APPENDIX I
GLOSSARY
ABRASION—A fuzzy spot or area on cloth,
usually caused by rubbing against an object.
ACC—Abbreviation for aircrew systems
change.
ACCORDLAN-FOLDS—Folding a canopy
into S-shaped layers of predetermined size.
Accordian folding produces a packaged parachute
assembly in the desired finished shape.
ACID—A fundamental chemical class
distinguished by having reactive hydrogen radicals
(pH below 7.0). Acids can be extremely corrosive
to metal and damaging to fabric.
ADAPTER, HARNESS—A rectangular
metal fitting with a fixed crossbar used primarily
as an anchoring point.
ADAPTER, HARNESS FRICTION—A
rectangular metal fitting with a movable center
bar (friction grip). Facilitates quick adjustment
of a harness by the wearer.
AIRCREW MEMBER—An aircraft crew
member. Passengers are not considered aircrew
members.
ALKALINE—A substance that is opposite to
an acid, a base. Also, any substance that has the
properties of an alkali (metallic hydroxide).
ANEROID—A corrugated metal capsule used
in the automatic parachute ripcord release for
sensing atmospheric pressure. The aneroid will
initiate operation of an actuator at a preset
altitude.
ANTI-SEIZE TAPE—A tape of any of
several thin plastic-film materials (such as
tetrafluoroethylene) characterized by a waxy, oily
texture, and used to prevent binding between
mating surfaces of threaded parts when applied
to the male threaded portion.
APPROX—Abbreviation for approximately.
ASSEMBLY—A grouping of parts fitted
together to form a complete unit.
ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE—Pressure at
sea level, expressed as 14.696 pounds per square
inch, absolute, or 29.92 inches mercury column
(barometer). See also PSIA and IN. HG.
AUTOMATIC PARACHUTE RIPCORD
RELEASE—A barometrically controlled device
that mechanically or by explosive force actuates
the parachute ripcord assembly, causing the
parachute container to open at a preset altitude.
AWL—A pointed tool for piercing small holes
in cloth, leather, wood, and other soft materials.
BACKSTITCH—A stitch made by inserting
the needle a stitch length to the right and bringing
it up an equal distance to the left. Also, sewing
back over a row of stitches.
BAG, SHOT—A bag filled with lead shot
used to hold the canopy in place during packing.
BAG, DEPLOYMENT—A canvas enclosure
for the canopy and suspension lines. In use,
the deployment bag controls release of suspension
lines and canopy, ensuring orderly opening.
BALL, CABLE RETAINING—A steel ball
that is swaged to the ripcord cable and secures
the ripcord handle to the cable.
BAND, LATERAL—Webbing inserted in
canopy skirt and vent hems to reinforce edges and
distribute load.
BAND, POCKET—A piece of tape or line
attached at the skirt hem and across the radial
seam, which causes the gores to be pulled outward
AI-1
