Patent ID: 9139279
Filing Date: 2015-09-22
Classification: B64B,B64C

Abstract:
1. A long endurance airship system comprising: a payload airship comprising a payload and a lifting volume, the lifting volume sufficient for the payload airship to achieve neutral buoyancy at an operational altitude above the ground; and first logistics airship mechanically joined to the payload airship to form a first combined airship, wherein: the first logistics airship is adapted to operate at altitudes between ground level and the operational altitude of the payload airship, including travel to and from a selected base of operation, while optionally detached from the payload airship; the payload airship and the logistics airship having design capabilities differing by at least a factor of two with regard to at least one of: power generation capability, propulsion capability, endurance capability, and lift capability; and the first combined airship is free flying, lighter-than-air, and configured to remain aloft for greater than 30 days without physical connection to the ground.