Delayed restraint release device for inflatable escape slides

Abstract

A delayed restraint releaseable device utilized to restrain and controllably release the lower end of an inflating escape slide at a predetermined pressure, orientation and time. The device combines two distinct restraint mechanisms into one combination unit. The primary release is accomplished by means of shear pin or pins located at the first end of the device. Under normal conditions, the release is accomplished by shearing of the pin or pins under the load provided by the tied back inflating slide. The back-up release, in series with the primary release, occurs when the pressure of the reduced load causes a piston within the restraint to move against both a spring and captive fluid. As the piston moves, the fluid transfers through a precise sized orifice in the piston, from one side of the piston to the other. The piston moves eventually to a point at which the interlocking leg of the piston support shaft is released, thus allowing the ends of the mechanism to separate.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.