Abstract: There is provided a stratospheric stay facility that allows humans to stay in the stratosphere in the altitude range of 15 to 25 kilometers. The stratospheric stay facility includes a structure for stay 10 having a cabin in which an environment allowing humans to stay in it is maintained and having resistance to pressure in an environment at a highest altitude at which the structure for stay is kept flying, airships 20 that are adapted to be capable of ascending to the sky by buoyancy and lifts the structure for stay 10 to keep it flying in the stratosphere in the altitude range of 15 to 25 kilometers, and first mooring cables 50 and second mooring cable 80 each of which has a first end fixed to the structure for stay 10 and a second end fixed to the ground to moor the structure for stay 10.

Abstract: An aerostat assembly, specifically an aerostat assembly including one or more cameras for aerial photography and surveillance. The aerostat assembly includes a frame assembly having a pivot assembly joined to a balloon tether line. Thrusters on the frame allow an operator to maneuver the assembly to desired positions as well as rotate the frame assembly about the pivot assembly.

Abstract: A location signaling device comprising a wing balloon for signaling a location. The wing balloon is fixed to a tether line that itself is fixed to the location to be signaled. The wing balloon has an inflatable aerodynamically shaped hollow body to be at least partly be filled with a lighter-than-air gas and having a wing attack surface for air flowing relative to said wing balloon. The floating aloft of said wing balloon is supported by said air flow. When the wing balloon is inflated, a flexible wing portion is passively variable. The stronger the wind, the less attack is given. Thus, the dragging force on the tether line is generally static.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a lighter than air platform, a reversible propulsive/wind turbine, a deployable anchor to constrain movement of the lighter than air platform with respect to an anchor point allowing wind to drive the turbine, and a generator/motor coupled to the turbine to produce electrical power when movement of the lighter than air platform is constrained. A method performed by the apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: A flying apparatus having a frame configured to couple to a high voltage tether system, and at least one motor module mounted to the frame, the module including a holding structure attached to the frame, a rotating structure, including a rotor shaft, configured to rotate relative to the holding structure, a rotor attached to the rotor shaft and a plurality of motors attached to the holding structure, each including a drive shaft configured to engage with the rotor shaft, wherein the motors are configured to receive electrical energy from the tether system and drive the drive shafts to create a torque on the rotor shaft to thereby rotate the rotor and create lift to fly the apparatus from the ground to a desired position aloft while remaining coupled to the tether system.

Abstract: A location signaling device comprising a wing balloon for signaling a location. The wing balloon is fixed to a tether line that itself is fixed to the location to be signaled. The wing balloon has an inflatable aerodynamically shaped hollow body to be at least partly be filled with a lighter-than-air gas and having a wing attack surface for air flowing relative to said wing balloon. The floating aloft of said wing balloon is supported by said air flow. When the wing balloon is inflated, a flexible wing portion is passively variable. The stronger the wind, the less attack is given. Thus, the dragging force on the tether line is generally static.

Abstract: In this invention, there is provided a method and device for shielding and deflecting unguided missiles, mortars and other projectiles and ordnance. A plurality of lighter-than-air balloons are tethered from a plurality of ground anchors so that the balloons are positioned spaced apart, adjacent to, along and buoyed above the border to be defended between the launch area and the target area. A defense shield is suspended from the plurality of tethered lighter-than-air balloons, extending generally vertically covering a range of heights for engaging and deflecting missiles launched along the expected trajectories.

Abstract: A location signalling device comprising a wing balloon for signalling a location. The wing balloon is fixed to a tether line that itself is fixed to the location to be signalled. The wing balloon has an inflatable aerodynamically shaped hollow body to be at least partly be filled with a lighter-than-air gas and having a wing attack surface for air flowing relative to said wing balloon. The floating aloft of said wing balloon is supported by said air flow. When the wing balloon is inflated, a flexible wing portion is passively variable. The stronger the wind, the less attack is given. Thus, the dragging force on the tether line is generally static.

Abstract: A rocket launch system (1) includes a tubular rocket launcher carriage (2) with electromotive cableway traction drives (26) conveyed beneath a two axis pivot (63) anchored to the earth, elevated into a co-axial transfer tube (124, 143) leading to three primary tether cables (27) whose weight is offset by balloons (164). The carriage is conveyed to a docking station (166) supported into the stratosphere by a pair of secondary cables (184) suspended under an attachment frame (162) for tensioning balloons. The carriage is engaged by a carriage end gripper (196) guided by two secondary and two tertiary cables (186) and lifted by a lower hoist (198) guided by the secondary cables. This lower hoist is supported by an upper hoist (168) suspended from the tensioning balloons attachment frame.

Abstract: A system for lifting gas replenishment in a tethered airship system includes an upper airship with a first end of a tether attached to the upper airship. A balloon is configured to travel up the tether toward the upper airship carrying a payload of lifting gas. A method for gas replenishment of an airship is also provided.

Abstract: The subject matter described herein relates to strain reduction on a balloon system in extreme weather conditions. The strain reduction is achieved by using an elastic bungee between a balloon and the tether attached to the balloon. As wind pushes on the balloon, immediate pressure caused by the wind is cushioned on the elastic bungee rather than on the balloon or the tether, thereby reducing immediate force and tension on either the balloon or the tether. Thus, the balloon system that includes the balloon and the tether is protected from damage that can possibly be caused by tension due to pressure.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for transporting and dispersing solid particles into the earth's stratosphere, comprising a conduit connecting a substantially ground level location to an elevated location, a particle transport means, and a deagglomeration means coupled with a dispersal means, wherein the deagglomeration means and dispersal means are located at an elevated location, and to a method of transporting particles of high refractive index into the stratosphere as well as to an aircraft and to a cloud thus formed.

Abstract: An integrated solar and wind energy conversion system that is carried aloft by an aerostat/balloon, which is filled with lighter-than-air gas or hot air comprises solar panel array and wind turbine array to convert solar radiation and wind power into usable and renewable energy for on and/or off-grid application or storage. The solar panel array includes at least one of the flexible solar panel and spray on solar composite or combinations thereof. The present invention requires minimal land mass, can be deployed in remote areas, it can be deployed as permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary configurations. The present invention uses computers to automate many of the systems function for maximum energy harvesting. The present invention can be used both day and night.

Abstract: An Airborne Elevator Apparatus capable of deploying at the same time multiple service loads at different altitudes in the Earth's atmosphere by physically separating tether weight carrier function from the service load weight carrier function of a common aerostat. The tether weight carrier function is performed by at least one airborne canopy assembly (20) filled with lighter than air gas, which has enough lifting power to support its own weight and the weight of the attached airborne cables (30). The service load carrier function is performed by several airborne booster assemblies (51). Designed to glide on the apparatus's airborne cables (30), an airborne booster assembly (51) filled with lighter than air gas has enough lifting power to carry its own weight and the weight of a service load at altitudes below the uppermost canopy. For stability purposes, the apparatus is designed to rotate around its vertical axis.

Abstract: A system and method for deploying a payload with an aerostat uses a mobile transporter for moving the system to a deployment site. Structurally, the system includes a base unit with a rotation head mounted thereon. An envelope container for holding a deflated aerostat is mounted on the rotation head and a rotation of the container on the rotation head positions the aerostat for optimal compliance with the existing wind condition. Also included in the system is an inflator that is mounted on the base unit to inflate the aerostat with a Helium gas. And, the system includes a tether control unit for maintaining a connection with the aerostat during its deployment, in-flight use, and recovery. Preferably, a deployment computer is used for a coordinated control of the rotation head, inflator and tether.

Abstract: The technology described herein provides for the creation of an atmospherically-lifted multi-tethered structure in a semi-stationary position in the atmosphere, which supports cabled cargo handling operations within the three-dimensional space beneath the structure, allowing cargo loads to move directly from source to destination in that same space (between the ground and the atmospherically-suspended structure itself). The design combines a highly configurable aerial platform with the usefulness of complex cargo transportation systems to enable transit both at high speeds over long distances, and at low speeds on the localized level. Constant atmospheric lift from buoyancy and wind effects allows for a flexible transportation infrastructure over a broad three-dimensional area.

Abstract: An electric power generator comprising: at least one lighter than air balloon (LAB) with at least one photovoltaic array (PVA) embedded in a surface thereof; and a cable connecting the LAB to the ground and adapted to convey a buoyant gas to an inner volume of the LAB and also to convey an electric current generated by said PVA to a ground installation.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: An Airborne Elevator Apparatus capable of deploying at the same time multiple service loads at different altitudes in the Earth's atmosphere by physically separating tether weight carrier function from the service load weight carrier function of a common aerostat. The tether weight carrier function is performed by at least one airborne canopy assembly (20) filled with lighter than air gas, which has enough lifting power to support its own weight and the weight of the attached airborne cables (30). The service load carrier function is performed by several airborne booster assemblies (51). Designed to glide on the apparatus's airborne cables (30), an airborne booster assembly (51) filled with lighter than air gas has enough lifting power to carry its own weight and the weight of a service load at altitudes below the uppermost canopy. For stability purposes, the apparatus is designed to rotate around its vertical axis.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: A multiple-tethered kite extracts power from wind. Systems having three or more tethers coupled to a single kite are contemplated, as are systems having multiple kites coupled to a given pair of tethers. Commercially useful tethers would most likely have a length of at least 1000 meters, and would be fixed at least 100 meters apart. During a given cycle the distance between each of the bases and the kite would likely vary by at least 50 meters. Motion of the tethers can be converted to useful energy in any commercially viable manner, for example by driving an electric generator or a water pump.

Abstract: A system is disclosed whereby a sensor, communication device, or other payload may be lofted to an operational altitude and maintained over an area of interest for some time by a relatively inexpensive and disposable buoyant aircraft, then returned intact to its point of origin or another desired location by a reusable but also relatively inexpensive non-buoyant aircraft. Automatic unpiloted control is used for all stages of flight, including ascent, loiter, return, and landing Specialized equipment can be provided to simplify launch procedures, reducing the number of personnel required to operate the system.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for generating power from sunlight collected substantially above the earth's surface, comprised of an airborne platform which supports an apparatus to collect sunlight, an apparatus to convert sunlight to electricity, and an apparatus to transmit the electricity to a selected location on the earth's surface. The invention collects solar energy above the clouds and transmits the energy to a receiving station on the ground via a cable, thereby avoiding the attenuating effects of clouds and pollution, resulting in an improved solar power generation system.

Abstract: A mobile aerial platform system is provided. The aerial platform system may lift a payload, such as a surveillance system or a communications repeater, into the lower atmosphere to assist in applications such as crowd control or disaster relief. The aerial platform system may be contained in a portable configuration and transported to the deployment site using a vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention provides mobile aerial platform system, comprising: an aerial platform having an outer shell; a gas containment system disposed within the outer shell; a tether system for attachment of the aerial platform to a means for transporting the system; and a payload configured to be lifted by the aerial platform when the aerial platform is inflated; wherein the aerial platform is configured such that it may be completely collapsed when deployed.

Abstract: Elongated, cumbersome goods are transported using articulated trucks and unloaded using a crane. A method and an apparatus for transporting and use as crane for elongated, cumbersome loads over wide distances even under unfavorable infrastructure is proposed comprising a cable-guided lifting member, wherein when changing the transport mode to the crane mode the transported goods remain in the transport unit and the process is remotely controllable from the ground. In the transport mode, the load (20), the center of gravity of which is held in a rotating and tilting load bearing unit (2) connected to the support cable (7, 12) is pulled by transport winch cables (4) fastened to the lower rotating catch (10) of the load bearing unit (2) of mobile controllable winches (14), wherein the crane winch cables (5) are raised by lifting cables (6) by remote control to the crane node (1) and secured with a lowered transport securing ring (9).

Abstract: A multifunctional emergency kit includes a portable canister with an open top end and a lid. A helium cartridge is anchored within the canister, and a mechanism is included for automatically initiating an inflation process of the balloon while the lid is initially disposed at a closed position such that the balloon articulates the lid to an open position when filled to a predetermined volume. The kit further includes a plurality of illuminable sticks that glow in the dark when agitated. Such illuminable sticks are removably disposed within the canister, and a plurality of brackets are abutted against the helium cartridge and are anchored to the interior wall of the canister such that the helium cartridge remains statically and fixedly attached to the canister after the balloon is inflated and displaced out of the canister.

Abstract: An aircraft adapted to house a wind funnel, a wind diffuser, and a wind turbine configured to convert airflow flowing through the wind funnel into electricity is provided. The aircraft may feature a diffuser that increases the airflow through the wind funnel to increase power production. An electrical cable between the aircraft and a ground station transfers the generated electricity from the aircraft to the receiving ground station for distribution. In other embodiments, an aircraft featuring a plurality of buoyant bodies, wind funnels, diffusers, and turbines are coupled to a truss to form a module that generates electricity from airflow. In one embodiment, a plurality of modules may be interconnected to form a module array that is secured to a ground station responsible for receiving the electricity generated. Certain embodiments feature pitch control lines to control the pitch of the aircraft and modules facing the airflow.

Abstract: The technology described herein provides for the creation of an atmospherically-lifted multi-tethered structure in a semi-stationary position in the atmosphere, which supports cabled cargo handling operations within the three-dimensional space beneath the structure, allowing cargo loads to move directly from source to destination in that same space (between the ground and the atmospherically-suspended structure itself). The design combines a highly configurable aerial platform with the usefulness of complex cargo transportation systems to enable transit both at high speeds over long distances, and at low speeds on the localized level. Constant atmospheric lift from buoyancy and wind effects allows for a flexible transportation infrastructure over a broad three-dimensional area.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and system for providing surveillance of an area or a space. According to some embodiments of the present invention there may be provided a housing containing a deployable and inflatable surveillance balloon, which balloon may elevate and/or support a surveillance payload including one or more sensor assemblies. Data collected by the sensors may be transmitted to a user interface which may display the data to a user.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: A launch and recovery system for a tethered airborne element is provided that launches and retrieves the tethered airborne element in a completely unattended manner. The system is comprised of a protective shroud for storing a tethered airborne element, a winch module for releasing the airborne element to fly into the air or retrieving the element from the air, and a bearing for enabling the control of launch and recovery. Optionally, the system is also comprised of a slip ring assembly for providing external power and/or control signals to the winch module. The system can also be equipped with instrumentation modules on the tether line to provide a radio link and high altitude weather information. These modules may also contain other sensors and actuators which will help stabilize the airborne element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, comprising: providing an aerial platform having an outer shell; disposing a gas containment system within the outer shell; attaching the aerial platform to an object using a tether system; and inflating the aerial platform and lifting a payload; wherein the aerial platform is configured such that it may be completely collapsed when deployed.

Abstract: A balloon launch unit produces lift gas to enable balloon launch or to allow the prolongation of balloon flight. A method of using the balloon launch unit includes reforming a fuel source by reaction with water to generate hydrogen-rich lift gas mixtures, and injecting the lift gas into a balloon. The reforming operation includes causing the combustion of a combustible material with ambient oxygen for the release of energy; and heating a reforming combination of reaction fuel and water with the energy released from the combustion of the combustible material, to a temperature above that required for the reforming reaction wherein the fuel and water sources are reformed into lift gas. The amount of the combustible material combusted is sufficient to result in the release of enough energy to heat an amount of the reforming reaction fuel and water sources to the temperature above that required for the reforming reaction.

Abstract: An energy generation and storage system that uses a buoyant balloon suspended in a fluid and connected by a tether to a reel. The tether is taut and keeps the balloon from rising due to the buoyant force. A motor can do work to wind the reel in such a way that the balloon is pulled down against the buoyant force. Energy can be extracted from the system by allowing the balloon to rise, pulling on the tether and turning the reel that is connected to a generator. The generator and the motor can be the same unit, or they can be independent units which both connect to the reel.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.

Abstract: A power generation system is disclosed. The power generation system comprises a kite connected to a line. The line is alternatively let out during a traction phase and recovered during a recovery phase. A power extractor connected to the line to extract power during the traction phase. And, a power extraction controller configured to target a preferred traction phase line velocity and a preferred recovery phase line velocity.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for levitating photovoltaic arrays, or solar energy panels, above ground level using balloons affixed to the solar energy panels. The apparatus includes batteries and other modules necessary to serve a variety of needs and may optionally be stowed and/or portable.

Abstract: The lighter-than-air vehicle for shading is an airborne, movable system that provides sun shade for an open area. The vehicle is a substantially flat flying device having upper and lower surfaces, and which is filled with a lighter-than-air gas or gases, such as helium or hydrogen. The vehicle may be tethered to the ground through control wires, or may be fully autonomous and controlled by propeller fans. The required power may be provided by wire from ground, or through a portable power source, such as solar cells, mounted atop of vehicle. The vehicle has sun sensors that allow it to track the sun, and provides around the clock shaded area underneath its surface. The vehicle can also have pressure sensors and altitude sensors that may trigger an alarm in case of an emergency descent to the ground.

Abstract: A tether-based system for utilizing the aerostatic lift of a light-than-air balloon for the transport of payload across a wide area without having to translate the balloon along with the payload.

Abstract: Optical fiber combinations, connected to a lighter than air balloon, which includes a tether having one or more lengths of optical fibers, and can include a string, which optical fibers have an outer protective jacket or cladding to prevent light from escaping therefrom, with portions of the jacket or cladding removed at selected locations along their lengths to permit light patterns to be emitted therefrom, upon shining of a light source into the ends of the fibers.

Abstract: An aircraft adapted to house a wind funnel and a wind turbine configured to convert the airflow through the wind funnel into electricity. An electrical cable between the aircraft and a ground station transfers the generated electricity from the aircraft to the receiving ground station for distribution. A plurality of aircraft according to certain embodiments may form a system for generating electricity from airflow.

Abstract: An airborne electricity producing generator powered by wind at high altitude. A gas filled balloon keeps the turbines and other apparatus afloat. Connection with the ground is with tethers that also prevent the apparatus from floating freely and conduct electricity, thereby bringing the electricity produced to ground based transformers. Computer controls the position, direction, tilt and height of the apparatus depending on wind direction and speed.

Abstract: A tether system for use in a balloon ride having a balloon envelope and a gondola includes a tether connected to the balloon ride to prevent free flight. The system includes structure for offsetting the gondola from the tether so as to enable use of a smaller, lighter, less costly gondola and better minimize gondola tilt. In one embodiment, the structure has first, second and third connection points, wherein the balloon envelope is pivotally connected to the first connection point, the gondola is pivotally connected to the second connection point, and the tether is pivotally connected to the third connection point. In another embodiment, the tether system includes a load ring attached to the gondola and a plurality of envelope lines extending between the envelope and the load ring. The tether is connected so as to be offset from the gondola.

Abstract: A mooring facility for a tethered gas balloon comprises a building structure containing a hemispherical basin capable of receiving the lower portion of an inflated lighter-than-air gas balloon for mooring the balloon. The surface of the bowl structure is complementary to the surface contour of the lower portion of the balloon. A gondola is suspended beneath the balloon and occupies a central recess in the bowl structure when the balloon is moored. The balloon is tethered by a cable and can be raised and lowered between an elevated operating position and a lowered moored position. The facility avoids the need for a large space requirement and can be erected or installed in a built-up area in or adjacent to a town or city.

Abstract: An inflatable display includes an inflatable balloon, a projector having a projection lens, an internal support structure that supports the inflatable balloon and the projector so that the projection lens is eccentrically disposed inside the inflatable balloon. The inflatable display also includes an external support structure that supports the internal support structure. Also included is a method to control an inflatable display according to wind conditions. The method includes the steps of operating in a sensing mode, operating in a collapsing mode and operating in a recovery mode.

Abstract: An adjustable weight ballast for lighter-than-air balloon with a predetermined lift is disclosed, comprising at least two individual weights. There is a first means on each individual weight for selectively attaching two or more weights to each other to form a composite weight having a total weight at least equal to the predetermined lift of the balloon, and a second means for tethering the lighter-than-air balloon to this composite weight, in which manner a ballast for a balloon can have its weight incrementally adjusted to an amount just greater than the balloon's predetermined lift to thus securely tether the balloon to a surface on which the composite weight is supported without significantly exceeding the lift of the balloon.

Abstract: A wall and port form for forming a concrete wall having a port for mounting a window or a door includes a building wall form having a wall form perimeter wall and a wall form bottom wall; a portal form for placement within the building wall form perimeter wall for defining an opening for one of a door and a window, the portal including a portal form perimeter wall configured as a closed loop encompassing a port space and preventing concrete poured into the wall form from flowing into the port space encompassed by the portal form, and a form spacing and dislodgement mechanism for spacing the portal form from the building wall form bottom wall upon curing of concrete within the wall form and thereby dislodging the portal form from the grip of the concrete.

Abstract: A lighter-than-air device comprises a buoyant element containing lighter-than-air gas, and a flexible surface having a length and height forming a usable area. The flexible surface has a bottom edge that is not connected to the buoyant element. The length of the flexible surface is connected directly to the buoyant element. The flexible surface is operable to use an area defined by the buoyant element and the bottom edge of the flexible surface to, among other things, condense water, move a vessel, and block material from entering an area.