Payload engagement systems and related methods
US11453498B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 27, 2018 |
| Grant date | Sep 27, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2101/64
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Payload engagement systems and related methods. A payload engagement system includes a vehicle with at least one engagement latch and a payload with at least one engagement receptor. Each engagement latch is configured to be selectively transitioned between an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration. The payload engagement system includes an alignment guide configured to guide the payload to a predetermined coupling position prior to each engagement latch transitioning to the engaged configuration. A method of utilizing a payload engagement system includes positioning a vehicle on a first side of a docking platform, guiding a payload toward the vehicle, and coupling the payload to the vehicle via engagement between at least one engagement latch and at least one engagement receptor. Specifically, the coupling the payload to the vehicle includes transitioning each engagement latch from a disengaged configuration to an engaged configuration.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.