PARACHUTE FOR LOW ALTITUDE DEPLOYMENT

摘要

A parachute is adapted for deployment at low altitudes and low air speeds, such as for use in emergency evacuations from buildings. A canopy of the parachute includes a conical portion with a top polar opening. The canopy also includes a porous section that create an airflow stream during descent, generating forward speed and enabling the parachute to be steered during descent. The materials used in the canopy lines and the harness help reduce shocks and help to sustain a substantially steady-state internal air pressure in the canopy. A method for folding the parachute helps to reduce the time to deployment.