Aircraft Long-Line Wireless Hook Release Without Electrical Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electrical connection systems for helicopter long lines are time-consuming, prone to operator error, and pose safety risks due to the need for stretching and securing electrical connectors, which can lead to accidental load release and interference with the tail rotor, and require additional weight from slip-ring hubs.
Innovation Solution
A wireless long line system using Bluetooth or other secure communication protocols for controlling the release mechanism, with a separate wireless channel for each hook and a waterproof housing for the receiver, allowing for safe and simple operation without the need for electrical connections, and compatible with both new and existing hooks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electrical connection system is used for controlling the release mechanism, then the load can be released remotely, but the system becomes time-consuming and prone to operator error due to the need for stretching and securing electrical connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the electrical connection components (electrical cord, connectors, tape) from the long line system entirely. The release mechanism is controlled through the existing mechanical cable linkage without requiring any electrical connections, thereby eliminating the time-consuming stretching and securing operations while maintaining remote release capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the control function from the mechanical linkage. Instead of integrating electrical cords into the long line assembly, the system uses the existing mechanical cable for both control and structural functions, dividing the system into independent mechanical and electrical domains where only the mechanical domain is needed for release control
2Reliability
If electrical connectors are used for remote release control, then the load can be released from the aircraft, but safety risks arise due to accidental load release and interference with the tail rotor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of complex electrical connections into benefit by eliminating them entirely. The mechanical cable system, which cannot accidentally disconnect like electrical connectors, is used for release control. The rigidity and reliability of the mechanical linkage prevent accidental release while the shortening of the long line reduces interference with the tail rotor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the mechanical cable as an intermediary that transmits both the structural load and the release control force. This single mechanical element replaces the electrical cord and connectors, providing a reliable connection that cannot accidentally disconnect and eliminating the safety risks associated with electrical connection failures
3Extent of automation
If electrical cords and sheaths are included in the long line, then remote release control is enabled, but additional weight and drag are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the electrical cord and sheath components from the long line assembly. The release control function is achieved through the existing mechanical cable alone, eliminating the additional weight of electrical components while maintaining full remote release capability through the mechanical linkage system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the mechanical cable multi-functional by using it for both structural support (carrying the load) and control (transmitting the release command). This eliminates the need for separate electrical cord and sheath components, reducing overall weight while achieving remote release control through the cable's dual function
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless assembly for use with a long line, an aircraft and a battery is provided, the wireless assembly comprising: a hook, which includes an electro-mechanical actuator; a waterproof housing mounted on the hook; a wireless receiver which includes a microprocessor, is retained in the waterproof housing and is in electrical communication with the electro-mechanical actuator; a wireless transmitter, which includes a microprocessor; and a switch which is in electrical communication with the wireless transmitter, the wireless transmitter and the switch for locating in the aircraft. A method of wirelessly controlling the release of a load from the hook is also provided.