Patent ID: 6715712
Filing Date: 2004-04-06
Classification: B64B,G09F

Abstract:
An aerostat deployment apparatus comprising:a container formed with an open end; an aerostat having a first portion disposed within said container and a second portion disposed outside said container; a means for inflating said second portion of said aerostat with lighter-than-air gas and drawing said first portion of said aerostat from said container for subsequent inflation outside said container; a means for controlling an exit rate of said first portion of said aerostat from said container to maintain a pressure in said second portion of said aerostat within a predetermined pressure range to maintain said second portion of said aerostat taut during inflation; and wherein said controlling means comprises: a bowl-shaped member positioned at said open end of said container; and a means for biasing said bowl-shaped member along a path directed into said container to contact said first portion of said aerostat with said member and limit said exit rate of said first portion from said container.