FOOD AND BEVERAGE DELIVERY SYSTEM ON AUTONOMOUS AND SEMI-AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

Provided herein is an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles for delivering a food or beverage item to a customer. The autonomous vehicle herein may comprise of storage units that are easily configured to effectively and efficiently carry different types of food or beverage items, including a temperature control system configured to maintain a target unit temperature for different types of food or beverage items.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The field of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles is a growing field of innovation. Vehicles are being used for many purposes including warehouse inventory operations, household operations, hospital deliveries, sanitation, and military or defense applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to an autonomous and/or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of vehicles, in particular vehicles for transporting or retrieving deliveries in either unstructured outdoor environment or closed environments.

There are unique challenges when delivering a plurality of foods and beverage items. Various foods, beverages, and similar items require they be kept in specific temperature ranges so that they can be delivered at an optimal temperature to a customer. Different items with varying sizes, shapes, weight, and temperature requirements make efficient delivery difficult. This difficulty is only compounded when utilizing an autonomous or a semi-autonomous vehicle, which has unique constraints directed to energy consumption, size, safety concerns, etc. not dealt with manned delivery vehicles. Thus, there is a need for a proper food and beverage delivery system on autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles.

One aspect provided herein is a platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers, the platform comprising: a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, wherein each vehicle comprises: two or more storage units, each storage unit configured to contain the food or beverage item; and a temperature control system configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units; and the platform further comprising a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application comprising: a database storing a plurality of item profiles and storage unit profiles, wherein each item profile is associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature; and wherein each storage unit profile is associated with one of the two or more storage units and one of the plurality of vehicles; an order module receiving a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers, wherein each order comprises one or more of the plurality item profiles; a distribution module assigning each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders; and a loading module directing the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, one or more of the storage units comprises a modular insert configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types, wherein each modular insert type is configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the unit location. In some embodiments, the each storage units comprises a thermometer, and wherein the item distribution application further comprises a temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles, each of the two or more storage units, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit. In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application comprising a remote temperature control module, receiving the target temperature and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both. In some embodiments, each of the two or more two or more storage units are the same size. In some embodiments, each of the two or more storage units have different sizes. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a different temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain the same temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of the same food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of different food or beverage items. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a shape, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the shape. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a weight, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the weight. In some embodiments, some of the vehicles comprise one storage unit.

Another aspect provided herein is an autonomous vehicle for delivering a food or beverage item to a customer, the autonomous vehicle comprising: an input device configured to receive a selection of the food item or beverage item by a customer; a plurality of compartments, wherein each compartment is configured to contain, secure, and vend the food or beverage item; an air conditioner configured to individually maintain a target food or beverage item temperature within at least one compartment based on the food or beverage item within the compartment; a sensor associated with at least one compartment, wherein the sensor is configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both; an autonomous propulsion system; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage media encoded with a computer program including instructions executable by a processor to create an application comprising: a storage module containing an identifier associated with the food or beverage item, wherein each identifier is associated with at least the target food or beverage item temperature; a delivery module controlling the autonomous propulsion system to direct the autonomous vehicle to a location of the customer; a vending module directing one or more of the plurality of compartment to vend the food or beverage item based on the selection; and a confirmation module determining that the food or beverage item has been vended based at least on the sensed data.

In some embodiments, the input device comprises a button, a touchscreen, a Bluetooth sensor, a wireless network device, a cellular network device, a camera, a USB input, a keyboard, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the compartment is configured to contain, secure, and vend 2 or more of the food or beverage items. In some embodiments, the food or beverage item comprises an indicator associated with an identifier. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to sense the presence of the food or beverage item by sensing the indicator. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises at least one of a thermometer, a barcode scanner, an RFID reader, a scale, a pressure sensor, a switch, and a camera. In some embodiments, vending the food or beverage item comprises unlocking a door of the compartment, opening a door of the compartment, releasing a food or beverage item locked within the compartment, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises an insert. In some embodiments, the insert comprises a removable insert fastener configured to removably attach to at least one compartment. In some embodiments, the removable insert fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the insert and the compartment is configured to affix a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the specific food comprises a can, a bottle, a fruit, a vegetable, a meat, a poultry, a fish, a frozen food, a fresh meal, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one compartment comprises a removable compartment fastener configured to removable couple with the removable insert fastener. In some embodiments, the removable compartment fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises a communication device configured to receive an instruction from a fleet management module. In some embodiments, the delivery module controls the autonomous propulsion system to direct the autonomous vehicle to the location of the customer based at least on the instruction. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises at least one of an energy storage device, and an energy collection device. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises a screen configured to display a media. In some embodiments, the media comprises the food or beverage item, the target food or beverage item temperature, the presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, the location of the customer, or any combination thereof.

Another aspect provided herein is a vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous vehicles operating autonomously and/or semi-autonomously and a fleet management module, associated with a central server for coordination of the autonomous vehicle fleet; the fleet management module configured to coordinate the activity and positioning of each autonomous vehicle in the fleet, wherein the fleet is configured for transporting, delivering or retrieving goods or services and capable of operating in an unstructured open or closed environments; each autonomous vehicle in the fleet comprising: a power system , a conveyance system; (e.g., a drive system with a propulsion engine, wheels, treads, wings, rotors, blowers, rockets, propellers, brakes, etc.); a navigation module for navigation in the unstructured open or closed environments; (e.g., digital maps, HD maps, GPS); a communication module configurable to receive, store and send data to the fleet management module, a user, and the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, related to at least; user interactions and the autonomous vehicle fleet interactions, comprising: scheduled requests or orders, on-demand requests or orders, or a need for self-positioning of the autonomous vehicle fleet based on anticipated demand within the unstructured open or closed environments; a sensor system, at least one securable compartment or a plurality of securable compartments to hold said goods or items associated with said services; and a controller configurable to associate each one of the at least one or plurality of securable compartments to an assignable customer, or customer group in a marketplace, or provider and provide entry when authorized; at least one processor configured to manage the conveyance system, the navigation module, the sensor system, instructions from the fleet management module, the communication module, and the controller.

In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined geographic region accessible by navigable pathways comprising: public roads; private roads; bike paths; open fields; open public lands; open private lands; pedestrian walkways; lakes; rivers; streams; or open airspace.

In some embodiments, the closed environment is a confined, enclosed or semi-enclosed structure accessible by navigable pathways comprising: open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; airspace within open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; public or dedicated aisles; hallways; tunnels; ramps; elevators; conveyors; or pedestrian walkways.

In some embodiments, the navigation module controls routing of the conveyance system of the autonomous vehicles in the fleet in the unstructured open or closed environments.

In some embodiments, the communication to the user, to the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, between the autonomous vehicles of the fleet, and between the user and the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, occurs via wireless transmission.

In some embodiments, the user comprises a fleet manager; a sub-contracting vendor; a service provider; a customer; a business entity; an individual; or a third party.

In some embodiments, the user's wireless transmission interactions and the autonomous vehicle fleet wireless transmission interactions occur via mobile application transmitted by an electronic device and forwarded to the communication module via: a central server; a fleet management module; and/or a mesh network.

In some embodiments, the electronic device comprises: a phone; a personal mobile device; a personal digital assistant (PDA); a mainframe computer; a desktop computer; a laptop computer; a tablet computer; and/or wearable computing device comprising: a communication headset; smart glasses; a contact lens or lenses; a digital watch; a bracelet; a ring; jewelry; or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, each autonomous vehicle fleet is configured with a maximum speed range from 1.0 mph to 90.0 mph.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is humidity and temperature controlled for: hot goods, cold goods, wet goods, dry goods, or combinations or variants thereof.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is configurable for a plurality of goods. Such configurations and goods comprise: bookshelves for books; thin drawers for documents; larger box-like drawers for packages, and sized compartments for vending machines, coffee makers, pizza ovens and dispensers.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is variably configurable based on: anticipated demands; patterns of behaviors; area of service; or types of goods to be transported.

In some embodiments, the services comprise: subscription services; prescription services; marketing services; advertising services; notification services; a mobile marketplace; or requested, ordered or scheduled delivery services. In particular embodiments, the scheduled delivery services include, by way of example, special repeat deliveries such as groceries, prescriptions, drinks, mail, documents, etc.

In some embodiments, the services further comprise: the user receiving and returning the same or similar goods within the same interaction; (e.g., signed documents); the user receiving one set of goods and returning a different set of goods within the same interaction; (e.g., product replacement/returns, groceries, merchandise, books, recording, videos, movies, payment transactions, etc.); a third party user providing instruction and or authorization to a goods or service provider to prepare, transport, deliver and/or retrieve goods to a principle user in a different location.

In some embodiments, the services further comprise: general services, (e.g., picking up a user's dry cleaning, dropping off a user's dry cleaning, renting goods, (such as tools, DVDs, etc.), sharing/borrowing goods from other users or businesses, etc.). Further still, it may be a general pickup service for items to be shipped, returned, or sent to other users/businesses, etc.

In some embodiments, at least one autonomous vehicle in the fleet is further configured to process or manufacture goods.

In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured goods comprise: beverages, etc., with or without condiments; (e.g., coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.); a plurality of fast foods; or microwavable foods.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet further comprises at least one autonomous vehicle having a digital display for curated content comprising: advertisements (i.e., for both specific user and general public), including; services provided, marketing/promotion, regional/location of areas served, customer details, local environment, lost, sought or detected people, public service announcements, date, time, or weather.

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, the positioning of autonomous vehicles can be customized based on: anticipated use, a pattern of historical behaviors, or specific goods being carried.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is fully-autonomous.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is semi-autonomous.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is controlled directly by the user.

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, a plurality of said autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles within the fleet is operated on behalf of third party vendor/service provider; (e.g., fleet managed by an owner, but providing a coffee service/experience for a third party vendor (i.e., Starbucks) with white label vehicles in the fleet).

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, a plurality of said autonomous vehicles within the fleet is further configured to be part of a sub-fleet comprising a sub-plurality of autonomous vehicles, wherein each sub-fleet is configured to operate independently or in tandem with multiple sub-fleets comprising two or more sub-fleets.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous vehicles, for transporting or retrieving deliveries in either open unstructured outdoor environments or closed environments.

Provided herein is an autonomous or semi-autonomous land vehicle configured to receive a modular unit.

Currently, dedicated custom-made manned vehicles are used for specific use cases. Manned vehicles with cooling systems have been used to deliver fresh cool produce. Such dedicated custom vehicles, however, are unable to simultaneously deliver different items. Alternatively, delivery services that use generic unmodified vehicles are able to simultaneously deliver a wide array of items, but are not configured for optimal delivery of temperature or motion sensitive items.

By contrast, the reconfigurable autonomous vehicle herein may be easily modified to carry different types of removable display cases to enable optimal transport and delivery of various items. The reconfigurable autonomous vehicle herein may be configured to provide optimal delivery of various items without interaction or maintenance by a human driver. Further, the reconfigurable autonomous vehicle may be employed for longer operating hours per day than human drivers, whereby facile reconfigurability ensures optimal utilization throughout the day and/or night.

Fleet of Autonomous Vehicles

Provided herein, perFIG. 1, is a vehicle fleet100, comprising a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles101.

In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles101in the vehicle fleet100are autonomous. In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles101in the vehicle fleet100are autonomous. In some embodiments the semi-autonomous vehicles101can be manually controller by an operator. Manual override may be required to, for example, address navigation malfunctions, provider inventory issues, or unanticipated traffic, mechanical failure, electrical failure, traffic accident, and road conditions. In some embodiments of the plurality of autonomous vehicles101within the fleet100is operated on behalf of third party vendor or service provider. The third party vendor or service provider may comprise a food and beverage provider.

In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles101within the vehicle fleet100are configured to be part of a sub-fleet100athat operates independently or in tandem with other sub-fleets100a. In one example, the sub-fleet100aof vehicles101may only provide a product, service, or level of service associated with a single vendor. Each of the vehicles101in the sub-fleet100amay display a logo of the vendor or an alternative indicator representing the specific product, service, or level of service associated with that vehicle101. Levels of service may include immediate dedicated rush service, guaranteed morning/afternoon delivery service, and general delivery service. Some sub-fleets100amay offer a faster or more prioritized service than other sub-fleets100a.

Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

As illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, the vehicle101may comprise an autonomous or semi-autonomous automobile configured for land travel. The vehicle101may have a width, a height, and a length, wherein the length is about 2 feet to about 5 feet. The vehicle101may be lightweight and have a low center of gravity for increased stability. The vehicle101may be configurable for land, water, or air. The vehicle101may comprise a land vehicle such as, for example, a car, a wagon, a van, a tricycle, a truck, a trailer, a bus, a train, or a tram. The vehicle101may comprise a watercraft such as, for example, a ship, a boat, a ferry, a landing craft, a barge, a rafts, a hovercraft, or any combination thereof.. Alternatively, the vehicle101may comprise an aircraft or a spacecraft.

Each vehicle101in the fleet may comprise an autonomous propulsion system130comprising a drive system, a propulsion engine, a wheel, a treads, a wing, a rotor, a blower, a rocket, a propeller, a brake, or any combination thereof.

In one exemplary embodiment, a vehicle101comprises a land vehicle configured with a traditional 4-wheeled automotive configuration comprising conventional steering and braking systems. In this embodiment, the drive train may be configurable for standard 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel all-terrain traction drive, and the propulsion system may be configurable as a gas engine, a turbine engine, an electric motor, and/or a hybrid gas/electric engine.

In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for water travel as a watercraft with a propulsion system comprising a gas engine, a turbine engine, an electric motor and/or a hybrid gas/electric engine, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for hover travel as an over-land or over-water hovercraft or an air-cushion vehicle (ACV) and is configured with blowers to produce a large volume of air below the hull that is slightly above atmospheric pressure. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for air travel as an aerial drone or aerial hovercraft and is configured with wings, rotors, blowers, rockets, and/or propellers and an appropriate brake system.

The vehicle101may further comprise an auxiliary solar power system to provide back-up emergency power or power for minor low-power sub-systems. In some embodiments, each vehicle of the vehicle fleet is configured with one or more power sources, such as battery, solar, gasoline, or propane. In some embodiments, the vehicle101further comprises a digital display for curated content comprising advertisements, marketing promotions, a public service notification, an emergency notification, or any combination thereof.

Each vehicle101in the fleet100may comprise a sensor system comprising a plurality of onboard sensors such as, for example, a camera, a video camera, a LiDAR, a radar, an ultrasonic sensor, and a microphone. Each vehicle101may further comprise an internal computer for real time navigation and obstacle avoidance, based on the data received by the sensors.

In some embodiments, the vehicles may further comprise an autonomous propulsion system sensor configured to monitor drive mechanism performance (e.g., the propulsion engine), power system levels (e.g., battery, solar, gasoline, propane, etc.), monitor drive train performance (e.g., transmission, tires, brakes, rotors, etc.), or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the vehicle is further configured to process or manufacture a good. In some embodiments, the vehicle is configured to process or manufacture the good in-transit. In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured good comprises: a beverage with or without condiments (such as coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.), a fast food, a microwavable food, a reheatable food, or a rehydratable food. In some embodiments, the vehicle is equipped for financial transactions through debit or credit card readers.

In some embodiments, the vehicle101has a driving speed of about 1 mile per hour (mph) to about 90 mph, to accommodate inner-city, residential, and intrastate or interstate driving. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for land travel. In some embodiments, each vehicle101in the fleet is configured with a working speed range from 13.0 mph to 45.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured with a maximum speed range from 13.0 mph to about 90.0 mph. In some embodiments, vehicle101is configured for water travel as a watercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 45.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for hover travel as an over-land or over-water hovercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 60.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle101is configured for air travel as an aerial drone or aerial hovercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 80.0 mph.

Primary and Secondary Compartments

Provided herein, perFIG. 2, is an autonomous vehicle101comprising a plurality of compartments102,104. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101comprises a primary compartment102and a secondary compartment104within the primary compartment102. In some embodiments, the plurality of compartments is non-modular. In other embodiments, some of the compartments are modular while the other compartments are non-modular. In some embodiments, the plurality of compartments may be humidity and/or temperature controlled for: hot goods, cold goods, wet goods, dry goods, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is configurable for a plurality of goods. Exemplary compartments and goods comprise: bookshelves for books; thin drawers for documents; larger box-like drawers for packages; and sized compartments for vending machines, embedded coffee makers, pizza ovens, and dispensers. In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments may be configured and reconfigured based on: anticipated demands, patterns of behaviors, area of service, the types of goods to be transported, or any combination thereof. Alternately, the compartments may be configured to contain a set of goods to form a mobile marketplace (similar to a mini bar at a hotel).

As illustrated inFIGS. 8 - 10, the compartment may comprise various additional amenities such as lights for night deliveries, condiment dispensers, and display screens.

Provided herein, perFIG. 11AandFIG. 11B, is a reconfigurable autonomous vehicle101for displaying and vending an item1100to a customer comprising a plurality of removable display cases1110, an autonomous propulsion system, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage media encoded with a computer program including instructions executable by a processor to create an application.

In some embodiments, each display case1110comprises the item1100, a display fastener1120and at least one of: a temperature control system configured to maintain a target temperature within the removable display case1110; a display screen1130configured to display a case media; and a vending device1140configured to vend the item1100. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101further comprises a vehicle interior fastener configured to removably affix the display fastener1120. The autonomous vehicle101may further comprise an energy storage device configured to provide energy to the removable display case1110. In some embodiments, the energy storage device is further configured to provide power to the autonomous propulsion system, the display, the vending device, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the application comprises a transmission module configured to receive an instruction from a fleet management module; the instruction comprising a route, and at least one of the target temperature and the case media; and a command module configured to communicate at least one of the target temperature and the case media to the removable display case1110, and a navigation module configured to direct the autonomous propulsion system based on the route. In some embodiments, the command module is configured to communicate the target temperature, the media, or both to the removable case through a communication hub. In some embodiments, the communication hub comprises a Wi-Fi router, a Bluetooth router, a cellular network, a jack, an outlet, a wire, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the route comprises a location of the customer.

In some embodiments, the display fastener1120comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the vehicle interior fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the case media is based on the item1100, the target temperature, the route, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101further comprises a screen configured to display a vehicular media. In some embodiments, the vehicular media comprises the item, the target temperature, the media, the route, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101further comprises a lock configured to prevent unauthorized removal of the display case from the autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, at least one of the vehicle interior fastener and the display fastener comprise the lock. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101further comprises a strain relief configured to prevent damage to the autonomous vehicle, the display case, the energy storage device the autonomous propulsion system, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle101further comprises at least one of a power outlet, a data port, and an exhaust port. The power outlet may be configured to provide one or more power ratings to removable display case1110to power the display screen and/or any additional electrical components within the removable display case1110. The data port may enable data transmission to and/or from the removable display case1110and transmission module and the command module. The data may comprise a stock of items within the removable display case1110, a current temperature removable display case1110, the case media, a price associated with the item1100, or any combination thereof.

At least one of the autonomous vehicle and the compartment may comprise a controller configured to associate each one of the plurality of securable compartments102,104to an assigned customer or provider and provide entry to the securable compartments102,104upon authorization. Each securable compartment102,104may be secured separately to transport goods to separate sets of customers. As such, the autonomous vehicle may deliver a first good or service to a first assigned customer from within a first securable compartment102and then deliver a second good or service to a second assigned customer from within the second securable compartment104.

Upon arrival of the autonomous vehicle to the customer destination, the customer may open their respective compartment(s) by verifying their identity. In one embodiment, the customer verifies their identity by providing a PIN (e.g., 4 digit number) via a touchscreen or a keypad within the autonomous vehicle, which they received upon initial request/order. The customer may verify themselves using their mobile phone and an RFID reader on the autonomous vehicle. Alternatively, the customer is verified through voice recognition of a keyword or key-phrase, wherein the autonomous vehicle comprises a microphone and a voice recognition application for recognition thereof. Further, in another embodiment, the customer is verified through facial or identification recognition, wherein the autonomous vehicle comprises a camera and a facial recognition application for recognition thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the customer is verified through a magnetic strip, RFID key or any other computer readable form of identification. Finally, in another embodiment, the customer is verified by entering a code or identification value on their mobile device, wherein the autonomous vehicle receives a cellular signal comprising a confirmation of the user or data related to the code of identification of the user.

In some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for water travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers. Further still, in some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for hover travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers. Further still, in some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for aerial drone or aerial hover travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers.

Fleet Management Module

Provided herein, perFIG. 12, is a system for fleet management comprising a fleet management module1201, a central server1202, a vehicle1204, a customer1203, and a service provider1205. In some embodiments, the fleet management module1201coordinates, assigns tasks, and monitors the position of each of the plurality of vehicles1204in the fleet. The fleet management module1201may coordinate the vehicles1204in the fleet to monitor and collect data regarding unstructured open or closed environments, and report to the service provider1205. As seen, the fleet management module1201may coordinate with a central server1202. The central server1202may be located in a central operating facility owned or managed by the fleet owner. The service provider1205may comprise a third party provider of a good or service. The service provider1205may comprise a vendor, a business, a restaurant, a delivery service, a retailer, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module1201is configured to receive, store and transmit data to and/or from the service provider1205. The fleet management module1201may receive and transmit data to and/or from the service provider1205via a service provider application. In some embodiments, the service provider application comprises a computer application, an internet application, a tablet application, a phone application, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the central server1202is configured to receive, store and transmit data to and/or from the customer1203. The central server1202may receive and transmit data to and/or from the customer1203via a customer application. In some embodiments, the customer application comprises a computer application, an internet application, a tablet application, a phone application, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the vehicle1204comprises a memory device to store the data for future data transfer or manual download.

In one example, an order by a customer1203is transmitted to a central server1202, which then communicates with the fleet management module1201, which relays the order to the service provider1205associated with the order and a vehicle1204. The fleet management module1201may employ one or more vehicles1204or sub-fleet vehicles1204that are closest to the service provider1205, customer1203, or both. The assigned service provider then interacts with that vehicle1204through a service provider application to supply the vehicle1204with any goods, maps, or instructions associated with the order. The vehicle1204then travels to the customer1203and reports completion of the order to at least one of the customer1203, the service provider1205, the central server1202, and the fleet management module1201.

In some embodiments the vehicle1204may be operated on behalf of the service provider1205, wherein at least one of the central server1202and the fleet management module1201is operated by the service provider1205. In any one of the embodiments, the vehicle1204is controlled directly by the customer1203, the service provider1205, or both. In some embodiments, human interaction of the vehicle1204may be required to address maintenance issues such as mechanical failure, electrical failure or a traffic accident.

In one example, the fleet management module1201receives an instruction from the service provider1205to collect an item at a first location and deliver the item to a second location. Upon receipt of the instruction, the fleet management module1201may assign one or more of the vehicles1204to perform the instruction by navigating the one or more of the vehicles1204the first location. The one more of the vehicles1204may then confirm the receipt of the item and navigate to the second location. The one more of the vehicles1204may then deliver the item to the second location and confirm receipt of the delivery. In some embodiments, the one more of the vehicles1204may further receive an identification associated with the first location, the second location, or both, to enable receipt and delivery of the item.

In one example, a request by the customer1203is sent to the central server1202, which then communicates with the fleet management module1201to relay the request to the service provider1205, which instructs the vehicles1204. The fleet management module1201may select one or more of the vehicles1204within the geographic region and/or proximity of the customer1203, the service provider1205, or both. The vehicles1204may be first directed to a location associated with the service provider1205to receive an item associated with the request. The vehicle1204may then travel to a location associated with the customer1203. The customer1203may then interacts with the one or more vehicle1204to retrieve the item. The customer1203may retrieve the item by opening a compartment within the vehicle1204. The customer1203may open the compartment within the vehicle1204through a customer application, or a customer interface comprising, for example, an RFID reader, a touchpad, a keypad, a voice command, or a vision-based recognition. Upon completion the vehicles1204may then report a completion of the request to the fleet management module1201and be reassigned to a subsequent request.

In some embodiments, the autonomous fleet may be strategically positioned throughout a geographic region in anticipation of a known demand. Demand for autonomous vehicle services may be predicted by storing historical demand data relating to the quantity, timing, and type of request received in each region. Such demand predictions may further be weighted by the cost or importance of the good or service and employ historical trends for higher efficiency and throughput. As such, the fleet management module may position the autonomous vehicles as close as possible to the expected source locations.

PerFIG. 13, the fleet management module1301instructs the processor1303of the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle via a communication module1302. The processor1303may be configured to send an instruction and receive a sensed data from the sensor system1306, and may further control at least one of the power system1307, the navigation module1305, and the conveyance system1304. The processor1303may additionally be configured to instruct a controller1308to open a securable compartment1309to release any contents associated with an order. The processor1303may allow manual override of the conveyance system1304, the navigational system1305, or both.

In some embodiments, the processor1303is in functional communication with the communication module1302. In some embodiments, the communication module1302is adapted to receive, store, and/or transmit data to and from the customer and the fleet management module1301. In some embodiments, the data comprises a schedule, a request or order, a current location, a delivery location, a service provider location, a route, an estimated time of arrival (ETA), a repositioning instruction, a vehicle condition, a vehicle speed, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the processor1303is capable of both high-level computing for processing as well as low-level safety-critical computing capacity for controlling the hardware. The processor1303may configured to direct the conveyance system1304, the navigation module1305, the sensor system1306, the power system1307, the controller1308, or any combination thereof. The processor1303may reside aboard the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle, or at a remote location.

In some embodiments, the communication module1302is configured to receive, store and transmit data via wireless transmission (e.g., 4G, 5G, or satellite communications). In some embodiments, the wireless transmission occurs via: a central server, a fleet management module, a mesh network, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the customer application is configured to send and receive data via an electronic device comprising a phone, a personal mobile device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mainframe computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, and/or wearable computing device comprising: a communication headset, smart glasses, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module1301directs each of the vehicles1204through a navigation module1305. In some embodiments, the navigation module1305controls the conveyance system1304to translate the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle through the unstructured open or closed environments. In some embodiments, the navigation module1305comprises an HD maps, a weather condition, an elevation map, a digital map, a street view photograph, a GPS point, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the map is generated by a customer, a customer, a service provider, a fleet operator, an online repository, a public database, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the map is generated only for intended operational geography. The maps may be augmented or confirmed by data obtained by the sensor system1306. The navigation module1305may further implement data collected by the sensor system1306to determine the location and/or the surroundings of the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, the map further comprises a navigation marker comprising a lane, a road sign, an intersection, a grade, or any combination thereof. As such the navigation module1305, in combination with processors and/or applications vehicles1204enable a safe, robust navigation trajectory.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module1301is configured to determine and predict a geographic demand for the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles for strategic placement throughout a geographic region in anticipation of a known demand. The fleet management module1301may determine and predict a geographic demand by storing data relating the location, quantity, time, price, item, item type, service, service type, service provider, or any combination thereof of placed orders and requests. Further, the service provider may provide independently measured trends to supplement or augment the measured trends. As such, the vehicles may be strategically placed to reduce transit and idle time and to increase sales volume and efficiency.

Operating Environments

The autonomous vehicles in the fleet may be configured to operate within a variety of unstructured open operating environments to enable service to a broad range of locations. In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined geographic region accessible by navigable pathways comprising: public roads; private roads; bike paths; open fields, open public lands, open private lands, pedestrian walkways, lakes, rivers, or streams. In some embodiments, the closed environment is a confined, enclosed, or semi-enclosed structure accessible by navigable pathways comprising: open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; airspace within open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; public or dedicated aisles; hallways; tunnels; ramps; elevators; conveyors; or pedestrian walkways. In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined airspace or even near-space environment which includes all main layers of the Earth's atmosphere comprising the troposphere, the stratosphere, the mesosphere, the thermosphere and the exosphere. In some embodiments, the navigation module controls routing of the conveyance system of the vehicles in the fleet in the unstructured open or closed environments.

Goods and Services

In some embodiments, the user comprises a fleet manager, a sub-contracting vendor, a service provider, a customer, a business entity, an individual, or a third party. In some embodiments, the services comprises a subscription service, a prescription service, a marketing service, an advertising service, a notification service, a requested service, an ordered service, a scheduled delivery service, or any combination thereof. For example, the scheduled delivery services may include special repeat deliveries such as groceries, prescriptions, drinks, mail, documents, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the services alternatively or further comprise a return of a good (e.g., a signed document), receiving one set of goods and returning a different set of goods (e.g., product replacement/returns, groceries, merchandise, books, recording, videos, movies, payment transactions, etc.), or a third party user providing instruction and or authorization to a goods or service provider to prepare, transport, deliver and/or retrieve goods to a principle user in a different location. In some embodiments, the services further or alternatively comprise: advertising services, land survey services, patrol services, monitoring services, traffic survey services, signage and signal survey services, architectural building, or road infrastructure survey services.

In some embodiments, the service further or alternatively comprises processing or manufacturing a good. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle is configured to process or manufacture the good in-transit. In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured good comprises: a beverage with or without condiments (such as coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.), a fast food, a microwavable food, a reheatable food, or a rehydratable food. In some embodiments, the service comprises a financial transaction. In some embodiments, the service comprises advertising, marketing, public safety, public service, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the food or beverage items have an optimum temperature. For example, some food and beverage items (e.g., soups, rice dishes, burgers, tea, or coffee) may be preferentially received by a consumer when they are warm. Other food and beverage items (e.g., ice cream, sodas) are preferentially received by a consumer when they are cool. In some cases when items that are preferentially delivered hot and cold are delivered in the same autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle, these items may be delivered in separate compartments with different temperature control systems managing the temperatures accordingly. In some embodiments, the food or beverage items have different sizes, shapes, and weights. Hence, in some cases, to maximize the efficiency of an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle which may have limited energy storage, size, or ability to carry items over a certain weighted threshold, it may be important for storage units of these autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles (and the modular units therein) to have different shapes and sizes to effective store and deliver these differing items. In some embodiments, items of similar target temperature profiles are grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert. In some embodiments, items of similar target size profiles may be grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert. In some embodiments, items of different target weight profiles (e.g., one heavy item, one small item) may be grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert.

Digital Processing Device

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to send visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, on OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a video projector. In yet other embodiments, the display is a head-mounted display in communication with the digital processing device, such as a VR headset. In further embodiments, suitable VR headsets include, by way of non-limiting examples, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Microsoft HoloLens, Razer OSVR, FOVE VR, Zeiss VR One, Avegant Glyph, Freefly VR headset, and the like. In still further embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

Referring toFIG. 14, in a particular embodiment, a digital processing device1401is programmed or otherwise configured to managing autonomous vehicles. The device1401is programmed or otherwise configured to manage autonomous vehicles. In this embodiment, the digital processing device1401includes a central processing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein)1405, which is optionally a single core, a multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The digital processing device1401also includes memory or memory location1410(e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit1415(e.g., hard disk), communication interface1420(e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices1425, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/or electronic display adapters. The memory1410, storage unit1415, interface1420and peripheral devices1425are in communication with the CPU1405through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit1415comprises a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The digital processing device1401is optionally operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”)1430with the aid of the communication interface1420. The network1430, in various cases, is the internet, an internet, and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in communication with the internet. The network1430, in some cases, is a telecommunication and/or data network. The network1430optionally includes one or more computer servers, which enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network1430, in some cases, with the aid of the device1401, implements a peer-to-peer network, which enables devices coupled to the device1401to behave as a client or a server.

Continuing to refer toFIG. 14, the CPU1405is configured to execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, embodied in a program, application, and/or software. The instructions are optionally stored in a memory location, such as the memory1410. The instructions are directed to the CPU105, which subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU1405to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU1405include fetch, decode, execute, and write back. The CPU1405is, in some cases, part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the device1401are optionally included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

Continuing to refer toFIG. 14, the storage unit1415optionally stores files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit1415optionally stores user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The digital processing device1401, in some cases, includes one or more additional data storage units that are external, such as located on a remote server that is in communication through an intranet or the internet.

Continuing to refer toFIG. 14, the digital processing device1401optionally communicates with one or more remote computer systems through the network1430. For instance, the device1401optionally communicates with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PCs (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab, etc.), smartphones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®, etc.), or personal digital assistants.

Methods as described herein are optionally implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the digital processing device101, such as, for example, on the memory1410or electronic storage unit1415. The machine executable or machine readable code is optionally provided in the form of software. During use, the code is executed by the processor1405. In some cases, the code is retrieved from the storage unit1415and stored on the memory1410for ready access by the processor1405. In some situations, the electronic storage unit1415is precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on the memory1410.

Non-Transitory Computer Readable Storage Medium

Computer Program

Web Application

Referring toFIG. 15, in a particular embodiment, an application provision system comprises one or more databases1500accessed by a relational database management system (RDBMS)1510. Suitable RDBMSs include Firebird, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Oracle Database, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB2, IBM Informix, SAP Sybase, SAP Sybase, Teradata, and the like. In this embodiment, the application provision system further comprises one or more application severs1520(such as Java servers, .NET servers, PHP servers, and the like) and one or more web servers1530(such as Apache, IIS, GWS and the like). The web server(s) optionally expose one or more web services via app application programming interfaces (APIs)1540. Via a network, such as the internet, the system provides browser-based and/or mobile native user interfaces.

Referring toFIG. 16, in a particular embodiment, an application provision system alternatively has a distributed, cloud-based architecture1600and comprises elastically load balanced, auto-scaling web server resources1610, and application server resources1620as well synchronously replicated databases1630.

Platform for Autonomously or Semi-Autonomously Delivering a Food or Beverage Item

Provided herein, perFIGS. 17 and 18, are platforms for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers,

As seen inFIG. 17, the platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers may comprise a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles1710, and a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application1740. Each vehicle1710may comprise two or more storage units1720and a temperature control system1730. In some embodiments, one or more vehicle may comprise one storage unit.

Each storage unit1720may be configured to contain the food or beverage item. One or more of the storage units1720may comprise a modular insert. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units1720comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both.

The temperature control system1730may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units1720. In some embodiments, the each storage units1720comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system1730to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles1710, each of the two or more storage units1720, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system1730to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system1730is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit1720and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit.

The distribution application1740may comprise a database1741, an order module1742, a distribution module1743, and a loading module. The database1741may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit1720profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit1720profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units1720and one of the plurality of vehicles1710.

The order module1742may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles

The distribution module1743may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1720profile. The distribution module1743may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1720profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module1743further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit1720profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit1720profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles1710, and wherein the distribution module1743further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit1720profile based on the unit location.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units1720. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units1720, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle1710distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module1743assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1720profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

As seen inFIG. 18, the platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers may comprise a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles1810, and a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application1840. Each vehicle1810may comprise two or more storage units1820and a temperature control system1830.

Each storage unit1820may be configured to contain the food or beverage item. One or more of the storage units1820may comprise a modular insert. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units1820comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both.

The temperature control system1830may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units1820. In some embodiments, the each storage units1820comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system1830to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles1810, each of the two or more storage units1820, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system1830to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system1830is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit1820and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit.

The distribution application1840may comprise a database1841, an order module1842, a distribution module1843, and a loading module. The database1841may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit1820profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit1820profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units1820and one of the plurality of vehicles1810.

The order module1842may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles

The distribution module1843may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1820profile. The distribution module1843may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1820profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module1843further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit1820profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit1820profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles1810, and wherein the distribution module1843further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit1820profile based on the unit location.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units1820. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units1820, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle1810distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module1843assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit1820profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application1850comprising a remote temperature control module1851, receiving the target temperature, and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system1830. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor.

Storage Units

FIG. 18is a non-limiting perspective illustration of storage units1910within a vehicle101.

Each vehicle may comprise two or more storage units1910. Each vehicle101may comprise only one storage unit. Each vehicle may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more storage units1910, including increments therein. Each storage unit1910may be configured to contain the food or beverage item1920. Each storage unit1910may be configured to contain two or more food or beverage items1920. Each storage unit1910may be configured to contain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more food or beverage items1920, including increments therein.

One or more of the storage units1910may comprise a modular insert. A majority of the storage units1910may comprise a modular insert. Each of the storage units1910may comprise a modular insert. Each storage unit1910may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more modular inserts, including increments therein. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item1920. The modular insert may be configured to secure one or more food or beverage items1920. Two or more inserts may be required to store one food or beverage item1920. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item1920.

In some embodiments, each of the storage units1910comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item1920, the vending of the food or beverage item1920, or both. Each of the storage units1910may comprise two or more sensors configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item1920, the vending of the food or beverage item1920, or both. Each of the storage units1910comprise a sensor configured to sense an absence of the food or beverage item1920, the vending of the food or beverage item1920, or both. Each of the storage units1910comprise a sensor configured to detect the item1920profile associated with the food or beverage item1920, the vending of the food or beverage item1920, or both. The sensor may comprise a weight sensor, a touch sensor, a pressure sensor, an infrared sensor, a camera, a video camera, or any combination thereof.

Temperature Control System

The temperature control system may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units. The temperature control system may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within only one of the storage units. The temperature control system may be configured to maintain the same target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, the each storage units comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles, each of the two or more storage units, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature. The temperature control module may direct the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit. The temperature control input may comprise a knob, a keypad, a wireless device, a Bluetooth device, a cellular device, a data port, or any combination thereof.

Distribution Application

The distribution application may comprise a database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module. In some embodiments, the distribution application is provided by the distribution processor. In some embodiments, the distribution application is provided by two or more distribution processors. In some embodiments at least one of the database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module are provided by the distribution processor. In some embodiments at least one of the database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module are provided by a vehicle processor. The vehicle processor may reside aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments at least one of the distribution processor and the vehicle processor comprises a cloud processor, a distributed processor, or any combination thereof.

Database

The database may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units and one of the plurality of vehicles. Each storage unit profile may be further associated with a target temperature capability. The database may be configured to be updated or appended by an administrator.

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include one or more databases, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for autonomous vehicles. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non-limiting examples, relational databases, non-relational databases, object oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. Further non-limiting examples include SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, DB2, and Sybase. In some embodiments, a database is internet-based. In further embodiments, a database is web-based. In still further embodiments, a database is cloud computing-based. In other embodiments, a database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

Order Module

The order module may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles. Each order may further comprise a delivery address, a delivery time, a delivery state, or any combination thereof. The delivery state may be associated with the target item temperature, wherein, for example, a hot food may be associated with a delivery state configured for immediate consumption, or for subsequent reheating.

Distribution Module

The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with an order to the same storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with an order to different storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign item profiles associated with different orders to the same storage unit profile.

The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders.

In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size. The distribution module may further assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles. The distribution module may further assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the unit location.

In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on the target temperature capability.

In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

Loading Module

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles. The loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items may be performed manually or autonomously.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing a loading manifest. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing an instruction to each of the storage units to display an icon, barcode, part number, part name, or any combination thereof, associated with the food or beverage item. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing an instruction to a marquee, a speaker, a loading application, or any combination thereof.

Server Processor

In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application comprising a remote temperature control module, receiving the target temperature and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor.

Mobile Application

Those of skill in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for distribution of mobile applications including, by way of non-limiting examples, Apple® App Store, Google® Play, Chrome WebStore, BlackBerry® App World, App Store for Palm devices, App Catalog for webOS, Windows® Marketplace for Mobile, Ovi Store for Nokia® devices, Samsung® Apps, and Nintendo® DSi Shop.

Standalone Application

Web Browser Plug-in

Software Modules

Terms and Definitions

As used herein, the terms “fleet,” “sub-fleet,” and like terms are used to indicate a number of land vehicles, watercraft, or aircraft operating together or under the same ownership. In some embodiments the fleet or sub-fleet is engaged in the same activity. In some embodiments, the fleet or sub-fleet are engaged in similar activities. In some embodiments, the fleet, or sub-fleet are engaged in different activities.

As used herein, the terms “user,” “operator,” “fleet operator,” and like terms are used to indicate the entity that owns or is responsible for managing and operating the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the term “customer” and like terms are used to indicate the entity that requests the services provided the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the terms “provider,” “business,” “vendor,” “third party vendor,” and like terms are used to indicate an entity that works in concert with the fleet owner or operator to utilize the services of the vehicle fleet to deliver the provider's product from and or return the provider's product to the provider's place of business or staging location.

As used herein, the terms “server,” “computer server,” “central server,” “main server,” and like terms are used to indicate a computer or device on a network that manages the fleet resources, namely the autonomous vehicles.

As used herein, the term “controller” and like terms are used to indicate a device that controls the transfer of data from a computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. For example, disk drives, display screens, keyboards, and printers all require controllers. In personal computers, the controllers are often single chips. As used herein the controller is commonly used for managing access to components of the autonomous vehicle such as the securable compartments.

As used herein a “mesh network” is a network topology in which each node relays data for the network. All mesh nodes cooperate in the distribution of data in the network. It may be applied to both wired and wireless networks. Wireless mesh networks may be considered a type of “Wireless ad hoc” network. Thus, wireless mesh networks are closely related to Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). Although MANETs are not restricted to a specific mesh network topology, Wireless ad hoc networks or MANETs may take any form of network topology. Mesh networks may relay messages using either a flooding technique or a routing technique. With routing, the message is propagated along a path by hopping from node to node until it reaches its destination. To ensure that all its paths are available, the network must allow for continuous connections and must reconfigure itself around broken paths, using self-healing algorithms such as Shortest Path Bridging. Self-healing allows a routing-based network to operate when a node breaks down or when a connection becomes unreliable. As a result, the network is typically quite reliable, as there is often more than one path between a source and a destination in the network. This concept may also apply to wired networks and to software interaction. A mesh network whose nodes are all connected to each other is a fully connected network.

As used herein, the term “module” and like terms are used to indicate a self-contained hardware component of the central server, which in turn comprises software modules. In software, a module is a part of a program. Programs are composed of one or more independently developed modules that are not combined until the program is linked. A single module may contain one or several routines, or sections of programs that perform a particular task. As used herein the fleet management module comprises software modules for managing various aspects and functions of the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the terms “processor,” “digital processing device,” and like terms are used to indicate a microprocessor or central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is the electronic circuitry within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetic, logical, control and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions.

In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital processing devices include, by way of non-limiting examples, server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers, set-top computers, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles, and vehicles. Those of skill in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible configurations, known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to send visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In some embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various some embodiments, on OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In some embodiments, the display is a video projector. In some embodiments, the display is interactive (e.g., having a touch screen or a sensor such as a camera, a 3D sensor, a LiDAR, a radar, etc.) that may detect user interactions/gestures/responses and the like. In still some embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

EXAMPLES

Order Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

The distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

Set Temperature Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

As an item profile associated with a microwave dinner, which is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has been assigned to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1. The distribution module further assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

Destination Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from customer B for a pizza and a pint of ice cream to location BB. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

An item profile associated with a microwave dinner associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has already been assigned to storage unit1aboard vehicle1which is associated with an order from customer A and location AA. As location AA is close to location BB, the distribution module then assigns the item profiles associated with the pizza and the ice cream to vehicle1. The distribution module then assigns the item profiles associated with the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.

Storage Unit Location Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pepperoni pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pepperoni pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pepperoni pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

As an item profile associated with a microwave dinner, which is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has been assigned to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pepperoni pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1. As both the pizza and the ice cream are ordered for delivery to the same location, and to ensure that the ice cream does not absorb the pepperoni aromas, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1, wherein storage unit10is located far from storage unit1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit1aboard vehicle1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit10aboard vehicle1.