Design and Analysis of CH-47 External Cargo Handling System (Snubbed Load)

摘要

Development of a preliminary design concept to snub containerized external cargo loads to the CH-47 aircraft, for improved terrain and Night/IMC flight capability, has been completed. Results are suitable for detail design implementations leading to prototype demonstration of the system in the future. The External Cargo Handling System (ECHS) snubs loads (of up to 25,000 lbs. weight) against the helicopter landing gear, using a self hoisting adapter framework powered by 6 horsepower tandem electric hoists installed of non-linear vibration isolation mounts to interface the load with the aircraft. The ECHS snubbing adapter uses guide arms for load acquisition assistance, and twistlocks to lock the load to the adapter. No structural modification to the CH-47 is required. Compared to carrying cargo on conventional external sling suspension with a CLAH adapter, load snubbing provides a substantial performance benefit for terrain flight missions; and at the same time improves both masking and maneuverability along with capability for flight at night, or in IMC condition. (Author)