Abstract:
An example method may include receiving data representing an initial position and an initial attitude of an aircraft. The method further includes determining a change to a first attribute and a second attribute of the position or the attitude of the aircraft to achieve a subsequent position and a subsequent attitude. The method also includes determining a priority sequence for changing the first attribute and the second attribute of the position or the attitude of the aircraft based on a first thrust of the actuator to achieve the change to the first attribute and a second thrust of the actuator to achieve the change to the second attribute. The priority sequence is configured to cause changes to the first attribute before causing changes to the second attribute where the actuator is unable to concurrently provide the first thrust and the second thrust.
Abstract:
A drum for storing an electrically conductive tether having a first end secured to an aerial vehicle and a second end secured to a ground station that includes a drum frame rotatable about a drum axis, a drum surface positioned over the drum frame comprising a spiral extrusion wrapped around the drum frame, wherein the extrusion has a cross-section having an upper surface that is shaped to conform to an outer surface of the electrically conductive tether, and wherein the extrusion is adapted for dissipating heat generated through a transfer of electricity from the aerial vehicle to a ground station through the electrically conductive tether.