GB189800131A - Improvements in and relating to Navigable Balloons. - Google Patents

Abstract

131. Zeppelin, G. F. von. Jan. 3. AÙrial machines with aÙrostats; aÙrostats.-The aÙrostat comprises a framework of longitudinal tubes r interspaced by wire ropes s, covered with wire gauze or netting, and with an outer covering of silk. It is made rigid by vertical struts v joined by inclined stays, and by circumferential hoops. It is divided into compartments containing large gas bags which nearly fill the compartments and small ones from which gas can be expelled by the expansion of gas in the large ones. It is very long compared with its diameter, and supports two cars g containing driving-gear for the propellers t; a gangway l runs the whole length of it from which any part of it may be reached by ladders f. Several aÙrostats with cars containing goods may be coupled together and to a motor balloon by universal joints, and their cylindrical surfaces are joined by fabric. Horizontal steering may be effected by rudders q, and the inclination of the axis is adjusted by moving a weight b, which is suspended from a wire rope, along which it is made to travel by an endless band actuated by winches in the cars. The ropes b<2> are wound on fusees on the winches which always keep them tight. The weight may be replaced by a couple of trailing ropes. The weight or load between the several aÙrostats or balloons of a series may be adjusted by transferring sand, liquids, &c. from one to another through flexible tubes.