Fixed Beam Suspension Eliminates Trolley Problems

Helicopter cargo equipment provider Onboard Systems International announced recently its new fixed beam suspension system for the Bell 407 has been STC certified by the FAA. Onboard has also submitted this system to Transport Canada and EASA for certification in Canada and Europe, respectively.

"The fixed beam design greatly reduces the total part count -- which also reduces maintenance costs and requirements," said Jason Lemmon, President & General Manager of Onboard Systems. "Eliminating the trolley system makes it much quieter to operate, as there's no more side-to-side banging. It also allowed us to reduce the total system weight by 35%."

The fixed beam system also offers additional clearance as measured from the lowest hanging point of the cargo hook. This is important for operations in remote field locations where prepared landing pads are few and far between. The addition of built-in travel limits to both the load beam and the cargo hook protect the hook, the suspension system and the aircraft.

Also available in the first half of 2009 will be an Onboard Weighing System for the new fixed beam assembly, which uses Onboard's new pin load cell technology. Pin load cells are designed to mount on one side of the hook by replacing the main attach bolt, rather than attaching as a separate link above the hook. This allows for increased ground clearance, easier cable routing and lower weight, while still allowing the pilot to know the exact weight of the load on the cargo hook to maximize load efficiency while reducing airframe stress.

FMI: www.onboardsystems.com