Evaluation of a new universal jettison mechanism for helicopter underwater escape.
BACKGROUND
To date, there is no standard jettison mechanism for doors, windows, or hatches in ditched helicopters. A new Universal Escape Exit (UEE) has been invented and the performance has been compared with two current in-service systems in a helicopter underwater escape trainer.


METHODS
A total of 416 evacuations were conducted by 40 subjects in two experiments using the Survival Systems Limited's underwater escape trainer.


RESULTS
The UEE had a distinct 2-s advantage to escape; and, in the majority of cases, was preferred to a rotating lever or a straight push out system.


CONCLUSIONS
Further work should continue with UEE development for qualification in an operational helicopter.
Brooks
C J
CJ
Defence & Civil Institute of Environmental Medicine, Toronto, ON.
Miller
L
L
Morton
S
S
Baranski
J
J
D000060:Accidents, Aviation; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000401:Aircraft; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D004630:Emergencies; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007101:Immersion; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D008297:Male; D018635:Rescue Work / Q000379:methods*; D017751:Safety Management; D013534:Survival; D013997:Time Factors