Patent ID: 6712317
Filing Date: 2004-03-30
Classification: B64D

Abstract:
A deceleration and orientation assembly for an aerial cargo container comprised of a cargo box with an upper end and a plurality of rotor blades hinged adjacent said cargo box upper end, said blades having a stowed position against said box and a deployed position extending outwardly from said box in a generally horizontal plane, said blades being rotatable with said box, said assembly comprising:a) an air resistance device; b) a blade retainer adapted to secure said blades in the stowed position; c) a metering cord including a plurality of folded segments having a first end attached to said air resistance device and an opposed end attached to the upper end of said box, a portion of said cord securing said blade retainer, whereby said cord segments unfold sequentially upon exertion of a force between said air resistance device and said container to slow and orient said container, said blade retainer thereafter being released to permit said blades to move to their extended positions; and d) a housing to enclose said air resistance device and cord, said housing having a first opening for removing said chute and said cord, a second opening for attaching said cord to said container, and a third opening for attaching said cord to said blade retainer.