Mr David Betts1
1Lifesaving Systems Corporation, Sunshine Coast, Australia
Abstract:
Release under load devices have been in use for 2-3 decades, traditionally the Capewell Parachute Release or the Quick Release Box. LSC were approached by multiple agencies globally to design a device that was more suited to the role of helicopter rescue operations. LSC set about capturing requirements and reviewing accident reports;
CASA – ATSO C1003:
1. Simple and obvious action,
2. Able to release easily under load with 1 hand,
3. Protected against inadvertent release,
4. Only able to be release by using 2 distinct and separate physical actions to initiate release of the load from the winch hook.
Additional requirements based upon historic incidents, customer feedback and global aviation regulations:
1. Operate at a pull force above the point that the clutch slips on hoists,
2. Be protected against a causality on the wire functioning the device,
3. Not be able to appear secured when the device is not,
4. Be essentially maintenance free, beyond basic cleaning of device,
5. Operate with either hand, to account for left/right dominant hand or hand injury on the job,
6. Simple visual indication of first stage operation,
7. Easily restow should the first stage be actioned and no longer needed.
After 4 years of design and testing, the Quad Lok Release has been approved by the FAA and CASA as an inline harness release under load device. Making the Quad Lok Release the world’s first device that has been purpose built for and complies with, all regulations required of a release under load device.
Presentation to focus on design requirements, operational usage and educating operators of requirements for release under load devices and safety aspects attached to historic cases of inadvertent failures of legacy systems.
Additional information can be found at the following link; https://lifesavingsystems.com/products/the-triton-quad-lok-release-harness-faa-approved
Biographies:
Former QAS Paramedic maintaining a non-practicing registration, Helicopter Rescue Crewman and Hoist Operator operating in various roles within Australia including 12 months with the Irish Coast Guard. 4 years as a Clearance Diver with the Royal Australian Navy, undertook a mature age apprenticeship as Helicopter Licensed Airframe Maintenance Engineer. Director of All Elements Protection and Technical Support Engineer with Lifesaving Systems Corporation & Axnes Wireless Intercom Systems.