Helikopterisõlm

Helikopterisõlm, also known as the helicopter knot, is a type of friction hitch used in arboriculture and rigging. It is designed to create a strong, adjustable grip on a rope that can be easily released or tightened under load. The knot is particularly useful for situations where a rope needs to be temporarily secured to a fixed point or another rope, allowing for controlled movement or adjustment.

The construction of the helikopterisõlm involves wrapping the working end of a rope around a standing part or a fixed object several times, creating friction. The number of wraps and the way they are arranged are crucial to the knot's effectiveness. Typically, the working end is passed through a loop or around the standing part in a specific sequence that allows the knot to cinch down when pulled. The friction generated between the wraps prevents the knot from slipping.

Its primary advantage is its ability to hold securely under significant tension while remaining relatively easy to loosen when the load is removed or reduced. This adjustability makes it suitable for tasks such as positioning a rope in a tree for climbing or establishing a temporary anchor point. While effective, the helikopterisõlm requires proper understanding and practice to tie correctly and safely. Incorrectly tied knots can slip or become impossible to release. It is not generally recommended for life-support applications where absolute certainty of holding power is paramount.