CONTROLLABLE AEROSTATIC FLYING CRANE Russian patent published in 1997 - IPC

FIELD: aerostatic flying vehicles of large cargo-carrying capacity and flying cranes. SUBSTANCE: semi-rigid combined flying crane contains disk-shaped aerostatic case consisting of upper and lower flexible convex envelops whose edges are secured on torus-shaped frame. Radial beams of sectional torus are connected with rigid tubular member forming central compartment; tubular member is located along vertical axis of aerostatic case. Closed frame of aerostatic case is provided with nose and aft horizontal stabilizers equipped with aerodynamic control devices; legs of support which are inclined in vertical plane are provided with mechanisms for extension and return to initial position. Inclined gastight diaphragm divides case into lighter-than-air gas compartment and thermal ballasting compartment. Horizontal stabilizers are provided with power plants having varying thrust vector. Secured on internal store in aerostatic case is lower load-bearing ring connected with lower flexible convex envelope; it has sleeve forming cargo compartment. Crew pod is mounted on lower load-bearing ring provided with device for hoisting and securing the cargoes. Aerostatic case is also provided with mooring devices and landing gear. EFFECT: enhanced reliability. 9 cl, 7 dwg