Abstract: A method for performing one or more tasks on a surface via an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or aerial robotics system (ARS) includes tethering a first UAV to a ceiling, a vertical wall, or a second UAV via a tethering cord with an extendible and retractable length, performing at least one task via the first UAV to an object during flight of the first UAV, sensing at least one parameter of the surface of the object via a task sensor, and resiliently adjusting an adjustable sensor arm of the first UAV to facilitate performance of the task(s). The adjustable sensor arm may support the task sensor and be resilient to impact forces caused by direct contact of the task sensor or the adjustable sensor arm with the surface. The tethering cord may be extended or retracted via at least one motor while the first UAV performs the task(s).

Abstract: An aerial operations system for performing various tasks such as painting is provided. The modular aerial operations system includes an aerial vehicle capable of vertically taking off and landing, hovering and precisely maneuvering near walls and other structures. The aerial vehicle may be a rotorcraft such as a multicopter. In an aspect, as aerial vehicle paints one or more designated surfaces using detachable arms and equipment. The system may paint the designated surface in one of several available techniques using paint provided in a container such as an attached reservoir, a base station, a paint can, or the like. The aerial operations system provided may also be configured to perform a variety of other tasks.