US 2015/0083849 A1 · AEROSTAT SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention provides an improved aerostat system including an aerostat, multiple tether groups and a base station. Spatially distinct tether groups allow for improved stability and controllability over a wide range of wind conditions. Independent actuation of the tether groups allows for control of the aerostat pitch and roll angle. A rotating platform including rails to rest the aerostat allows docking without auxiliary tethers, minimizing or eliminating the ground crew required to dock traditional aerostat systems. An optional controller allows remote or autonomous operation of the aerostat system. The invention is intended to extend the flight envelope in which aerostat systems can safely operate.

Claims14

Dependent claims

An aerostat system that allows for improved control in a variety of wind conditions, passive alignment into the wind, and autonomous docking, the system comprising:

(1) an aerostat including a shroud;
(2) multiple tether groups arranged on the shroud so that there is defined substantial separation distance between tether attachment points in each of a longitudinal (forward/aft), direction and a lateral (side/side) direction, each of the multiple tether groups being independently actuated by a respective winch assembly;
and
(3) a base station located with respect to a ground surface including a rotating platform, the platform interconnected to the multiple tether groups and including a rail assembly that selectively engages the aerostat in a docked configuration with respect to the platform.

1 more element

A method for tethering an aerostat that allows for improved control in a variety of wind conditions, passive alignment into the wind, and autonomous docking, the system comprising the steps of:

(1) providing an aerostat including a shroud;
(2) attaching multiple tether groups to the shroud so that there is defined substantial separation distance between tether attachment points in each of a longitudinal (forward/aft), direction and a lateral (side/side) direction, each of the multiple tether groups being independently actuated by a respective winch assembly;
and
(3) attaching the multiple tether groups to a base station located with respect to a ground surface, the base station including a rotating platform, the platform including a rail assembly that selectively engages the aerostat in a docked configuration with respect to the platform.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Aerostat system

Life of this patent

Aerostat system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims14