公开(公告)号：US20180362369A1

公开(公告)日：2018-12-20

申请号：US15622119

申请日：2017-06-14

Applicant: X Development LLC

Inventor： Sergey Vichik ,  Daniel Bowen ,  Sherri Goldman ,  Richard Chad Bruns ,  Daniel Alex Luebke

IPC: C02F1/467 ,  C25B1/26

CPC classification number: C02F1/4674 ,  C02F1/461 ,  C02F2103/008 ,  C02F2201/46105 ,  C02F2201/4612 ,  C02F2201/4619 ,  C25B1/26

Abstract: Systems and methods for extending life of an apparatus, such as a balloon, using electrolysis. A ballast liquid is carried or harvested and, when desired, is electrolyzed using an on-board electrolyzer to generate lift gas, rather than simply being dumped as traditional ballast. However, the ballast liquid may also be dumped, if necessary. A valve may be provided to enable safe dumping of the ballast liquid. The ballast liquid may be water, a water-methanol mixture, or other suitable ballast liquid. The ballast liquid may be stored in a container associated with the balloon prior to launch or may be harvested from the atmosphere while the balloon is in-flight. Features may be provided to maintain the ballast liquid in a liquid state. The lift gas mixture within the balloon is maintained non-flammable.