Patent ID: 6182924
Filing Date: 2001-02-06
Classification: B64B

Abstract:
A method for improving the flight performance of a lighter than air aircraft comprising the step of using a non-jettisonable ballast, comprised of a lighter-than-air gas in liquid form contained within at least one insulated container therefor, wherein the container is connected via a gas line to an existing gas lift compartment of the aircraft, said compartment at least partially filled with a lifting gas, whereby, when additional lift is required, a measured portion of the liquefied gas is vaporized and released into the gas lift compartment, wherein the vaporized gas becomes mixed together with the lifting gas, and wherein, prior to such entry of the vaporized gas into said gas lift compartment the temperature of said vaporized gas is increased due to operation of a separate heat exchanger operatively associated with said gas line whereby damage to the compartment, by excessive cooling, is minimized, and wherein the lift provided by vaporizing all the gas in the container is greater than the weight of said container and liquid gas.