Geographic area monitoring systems and methods through interchanging tool systems between unmanned vehicles

US10514691B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Walmart Apollo, LLC · US

Inventors

• Robert L. Cantrell · Herndon, US
• John P. Thompson · Bentonville, US
• David C. Winkle · Berryville, US
• Michael D. Atchley · Springdale, US
• Donald R. High · Noel, US
• Todd D. Mattingly · Bentonville, US
• Brian G. McHale · Chadderton, GB
• John J. O'Brien · Farmington, US
• John F. Simon · Pembroke Pines, US
• Nathan G. Jones · Bentonville, US
• Robert C. Taylor · Mount Olive, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 2, 2019
• Grant date: Dec 24, 2019
• Expiry date: Apr 2, 2039

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64U2201/20
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

In some embodiments, unmanned task systems are provided that comprise multiple unmanned vehicles each comprising: a control circuit; a motor; and a propulsion system coupled with the motor and configured to enable the respective unmanned vehicles to move themselves; and wherein a first control circuit of a first unmanned vehicle of the multiple unmanned vehicles is configured to identify a second unmanned vehicle carrying a first tool system configured to perform a first function, cause a notification to be communicated to the second unmanned vehicle directing the second unmanned vehicle to transfer the first tool system to the first unmanned vehicle, and direct a first propulsion system of the first unmanned vehicle to couple with the first tool system being transferred from the second unmanned vehicle.