Safety Link Assembly With Cam Release for Aerial Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional safety link assemblies for aerial delivery systems can open prematurely, leading to early deployment of main parachutes and potential aircraft damage, as they are heavy and do not allow for prompt release of the extractor parachute connection.
Innovation Solution
A safety link assembly with a retaining mechanism and securing mechanism, providing a mechanical advantage to ensure the extractor parachute is only released after the aerial delivery platform has been pulled out a required distance, using a parallel arrangement with a conventional EFTC coupling or as a standalone solution, featuring a retaining lever and securing lever with biased positions to facilitate controlled release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional EFTC coupling is used to retain the connection between the aerial delivery platform and extractor parachute, then the connection can withstand large extraction forces, but the coupling is heavy and may not allow prompt releasing of the connection
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into separate components: a link assembly with cam mechanism for retention, and a latch assembly for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall weight while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The conventional heavy jaw mechanism is replaced with a cam-based retention system and latch assembly. The cam mechanism provides mechanical advantage for retention, while the latch assembly enables prompt releasing, eliminating the need for heavy jaws.
2Reliability
If two EFTC couplings are used in parallel to prevent premature opening, then reliability improves, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed with a cam surface that provides gradual engagement and retention. The cam profile is shaped to ensure reliable retention during extraction while allowing controlled release at the appropriate time, preventing premature opening without needing duplicate couplings.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly provides feedback-based control: it remains engaged during extraction (retaining the connection) and automatically releases when the cam mechanism indicates the platform has reached the required position, ensuring reliable operation without premature opening.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a conventional EFTC coupling is used, then the connection can be retained during extraction, but the release is not prompt and may cause main canopy extraction at higher speed
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed to be dynamically controllable: it provides secure retention during extraction but can be rapidly actuated for prompt release. The cam mechanism's geometry enables controlled transition from retention to release state, ensuring timely separation at the correct speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam and latch mechanism is designed to automatically release when the platform reaches the required position during extraction. The cam profile guides the latch into the released state without requiring additional actuation, ensuring prompt and timely release.
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
Prevents premature release of the extractor parachute, ensuring successful aerial delivery by maintaining the connection until the platform has cleared the aircraft, reducing the risk of damage and allowing for a controlled deployment sequence.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining mechanism comprising a retaining lever rotatably mounted on a rotary axis on the main body and rotatable between a first retaining position, in which a first region of the retaining lever acts on the ejectable connector to retain the ejectable connector adjacent the main body
Implementation Method 2
The link assembly comprises a rotatable cam which is held in the latch assembly by a latch. The latch is operable to release the cam and thereby decouple the link assembly and latch assembly.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a
Figure 2b~2c
AI summary
The present invention provides a safety link assembly (140) for use with an aerial delivery apparatus, the assembly comprising a main body (150), an ejectable connector (180), a retaining mechanism (160) comprising a retaining lever (164), (165) rotatably mounted on a rotary axis (163) on the main body and rotatable between a first retaining position, and a second releasing position, and a securing mechanism (170) comprising a securing member moveable between a first securing position, and a second non-securing position, wherein the distance from the first region (168) of the retaining lever to the rotary axis (163) is less than the distance from the second region (169) of the retaining lever to the rotary axis (163). The invention also provides a method of performing an aerial delivery from an aircraft.