Abstract: A load placement system precisely places slung loads by allowing a helicopter pilot to essentially reel the load to the ground. The placement system uses lead lines on the slung load that can be connected to the ground by support personnel. A winch system is connected to the lead lines and guides the load to an intended location. The placement system eliminates at least some of the ground personnel previously needed for pulling the load to a target location and orientation. The placement system may eliminate substantially all ground personnel by using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to automatically connect the lead lines to the ground. The UAVs also may actively control the slung load while in flight to reduce pilot workload and enable higher transport speeds.

Abstract: A load placement system precisely places slung loads by allowing a helicopter pilot to essentially reel the load to the ground. The placement system uses lead lines on the slung load that can be connected to the ground by support personnel. A winch system is connected to the lead lines and guides the load to an intended location. The placement system eliminates at least some of the ground personnel previously needed for pulling the load to a target location and orientation. The placement system may eliminate substantially all ground personnel by using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to automatically connect the lead lines to the ground. The UAVs also may actively control the slung load while in flight to reduce pilot workload and enable higher transport speeds.