The Av-Intel world patents
describe two principal airship design innovations
which allow for the economical and competitive use
of airships for heavy lift and high altitude
missions. The first is a long, cigar-shaped body
composed of cylindrical sections. This obviates the
need for internal and heavy supporting structure as
stresses of flight are absorbed at the junctures of
the cylindrical sections. The benefits of this
design are reduced drag and the capability to carry
a greater payload. The second design innovation is
the placement of the engines on the forward section
of the airship. This permits accurate maneuvering
at low speeds and during docking.
n*No Internal Structure – More Lift
for Payload
nFlight Stresses Absorbed at
Junctures
nEngines & Control Surfaces on
Forward Module for Optimum Control, Ground
Handling, Safety
nMinimum Ground Support Crews
nAllows for Large, Safe and
Cost-Effective Airships
Av-Intel's initial Airship US Patent Applications:
Serial No. 07 / 757, 059 was filed September 9,
1991. This application was replaced by Continuation
Application Serial No. 08 / 043, 158 which was filed
April 5, 1993. This application was allowed on
February 23, 1994 as US Patent No. 5,348,251.
