Today, one of the main strengths of the company is its ability to develop tailor-made barrier solutions. “The beauty of a 9g net is that it can be designed to meet the needs of most aircraft, even volume critical configurations,” confirms Goodman. “Having the most advanced software means that we can create a range of barrier designs to suit any number of payload issues. Goodman cites examples of nets configured to contour around the forward pallets. With these innovative designs, customers were able to maximise the payload without the need for complex and expensive rigid bulkhead structures.
“Maximising payload without incurring additional weight is of course a key concern for most customers, which is why we are continually researching ways to enhance the performance of our products. The Semi-Rigid Barrier, which we launched last year is a perfect example. The new design comprises a net structure within a high-strength integral frame. The net structure has been engineered using low extension materials including liquid crystal polymer fibres, so that forward distension is reduced considerably. With such a design, AmSafe Bridport has ensured that aircraft structure radial loads are virtually eliminated, and interface attachments can be put in the most efficient positions. The result is a barrier that weighs significantly less than an equivalent small-footprint bulkhead at a fraction of the cost. AmSafe Bridport has plans to announce further interesting develoe cost. AmSafe Bridport has plans to announce further interesting developments in 2005.