Abstract: A drum is rotatably mounted on a carriage. A cable is configured to: transport power, connect with a drum connector disposed on the drum, and connect with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) via a UAV connector. A drum actuator is configured to rotate the drum. A UAV feed is configured to align the cable as it exits the device towards the UAV. A tension sensor is configured to measure a tension of the cable. A controller receive as tension measurement from the tension sensor; and controls the drum actuator to maintain a determined tension on the cable while: dispensing the cable; holding the cable steady; or collecting the cable.

Abstract: A reactive tether spool comprises a drum, a signal cable, a drum actuator, a tension sensor, and a controller. The signal cable transports power and a control signal to a UAV. A controller receives a tension measurement from the tension sensor and controls the drum actuator to maintain a determined tension on the signal cable while performing at least one of the following: dispensing the signal cable; holding the signal cable steady; and collecting the signal cable.