Lightweight stabilized gimbal camera payload for small aerial vehicles

A process of implementing a lightweight stabilized attachment to an unmanned aerial system, the process of implementing a lightweight stabilized attachment to an unmanned aerial system comprising:

• implementing a gimbal;
• configuring a payload interface of the gimbal comprising a payload interface wall and the payload interface being configured with mechanical retention components configured for tool-free mechanical attachment to an unmanned aerial system;
• configuring the payload interface of the gimbal for electrical connections to receive power from the unmanned aerial system;
• configuring the payload interface of the gimbal for electrical connections to exchange data with the unmanned aerial system;
• configuring the gimbal with one, two or three rotational degrees of freedom;
• configuring an end effector of the gimbal to hold at least one sensor in a stabilized orientation;
• constructing the gimbal with composite skins and internal structure;
• constructing the gimbal with integrated seals and bearings in an outermost diameter of rotational interfaces;
• implementing integrated drive components with gearing arranged on outermost diameter of rotation interfaces;
• and
• implementing at least one computer that comprises at least one of the following:
• a dedicated vision computer, a dedicated targeting computer, and/or one or more rotational actuator control computers,
• wherein excess heat generated by the at least one computer is disposed of through a heat transfer surface integrated into the composite skin of the gimbal.