Aspects of the technology relate to lighter-than-air (LTA) high altitude platforms configured to operate in the stratosphere. Such platforms can generate solar power from solar panels, enabling long-term operation for weeks, months or longer. Shaped envelope LTA platforms may have solar panels arranged along an upper section of the envelope, which can be particularly helpful when the envelope is made of a fabric that is not transparent or translucent. To address possible thermal effects, aerodynamics and other issues with the solar panels, one or more external air bladders are disposed between the such components and the shaped envelope. One or more perimeter chamber of the air bladder configuration can be employed to create more aerodynamically efficient leading and trailing edges to blend the envelope surface with the surface(s) of the solar panel components. The insulative air bladder(s) may also provide structural support during fill of a shaped envelope at launch.
EXTERNAL AIR BLADDERS
2022-08-04
Patent
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
IPC: | B64B LIGHTER-THAN-AIR AIRCRAFT , Luftfahrzeuge leichter als Luft |