Alert system for an unmanned aerial vehicle

An unmanned aerial vehicle for aerial transportation of delivery items. The unmanned aerial vehicle includes an attachment device to fasten and unfasten one or more delivery items to the unmanned aerial vehicle, a motor to aerially transport the one or more delivery items along a delivery route, a sensor mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle to detect at least one environmental variable during the delivery route, and an alert system to generate a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle along the delivery route to an observer when the environmental variable exceeds a predetermined threshold.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to an unmanned aerial vehicle and, in particular, to an alert system for an unmanned aerial vehicle.

Description of the Related Art

Physical delivery of consumer goods is the process of transporting goods from a source location, such as a shipping facility or sender, to a predefined destination, such as the consumer's and/or recipient's location. There are a variety of transportation methods to deliver consumer goods, which are often operated by delivery services, including delivery by trucks via roads, trains via railroads, cargo ships via sea, and airplanes via air. However, delivery of such goods may take a substantial amount of time (e.g., several days) to transport the goods due to various factors, including traveling distance, weather conditions, traffic conditions, terrain conditions, etc.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the present principles, an unmanned aerial vehicle for aerial transportation of delivery items is provided. The unmanned aerial vehicle may include at least one attachment device to fasten and unfasten one or more delivery items to the unmanned aerial vehicle, at least one motor to aerially transport the one or more delivery items along a delivery route, at least one sensor mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle to detect at least one environmental variable during the delivery route, and an alert system to generate a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle along the delivery route to at least one observer when the least one environmental variable exceeds a predetermined threshold.

According to another aspect of the present principles, a method for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle is provided. The method may include attaching one or more delivery items to the unmanned aerial vehicle, aerially transporting the one or more delivery items along a delivery route, detecting, using at least one sensor mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle, at least one environmental variable during the delivery route, and generating a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle along the delivery route to at least one observer when the least one environmental variable exceeds a predetermined threshold.

According to another aspect of the present principles, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle is provided. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium may include a computer readable program for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the computer readable program, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute attaching one or more delivery items to the unmanned aerial vehicle, aerially transporting the one or more delivery items along a delivery route, detecting, using at least one sensor mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle, at least one environmental variable during the delivery route, and generating a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle along the delivery route to at least one observer when the least one environmental variable exceeds a predetermined threshold.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present principles are directed to an alert system for an unmanned aerial vehicle. In the embodiment, an alert mechanism may generate an alert, such as a status, associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle during aerial delivery of one or more items to a destination location. In other embodiments, the alert mechanism may indicate an amount of travel time and/or various environmental variables experienced during delivery to, for example, assess a level of risk to the items being delivered. In some embodiments, the present principles provide a system, method and computer program product to indicate progress of at east one task for the unmanned aerial vehicle and display the level of completion of the at least one task via a readily detectable status indicator, such as an illumination device, timer display, and/or a broadcasted electronic signal.

It should be understood that the words “alert,” “status” and “progress” are used loosely and are not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of embodiments of the present principles described herein. For example, “alert,” “status” and/or “progress” may refer to, but are not limited to, a level of task completion of one or more deliveries, an amount of time associated with a delivery, a level of turbulence experienced during a delivery, an indication of temperatures traversed during delivery, a level of gravitational force and/or tilt experienced during delivery, a value associated with the items for delivery, etc. It should also be understood that the word “flight” is used loosely and is not intended to suggest any limitation. For example, “flight” may refer to, but is not limited to, any stage during the delivery of an item, such as when the unmanned aerial vehicle has landed.

Referring to the drawings in which like numerals represent the same or similar elements and initially toFIG. 1, an exemplary system100for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle102is illustratively depicted. It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the unmanned aerial vehicle102may comprise a drone, a drone-like unit, or a similarly functioning device.

Advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and/or drones have been implemented for delivery services of such consumer goods. For example, a delivery drone, also known as a parcelcopter, may transport packages, food, medicines, and other goods with delivery times much faster than traditional transportation methods (e.g., minutes). In addition, drones used for delivery services also enable delivery of such goods to remote locations that are difficult to get to by traditional transportation methods due to varying terrain on such delivery routes.

The unmanned aerial vehicle102may include a housing unit104, at least one movement mechanism106, and a motor108. The components of the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be affixed on the outside of the housing unit104, or alternatively, may be enclosed within the housing unit104of the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

The at least one movement mechanism106may include a single propeller, a plurality of propellers, a propulsion mechanism, or similarly functioning devices to provide aerial movement for the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In one embodiment, the at least one movement mechanism may be powered by at least one motor108, such as a gasoline engine, electric motor and/or a power supply110to provide movement for the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The power supply110may include a battery, such as a rechargeable battery, and/or solar powered battery sufficient for powering the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or components of the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

The movement mechanism(s)106may be placed at any desired location on the unmanned aerial vehicle102, such that the placement of the movement mechanism(s)106does not interfere with each other or with another component positioned on the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or housing unit104. In one embodiment, the at least one movement mechanism106may be positioned on at least one extension arm107such that the at least one extension arm107connects the at least one movement mechanism106to the housing unit104.

In some embodiments, the at least one movement mechanism106and/or extension arm(s)107may be spaced around the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or positioned such that the unmanned aerial vehicle102maintains a balanced orientation. A balanced orientation may be a state of equilibrium in which the unmanned aerial vehicle102may enable an efficient flight. In further embodiments, the position of the at least one movement mechanism106and/or extension arm(s)107may be adjusted such that the unmanned aerial vehicle102maintains a balanced orientation. For example, the movement mechanism(s)106and/or extension arm(s)107may pivot and/or hinge from the housing unit104of the unmanned aerial vehicle102in various directions. In some embodiments, the position of the extension arms107may be adjusted and/or repositioned when the unmanned aerial vehicle102carries a delivery item (not shown) via attachment device126to maintain a balanced orientation.

In one embodiment, the movement mechanism106and/or motor108provides aerial movement for the unmanned aerial vehicle102in multiple degrees of freedom. Multiple degrees of freedom generally refers to the ability for the unmanned aerial vehicle102to move in a three-dimensional space. Specifically, the movement mechanism106and/or motor108may be controlled by controller101, such as a flight controller502, as illustrated inFIG. 5, to move the unmanned aerial vehicle102along three perpendicular axes, namely forward/backward movement, up/down movement, and left/right movement. In addition, the controller101may control the movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle in 360 degree rotation, tilting forward/backward movement (e.g., pitching), swiveling left/right movement (e.g., yawing), and pivoting side to side movement (e.g., rolling).

In one embodiment, the movement mechanism(s)106and/or motor108provides movement for the unmanned aerial vehicle102to deliver one or more items to a particular destination. For example, the movement mechanisms106and/or motor108may enable the unmanned aerial vehicle102to aerially transport delivery items from a shipping location to a particular delivery destination, such as a consumer's location and/or shipping address. In further embodiments, the movement mechanism106and/or motor108may provide aerial movement to the unmanned aerial vehicle102to base stations, recharging stations, shipment facilities, and/or locations of other unmanned aerial vehicles to, for example, recharge the power supply110, as will be described in further detail below. In yet a further embodiment, the movement mechanism(s)106and/or motor108provides movement for the unmanned aerial vehicle102to avoid collision between the unmanned aerial vehicle102and an object, such as a person, tree, building, and/or other structures.

In some embodiments, the attachment device126fastens a delivery item (not shown) to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The attachment device126may include, but is not limited to, a latch, a hook or claw, a suction device, a magnetic device, or combination thereof, and/or any other device capable of temporarily attaching (e.g., fastening) the delivery item to the unmanned aerial vehicle102and releasing (e.g., unfastening) the delivery item upon delivery. In an embodiment, the attachment device126may include a retractable wire which may be permanently attached to the housing unit104at one end and, at the other end, may include a hook, latch, or further accessory to connect the delivery item to the wire and/or unmanned aerial vehicle102.

In some embodiments, the attachment device126may include a compartment and/or enclosure to store the delivery item on the unmanned aerial vehicle102until delivery. The compartment may be integrated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or may be attached to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In further embodiments, the compartment and/or enclosure may be temperature controlled by one or more sensors114and/or a temperature controller116to, for example, provide protection to perishable items, such as foods, medicines, life-forms (e.g., plants, animals), etc. In a further embodiment, the attachment device126(e.g., compartment) may be thermally insulated. For example, the attachment device126may comprise and/or include insulating material within the compartment.

In a further embodiment, the attachment device126may include a dampening and/or absorbent material, thermal or acoustical insulation, and/or inflatable air compartments configured to reduce and/or mitigate sound (e.g., noise) and/or vibration generated from, for example, the movement mechanism(s)106and/or motor108during flight. The dampening material and/or air compartments may further protect fragile items being delivered by the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The dampening material may be disposed at any location within and/or on the attachment device126. For example, when the attachment device126is a compartment, the dampening material may be placed as a liner within the compartment.

The unmanned aerial vehicle102may be configured to engage and/or deploy the attachment device126. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may close a latching device so as to “lock” a delivery item to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In addition, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may open the latching device so as to release the delivery item upon delivery. In some embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be configured to deploy the retractable wire to a sufficient height above the ground to enable safe delivery of the delivery item.

The unmanned aerial vehicle102may further include a controller101configured to control one or snore components of the unmanned aerial vehicle102. For example, the controller101may control at least one camera112, at least one sensor114, a temperature controller116, a stability controller118, an alert system120, a speaker122, and/or a transceiver device124.

The camera112may be configured to provide visual feedback, such as one or more still images and/or video feedback, to the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or an operator (e.g., user) wirelessly controlling the unmanned aerial vehicle102. For example, the camera112may provide visual feedback of obstacles in the path of the unmanned aerial vehicle102for any purpose, such as, but not limited to, navigation guidance to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In a further embodiment, the camera112may determine a safe location for the unmanned aerial vehicle102to land and/or disengage the attachment device126to deliver the item. The camera112may capture one or more still images or video images and, using a database, may perform image comparison with database images, such as database510ofFIG. 5, to determine whether or not the location is safe to land and/or release the delivery item. For example, the camera112may capture an image of a rooftop of a building and, using image comparison, the camera112may identify the rooftop as an unsafe location to release the delivery. It should be understood that various types of cameras are contemplated, including high-definition cameras, night-vision enabled cameras, infrared sensing cameras, X-ray imaging devices, line scan imaging devices, etc.

In a further embodiment, the camera112may be configured to take one or more still images and/or video upon delivery of an item. For example, when the unmanned aerial vehicle102delivers an item at a destination location, the camera112may capture a photo and/or video of the released delivery item at the delivery location and/or the location itself to confirm delivery and/or location of such item. The unmanned aerial vehicle102may provide delivery notification and/or delivery location information to the recipient by transmitting the photo and/or video to a user device132(e.g., a mobile device, tablet, computing device, etc.) via transceiver124and/or transmission medium128. Accordingly, the recipient can confirm the time and/or actual location where the delivery item was physically delivered.

The camera112may be placed on the unmanned aerial vehicle102such that the camera may provide visual feedback in 360 degrees on a horizontal plane and/or 360 degrees on a vertical plane of the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In some embodiments, the camera112may include a plurality of cameras to provide visual feedback in all directions surrounding the unmanned aerial vehicle102such that there are no obscurations of the visual field (e.g., blind spots). In further embodiments, the camera112may be embedded within the housing unit104so as to prevent any negative effects to aerodynamics of the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

In an embodiment, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may include at least one sensor114. The sensor114may include, but is not limited to, an acoustic sensor (e.g., microphone), a chemical sensor, an infrared sensor, an optical sensor, a collision avoidance sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor), a heat/temperature sensor, a gravitation force sensor (e.g., accelerometer), a speed sensor (e.g., airspeed indicator), tilt sensor, etc.

In an embodiment, the sensor114may be configured to detect one or more environmental variables, such as temperature, acceleration, (e.g., changes in acceleration), tilt angle, cumulative turbulence, wind resistance, exposure to sunlight, oxygen levels, pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure), humidity, etc., associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or traversed during flight, which may be displayed on and/or generated by the alert system120to one or more individuals (e.g., an observer, recipient, etc.), as will be described in further detail. It should be understood that the term “environmental variables” should not be limited and may include other variables detected by sensor114and/or experienced by an unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight.

In an embodiment, detecting temperatures experienced and/or traversed during flight may determine, for example, assessment of risk to a perishable object during flight and/or upon delivery of such object. In a further embodiment, the sensor114may detect one or more environmental variables (e.g., temperature) during flight such that when an environmental variable (e.g., a temperature) exceeds a predetermined threshold, the alert system.120may generate an alert, such as a visual and/or audible warning indicating that the delivery item requires immediate attention. In a further embodiment, the alert system120may transmit an instruction and/or command to the temperature controller116to provide heating and/or cooling to the attachment device126(e.g., compartment) and/or delivery item to prevent perishing of the item. Perishable items may include, but are not limited to, food, liquids, medicines, life-forms (e.g., animals, such as mealworms and/or fish, plants), etc.

In some embodiments, the sensor114may be configured to detect various environmental variables traversed by the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight including, but not limited to, acceleration, and/or percentage of tilt. The detected level of acceleration, and/or tilt may be displayed on the alert system120to, for example, assess overall flight environment and/or issue a command to the stability controller118to provide a more stable flight environment where acceleration, tilt and/or orientation are critical, such as during the delivery of animals or fragile items.

In some embodiments, the sensor114may detect measurements of at least one of acceleration and/or tilt, and the alert system120may transmit such measurements to the stability controller118to determine, for example, adjustments to maintain a balanced orientation of the delivery item(s) attached to the unmanned aerial vehicle102to provide a balanced load. In some embodiments, measurements of acceleration and/or tilt may be stored in a database, such as databased510ofFIG. 510, to coordinate flight planning for future flights so as to reduce acceleration and/or tilt during flights over the same terrain.

The stability controller118may be configured to determine appropriate load distribution of the delivery item(s) such that the load is balanced and/or evenly displaced based on the measurements detected by the sensor114prior to flight. In some embodiments, the stability controller118may be configured to receive dimension and/or weight information of each delivery item and arrange the delivery item(s) along the unmanned aerial vehicle102to maintain a balanced load for an efficient flight.

In a further embodiment, the sensor114may be configured to detect proximity to objects and/or obstacles in the path of the unmanned aerial vehicle102for any purpose such as, but not limited to, navigation guidance to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In some embodiments, the sensor114may be configured to determine a distance between the unmanned aerial vehicle102and a detected object to avoid collision.

The unmanned aerial vehicle102may include an alert system120. The alert system120may be a readily detectable status indicator mounted on the outside of the unmanned aerial vehicle102configured to generate an alert and/or status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or delivery items along a delivery route. For example, the alert/status may include a progress level and/or level of task completion, such as delivery status of an item to a predetermined destination, an amount of time spent traveling, the amount of time left to reach the destination, a dollar value associated with the one or more items being transported, percentage of an order fulfillment, and/or environmental factors detected by the sensor112and experienced by the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight.

The alert system120may include a light display, an illuminated color display, a digital timer display, a clock display, an acoustic signal, and/or an electronic signal. For example, the alert system120may include a plurality of lights positioned peripherally around the housing unit104of the unmanned aerial vehicle102configured to display various colors and/or patterns solid, flashing, multi-colored pattern of lights) to an observer and/or recipient indicating information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The light pattern can include one or more colors which may be static (e.g., non-moving) and/or dynamic (e.g., moving, such as flashing). It should be understood that the particular light pattern for taking off, landing, and/or level of progress may be set by the industry and/or user.

In an embodiment, the alert system120may be configured to generate an acoustic signal, such as a beep, alarm, and/or spoken words, to indicate and/or announce information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight. For example, the alert system120may provide various spoken announcements and/or commands (e.g., “Caution”, “Landing”, “Stay clear”, etc.) via speaker122to observers. Alternatively, the alert system120may be configured to transmit and/or broadcast an electronic signal and/or command, via transceiver124, to a receiving device, such as an observer's cellular telephone (e.g., user device132). The electronic signal may indicate various information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

In some embodiments, the alert system120may be observed from multiple viewpoints. For example, the alert system120, such as a light display on the unmanned aerial vehicle102, may be observed by a person on the ground, an air traffic controller tower, and/or various aircraft vehicles. In other embodiments, the alert system120may include a speaker configured to provide an audible signal indicating information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102, which may be otherwise perceived by one more individuals.

The present principles provide at least one of the following advantages, namely, a readily detectable indicator mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle102readily observable to individuals configured to generate a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102, such as movements of the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or an assessment of risk to perishable delivery items and/or battery life of the unmanned aerial vehicle102, especially when fragile items are being delivered. In some embodiments, observers are able to readily determine directional movement and/or flight status of the unmanned aerial vehicle102, such as whether the unmanned aerial vehicle102is taking off, landing, turning, etc. Accordingly, observers can readily determine the flight status of the unmanned aerial vehicle102and avoid a particular area.

The alert system120may illuminate lights of a particular color and/or pattern. For example, the alert system120may illuminate lights (e.g., flashing red lights) indicating the unmanned aerial vehicle102is about to take-off and/or land. During flight, the alert system120may continuously illuminate lights along the unmanned aerial vehicle102as the unmanned aerial vehicle102approaches the delivery location indicating a status of the delivery. For example, assuming the alert system120includes a total of 100 lights arranged along the periphery of the unmanned aerial vehicle102, the alert system120may illuminate twenty-five adjacent lights when delivery is twenty-five percent complete, fifty adjacent lights when delivery is fifty percent complete, etc. In another embodiment, the alert system120may illuminate one or more lights indicating how much time is left before landing and/or delivery. In a further embodiment, the alert system120may generate a distinct color and/or pattern when delivery has been completed and/or the unmanned aerial vehicle102is returning to the shipment facility and/or base station. Accordingly, an observer can readily determine that an unmanned aerial vehicle102flying nearby presents no hazard to the observer. It should be understood that mapping of such colors and/or patterns displayed by the alert system120may be set by industry standard.

The alert system120may provide additional details about the unmanned aerial vehicle102and/or delivery item(s). For example, the alert system120may generate a dollar value associated with the delivery item(s), which may change during the course of delivery. The alert system120may illuminate one or more visual displays, such as a color pattern, indicating if the delivery item(s) are of high dollar value such that the recipient can arrange to be present for delivery and/or attend to the delivery item(s) immediately upon delivery. Accordingly, the alert system120can generate a status indicating to the recipient the dollar value of the delivery item(s) such that the recipient can prevent thievery of the delivery items upon delivery. In some embodiments, the visual display (e.g., color pattern) indicating the dollar value of the delivery item(s) can be mapped, set or otherwise controlled by the recipient via user device132such that of the recipient is aware of the dollar value associated with the visual display of the alert system120.

In some embodiments, the dollar value of the delivery item(s) may change throughout the delivery if, for example, the delivery item(s) are perishable, which may be indicated by the alert system120. The dollar value of the delivery item may decrease when one or more environmental variables exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, when a detected temperature is above melting point, a delivery item ice cream) may melt, and the value of the delivery item may decrease. The alert system120may indicate the change in dollar value of such delivery item.

In some embodiments, the alert system120may provide the recipient of the delivery item with an up-to-date estimated time of delivery. For example, the alert system120, in combination with a navigation unit, such as navigation504ofFIG. 5, may estimate time of delivery based on approximate distance to the delivery location and/or velocity (e.g., airspeed) of the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The estimated time of delivery determined by the alert system120may be transmitted and/or otherwise communicated to the recipient, such as a user device132, via the transceiver124and/or transmission medium128. In addition, the user device132may prompt/request the alert system120to provide updated information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102including, but not limited to, estimated time and/or date of delivery.

In an embodiment, the alert system120may provide the recipient with delivery notification, such as delivery of the item and/or a percentage of order fulfillment (e.g., 50%, 1 out of 2, etc.) when multiple deliveries are expected. Accordingly, the recipient of the delivery item(s) may better estimate when delivery is expected and arrange to be present for delivery so as to prevent theft of the delivery item(s) upon delivery. In addition, the alert system120may indicate and/or display which part of an order is being delivered when, for example, orders are split into several packages and/or several deliveries (e.g., among multiple drones).

In some embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may automatically reorder delivery items if the alert system120indicates loss of such item. For example, if a delivery item is lost and/or damaged during flight (e.g., the attachment device126inadvertently releases a delivery item before delivery), the alert system120may identify the lost item and request replacement of such item via the transceiver124. The transceiver124may communicate with a secondary transmitter/receiver device130, such as a secondary drone134, to obtain and deliver such item to the delivery location.

In some embodiments, the alert system120may indicate a total amount of time spent traveling from the shipping location and/or a battery recharging station to the delivery location. Determining the total amount of time spent traveling may be used, for example, to assess a level of risk to perishable items and/or the battery life of the power supply110. For example, the alert system120may track and/or display a total amount of time spent traveling with a perishable delivery item. Upon delivery of the item, the alert system120may flash red lights, initiate a beeping noise and/or announcement via speaker122, broadcast an electronic signal via transceiver124, and/or provide a signal indicating to the recipient and/or an observer that the delivery item is perishable and/or needs immediate attention based on the total amount of time spent traveling. Accordingly, the alert system120may further prevent spoiling of perishable items. In addition, the alert system120may indicate a level of turbulence (e.g., by measuring the acceleration of the unmanned aerial vehicle102) experienced during flight, which may further indicate a level of risk to the delivery item(s) when the delivery item is perishable.

In an embodiment, the alert system120may indicate a power level of the power supply110, which may be provided to and/or sensed by a secondary transmitter/receiver device130, such as a secondary drone134and/or base station136. For example, the alert system120may provide a power level of the power supply110when the power level depletes beyond a threshold level. The alert system120may indicate the power level of the power supply110by, for example, visually displaying a color pattern along the periphery of the unmanned aerial vehicle102, such as peripheral lights that may gradually change from green to red as the power supply110depletes. When the peripheral lights are all red, the alert system120may indicate that the power supply110is completely depleted of power. In other embodiments, the alert system120may indicate the power level of the power supply110by, for example, transmitting a power supply level to a secondary transmitter/receiver device130within a vicinity of the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

The secondary drone134and/or base station136may be configured to provide power recharging and/or replacement power supply services to the unmanned aerial vehicle102. For example, the secondary drone134may be configured to recharge the power supply110on the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight and/or automatically replace the power supply110by removing, using a replacement mechanism, the depleted power supply110and inserting a charged power supply110. The base station136may include, but is not limited to, a shipment facility and/or a battery-charging station located at various locations, including a homeowner's property. In some embodiments, the base station136may be fully automated to replace and/or recharge the power supply110. In other embodiments, the base station136may utilize the assistance of the property owner where the base station136is located. For example, the property owner may initiate operation of the base station136to cause a replacement mechanism to remove the depleted power supply110and insert another power supply110.

The alert system120may provide the power level of the power supply110to the transceiver124, which may be transmitted, sensed, and/or received by the secondary transmitter/receiver device130. In some embodiments, the alert system120may generate a request to the secondary transmitter/receiver device130for recharging and/or replacement battery services based on progress toward the delivery location, perishability of the delivery items, etc. The secondary transmitter/receiver device130may indicate availability for the unmanned aerial vehicle102to recharge and/or replace the power supply110. In some embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may receive, from the secondary transmitter/receiver device130, location information of the secondary transmitter/receiver device130, such as a relay location. In further embodiments, the secondary drone134may travel along with the unmanned aerial vehicle102and provide power recharging capabilities to the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight.

In some embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be configured to dispense a reward to the property owner and/or base station136when recharging and/or replacement of the power supply110is complete. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may transmit, via transceiver124, a discount, rebate, coupon, reward points, payment, etc. for recharging and/or replacing the power supply110. In an alternative embodiment, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be configured to dispense and/or release a reward item, such as a sample item, for recharging and/or replacing the power supply110. The reward item may be attached to the unmanned aerial vehicle via attachment device126.

It should be understood that the alert system120can be programmable and/or customized based on the cognitive skills and/or abilities of the user. For example, a recipient of the delivery item(s) who is color blind may be able to program the alert system120with a different pattern of lights rather than a non-color blind cohort. In another embodiment, if the combination of lights and/or audible signal from the speaker affects the recipient's pets, the alert system120may be programmed and/or customized to better suit the recipient's environment. When the alert system120includes a color display, the color may be adjusted for individuals (e.g., recipients) having color blindness. In addition, sound effects generated from the alert system120and/or speaker122may be employed for the vision impaired. In addition, the mapping of color patterns may be controlled by the recipient (e.g., via user device132) and such mappings may be stored in a database, such as database510ofFIG. 5.

Now referring toFIG. 2, an exemplary system/method200for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle is illustratively depicted. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)202may include any of system100ofFIG. 1. As illustratively depicted inFIG. 2, the UAV202may be traveling to and from shipping location201and delivery location203along delivery route204. In some embodiments, the UAV202may be configured to communicate206with one or more secondary drones234A,234B and/or one or more base stations236A,236B within the vicinity of the UAV202. In some embodiments, the UAV202may transmit a power level to secondary drones234A,234B and/or base stations236A,236B and/or request availability of recharging services. In further embodiments, the requests from UAV202may have different weighted values depending on, for example, perishability of the items attached to the UAV202, progress towards the delivery location203and/or shipping location201, etc. For example, a request for recharging services may be higher from a UAV202carrying a perishable delivery item versus a UAV202carrying a non-perishable item.

Now referring toFIG. 3, an exemplary system/method300for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle is illustratively depicted. The unmanned aerial vehicle302may include any of system100ofFIG. 1. As shown inFIG. 3, the unmanned aerial vehicle302may travel between a shipping location301to a delivery location303during timeline t. As the unmanned aerial vehicle302progresses to the delivery location303, the alert system320is configured to generate a status capable of being observed or otherwise perceived by an observer304indicating information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle302. For example, the alert system320may illuminate a visual display representing a progress level of the delivery. As shown inFIG. 3, the alert system320on the unmanned aerial vehicle302A at t1indicates the start of the delivery of delivery item305. At12, the alert system320on the unmanned aerial vehicle302B indicates fifty percent completion the delivery. At t3, the alert system320on the unmanned aerial vehicle302C indicates one-hundred percent completion of the delivery, such as when the delivery item305is unfastened and/or delivered at delivery location303. Accordingly, the observer304is able to readily determine information associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle302.

It is to be appreciated that system400described below with respect toFIG. 4, and system500described below with respect toFIG. 5, are systems for implementing respective embodiments of the present principles. Part or all of processing systems100,200and/or300may be implemented in one or more of the elements of system400ofFIG. 4and/or system500ofFIG. 5. Further, it is to be appreciated that processing systems100,200,300,400and/or500may perform at least part of the method described herein, including, for example, at least part of method600ofFIG. 6.

Now referring toFIG. 4, with continued reference toFIG. 1, an exemplary processing system400to which the present principles may be applied, in accordance with an embodiment, is illustratively depicted. The processing system400includes at least one processor, such as a computer processing unit (CPU)404, operatively coupled to other components via a system bus402. A cache406, a Read Only Memory (ROM)408, a Random Access Memory (RAM)410, an input/output (110) adapter420, a sound adapter430, a network adapter440, a user interface adapter450, and a display adapter460are operatively coupled to the system bus402.

A first storage device422and a second storage device424are operatively coupled to system bus402by the I/O adapter420. The storage devices422and424can be any of a disk storage device (e.g., a magnetic or optical disk storage device), a solid state magnetic device, etc. The storage devices422and424can be the same type of storage device or different types of storage devices. In one embodiment, database images may be stored on the first storage device422and/or the second storage device424for comparison with images obtained by the camera112ofFIG. 1.

A speaker432is operatively coupled to system bus402by the sound adapter430. In one embodiment, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be configured to indicate a level of progress and/or status by providing an audio signal, such as a beep, alarm, audible command, etc., from the speaker432.

A transceiver442is operatively coupled to system bus402by network adapter440. A display device462is operatively coupled to system bus402by display adapter460. In some embodiments, the display device462may be configured to receive still images and/or video feedback from camera112ofFIG. 1. The display device462may be used to, for example, provide visual guidance to an operator of the unmanned aerial vehicle102for purposes such as navigation guidance.

A first user input device452, a second user input device454, and a third user input device456are operatively coupled to system bus402by user interface adapter450. The user input devices452,454, and456can be any type of input device, including but not limited to, a keyboard, a mouse, a keypad, an image capture device, a motion sensing device, a microphone, a device incorporating the functionality of at least two of the preceding devices, and so forth. Other types of input devices can also be used while maintaining the spirit of the present principles. The user input devices452,454, and456can be the same type of user input device or different types of user input devices. The user input devices452,454, and456are used to input and output information to and from system400.

The processing system400may also include other elements (not shown) or may omit some elements as shown. For example, various other input devices and/or output devices can be included in processing system400depending upon the particular implementation of the same, such as various types of wireless and/or wired input and/or output devices. Moreover, additional processors, controllers, memories and so forth, in various configurations, can also be utilized. These and other variations of the processing system400are readily contemplated.

Referring now toFIG. 5, with continued reference toFIG. 1, an exemplary system500for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle102is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present principles. The system500includes a flight controller502, a navigation unit504, a monitoring device506, an alert system508, a database510, an authentication unit512, a locking device514, a risk analysis device516and/or a value adjustment device518.

The flight controller502may be configured to control movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In one embodiment, the flight controller502may include a motor, such as motor108inFIG. 1. In some embodiments, the flight controller502may control the aerial movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle102by controlling the at least one movement mechanism106and/or motor108illustrated inFIG. 1. For example, the flight controller502may control aerial movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle102by sending control signals to the at least one movement mechanism106and/or motor108to maintain a level flight.

In an embodiment, the flight controller502may be configured to control movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle102by controlling the rotational speed(s) and/or rotational direction(s) of each of the movement mechanisms106independently and/or collectively. For example, the flight controller502may be configured to rotate each of the movement mechanisms106in a single direction, or alternatively, the flight controller502may be configured to rotate each of the movement mechanisms106in opposing directions. In one embodiment, the flight controller502may be configured to control movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle102to avoid collision between the unmanned aerial vehicle102and various obstacles (e.g., trees, mountains, etc.).

In a further embodiment, the system500may include a navigation unit504, such as a global positioning system (UPS). The navigation unit504may provide location information for particular shipping locations, delivery locations, and/or locations of one or more secondary devices130, such as a user device132, a secondary drone134and/or base station136. Accordingly, the navigation unit504may provide the unmanned aerial vehicle102with navigation coordinates of various locations, including relay locations where the secondary drone134and/or base station136can meet for power supply recharging and/or replacement. The navigation unit504may include map coordinates of a particular area and may provide such information to the flight controller502, such that the flight controller502may direct the unmanned aerial vehicle102to a particular location.

In an embodiment, the system500may include a monitoring device506. The monitoring device506may include a camera, a sensor, a radar system, or similarly functioning devices. In some embodiments, the monitoring device506may be configured to perform one or more operations as described above in relation to the camera110, sensor114, temperature controller116, and/or stability controller118ofFIG. 1. For example, the monitoring device506may capture one or more still images or video images and, using database510, may perform image comparison with database images to determine whether or not the location is safe to land and/or release a delivery item. In another embodiment, the monitoring device506may determine appropriate weight distribution of the delivery items along the unmanned aerial vehicle102.

The system may include an alert system508. The alert system508may perform the operations as described above with reference to the alert system120. In some embodiments, the alert system508may include a readily detectable indicator configured to generate a status and/or an alert associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102, such as level of task completion, an amount of time spent traveling, a dollar value associated with the delivery items, percentage of air order fulfillment, and/or a level of environmental variables traversed, such as a level of turbulence or acceleration experienced by the unmanned aerial vehicle102during flight. The alert system508may include a light display, an illuminated color display, a digital timer display, a clock display, and/or an electronic signal.

In an embodiment, the system500may include a database510. The database510may be configured to store one or more still images or video images of buildings and/or landing areas, such as flat terrain, mailboxes, porches, etc. In some embodiments, the database510may provide such database images and/or video for image comparison with images and/or videos captured by the monitoring device506. In a further embodiment, visual patterns and/or audible signals for the alert system508may be stored in database510.

The authentication unit512may be configured to verify recipient information and/or delivery location for delivery of the item transported by the unmanned aerial vehicle102. In some embodiments, the authentication unit512may include a scanner, such as a biometric scanner (e.g., thumbprint reader, retinal scanner, etc.) and/or Radio-frequency identification (RFID) scanner, to verify a recipient in order to release the delivery item. In other embodiments, the authentication unit512may include a scanner configured to scan a barcode, such as a quick response code, provided by the recipient. For example, the recipient may provide a barcode on a user device, such as a cellular telephone and/or tablet, which the authentication unit512may scan to verify identification of the recipient. In further embodiments, the authentication unit512may include a user interface configured to receive a password input by the recipient. The authentication unit512may compare the input password with a stored password, such as a password stored in database510, to verify the recipient. If the authentication unit512fails to correctly verify the recipient information, the authentication unit512may transmit a command to the flight controller502and/or navigation unit504to return to the shipment location. In some embodiments, the alert system120may indicate whether or not authentication has failed by, for example, visually displaying and/or announcing (e.g., via speaker122) that authentication has failed.

In some embodiments, the system500may include a locking device514. The locking device514may include, for example, electronic deadbolts and/or latches, a digital lock, an electronic lock, an electromagnetic lock, and/or similar functioning devices. The locking device514may be configured to “lock” the unmanned aerial vehicle102. For example, the locking device514may lock the delivery item to the attachment device126until authentication of the recipient is verified by the authentication unit512. Accordingly, the unmanned aerial vehicle102may be in a “locked mode” until the appropriate recipient supplies the appropriate unlock input (e.g., password, verification, validation, etc.) so as to prevent thievery of such delivery items and/or delivery to incorrect recipients. In some embodiments, the alert system508may indicate that the unmanned aerial vehicle102is in a locked mode by, for example, illuminating one or more visual displays, generating an audible alarm, and/or providing an electronic signal indicating that the unmanned aerial vehicle102is locked.

The risk analysis device516may be configured to evaluate a level of risk associated with one or more of the delivery items. In some embodiments, the risk analysis device516may determine a level of risk to delivery items that include perishable items. The risk analysis device516may determine whether or not a delivery item requires immediate attention upon delivery based on, for example, one or more environmental variables (e.g., an amount of travel time, temperatures traversed, and/or turbulence) experienced by the unmanned aerial vehicle102during delivery. The risk analysis device516may be configured to provide the level of risk associated with the delivery item to the alert system508to, for example, indicate that the delivery item requires attention.

The system500may include a value adjustment device518. The value adjustment device518may be configured to adjust the value of the delivery items depending on the risk level determined by, for example, the risk analysis device516. For example, if the risk level to a perishable delivery item is high, the dollar value of the delivery item may be adjusted such that the value increases and/or decreases. As an example, if the delivery item is ice cream and the temperature sensor114determines that, during the delivery, the traversed temperature exceeds a threshold value, then a dollar value and/or price charged for the ice cream may be reduced since the ice cream may be partially melted. Alternatively, the value adjustment device may increase the dollar value associated with the delivery item if a delivery is made early and/or arrives hot, such as a pizza being delivered to a home.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 5, the elements thereof may be interconnected by a bus501. However, in other embodiments, other types of connections can also be used. Moreover, in an embodiment, at least one of the elements of system500is processor-based. Further, while one or more elements may be shown as separate elements, in other embodiments these elements can be combined as one element. These and other variations of the elements of system500are readily determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, given the teachings of the present principles provided herein.

Now referring toFIG. 6, with continued reference toFIGS. 1-5,FIG. 6shows an exemplary method.600for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle102.

In block602, the method600may include fastening one or more delivery items to an unmanned aerial vehicle102using an attachment device, such as attachment device126ofFIG. 1. In an embodiment, the de items may be attached by determining appropriate placement of the delivery items to maintain a balanced load. The method600may include aerially transporting the delivery items along a delivery route, as illustrated in block604.

In block606, the method600may′ further include generating a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102. The status may include a progress level and/or level of task completion, such as delivery status of an item to a predetermined destination, an amount of time spent traveling, a dollar value associated with the one or more items being transported, percentage of an order fulfillment, directional movement and/or environmental factors detected during flight. The status may be provided by one or more visual displays, acoustic signals, or electronic signals, such as a light display, a speaker and/or transceiver. The status is capable of being observed from multiple viewpoints and/or otherwise perceived by one or more individuals.

In some embodiments, generating a status associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle102may include detecting one or more environmental factors, such as temperatures, turbulence, tilt and/or acceleration traversed along the delivery route, and displaying the one or more environmental factors as the status, as illustrated in block608. In a further embodiment, generating a status may include evaluating a risk level to the one or more delivery items and displaying the risk level as the status, as shown in block610. For example, the risk level may be evaluated when the traversed temperatures, the amount of traversed turbulence, or the tilt orientation exceeds a predetermined threshold.

In some embodiments, the status may be a value associated with the one or more delivery items. In block612, generating the status may include adjusting the value associated with the delivery items based on the risk level and/or indicating that the one or more delivery items requires immediate attention based on the evaluated risk level.

In block,614, generating the status may further include indicating the power supply level of the unmanned aerial vehicle102when the power supply level depletes beyond a predetermined threshold, and receiving location coordinates of a secondary device configured to provide power supply recharging and/or replacement. The secondary device may include a user device, a secondary drone, or base station.

In block616, generating the status may further include authenticating recipient information upon delivery. When the recipient information is authenticated, the delivery items may be released. In some embodiments, the status may indicate whether or not the recipient information is authenticated or not. When recipient information fails to be authenticated, the status may indicate that authentication has failed and/or the delivery item may remain fastened to the unmanned aerial vehicle.

Characteristics are as follows:

Service Models are as follows:

Deployment Models are as follows:

As shown inFIG. 7, computer system/server712in cloud computing node710is shown in the form of a general-purpose computing device. The components of computer system/server712may include, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing units716, a system memory728, and a bus718that couples various system components including system memory728to processor716.

Program/utility740, having a set (at least one) of program modules742, may be stored in memory728by way of example, and not limitation, as well as an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each of the operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data or some combination thereof, may include an implementation of a networking environment. Program modules742generally carry out the functions and/or methodologies of embodiments of the invention as described herein.

Computer system/server712may also communicate with one or more external devices714such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a display724, etc.; one or more devices that enable a user to interact with computer system/server712; and/or any devices (e.g., network card, modem, etc.) that enable computer system/server712to communicate with one or more other computing devices. Such communication can occur via Input/Output (I/O) interfaces722. Still computer system/server712can communicate with one or more networks such as a local area network (LAN), a general wide area network (WAN), and/or a public network (e.g., the Internet) via network adapter720. As depicted, network adapter720communicates with the other components of computer system/server712via bus718. It should be understood that although not shown, other hardware and/or software components could be used in conjunction with computer system/server712. Examples, include, but are not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data archival storage systems, etc.

Referring now toFIG. 8, illustrative cloud computing environment850is depicted. As shown, cloud computing environment850includes one or more cloud computing nodes810with which local computing devices used by cloud consumers, such as, for example, personal digital assistant (PDA) or cellular telephone854A, desktop computer854B, laptop computer8540, and/or automobile computer system854N may communicate. Nodes810may communicate with one another. They may be grouped (not shown) physically or virtually, in one or more networks, such as Private, Community, Public, or Hybrid clouds as described hereinabove, or a combination thereof. This allows cloud computing environment850to offer infrastructure, platforms and/or software as services for which a cloud consumer does not need to maintain resources on a local computing device. It is understood that the types of computing devices854A-N shown inFIG. 8are intended to be illustrative only and that computing nodes810and cloud computing environment850can communicate with any type of computerized device over any type of network and/or network addressable connection (e.g., using a web browser).

Workloads layer966provides examples of functionality for which the cloud computing environment may be utilized. Examples of workloads and functions which may be provided from his layer include: mapping and navigation; software development and lifecycle management; virtual classroom education delivery; data analytics processing; transaction processing; and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) status management.

Having described preferred embodiments of an unmanned aerial vehicle for aerial transportation of delivery items using an unmanned aerial vehicle, which are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, it is noted that modifications and variations can be made by persons skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that changes may be made in the particular embodiments disclosed which are within the scope of the invention as outlined by the appended claims. Having thus described aspects of the invention, with the details and particularity required by the patent laws, what is claimed and desired protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims.