Balloon Apex Tendon Routing via Doubler Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Balloon networks in the stratosphere face challenges in maintaining structural stability and load support due to the lightweight yet flexible materials used for their envelopes, which are prone to deformation under internal pressure and external forces, necessitating a lightweight yet effective tendon mounting system.
Innovation Solution
A top cap assembly with a doubler plate structure at the apex of the balloon envelope, featuring tendon pairs with fastener members to secure the tendons together, and a spacer portion to reduce friction, allowing for efficient load distribution and tendon management without the need for heavy support systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy metal load ring or rod is used to support tendon load, then load support capability is improved, but weight of the balloon system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the heavy metal load ring/rod mechanical support system with a tendon routing system that utilizes the balloon envelope's own structure. Tendons are routed through the envelope apex and attached to the load ring, allowing the envelope geometry itself to provide load distribution rather than relying on additional heavy mechanical support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the flexible balloon envelope material and its geometric configuration (apex region) to provide structural support functionality. The envelope's thin film structure is configured to route and distribute tendon loads, eliminating the need for separate heavy support structures while maintaining the lightweight characteristic of the balloon system.
2Strength
If tendon members are secured tightly at the apex, then load transfer efficiency is improved, but friction and wear between tendons increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent routes tendon members through the three-dimensional apex region of the balloon envelope, utilizing the spatial geometry to separate tendon paths. This dimensional arrangement allows tendons to be secured for effective load transfer while maintaining sufficient separation to minimize friction and wear between adjacent tendon members.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary routing structure at the apex that facilitates tendon connection and load transfer. This intermediary configuration allows tendons to be securely attached and connected while maintaining proper spacing and alignment, reducing direct contact and friction between tendon members during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A top cap assembly is provided for mounting tendon to a balloon that has a balloon envelope. The assembly includes a plate structure having a plurality of junction portions disposed at an apex of the balloon envelope and a plurality of tendon pairs. Each tendon pair includes first and second tendon members attached to the balloon envelope. The first tendon member is arranged to cross over the plate structure. The second tendon member is arranged to engage the first length tendon member at a given one of the junction portions of the doubler plate. A fastener member is attached to each tendon pair of the plurality of tendon pairs. The fastener member is used for securing the first and second tendon members of a given tendon pair together in order to support lift gas carried by the balloon envelope.