The
FXC Model 12000 Automatic Parachute Ripcord Release is a precision
device, designed for parachutists making premeditated parachute
jumps.
It was designed, developed, and is manufactured by FXC Corporation,
the world's largest manufacturer of Automatic Parachute Ripcord
Releases.
The
Model 12000 is completely mechanical in action - not dependent
upon batteries, squibs, or pyrotechnic devices. Its design is
both compact and rugged in order to withstand the service normally
found in parachute jumping. The Model 12000 can be used on both
the main and/or reserve of a tandem system, as well as a chest
mounted reserve.
The
Model 12000's function is to automatically withdraw the parachute
ripcord pins in the event the parachute ripcord pins in the
event the parachutist reaches the point of the unit's preset
altitude, and for whatever reason, the parachutist's rate-of-descent
is exceeding 65 feet per second. Under normal conditions the
Model 12000 would not operate, due to the parachutist having
deployed his main chute, thus slowing his rate-of-fall below
40 feet per second, prior to reaching the Model 12000's release
altitude setting.
The
sensing mechanism senses the rate of fall vertically (velocity
downward).
Important
note: The Model 12000 has a "Safety Lockout Knob."
The Jumper, before climbing into the aircraft, must turn the
knob to "JUMP." If the Jump is aborted for any reason,
the "Safety Lockout Knob" must be turned to "OFF."
This is done to avoid any possibility of the unit firing in
the rapidly descending aircraft when below the release altitude
setting.
