Characterization of a Hoisting Device using Variable Length Control and Real-Time Gyroscopic Data

This paper presents a characterization of a hoisting device using variable length control and real-time gyroscopic data. The aim is to stabilize low-mass payloads in medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) rescues. Some of the co-authors previously presented the variable length hoisting control scheme at NODYCON 2021, and preliminary testing results of a first-generation hoisting device were presented at NODYCON 2023. This paper presents the characterization of a second-generation device that hoists the payload attached to a 6 m cable using real-time gyroscopic data; a more detailed analysis of testing videos; and a comparison of constant pull-up test results with numerical simulation results. Test results show that this second-generation device reduces the swing angle from 18.7 deg to 9.6 deg in 55.3 s (13 oscillations). In comparison, the swing angle of a free-swinging cable reduces from 18.9 deg to 9.4 deg in 75.8 s (16 oscillations).