Just thought it would be cool to show that quadcopters have been around since the 60's.
Piasecki Aircraft made 2,000 lb quadcopter in the 1960's. Not sure if it flew without tether, but still crazy.
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That thing looks brilliant and it flew :)
I am not so sure about this attempt here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52pLYMSpqI0
The analog control computer from the PA-4 is still around. I'll try to post some pics.
http://youtu.be/4SERvwWALOM
Bet it was worth less than the typical $50 billion valuation of a modern quad copter.
The original manned version may have been:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/De_Bothezat_helicopter
Tesla had developed R/C control way back in 1898 - and patented it. So all the parts were there.
http://www.engadget.com/2014/01/19/nikola-teslas-remote-control-boat/
It wasn't pursued due to lack of technology. Like the flying wing.. until 30 years later when they finally got it right.
And countless other great mechanical inventions of the mid century, that didn't quite work due to lack of technology. Many of which are working great now..
50 years later, history is repeating itself to relearn all the reasons why this was not pursued much more after the fact. Cool experiment, but practicality at this scale is much more limited compared to other options.