Balloon Payload Separation Apparatus for Rapid Descent

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Solution Overview

Problem

High-altitude balloons used in communication networks face challenges in efficiently terminating flights, as existing flight termination systems often result in slow deflation of the balloon envelope, requiring additional weight that complicates balloon design and operation.

Innovation Solution

A payload separation apparatus and flight termination assembly that utilize a cutting edge and tether to detach the payload from the balloon envelope, leveraging the payload's weight to create a larger opening for gas escape, allowing controlled descent.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a conventional flight termination system is used to detach the payload from the balloon envelope, then the payload can be separated, but the balloon envelope deflates slowly requiring additional weight

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload separation speedVSAvoidballoon weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic separation mechanism where the payload is initially secured to the balloon envelope via a shaft connection that can be rapidly disconnected. The separation apparatus includes a shaft with slots and protrusions that engage with corresponding features on the envelope, allowing for controlled yet quick detachment when activation occurs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical state of the connection between payload and envelope from a secure mechanical bond to a separated state through controlled activation. The system transitions the connection parameter from engaged to disengaged, enabling rapid separation without requiring gradual deflation processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If additional weight is added to the balloon to facilitate flight termination, then faster descent is achieved, but the balloon design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveballoon descent speedVSAvoidballoon design complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The payload itself serves as the weight mechanism for controlled descent. When the payload separates from the balloon envelope, its weight pulls on the tether to create a larger opening for gas escape, enabling the balloon to descend faster without requiring any additional weight components to be added to the balloon structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The payload performs multiple functions: it serves as both the operational equipment for the mission and the weight mechanism for flight termination and controlled descent. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate weight components, simplifying the overall balloon design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If a lightweight separation apparatus is used, then balloon design is simplified, but reliable separation may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation apparatus complexityVSAvoidseparation reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The separation apparatus is divided into distinct functional segments: the shaft with slots and protrusions for mechanical connection, the arms for structural support, the bracket for securing components, and the cutting device for tether severance. Each segment is optimized for its specific function, achieving reliable separation through modular design rather than a single complex component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables reliable, lightweight, and economical payload separation, suitable for high-altitude conditions, with the payload's weight facilitating faster balloon descent and reducing the need for additional weight modifications.

Implementation Method 1

a cutting edge configured to cut an opening in the balloon envelope

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

using the weight of the payload to increase the size of the opening and increase a rate at which the balloon descends

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS10450046B1Separation apparatus for separating a first object from a second object

Publication Date: 2019.10.22 AEROSTAR INT LLC

AI summary

Aspects of the disclosure relate to terminating flight of a balloon that may include separating a connection between a balloon envelope and a payload of the balloon. In one example, a payload separation apparatus includes a first shaft configured to attach to the envelope, a second shaft configured to attach to the payload, a pair of arms, and a bracket arranged to secure the pair of arms to the first shaft. In another example, a system includes a flight termination assembly having a cutting edge configured to cut an opening in the envelope and a payload separation apparatus. The apparatus includes a first shaft configured to attach to the envelope, a second shaft configured to attach to the payload, a pair of arms, and a bracket configured to secure the pair of arms to the first shaft. The system also includes a controller configured to activate the cutting edge.