Abstract: A system including a heavier-than-air vehicle (HTA), a lighter-than-air vehicle (LTA), and a tether is disclosed. The tether is coupled between the HTA and the LTA such that the LTA supports the HTA. The system may be further configured to suit the needs of the particular application. For example, the system may be configured to be controllable from a remote location or capable of autonomous operations. The system may also be configured such that the HTA comprises a mission payload and communications equipment. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the LTA is configured to provide lift for the system and the HTA is configured to provide station-keeping propulsion, the advantage being reduced fuel consumption and increased mission endurance.

Abstract: A system including a heavier-than-air vehicle (HTA), a lighter-than-air vehicle (LTA), and a tether is disclosed. The tether is coupled between the HTA and the LTA such that the LTA supports the HTA. The system may be further configured to suit the needs of the particular application. For example, the system may be configured to be controllable from a remote location or capable of autonomous operations. The system may also be configured such that the HTA comprises a mission payload and communications equipment. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the LTA is configured to provide lift for the system and the HTA is configured to provide station-keeping propulsion, the advantage being reduced fuel consumption and increased mission endurance.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining an incremental cost of insurance for the operation of a motor vehicle and billing the same to an operator of the vehicle. The system uses an internal system for determining one or more operational factors associated with the vehicle, such as its geographic location, speed, acceleration, etc, in at least near real time, and recording the information in a database. From this information incremental insurance cost information is determined relating to the cost of insuring the vehicle for a predetermined time during, for example one day. The insurance cost information is transmitted to a contracting company, which may comprise an underwriting company responsible for providing the insurance coverage for the vehicle.