Lens-Shaped Balloon Envelope for Solar Energy Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In areas where data connectivity is limited or unreliable, existing network infrastructure fails to provide reliable and cost-effective data access, and high-altitude balloons are needed to establish a network that can collect and store solar energy for altitude control and communication.
Innovation Solution
A high-altitude balloon network with a payload and envelope designed to direct sunlight using a transmissive or translucent surface, rotate to position a reflective or absorptive surface optimally, and use solar cells to store energy for altitude control and communication, employing free-space optical and RF communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the balloon envelope uses a traditional spherical shape, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to direct sunlight onto the payload is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature principles by transitioning from a simple spherical envelope to a lens-shaped envelope with specific curved surfaces. The lens shape incorporates focal points and optical curvature to concentrate sunlight onto the payload, transforming the envelope from a purely structural component to an active optical element that directs solar energy to solar cells while maintaining aerodynamic suitability for high-altitude operation
2Use of energy by moving object
If the balloon rotates to position the envelope facing the sun, then solar energy collection is maximized, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the lens-shaped envelope to passively direct sunlight onto the payload through its inherent optical geometry. The envelope's curved surfaces are positioned and shaped to automatically concentrate solar rays onto solar cells without requiring active rotation or mechanical adjustment mechanisms, allowing the system to optimize solar energy collection while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the envelope by adopting a lens shape with specific focal lengths and curvature radii. This parameter transformation enables the envelope to function as an optical element that concentrates sunlight, converting the envelope from a passive protective covering to an active solar energy collection component that improves energy utilization without adding mechanical complexity
3Strength
If the envelope is made opaque for structural strength, then durability is improved, but sunlight transmission to the payload is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the optical properties of different envelope regions. The lens-shaped envelope incorporates transmissive or translucent materials in the optical path areas where sunlight concentration is needed, while maintaining structural integrity through appropriate material selection and thickness distribution. This localized optimization allows simultaneous achievement of structural strength and effective sunlight transmission to the payload
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
The balloon network provides a reliable and efficient means of data connectivity and altitude control by maximizing solar energy collection and minimizing environmental temperature fluctuations, enabling stable communication links and network operations.
Implementation Method 1
The balloon envelope may include a transmissive or translucent surface adapted to direct sunlight towards a lower portion of the envelope
Implementation Method 2
The balloon may also be lens-shaped to focus sunlight onto the payload
Implementation Method 3
collecting and storing solar energy in solar cells positioned within the payload
Data Source
AI summary
A balloon is provided having an envelope, and a payload positioned beneath the envelope, wherein the envelope has an exterior shape adapted for directing sunlight towards the payload. The balloon may further include a control system configured to cause the balloon or payload to rotate to cause a first portion of the balloon envelope or a first portion of the payload to be positioned facing the sun. The first portion of the balloon envelope may be asymmetrical with respect to a second portion of the balloon envelope, with the first portion angled to direct sunlight towards the payload. The balloon envelope may include a transmissive or translucent surface adapted to direct sunlight towards a lower portion of the envelope, which in turn is adapted to direct sunlight onto the payload. The balloon may also be lens-shaped to focus sunlight onto the payload.