Release mechanism for aeroplane load - is for low level operations and has guide fixed to aircraft floor attached to parachute canopy

摘要

The load release mechanism consists of a detachable sledge (10) which locates in a guide fixed to the floor of the aircraft's hold and is attached to the parachute canopy. The interior of the aircraft's hold, which has rear doors, is provided with rollers which allow the load, mounted on a pallete (1), to be manoeuvred. The rear edge of the palette is fitted with bearings (11) which locate in a groove in the sledge. As the load is pushed forward towards the open aircraft hatch the sledge follows the guide and is twisted round, this action releasing the load and deploying the parachute canopy. The sledge finally leaves the guide and descends with the load.