Maybe I am being simplistic by suggesting a look at the designs employed
by the light helicopters.  The physical laws that affect them are most
likely the same as those that affect us.  As far as friction drive VS
sprocket drive I think the only caveat is how does water affect the
friction; for instance flying through a heavy rain shower.

V belt drives gain friction by the distortion of the belt as it rolls
over the pulley.  The belt is pinched by the pulley groove. Poly V belts
gain from this also.  I do not know the kinematics of the multi ribbed
belt as it rolls over the pulley.  Those belts I have seen in accessory
drives use the backside of the belt as well as the ribbed side.

Bob Y



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