Package delivery by means of an automated multi-copter UAS/UAV dispatched from a conventional delivery vehicle
US9915956B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2016 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/16
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods and associated systems for autonomous package delivery utilize a UAS/UAV, an infrared positioning senor, and a docking station integrated with a package delivery vehicle. The UAS/UAV accepts a package for delivery from the docking station on the delivery vehicle and uploads the delivery destination. The UAS/UAV autonomously launches from its docked position on the delivery vehicle. The UAS/UAV autonomously flies to the delivery destination by means of GPS navigation. The UAS/UAV is guided in final delivery by means of a human supervised live video feed from the UAS/UAV. The UAS/UAV is assisted in the descent and delivery of the parcel by precision sensors and if necessary by means of remote human control. The UAS/UAV autonomously returns to the delivery vehicle by means of GPS navigation and precision sensors. The UAS/UAV autonomously docks with the delivery vehicle for recharging and preparation for the next delivery sequence.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.