NASA is planning a new generation of balloons built of fiber reinforced materials. To effectively use such materials, panels must be joined together with a high strength joint. Lap joints have been used in the past for reinforced balloon materials, but that method is not considered applicable to the new materials in development. Ideally, fibers should be joined directly between gore panels; a process which has not previously been practical. An existing tool, designed for another application, can make such fiber-to-fiber joints. It is seen as the precursor for a future balloon production machine. The innovation will proceed using the underlying technology of that tool to establish feasibility and practicality of using its operating principle. Goals will be to demonstrate joint strength, uniformity, dimensional accuracy and potential for economic fabrication. Given success in those goals, and followed by machine development effort, it will be possible to manufacture reinforced balloons which are stronger, lighter and much less costly than previous reinforced types.Reinforced plastic film materials are commonly used in industrial applications. The requirements are, of course, substantially less demanding than for scientific balloon use. Neverthless, there are similar problems in joining panels of material together. The proposed development would offer a new and improved method for joining industrial materials and make it possible to market a new range of products.
Keywords: Phase_I, NASA, Abstract, FY94
