On inflatable drones for flight time enhancement with particular reference to spectator aerostation

Abstract

In this note consideration is given to drones - and specially quadcopters, endowed with inflatable and controllable airbags filled with helium which is stored in small and replaceable cartridges. The goal is the a flight time enhancement due to the buoyancy provided by the inflated airbag. It is shown that by using an airbag with ˜20% or thereabouts of the weight of the drone, the flight time could be increased ten-fold and then being very attractive for spectator aerostation. The idea seems with practical application for drones weighting less than 1 kilogram and using small helium replaceable cartridges in a similar fashion as used to inflate bike tires.