Using unmanned aerial vehicles to inspect autonomous vehicles
US11145043B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 24, 2016 |
| Grant date | Oct 12, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 2, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N23/90
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to inspect autonomous vehicles. An autonomous vehicle carries a UAV (or “drone”) in a protected area, for example, in a glove compartment, trunk, etc. Between rides, the UAV can be deployed to inspect the autonomous vehicle. Images from the UAV can be sent to other components for image analysis. When an inspection is completed, the UAV can return to the protected area. The UAV can inspect both the interior and exterior of an autonomous vehicle. When an inspection is passed, the autonomous vehicle can begin a new ride. When an inspection is failed, the autonomous vehicle can report for repairs or summon a tow vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.