Abstract: An aerial payload deployment system includes: an aerial vehicle including a flight controller operable to control a flight of the aerial vehicle; and a payload deployment system coupled to the aerial vehicle and configured to deploy a payload to an elevated lateral pole-like structure. The payload deployment system includes: a tethered payload system including: a tether having a first end portion and a second end portion; and a counterweight coupled to the first end portion of the tether, the second end portion of the tether being coupled to the payload to be deployed; and a payload release system configured to releasably secure the tethered payload system and is actuatable to release the tethered payload system in a manner such that when the tethered payload system descends towards the elevated lateral pole-like structure after being released, the counterweight is spaced laterally apart from the payload.

Abstract: Multiple redundant harmonic drive motors on a rotor head actuate the angle of attack of rotor blades at the rotor blade roots, providing collective control that, in combination with a system for providing cyclic control on the rotor blades, eliminates the need for a swashplate, thereby advantageously reducing the weight and maintenance cost of a helicopter, increasing its reliability, and reducing its vulnerability to ballistic attack.