Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus according to an embodiment includes a winch and a grasper having a multi-bar linkage that can be releasably coupled to a package. A hook can be coupled to the winch and configured to be selectively releasably coupled to the package. The hook can move from a first position in which the hook is not coupled to the package to a second position in which the hook is coupled to the package, in response to an engagement signal sent by a controller coupled to the hook. The grasper can release, via the multi-bar linkage, the package (1) at a landing surface in response to the package being lowered by the tether and the package contacting the landing surface and (2) from a location a non-zero distance above the landing surface in response to the hook being moved from the second position towards the first position concurrently with a tension in the tether being removed or substantially reduced. The hook can move from the second position towards the first position in response to the controller sending a release signal.

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First Claim