Abstract: The present specification provides a device and method for controlling a winch parcel delivery system through an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone. The example apparatus contemplates the use of a winch that will attach to a hook with active and passive release mechanisms through a winch line. The apparatus is enabled to attach to a parachute recovery system. The apparatus can detect when the ground has been reached to enable safe delivery of parcels. The apparatus can removably attach to various types of drones.

Abstract: A system for adjusting a load on a tethered aircraft is disclosed. The aircraft is tethered to a payload. The system determines a new position for the tethered aircraft in the event that due to environmental effects, e.g., the aircraft is flying upwind or downwind, the load experienced by the tethered aircraft is not optimal.

Abstract: Provided is a transportation system comprising (a) a ground-based powered tug vehicle, (b) an airborne vehicle, and (c) a towline with end links connecting the ground-based vehicle and the airborne vehicle. Also provided are methods of transportation utilizing the transportation system. Additionally provided is a transportation system comprising a hybrid vehicle that is propelled on a highway by a linear induction electric motor comprising a stationary motor element (“stator”) and a moving motor element (“rotor”), where the stator is incorporated into a groove in the highway and the rotor is incorporated into the hybrid vehicle and protrudes into the groove in the highway; and where the hybrid vehicle further comprises at least one wing that elevates the hybrid vehicle when propelled to a take-off speed on the highway. Methods of transportation utilizing this hybrid vehicle transportation system are further provided.

Abstract: An aircraft with a fuselage and a floor structure that is arranged inside the fuselage, the floor structure and the fuselage defining a subfloor region between the floor structure and a fuselage underside of the fuselage, the subfloor region accommodating at least one auxiliary compartment, wherein an equipment bay with at least one auxiliary equipment is arranged within the subfloor region, the at least one auxiliary equipment being at least essentially stowable in the equipment bay in a stow mode and the at least one auxiliary compartment being at least partly arranged in a region between the equipment bay and the floor structure such that the at least one auxiliary compartment separates the equipment bay from the floor structure.

Abstract: A Kinetic Energy Storage and Transfer (KEST) vehicle and target vehicle kinetic energy transfer method are provided. The KEST vehicle is configured to transfer kinetic energy to the target vehicle, propelling the target vehicle into a higher orbit or beyond the Earth. This is accomplished by a catching mechanism that contacts the target vehicle. The catching mechanism may also include a braking mechanism configured to accelerate the target vehicle, and thus slow the KEST vehicle, as the catching mechanism and target vehicle travel along one or more tethers of the KEST vehicle. Alternatively, the catching mechanism may be attached to an end of the one or more tethers and be configured to slow the target vehicle as the one or more tethers bend.

Abstract: A system and method of lifting a cargo container into flight using a plurality of aircraft. A swivel bearing is provided that has a first end and a second end. The two ends of the swivel bearing are free to rotate independently. A cargo container is provided that is streamlined for flight. The second end of the swivel bearing is attached to the cargo container. Aircraft in flight are used to lift the container. The aircraft have tow tether lines. The tow tether lines are attached to the first end of the swivel bearing. The aircraft fly in an ascending circular pattern, therein applying lift to the cargo container that is sufficient to raise the cargo container into flight. The cargo container is streamlined and contains flight controls to enable the cargo container to maintain level and controlled flight while it is being towed.