Abstract: A powertrain for an aerial vehicle may include a mechanical power source and a propulsion member coupled to the mechanical power source and configured to be coupled to the chassis and convert at least a portion of the mechanical power supplied by the mechanical power source into at least one of a thrust force or cooling. The powertrain also may include an electric power generation device configured to convert at least a portion of the mechanical power into electrical power. The powertrain further may include a powertrain control system associated with the powertrain and configured to at least partially control at least one of an output speed of the mechanical power source or a pitch angle associated with the propulsion member, based on at least one of an operation, a status factor, or at least one component characteristic associated with the aerial vehicle.

Abstract: Powertrains and related methods for an aerial vehicle may include a torque control system associated with the powertrain and configured to receive torque signals indicative of engine torque supplied by a mechanical power source or generator torque generated by an electric power generation device resisting the engine torque. The torque control system may be configured to generate, based in part on torque signals, a torque control signal configured to change the engine torque or change the generator torque. When torque signals indicate a relative reduction in the engine torque supplied by the mechanical power source, torque control signals may be configured to cause a relative reduction in the generator torque resisting the engine torque. When torque signals indicate a relative increase in the engine torque supplied by the mechanical power source, torque control signals may be configured to cause a relative increase in the generator torque resisting the engine torque.

Abstract: A powertrain for an aerial vehicle may include a mechanical power source and an electric power generation device mechanically coupled to the mechanical power source. The powertrain further may include an electric motor electrically coupled to the electric power generation device. A first propulsion member may be mechanically coupled to the mechanical power source and configured to provide a first thrust force. The powertrain also may include a second propulsion member mechanically coupled to the electric motor and configured to provide a second thrust force. A vehicle controller may be provided and configured to at least partially control aerial maneuvering of the aerial vehicle, and cause supply of a first portion of the mechanical power to the first propulsion member and a second portion of the mechanical power to the electric power generation device based at least in part on at least one characteristic associated with maneuvering of the aerial vehicle.