초록 ▼

A device to provide control of the trajectory of a lighter than air vehicle, such as a balloon, is provided. A lifting device, such as a wing on end, is suspended on a tether well below the balloon to take advantage of the natural variation in winds at different altitudes. The wing can generate a ho

A device to provide control of the trajectory of a lighter than air vehicle, such as a balloon, is provided. A lifting device, such as a wing on end, is suspended on a tether well below the balloon to take advantage of the natural variation in winds at different altitudes. The wing can generate a horizontal lift force that can be directed over a wide range of angles. This force is transmitted to the balloon by the tether. Due to this force, the balloon's path is altered depending on the relative sizes of the balloon and the wing. A relatively small amount of power is needed to control the system, possibly with a rudder. As the energy of the wind provides most of the force, the wind's energy does most of the work. The balloon is able to avoid hazards, to reach desired targets, to select convenient landing zones, and to provide other operational advantages. As a result, fewer flights must be terminated early due to an inability to control the trajectory, and it is easier to obtain permission to launch since a planned flight path can be achieved within a greater range of conditions.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A trajectory-control device for a lighter-than-air system, comprising:a frame; a lift-generating device mounted on the frame; a flap mounted on the frame; and a tether, the tether having a first end connected to the frame and a second end for connecting the trajectory-control device to the lighte

1. A trajectory-control device for a lighter-than-air system, comprising:a frame; a lift-generating device mounted on the frame; a flap mounted on the frame; and a tether, the tether having a first end connected to the frame and a second end for connecting the trajectory-control device to the lighter-than-air system, wherein the trajectory-control device passively generates force on the lighter-than-air system from airflow differences between the lighter-than-air system and the lift-generating device.