Patent ID: 6133818
Filing Date: 2000-10-17
Classification: B64G,G05G,Y10T

Abstract:
A highly reliable release apparatus for controlling the deployment of a device by restraining or releasing a first member under tension which respectively prevents or allows the deployment of the device, the apparatus comprising:a support member having an opening, the support member having a first face about said opening;a second member capable of being attached to said first member, the second member being located within said opening when said first member is in tension;at least three destructible locking members arranged on said first face of said support member for restraining said second member within said opening in said support member in order to maintain tension on said first member;said second member being attached to said first member in a manner such that at least two of said locking members must be severed before the restraint on said second member is released; anda control system for actuating said release apparatus by selectively severing at least two of said locking members when deployment of said device is desired.