Development of three-dimensional reinforced membrane technology for high performance balloon and inflatable applications Original Research Article

Balloon users are seeking innovative and cost-effective solutions to provide: high strength to weight composite envelope materials; efficient cost-effective seaming and fabrication techniques; deployment and inflation of balloon envelopes in planetary atmospheres and unique balloon design concepts. Three-dimensionally reinforced (3DR) technology addresses all these challenges by providing: locally reinforced materials to optimize strength to weight; innovative gore fabrication and joining techniques to produce almost seamless structures; envelopes designed to efficiently handle multiple loading conditions and adaptability to a wide range of innovative designs and shapes. An overview of ongoing development work is presented including dramatic balloon performance increases, material and test method research and manufacturing challenges.