Figure 1-2.—Aircraft egress, pilot chute deployed, and main canopy free of container

several types Figure 1-2.—Aircraft egress, pilot chute deployed, and main canopy free of container. of ejection systems used in modern naval aircraft. For example, the ejection sequence of the Mk GRU-7 is as follows: 1. Initial ejection. 2. Drogue gun fires. 3. Controller drogue deploys. 4. Stabilizer drogue deploys. 5. Main parachute deploys and a normal parachute descent is made. From the experimental devices of the early Chinese through the seat ejection systems of today, you can view the evolution of the parachute. If you consider this development as a window through which you can see solutions to the escape problems of the fliers of the space shuttle or other advanced craft, then this history is just the end of the beginning. A parachute appears somewhat similar to a giant umbrella. By offering a large air-resisting or drag surface, the parachute, when opened, provides the deceleration necessary to allow for the safe descent of an aircrewman. In each parachute jump a sequence of events, shown in figure 1-2, takes place. After the parachutist clears the aircraft, he pulls the ripcord. The ripcord pins are removed from the locking cones, permitting the grommets to separate from the locking cones. The container spring opening bands pull the side and end flaps apart allowing the pilot chute to spring beyond the negative pressure area im- mediately above the falling body. This results in its getting a better “bite” on the surrounding air, thus speeding the opening of the canopy. The aircrewman falling away from the pilot parachute causes the main canopy to be pulled from the container assembly, followed by the suspension lines. The canopy begins to fill with air during this operation. The ties on the risers break as the load is applied. The lift webs are then pulled from the container while the canopy fully opens; at this point the parachutist receives the opening shock as 1-4