Abstract: A high altitude balloon. A plurality of layers of coextruded extrudate are formed in a seamless sheet in a shape that defines a balloon envelope. Delaminator layers may be interposed between two or more of the layers of extrudate.

Abstract: A high-altitude balloon manufacturing apparatus. The apparatus includes one or more extruders and one or more extrusion dies in fluid communication with the extruders. Each extrusion die is shaped to define one or more connector channels and one or more layering channels. The connector channels define extrudate flow paths between the layering channels.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a high-altitude balloon. The method includes coextruding at least two adjacent continuous layers of extrudate, extrusion-bonding the layers of extrudate to one another along an edge of the sheets of extrudate to form a seam, and cooling the extrudate.

Abstract: A high altitude balloon. A plurality of layers of coextruded extrudate are formed in a seamless sheet in a shape that defines a balloon envelope. Delaminator layers may be interposed between two or more of the layers of extrudate.

Abstract: Co-extruded and extruded high-altitude balloons and apparatus and methods for manufacture. A high-altitude balloon has a plurality of layers of coextruded balloon panel extrudate, a first one of the layers extrusion-bonded to a second one of the layers along a first edge, the second one of the layers extrusion-bonded to a third one of the layers along a strip spaced apart from the first edge, extrusion-bonding of successive layers alternating between the first edge and the strip, the first one of the layers and the last one of the layers extrusion-bonded together along a second edge.

Abstract: Co-extruded and extruded high-altitude balloons and apparatus and methods for manufacture. A high-altitude balloon has a plurality of layers of coextruded balloon panel extrudate, a first one of the layers extrusion-bonded to a second one of the layers along a first edge, the second one of the layers extrusion-bonded to a third one of the layers along a strip spaced apart from the first edge, extrusion-bonding of successive layers alternating between the first edge and the strip, the first one of the layers and the last one of the layers extrusion-bonded together along a second edge.

Abstract: A high altitude balloon, including a method and machine for manufacture, uses a perimeter border strip to couple two circular balloon panels with a lap or butt seal. Simultaneous sealing of two perimeter seals, one between the border strip and each of two balloon panels, is provided by supporting stacked balloon panels on a rotatable support and sealing around the full perimeter of the two interposed balloon panels and the border strip. The method and machine for manufacture allow for the mass production of high altitude balloons and minimize necessary material handling. The perimeter border strip can be dispensed and guided relative to the perimeter of the balloon panels for positioning before sealing together, as a bonding device is rotated relative to the balloon envelope.