Pressure equalization systems

A system for preventing the sudden depressurization of a compartment in an aircraft from causing structural damage or damage to other critical aircraft components. The system includes a pivotable closure (42). Normally, this closure is latched across a passage (48) between a pressurized compartment such as a passenger cabin (20) and a dump (38) such as the space between the cabin wall and the outer skin (40) of the aircraft. In the event that pressure is suddenly lost in a second pressurized compartment such as a cargo hold beneath the floor (30) of the passenger compartment (20), a pressure differential is created across a flap-type latch actuator (86) carried by the closure (42). This rotates the actuator, disengaging an actuator-associated latch element from a fixedly mounted keeper (84) and thereby allowing the closure (42) to be swung to an open position by outrushing air. This makes the entire are of the passage to the dump (38) available for the outflow of air. As a consequence, the pressure between the two compartments is rapidly equalized, keeping the floor (30) of the passenger compartment (20) from collapsing and preventing damage to critical aircraft components routed beneath the floor (30) or through the aircraft body such as control cables, electrical leads, and hydraulic lines.