It is designed to release the cargo when it senses reduction in the suspended weight of the cargo upon ground impact.
To prevent premature release during the parachute deployment phase, a user-adjusted 10 to 20 second timer is set (the time delay allows the parachute and cargo to stabilize). Once the timer stops, the unit is armed and sensing mechanisms are activated.
The rugged features, reliability and most importantly, the purely mechanical inner workings (no pyrotechnics or electronics involved) make the Atlas (for weights from 500 lb to 5,000 lb) the
ideal choice for parachute releases.

• Rapid, easy rigging – No requirements for specialized connection hardware.
• Simple to use – Set the timer and the unit is ready to go. Reset the timer
  and close the jaw to prepare for another deployment.
• Maintenance – No regular repair or overhaul required.
• Water and corrosion resistant
  – Stainless steel and hard bronze construction and sealed design prevent water and corrosive agents from contacting mechanical parts.
• Reliable and rugged – Meets inservice requirements for acceleration, vibration, shock, sand and dust as well as temperature extremes.
• Compact – Fits in your pocket
• Unlimited shelf life – The 100%mechanical operation means no batteries to replace, fluid to refill, or pyrotechnics to re-certify. Just blow with compressed air and wipe clean for storage.