Launching of high altitude airships

Launching of high altitude airshipsKeywords: Airship Technologies Services, UAV, Patents

In GB Patent 2346594 Airship Technologies Services Ltd describes an unmanned airship. It comprises an inflatable hull, a payload supported within the hull by cables and a stern mounted drive. To launch the airship, the hull is partially inflated with a lighter than air gas and the nose portion of the hull is allowed to rise within a vertical tower, the top of which is initially closed by a two part closure. The partially inflated hull is held in the launch position by cables and solar panels are attached to a support ring aft of the nose. During a suitable weather window, the closure parts are opened and the hull is allowed to rise from the tower, lifting the payload and drive by means of cables. As the airship ascends the gas expands to inflate the hull. The tower may be provided with an inflatable bumper and may be connected to a hanger within which the airship may be fully inflated for test purposes.