Failure Analysis of Helicopter External Cargo-Handling Systems
Abstract
A study of the failure of helicopter cargo-handling systems was conducted. A data search and compilation were completed from which the external cargo-handling system was defined and the system operation explained. Operational parameters were also defined and explained. Also criteria for assessing failures were established, data sources were cited, a search plan outlined, and failure data and consensus data were retrieved and categorized. The data were taken primarily from cargo helicopters deployed in Vietnam. Their overall utilization, load categories, and rigging materials were determined, and a consensus summary of the cause of specific failures was compiled and documented. A data analysis was conducted with the relationship of failure occurrences and rates determined for specific types of accidents and failures. Predominant causes of failures were analyzed, a cost/value of relationship of cargo dropped established, and projections of the heavy-lift helicopter as a cargo carrier were made. Candidate corrective actions were recommended, with the development of specific corrective actions made, encompassing a collapsible cargo net-pallet concept and an investigation of cargo hook design principles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0767254
Entities
People
- Robert E. Hunt
Organizations
- Arthur D. Little