Quick release mechanical attachment with integral electrical interconnect

Abstract

A quick release mechanical attachment that forms part of a missile loading system for loading a missile onto a launch rail disposed on a vehicle. An electric crane mechanism, comprising a boom and hoist, is used to lift the missile adjacent the launch rail, and the quick release mechanical attachment is used to interface the electric crane to the deck of the vehicle. The quick release mechanical attachment comprises a base that includes a body having an internal bore and a counterbore. An electrical contact arrangement comprising a plurality of insulated conductive members is disposed in the counterbore. A plurality of electrical connectors are coupled to the conductive members, and first securing members are provided for securing the electrical contact arrangement in the counterbore. The base in its assembled condition has a predetermined internal taper. The electrical contact arrangement comprises a plurality of nonconductive spacers that surround the conductive members. The rotatable coupler comprises a body and an inner mast tube secured to the body. An electrical contact arrangement comprising a plurality of insulated conductive members is secured to the body and the inner mast tube. The electrical contact arrangement comprises a plurality of nonconductive spacers that surround the conductive members. A plurality of electrical connectors are coupled to the conductive members, and second securing members are coupled to the inner mast tube for securing the electrical contact arrangement to the body. The assembled coupler has a predetermined external taper that substantially matches the taper of the base.