multiple modular lashing units with standardized quick-release connectors. Each lashing can be independently released and reattached, allowing selective reuse of individual lashings rather than requiring replacement of the entire lashing system after cutting.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release mechanisms are designed to allow rapid release and recovery of the lashing straps. The reusable connectors and straps can be recovered after release, inspected, and reused for subsequent deliveries, eliminating the need to discard and replace expensive lashings after each use.
3Ease of operation
If multiple lashings are released individually using conventional methods, then each lashing can be controlled separately, but the total release time becomes especially significant
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple lashing release mechanisms are combined into a coordinated system where all lashings can be released simultaneously or in sequence through a single master trigger or automated control system. This merging of control functions maintains individual lashing controllability while dramatically reducing the total release time compared to manual sequential release.
Solution Approach 2:
All release mechanisms are pre-configured and ready for simultaneous actuation. The system allows a single operator action or automated signal to trigger all release mechanisms at once, eliminating the time required for sequential manual release while maintaining the ability to control each lashing's release state.
4Loss of time
If automated trigger mechanism is used for rapid release, then operator intervention time is minimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
An automated trigger mechanism serves as an intermediary between the operator and the multiple lashing release mechanisms. This single automated device coordinates and actuates all release mechanisms simultaneously, reducing operator intervention to a simple trigger action while managing the complexity of controlling multiple lashings through a centralized control system.
Data Source
AI summary
A disconnect assembly for disconnecting a payload from a delivery platform includes a disconnect device for providing a releasable connection between the payload and the delivery platform. The disconnect assembly also includes an actuation mechanism for actuating release of the releasable connection, and a trigger mechanism for triggering the actuation mechanism to release the releasable connection. The trigger mechanism is automated such that the trigger mechanism can trigger the actuation mechanism without requiring operator intervention at the trigger mechanism. Also provided is a kit of parts, a delivery apparatus and a method of disconnecting a payload from a delivery platform.