Equipment

Purpose

Availability

Transportation Cradle

The transportation of the gas bottle to the launch site will require a cradle of some kind to ensure that the bottle can be safely transported and comply with local regulations.

POSSIBLE MANUFACTURE - May need to custom manufacture to suit trailer

Lifting Device

Depending on the transportation method, a lifting device may be needed to shift the gas bottle from the transport to the launch site. It is preferred to use a hose from the gas bottle to the launch site.

POSSIBLE MANUFACTURE - May need to custom manufactured

Filling Nozzle / Lift Scales

This device allows the delivery of the lifting gas to the balloon. It is also used to measure the amount of lift the balloon is providing as it fills.

POSSIBLE MANUFACTURE – Basic arrangement used by BOM. May need a custom design if increased accuracy is required.

Ground Covers

Where a balloon is to be filled in the field, the uninflated balloon must be protected from foreign object on the ground.

YES – Fly sheets and tent pegs from any camping / auto shop will do.

Retaining Post

Between when a balloon is filled and the release, the balloon must be restrained to prevent it from escaping.

MODIFY – The balloon can be tied to a padded star picket or similar.