Rotorcraft External Load Mass Rope with Dynamic Length Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external load mass rope systems for rotorcrafts are inefficient as they primarily rely on a single cargo hook for load distribution, leading to weight penalties and reduced payload capacity due to the unused second cargo hook in double cargo hook arrangements, and existing solutions either increase weight or cause friction and abrasion.
Innovation Solution
A three-leg Y-Rope external load mass rope system with length adjustment units that distribute the load evenly between both cargo hooks, allowing for increased payload capacity and flexibility by adjusting based on operating parameters such as load weight and deflection angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single cargo hook arrangement is used for NHEC transportation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the payload capacity is limited by the rated load of the single cargo hook
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two cargo hooks into a unified dual-cargo-hook arrangement where both hooks work simultaneously to support the external load. The first and second cargo hooks are both engaged with the external load mass rope, distributing the load between them. This merging approach allows the system to exceed the payload capacity of a single cargo hook while maintaining manageable device complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The external load mass rope is segmented into multiple functional portions: a first rope portion connected to the first cargo hook, a second rope portion connected to the second cargo hook, and a third rope portion connecting to the external load. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each rope portion and enables flexible load distribution between the two cargo hooks, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and payload capacity.
2Reliability
If a double cargo hook arrangement is used for HEC transportation, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases and the second cargo hook remains unused for NHEC transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the external load mass rope system to be universal, capable of functioning effectively with either one or two cargo hooks engaged. The rope system includes first and second attachment means that can connect to cargo hooks, and the configuration allows both hooks to be utilized simultaneously for NHEC transportation. This multi-functionality enables the same dual-cargo-hook arrangement to satisfy HEC safety requirements while also optimizing NHEC payload capacity, eliminating the redundancy penalty.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the external load mass rope is made longer to accommodate various operating conditions, then the adaptability is improved, but the weight of the rope increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic length adjustment units within the external load mass rope system that allow the rope length to be modified during operation. The adjustment units can extend or retract rope sections based on real-time operating conditions such as load weight, swing angle, and helicopter flight phase. This dynamic adaptability enables the rope to optimize its length continuously, providing versatility for various operating conditions while minimizing rope weight by only deploying the necessary length during each operation.
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
Enables increased payload capacity beyond the rated load of individual cargo hooks, reduces shock loads and vibrations, and allows for compact, efficient operation with reduced weight penalties, enhancing rotorcraft performance.
Implementation Method 1
the rope material having predefined lengthening properties for elastic elongation
Implementation Method 2
said associated length adjustment unit comprises at least one spring coil damper having predefined dampening properties
Data Source
AI summary
An external load mass rope for attachment to a cargo hook device of a rotorcraft that comprises at least one first cargo hook and at least one second cargo hook, the external load mass rope comprising at least one first rope leg and at least one second rope leg, wherein the at least one first rope leg is adapted for attachment to the at least one first cargo hook and the at least one second rope leg is adapted for attachment to the at least one second cargo hook, characterized in that at least one of the first and second rope legs comprises an associated length adjustment unit that is adapted to shorten or lengthen the at least one of the first and second rope legs in operation on the basis of associated operating parameters.