Abstract
Since the 1950s, efforts have been made to optimise the design of zero-pressure balloons. A possible method for improving on the classical natural-shape is discussed in this paper. It is shown by surface element analysis, that the meridional stress in the balloon film can be adjusted by changing the circumferential stress. It is probable that the stress concentration at the top of a natural-shape balloon can be reduced. A mixed-shape balloon, which has positive circumferential stress above the maximum diameter, has been derived and the results are presented in a form similar to Smalley's ‘sigma’ table. The stress distribution for balloons having different shapes, with or without load tapes, are also described.
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