CS 31TGB.1 Applicability

ED Decision 2013/011/R

These Certification Specifications (CSs) are applicable to non-free flying manned tethered gas balloons that operate up to a maximum altitude of 500 m above the surface, and that derive their lift from non-flammable gas being lighter than air.

CS 31TGB.2 Definitions

ED Decision 2013/011/R

Definition of terms and principles used:

(a) A tethered gas balloon consists of a balloon system (envelope, suspension system and gondola) and a tether system that continuously anchors it during operation.

(b) The tether system (winch, pulley, cable and swivel point) includes all components affected by forces resulting from tethering up to and including interface parts with the foundation or counterweight.

(c) The mooring system includes all components affected by forces resulting from the applicable types of mooring (e.g. high and/or low mooring).

(d) The suspension system includes all components suspending the gondola to the envelope (if applicable including the net).

(e) A gondola is a basket or other device (e.g. container, trapeze, harness, seat or platform) suspended beneath the envelope to accommodates the balloon occupants.

(f) The envelope contains the lifting gas.

(g) The swivel point is the connection between the tether system and balloon system allowing rotation of the balloon independent from the tether cable.

(h) Ascent/descent system is the part of the tether system raising and lowering the balloon.

(i) The maximum lift is the sum of the maximum static lift from the lifting gas volume and the maximum dynamic lift, at sea level in International Standard Atmosphere conditions.

(j) The maximum dynamic lift is the highest lift force at the chosen maximum operating wind condition at sea level in International Standard Atmosphere conditions.

AMC1 31TGB.2 Definitions

ED Decision 2013/011/R

The illustration below shows a typical example of the various systems, parts and forces of the tethered gas balloon in order to distinct their function as provided in the definitions.

Note: Lift*Dynamic is disregarded for load cases of spherical envelope shapes.