Lighter than air balloon systems and methods
US11447226B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 27, 2020 |
| Grant date | Sep 20, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64B1/48
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Described herein are features for a high altitude lighter-than-air (LTA) system and associated methods. The LTA may include a super-pressure balloon (SPB) and/or a zero-pressure balloon (ZPB). The SPB may include two, three, four or more chambers. There may be more than one SPB. The SPB may use a compressor to provide a variable amount of ballast air by pumping in or expelling out ambient air. The zero-pressure balloon (ZPB) may be attached with the multi-chamber SPB. The ZPB may provide lift for the system. The SPB may include lifting gas and ballast air to provide both lifting and descent functions. The SPB may have an internal barrier separating a lift gas compartment from a variable ballast air compartment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.