Methods and systems for multiple drone delivery system with in-flight handoff

US10593216B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• International Business Machines Corporation · US

Inventors

• Stephen Chow · Dallas, US
• Grant D. Miller · Superior, US
• Nader M. Nassar · Yorktown Heights, US
• Richard J. Newhook · Mullica Township, US
• Erich D. Walls · Valparaiso, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 22, 2017
• Grant date: Mar 17, 2020
• Expiry date: Aug 13, 2037

Classification

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

Abstract

Embodiments for managing drones by one or more processors are described. A first aerial drone having a payload coupled thereto is controlled such that the first aerial drone travels from a first location to a second location. A second aerial drone is controlled such that the second aerial drone travels to the second location. While the first aerial drone and the second aerial drone are in flight at the second location, the payload is detached from the first aerial drone and coupled to the second aerial drone. After the payload is detached from the first aerial drone and while the payload is coupled to the second aerial drone, the second aerial drone is controlled such that the second aerial drone travels from the second location to a third location.