Payload-release device position tracking
US9849981B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 26, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 31, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2201/104
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a retractable payload delivery system. The payload delivery system can lower a payload to the ground using a delivery device that secures the payload during descent and releases the payload upon reaching the ground. The location of the delivery device can be determined as it is lowered to the ground using image tracking. The UAV can include an imaging system that captures image data of the suspended delivery device and identifies image coordinates of the delivery device, and the image coordinates can then be mapped to a location. The UAV may also be configured to account for any deviations from a planned path of descent in real time to effect accurate delivery locations of released payloads.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.