Patent ID: 12185856

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides for a personal drone delivery system. The delivery system may be an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) delivery platform, a containment unit, a computer application, or any combination of these.

Throughout this disclosure, “unmanned systems” include systems that are capable of operating for at least a period of time without input from an on-board human. Unmanned systems may include terrestrial, aquatic, or aerial vehicles. An unmanned system may sometimes include a human on board who is capable of taking control of the unmanned system or that provides instructions to the unmanned system. Some unmanned systems may operate without a human on board, but may be controlled or partially controlled remotely by a human pilot. Some unmanned systems may operate autonomously by receiving instructions from a computer program. Thus, to complete an objective, an unmanned system may operate autonomously, under the guidance of received instructions, or under partial or total control of a human pilot. The word “drone” is synonymous with “unmanned system” as used herein.

One example of an aerial unmanned system is an unmanned aerial vehicle, more commonly called a UAV. The UAVs discussed and illustrated in this disclosure are a four-rotor vertical takeoff and landing UAVs. However, the UAV may include any number of rotors, may be embodied as be a fixed-wing aircraft, or some combination of both.

As used in this disclosure, the word “delivery” is intended to mean both “to drop off” and “to pick up,” unless one of the options is impracticable. For example, a “delivery vehicle” is a vehicle capable of picking up a parcel and dropping off a parcel at a location.

Having this in mind, the present technology describes a personal drone delivery system that may include a UAV delivery platform, a containment unit, a computer application, or any combination of these. This disclosure describes the delivery system as a “personal” system, and many of the embodiments are discussed in the context of a person's home or place of living. It is not intended to be limited to such embodiments, but may also be used in the context of business or industries, including business locations that are primarily engaged in parcel delivery.

At a high level, the UAV delivery platform may be an elevated surface to facilitate the delivery of parcels from a UAV. As used herein, the UAV delivery platform may also be referred to as simply a “delivery platform.” The delivery platform may be elevated by mounting it onto a structure, including a pole, a home, an apartment building, or the like. In some instances, it may be mounted on a track system to move the delivery platform along the track system. The delivery platform may communicate with different devices and systems, such as a mobile user device and a UAV. The delivery platform may include one or more of several different sensors to facilitate communication and delivery, such as antennas, cameras, weather sensors, pressure sensors, and the like.

The delivery platform may comprise an elevating surface. The elevating surface may be raised and lowered. As such, when a parcel is dropped off at the delivery platform by a UAV, the parcel may be lowered from the delivery platform by the elevating surface to a lower position where the parcel may be retrieved by a person. In some cases, the parcel may be lowered by the elevating surface and placed into a containment unit.

The containment unit may comprise a housing to protect the parcel from environmental elements and to provide security to the parcel. The containment unit may receive the parcel from the elevating surface. To do so, the containment unit may extend a portion of the housing over the elevating surface having the parcel. Then, the portion of the housing may be retracted so that an end of the housing unit pulls the parcel into the housing. The containment unit may store the parcel until it is retrieved by a person or drone.

Each of the delivery platform and the containment unit may be operated autonomously using predetermined or learned instructions. The delivery platform and the containment unit may also be controlled using a computer application, sometimes referred to as an “app” or “mobile app.” For example, the elevating surface of the delivery platform may be raised and lowered in response to instructions received from a mobile device executing an app.

Having described a high level summary of the technology, example aspects are provided below in further detail with reference to the figures.

Operating Environment

FIG.1provides an example operating environment100that may be used for drone delivery. Operating environment100is illustrated as having delivery platform120, drone130, containment unit140, user device150, and storage160. Each of these is shown communicating through network110. Network110may include, without limitation, local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). Network110may comprise the Internet and cellular networks, or any of a variety of possible public and private networks. In some instances, network110may comprise direct hard-wire communication, or any form of short- or long-range communication methods, such as infrared (IR) or Bluetooth. Because operating environment100is intended only to illustrate one example environment, it should not be read as limiting the operating environment to only the illustrated components, but rather, it may include any combination of these or other components.

Delivery platform120may be any platform that facilitates parcel delivery by a drone, such as drone130. Some example embodiments of suitable delivery platforms will be further described in this disclosure. Drone130, while illustrated as a UAV, may be any unmanned system. In a specific embodiment that will be described in more detail, drone130is a UAV having parcel carrier132. Containment unit140is also illustrated within operating environment100, and may comprise any device for housing or securing a parcel during the delivery process. Specific example embodiments of containment unit140are described in more detail in this disclosure.

User device150represents any device that may receive user inputs and communicate information through network110. One suitable example of user device150that may be utilized with the present technology is computing device1200, which is described in more detail below with reference toFIG.41. However, more general examples of user device150may include smartphones, smartwatches, personal computers, tablets, personal digital assistants, or the like. User device150may be capable of executing a computer application, more commonly referred to as an “app” or a “mobile app.” An app is a computer-readable software code that may be executed by a processor of user device150and may be stored in storage160.

In general, storage160stores computer-usable information, such as data or instructions. One example of storage160is described inFIG.41with reference to memory1212. Storage160may store information that is utilized by any of the other components illustrated in operating environment100or described throughout this disclosure. While storage160is depicted as a single data store, storage160may include one or more data stores or may be in a cloud environment. Storage160may include remote data stores or may be integrated within any of the components in operating environment100.

Delivery Platform

FIG.2provides a general overview201of delivery platform200in an example use environment. Here, delivery platform200is fixed to structure202, which is an example location that may send or receive parcels. Delivery platform200may be fixed to an area on structure202so that delivery platform200is elevated above structure202or at least above a majority of structure202. Delivery platform200is shown inFIG.2as coupled to track system204that runs along rooftop203. Other track system locations may be used and are discussed in more detail below. Track system204may move delivery platform200from a first position on structure202to a second position on structure202. The first position may be higher in elevation than the second position, and the first position may be used to facilitate delivery of a parcel208by UAV206. The second position may be used to facilitate elevating or lowering a parcel208to or from delivery platform200so that it may be retrieved by a person on the ground. Various aspects of these elements will be described in more detail below.

At a high level, however, delivery platform200solves several problems that have been encountered when delivering parcels using drones. When delivering parcels using UAVs, one problem that is sometimes encountered is a difficult terrain at the delivery location. The delivery location may be surrounded by obstacles such as trees or vehicles, or may be geographically sloped. These issues can make take-offs and landings or near-ground pick ups and releases difficult. Similarly, there are additional safety concerns when delivering parcels using UAVs, particularly when navigating UAVs near the ground. For instance, people, animals, and property may be near the delivery location at the time of the delivery.

To solve these problems, some of the delivery platforms described in the present disclosure, such as delivery platform200, are elevated above these obstacles and safety concerns. Thus, when UAVs are delivering parcels, many of these obstacles and safety concerns may be avoided. This also has the added benefit of allowing UAV delivery to take place at a greater number of delivery locations. Since there are currently many delivery addresses that may not be able to take advantage of UAV delivery due to the delivery location's structure or its terrain, the delivery platforms described throughout this disclosure provide systems that allow these locations to begin using UAV delivery methods. Additionally, the elevated aspects of the delivery platforms provide enhanced security for people shipping and receiving parcels. Instead of placing a parcel on the ground, such as on a porch, the parcels may be selectively raised to an elevated, more secure position, and they may stay in this position until retrieved by a UAV or a person on the ground.

Turning now toFIG.3, a top view of delivery platform200is provided. Delivery platform200is shown in the second position, which is lower in elevation than the first position, shown inFIG.2. In the second position, delivery platform200may extend over edge205of rooftop203so that there is no obstruction below a bottom of delivery platform200to the ground or release point.

In general, delivery platform200may comprise delivery surface210. Delivery surface210may include elevating surface212, which may comprise substantially all of delivery surface210or only a portion of delivery surface210. In the example illustrated inFIG.3, elevating surface212is shown as comprising a portion of delivery surface210, while another portion of delivery surface210includes stationary surface214. Here, stationary surface214surrounds elevating surface212, and elevating surface212is recessed below stationary surface214. Additionally, delivery surface210may be proximate outer rim216, which may be fixed to outer rim216and extend upward therefrom.

Delivery platform200may comprise cover218. Cover218may be retractable so as not to obstruct delivery of a parcel by a UAV. As illustrated, cover218is in a retracted position. Cover218may be comprised of segments, such as segments220A and220B, that stack together when cover218is in the retracted position. In a covered position, the segments may extend end to end.FIG.4shows an example of cover218in the covered position having segments220A and220B in the end-to-end configuration. In the end-to-end configuration, the segments cover the top of delivery platform200to protect parcel208from external conditions, such as weather, while the parcel is on the delivery surface210. Cover218may be deployed from the retracted position, such as that shown inFIG.3, to the covered position, such as that shown inFIG.4by rotating about pivot222. This rotation is illustrated as inFIG.4as directional arrow224. When cover218is in the covered position, outer edge226of cover218may be positioned outside outer rim216to limit the amount of external moisture from contacting delivery surface210or parcel208.

In another embodiment, which is not illustrated, a cover may comprise a plastic or other waterproof polymer material. This may include one or more sheets of material. The material may be secured at one end to a delivery platform and to a rotatable arm at the other end. The cover material may be deployed by rotating the arm over the top of the delivery platform, thereby covering the platform with the cover material.

Delivery platforms, such as delivery platform200may include climate controls, for example, controls that regulate the temperature and humidity within delivery platform200. In such cases, parcels that require particular temperature ranges or moisture conditions can be delivered using UAVs. This is particularly helpful when delivering medicine—allowing medicine to be delivered and held until a person retrieves it, or to be stored for a period of time prior to being picked up by a UAV. To do so, delivery platform200further comprises a compressor, not shown. The compressor removes heat from within a contained area of delivery platform200, for example, an area that is formed when cover218is deployed. Cover218may comprise insulation that forms an insulated area when deployed. Delivery platform200may also comprise a dehumidifier, not shown, that removes moisture from within the contained area. Cover218can further comprise outer edge226. When cover218is deployed, outer edge226secures into a recessed area of outer rim216to form a seal. In some cases, outer edge226forms a seal by contacting outer rim216of cover218. This is just one example, and others include outer rim216of cover contacting outer edge226an inside part of outer edge226, on an outside part of outer edge226, or by directly contacting a surface of delivery platform200when deployed, and can form a seal at each of these locations.

With reference back toFIG.3, delivery platform200may comprise one or more sensors. For example, some sensors include those illustrated on anemometer228, wind vane230, and camera232. While not illustrated, delivery surface210may include a scale to determine weight of parcels that are placed on delivery surface210. Each of these sensors may determine information and communicate this information to a UAV delivering a parcel. Wireless communication may be facilitated by antenna236, which may be used with any of the communication methods previously discussed, such as Wi-Fi. As an example, anemometer228may collect wind speed, while wind vane230may collect wind direction. This may be communicated to a UAV during delivery of a parcel to assist in guiding the UAV so that the parcel may be released or retrieved from the delivery surface210.

Additionally, delivery platform200may have an associated waypoint identification. The waypoint identification may guide the UAV to delivery platform200using a satellite positioning system, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Camera232may be any type of camera known in the art. It may be positioned to detect the presence of a parcel, such as parcel208, on delivery surface210. Camera232may also be used to determine live images of delivery platform200that are communicated to a UAV delivering a parcel to guide the UAV during release or retrieval. Camera232may further be used to detect machine-readable indicia, such as labels, that are on the parcel. Camera232, or another camera associated with delivery platform200, may point in an upward direction to collect images as the UAV approaches. These images can provide positioning information to the UAV during the approach by transmitting this back to the UAV. This helps increase accuracy when delivering the parcel.

The various sensors may be utilized to deploy cover218from the retracted position to the covered position. Looking toFIG.5, as an example, parcel208may be delivered by UAV206. As previously described, this may include release of parcel208at delivery platform200or pick up of parcel208at delivery platform200. When parcel208is released at delivery platform200, camera232may detect that parcel208is present at delivery surface210. Based on detecting that parcel208is present on delivery surface210, cover218may be deployed from the retracted position, as shown inFIG.5, to the covered position, as shown inFIG.4. Other methods for detecting the presence of parcel208on delivery surface210may be used to determine when to deploy cover218. For example, an indication that parcel208has been delivered may be received from a delivery service or UAV206. Other sensors, such as a scale that determines a force applied to delivery surface210, may be used in addition to or in lieu of camera232.

In another example, UAV206may be approaching delivery platform200having parcel208. Delivery platform200may receive an indication from UAV206that UAV206intends to release parcel208on delivery surface210. In response to the indication from UAV206, delivery platform200may determine whether cover218is in the retracted position or in the covered position. If cover218is in the covered position, as inFIG.4, then delivery platform200may move cover218from the covered position to the retracted position, shown inFIG.5, by rotating pivot222in the direction indicated by directional arrow238.

With continued reference toFIGS.3-5, the various sensors may be used to determine information about a parcel208. For instance, the scale associated with delivery surface210may be used to determine a weight of parcel208, which may be used to determine the type of UAV needed to retrieve parcel208, as some delivery UAVs will have a greater payload capacity than others. Further, camera232may be used to detect an image machine-readable indicia240, from which delivery information may be determined, such as a delivery address.

Turning now toFIGS.6-7, a bottom view of delivery platform200when cover218is in the covered position, is provided. Delivery platform200comprises delivery surface210, which includes elevating surface212and stationary surface214. Elevating surface212may be raised and lowered from an elevated position to a lowered position by lift242. Lift242may comprise one or more lift cables244. The lift cables244may be retracted or extended by lift242so that elevating surface212moves upward to the elevated position or downward to the lowered position.FIG.6illustrates elevating surface212in the elevated position, whileFIG.7illustrates elevating surface212in transition from the elevated position to the lowered position. In some cases, as a parcel is lowered by elevating surface212, a battery associated with delivery platform200may be charged by a generator that is turned based on the gravity-assisted lowering of elevating surface212and the parcel. The energy stored in the battery during the lowering with the parcel may be used to raise the elevating platform to the raised position.

To facilitate raising and lowering elevating surface212, delivery platform200may comprise guide cable246and one or more guide wheels250. Guide cable246may comprise guide fastener248. Guide cable246may be coupled to the bottom of elevating surface212, and may be raised and lowered independent of elevating surface212. Guide cable246may be extended or retracted in a winch-like fashion. In general, guide cable246may be used to facilitate raising and lowering of elevating surface212. With brief reference toFIGS.8-9, which show another example use-case scenario for delivery platform200, the figures illustrate an example use of guide cable246.FIG.8illustrates guide cable246in the retracted position. Guide cable246may be independently lowered from elevating surface212to a lowered position near the ground by extending guide cable246. In some cases, guide cable246may be fastened to support252on or near the ground using guide fastener248, as illustrated inFIG.9. As elevating surface212is lowered by lift242, guide cable246may be retracted to keep tension along guide cable246. By retracting guide cable246while lowering elevating surface212, elevating surface212is less likely to sway about lift cables244, reducing the risk of elevating surface212contacting structure202and reducing the risk that parcel208shifts when raising or lowering elevating surface212. This process may be similar for raising elevating surface212to its elevated position. For example, as elevating surface is raised by lift242, guide cable246may be extended to keep tension on guide cable246and one or more lift cables, such as lift cable244.

Guide wheels250may also serve to facilitate the safe raising and lowering of elevating surface212. Turning back toFIG.7, guide wheels250may be fixed to the bottom of elevating surface212, and they may extend outward and away from elevating surface212in the direction of structure202. Guide wheels250may contact a sidewall of structure202as elevating surface212is raised and lowered. This stabilizes elevating surface212while it is being raised and lowered, making it less likely to sway.

As indicated above, delivery platform200is only an example of one embodiment of a delivery platform. Another example embodiment of a delivery platform is described with reference toFIGS.10-14. Reference is first made toFIG.10, which provides a top view of delivery platform300, and toFIG.11, which provides a bottom view of delivery platform300. Here, delivery platform300is movably coupled to vertical track system304, where delivery platform300and vertical track system304are together referred to as a “delivery system.” Delivery platform300may comprise delivery surface310, which may include elevating surface312and stationary surface314. In some cases, delivery platform300may only comprise elevating surface312, or it may have only a portion as elevating surface312and further comprise a portion as stationary surface314. Stationary surface314can comprise stationary edge317. Outer rim319can extend upward and away from stationary edge317

Delivery platform300may also comprise chamber306. Chamber306may include a bottom portion that includes elevating surface312and top rim315. Chamber306may include sidewall316extending from elevating surface312to top rim315. Top rim315may be horizontally aligned with stationary surface314. In cases where there is no stationary surface, top rim315may include an outer edge of delivery surface310, not illustrated. Sidewall316may be expandable, such as in an accordion configuration. Put another way, sidewall316may be able to expand and contract vertically between top rim315and elevating surface312as the distance between top rim315and elevating surface312increases or decreases. In this way, chamber306may be a variable volume chamber. In some cases, elevating surface312may be detached from sidewall316.

Chamber306may be utilized to store one or more parcels, such as parcel308(interchangeably referred to as second parcel308). Chamber306may also allow for delivery of multiple parcels. Since chamber306can store parcels vertically, e.g., one on top of the other, multiple deliveries may be made to delivery platform300. In this way, delivery platform300does not have to be made horizontally larger, such as having to make the size of delivery surface310of delivery platform300larger to accommodate multiple parcels. This allows for delivery platform300to be placed at a greater number of delivery locations, including those where a larger delivery platform may be challenging to install. Chamber306further allows for multiple deliveries by allowing parcels to accumulate prior to retrieving the parcels from the platform, thus possibly reducing the need to retrieve a parcel after each delivery.

To store parcels in chamber306, a first parcel307may be delivered to delivery platform300and placed on elevating surface312. For example, first parcel307may be placed on elevating surface312by a UAV. In response to first parcel307being placed on elevating surface312, elevating surface312may be lowered. Elevating surface312may be lowered using one or more threaded shafts, such as threaded shaft322, illustrated as extending below stationary surface314. As an example, elevating surface312may include one or more threaded portions in contact with the one or more threaded shafts, such as threaded portion321is illustrated in contact with threaded shaft322. Threaded shaft322may engage a motorized unit, not illustrated, that turns threaded shaft322in either a clockwise direction or a counter-clockwise direction. In doing so, elevating surface312may be raised and lowered. In some cases, chamber support arm320may be affixed to stationary surface314and extend below elevating surface312to provide support for elevating surface312.

Continuing with this example, as elevating surface312is lowered, the top of first parcel307is lowered as well. At some point the top of first parcel307may become horizontally aligned with stationary surface314, and thus, first parcel307is stored in chamber306. When the top of parcel307is horizontally aligned with stationary surface314, delivery platform300may be ready to accept another parcel, such as second parcel308, for delivery. In this way, parcel308may be placed on top of first parcel307and the process repeated. That is, elevating surface212may be lowered so that second parcel308is stored in chamber306until the top of second parcel308is horizontally aligned with stationary surface314.

To determine when the top of a parcel, such as first parcel307or second parcel308, is horizontally aligned with stationary surface314, delivery platform300may comprise emitter324, such as a laser, and detector326, such as a photocell. While the present disclosure is described with reference to a laser and a detector, it is contemplated that any combination of an emitter-detector pair can detect an object between the emitter-detector pair may be used. In this example, emitter324may emit a source of light that may be detected by detector326. Thus, when a parcel is between emitter324and detector326, detector326will not detect the light. As the parcel is lowered, the top of the parcel may drop below the beam of light emitted from emitter324, allowing detector326to detect the light. At that point, delivery platform300may stop lowering elevating surface312and the parcel is stored in chamber306.

Another configuration for lowering and raising elevating surface312is illustrated inFIG.12. This configuration may be used in addition to or in lieu of the configuration described inFIGS.10-11that have one or more vertical threaded shafts. In the configuration provided byFIG.12, threaded shaft322is used in conjunction with scissor system328to raise and lower elevating surface312.

Scissor system328may comprise first elongated member330and second elongated member334. First elongated member330may have a stationary end332that is affixed to a location on threaded shaft322. Stationary end332is affixed to the location on threaded shaft322such that stationary end332does not move along threaded shaft322as threaded shaft322is rotated. First elongated member330may also have a first pivot joint end338that is opposite stationary end332and is pivotably attached to elevating surface312. Scissor system328may further comprise second elongated member334. Second elongated member334may have movable end336that is engaged with threaded shaft322, such that movable end336moves along threaded shaft322when threaded shaft322is rotated. In this manner, a distance between stationary end332and movable end336may be increased or decreased based on the rotation of the threaded shaft322. Further, second elongated member334may additionally comprise second pivot joint end340that is opposite movable end336and is pivotably attached to elevating surface312. The distance between stationary end332and movable end336may be equal to or greater than a distance between first pivot joint end338and second pivot joint end340, and the distance between first pivot joint end338and second pivot joint end340may be a fixed distance. In some cases, a portion of scissor system328may be affixed to chamber support arm320, and chamber support arm320may be affixed to stationary surface314. In this manner, as threaded shaft322is rotated, such as by using the motorized unit, elevating surface312is raised or lowered relative to stationary surface314. In some embodiments, one or more guides may be used to stabilize elevating surface312as it is raised and lowered. For example, guide344may be fixed on one end to stationary surface314and may extend downward and away from stationary surface314, and elevating surface312may be movably secured to guide344.

With reference now toFIG.13, which illustrates example delivery system301, vertical track system304may be used to retrieve parcels from delivery platform300or to place parcels onto delivery platform300at a ground location. For example, delivery platform300may be movably secured to vertical track system304. What is meant by vertical track system is a track system that raises and lowers delivery platform300from an elevated position, where parcels may be delivered using a UAV, to a lowered position at or near a retrieval area, such as the ground or a containment unit (discussed in more detail below). In the lowered position, parcels may be retrieved or dropped off by a person. Thus, in this embodiment, delivery platform300may traverse all of or a portion of a vertical height from the elevated position to the lowered position by moving vertically along vertical track system304. This system may be used in addition to or in lieu of an elevating surface that may be raised and lowered from an elevated position to a lowered position, such as the one described above with reference toFIGS.6-7.

As illustrated byFIG.13, and will be further explained below, some embodiments of delivery platform300can be controlled using computer application352. For example, raising and lowering delivery platform300, or an elevating surface as described in some embodiments, may be performed using computer application352on user device354, best illustrated in enlarged view350. User device354can be any user device having a processor executing computer readable instructions on memory. Computing device1200ofFIG.41is a suitable example. Computer application352may utilize security features of user device354, such as facial identification, fingerprint identification, passcodes, etc. to verify an identity of a person attempting to retrieve a parcel, or use delivery platform300, generally. User device354can receive an input, for example, at input area356to instruct delivery platform300to perform a particular action, illustrated inFIG.13as lowering delivery platform300, which is just one example. Other examples include raising a delivery platform or elevating surface, requesting pick up or delivery of a parcel, deploying a cover, receiving information from sensors associated with a delivery platform, inputting a delivery location for a parcel, and the like. User device354may communicate to delivery platform or a carrier associated with UAVs delivering to the delivery platform using Wi-Fi or cellular service.

With reference now toFIG.14, in some embodiments, delivery platform300may comprise an upper cover318and a lower cover342. For example, upper cover318may be deployed to cover the top of delivery platform300, while lower cover342may be deployed to cover a bottom part of delivery platform300. Each may operate in a manner similar to cover218described inFIG.4. Lower cover342may provide additional protection to parcels on delivery platform300. It may also provide additional protection to delivery platform300itself and vertical track system304by making delivery platform300more aerodynamically stable during high wind situations Like the other components described with reference to delivery platform300lower cover342may be used with any of the embodiments of the technology described herein.

In reference now toFIG.15, another embodiment of a delivery platform is provided. Here, delivery platform400is secured directly to structure402, and does not use a track system. This embodiment provides additional stability for delivery platform400, as delivery platform400comprises one or more arms, such as arm406, that extend away from delivery platform400and are mounted directly to structure402using mount404. In this example embodiment, delivery platform400comprises variable volume chamber408to store multiple parcels. To raise and lower the parcels, delivery platform400may use an elevating surface having a lift, which are not illustrated.

Another example embodiment of a delivery platform is provided inFIGS.16-21, which illustrates delivery platform500having securing area504to facilitate UAV pick up of a parcel.FIGS.16-21illustrate an example series of figures that illustrate a method for securing a parcel to a UAV to facilitate the UAV picking up the parcel. As illustrated, delivery platform500comprises delivery area502and securing area504. Delivery platform500is illustrated having delivery area502and securing area504as separate areas that are separated by theoretical dashed line503. In some embodiments, it may be difficult to distinguish delivery area502from securing area504. In some cases, delivery area502and securing area504may comprise the same area. That is, the various components described with respect to each of delivery area502and securing area504may be found in other arrangements where sometimes a particular component may be found on delivery area502, while in other embodiments, it may be located on securing area504. Although this applies to all components described with respect to these figures, some specific examples are discussed in more detail. In some cases, delivery platform500may comprise a set of one or more rollers524that may move a parcel from delivery area502to securing area504. Delivery area502and securing area504are illustrated as extending to a stationary edge, wherein outer rim516extends upward and away from the stationary edge.

As noted, delivery platform500may comprise delivery area502and securing area504. Delivery area502may comprise delivery surface510. Delivery surface510may comprise elevating surface512and stationary surface514. Like other embodiments previously described, in some cases, elevating surface512may comprise all of or only a portion of delivery surface510. In the embodiment illustrated as delivery platform500, delivery area502comprises chamber518, which may be a variable volume chamber, such as those previously described. In addition to or in lieu of chamber518, elevating surface512may be lowered and raised by a lift system, not illustrated.

Additionally, delivery platform500is illustrated as having securing area504. In general, securing area504may facilitate pick up of a parcel, such as parcel508shown inFIG.17, by a UAV. Continuing withFIG.16, securing area504may comprise one or more securing arms, such as securing arms522A and522B, described in more detail below. Securing area504may also comprise one or more sensors520A and520B. Sensors520A and520B may be embodied as an emitter, such as a laser; as a camera; or any other sensor that may detect the presence or location of an object. As noted above, sensors520A and520B are shown associated with securing area504, however, one or more may also be located in delivery area502, for example to detect when a top of a parcel is horizontally aligned with elevating surface512or for detecting machine-readable indicia on the parcel.

To describe how delivery platform500may facilitate pick up of a parcel, such as parcel508, reference is now made toFIGS.17-21. In these figures, sensors520A and520B have been removed for convenience in describing the technology. InFIG.17, parcel508is atop elevating surface512. Parcel508may arrive at elevating surface512by methods previously described. For example, elevating surface512may be lowered to a lowered position at or near the ground. There, a person may have placed parcel508on elevating surface512, intending parcel508to be picked up for delivery by a UAV. Elevating surface512may be raised to an elevated position, as shown inFIG.17. In another example, delivery platform500may have been lowered to a lowered position, such as by using a vertical track system, so that parcel508can be placed on elevating surface512, or more generally, onto delivery surface510. In some cases, a combination of these methods, or other methods described herein, may be used.

As shown inFIG.18, parcel508may be moved from delivery area502to securing area504. This is illustrated inFIG.18as parcel508moving in the direction of directional arrow526and crossing dashed line503, which illustrates the theoretical “boundary” between delivery area502and securing area504. To move parcel508from delivery area502to securing area504, delivery platform500may include a set of rollers524that traverse from delivery area502to securing area504. Rollers524may be multidirectional rollers, meaning that rollers524may be able to rotate in any direction. Rollers524may be independently movable, such as one roller rolling in one direction, while another roller rolls in another direction, while yet another roller does not move. In this way, the orientation of parcel508may also be adjusted by rollers524, as illustrated by directional arrow526. As such, parcel508may be maneuvered by rollers524to orient parcel508to a position where a UAV may pick up parcel508.

An example of UAV506descending onto delivery platform500to pick up parcel508is illustrated inFIG.19. Here, parcel508has been oriented so that when UAV506descends on parcel508, at least a portion of parcel carrier528is placed around parcel508. Further, parcel carrier528may be positioned around parcel508so that at least a portion of parcel carrier528is between a securing arm pivot area, such as securing arm pivot areas530A and530B, and a securing arm crossbar, such as securing arm crossbar532A and532B. Examples of parcel carriers that may be suitable for use as parcel carrier528, and with this technology more generally, are described in U.S. application Ser. No. 15/870,187, entitled “Methods for Picking Up a Parcel Via an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle,” filed Jan. 12, 2018, which is expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety.

WhileFIG.19illustrates two securing arms, securing arms522A and522B, some embodiments of delivery platform500may comprise only one securing arm, while others may comprise more than two. In this figure, each of securing arms522A and522B is illustrated as having the same feature, and thus, reference is made only to522B when describing securing arm522B in more detail; however, securing arm522A may have some of the same features and the discussion is equally applicable, although some components may be hidden from view inFIG.19. Further, while securing arms522A and522B are illustrated as part of securing area504, in other embodiments, securing arms522A and522B may be part of delivery area502, for example, by locating securing arms522A and522B on opposing sides of elevating surface512.

With continued reference toFIG.19, securing arm522B comprises securing arm pivot area530B, first member534B, second member536B, and securing arm crossbar532B. While not described in detail, second member534A may comprise features that are described in conjunction with first member534B. First member534B may be pivotably secured to securing arm pivot area530B at a first end538B of first member534B. Second member536B may be pivotably secured to securing arm pivot area530B at a second end540B of second member536B. Thus, first member534B and second member536B may pivot from a retracted positon where first member534B and second member536B are parallel with securing surface546, such as inFIG.19, to an engaged position where first member534B and second member536B are perpendicular to securing surface546, such as inFIG.20. However, more generally, in this same manner, first member534B and second member536B may be positioned at any angle relative to securing surface546along an arc created by pivoting each member about pivot area530B.

Continuing again withFIG.19, securing arm522B may comprise crossbar532B. Crossbar532B may extend from third end542B of first member534B, where third end542B is opposite first end538B, to fourth end544B of second member536B, where fourth end544B is opposite second end540B. As described, securing arm522B may be pivoted from a retracted position to an engaged position, such as by pivoting securing arm522B in the direction of directional arrow548B, shown inFIG.20. Keeping withFIG.20, as illustrated, by pivoting securing arm522B to the engaged position, crossbar532B may be positioned above both parcel508and at least a portion of parcel carrier528. Put another way, at least a portion of parcel carrier528may be disposed between crossbar532B and parcel508. In some cases, crossbar532B may be positioned above notch550of parcel carrier528.

Additionally, securing arm522B may house strap552B, shown inFIG.21. For example, strap552B may be formed of polypropylene or another polymer. In some cases, strap552B may comprise a metal, such as a wire. Continuing withFIG.21, to secure parcel508to parcel carrier528, strap552B may be tightened to apply until strap552B wraps around parcel508and parcel carrier528. Strap552B may be disposed within notch550so that strap552B does not slip along a portion of parcel carrier528. After securing parcel508to parcel carrier528with one or more straps, such as strap552B, securing arm522B may be moved to the retracted position by pivoting securing arm522B in the direction of directional arrow554B. Strap552B may be cut to form two cut ends. The two cut ends may be secured together so that strap552B wraps around parcel508and parcel carrier528. As an example, the two cut ends of strap552B may be secured together at a bottom of parcel508, so that parcel508remains secured to parcel carrier528until strap552B is cut or loosened. When the securing arms, such as securing arm522B, are in the retracted position, UAV506may be free to navigate away from delivery platform500with parcel508. As noted above, directional arrow548A and strap552A may be analogous to directional arrow548B and strap552B, respectively, however, with respect to securing arm522A.

In an embodiment, crossbar532B may not be a separate component of securing arm522B, but may itself be formed of strap552B. In this embodiment, a portion of strap552B may extend from third end542B of first member534B to fourth end544B of second member536B of securing arm522B. Thus, after strap552B is tightened around parcel508and parcel carrier528, only first member534B and second member536B may be moved to the retracted position. Another strap may then be extended from third end542B to fourth end544B and the process repeated for pick up of the next parcel.

Turning briefly toFIG.22, parcel508may be released from parcel carrier528of UAV506by disengaging the strap, such as straps552A and552B. For instance, while not illustrated, parcel carrier528may comprise a blade to cut straps552A and552B. In some cases, parcel carrier528may apply tension to straps552A and552B to break it. For example, the tension may be applied to a weak area, such as an area where straps552A and552B were fastened when securing parcel508to parcel carrier528.

Throughout this disclosure, several embodiments of delivery platforms are described. Some embodiments of the delivery platforms have been described having a set of components, while other embodiments have been described having a different set. It will be recognized that not all embodiments of the delivery platform can be described in this disclosure, and therefore, it is intended by the inventors that the various aspects and components described relative to each embodiment of the delivery platforms are interchangeable and can be in any combination with any other embodiment.

Containment Unit

Embodiments of the delivery platform may sometimes be used in conjunction with a containment unit that may hold a parcel until it is picked up or retrieved by a person. For instance, the containment unit may be located near the ground so that it is easily accessible. In some cases, the containment unit may be located on a balcony or a window of a multistory building. In some cases, the containment unit may be built into an exterior wall. At a high level, the containment unit may receive a parcel from a delivery platform after a UAV has released the parcel at the delivery platform. This operates to free up space on the platform, while still providing security for the parcel and ease of access when a person retries it. In other cases, the containment unit may be used to hold a parcel that is intended to be picked up by a UAV, and it may hold the parcel until receiving an indication from the delivery platform that a UAV is ready to pick up the parcel. This too helps to free up space on the delivery platform so other parcels may be delivered. Thus, using the containment unit in conjunction with the delivery platform allows for more parcels to be delivered from UAVs

As will be described in more detail below, embodiments of the containment unit may load and unload parcels from one or more ends of the containment unit. Thus, a containment unit may engage with other forms of unmanned systems. Some examples of which will be further described.

Turning toFIG.23, an example embodiment of containment unit600is provided. Containment unit600is shown comprising housing602. Housing602may comprise one or more units, such as inner housing unit604and outer housing unit606. Housing602may also comprise floor608, i.e., “housing floor.” Inner housing unit604may comprise more than one wall. In a specific example, inner housing unit604may comprise two sidewalls, i.e., “inner sidewalls.” In another specific example, inner housing unit604may comprise two sidewalls and a top wall. A first sidewall may extend parallel to a second sidewall and be separated by a distance, each sidewall forming a portion of inner housing unit604. A first end of the first sidewall and a first end of the second sidewall may be connected by a first end piece614of inner housing unit604, while a second end of the first sidewall and a second end of the second sidewall may be connected by a second end piece616of the inner housing unit604. In this way, the sidewalls and end pieces614and616may form a box-like that is inner housing unit604. In some cases, inner housing unit604may comprise a top wall that extends from the top of the first sidewall and the second sidewall. Though the top wall is illustrated in the figures having an arc shape, it will be recognized that the top wall, when present, may be any shape. Inner housing unit604may be open on its bottom side, meaning that at least a portion of the bottom side of inner housing unit604is not covered by a wall and access to an inside volume space of inner housing unit604may be made through an open portion.

Outer housing unit606may comprise a first sidewall and a second sidewall, i.e., “outer sidewalls.” A top wall of outer housing unit606may connect the top of the first sidewall and the top of the second sidewall. In this way, the sidewalls and the top wall of outer housing unit606may form a box-like structure having a volume and is open on both ends. In some cases, outer housing unit606may include floor608, and floor608may connect a bottom of the first sidewall and a bottom of a second sidewall of outer housing unit606. In some embodiments, floor608may be independent of outer housing unit606.

Inner housing unit604may be movable, while outer housing unit606may be stationary. As an example, inner housing unit604may be movable using gear610and gear track612. In this example, gear track612may be secured to inner housing unit604, while gear610is secured to a stationary portion of containment unit600. Other mechanisms for moving inner housing unit604may also be used, such as an actuator system, a motorized threaded shaft, etc. In some cases, inner housing unit604may move from an extended position to a retracted position. When inner housing unit604is in the retracted position, outer housing unit606may cover at least a portion of inner housing unit604. When inner housing unit604is in the retracted positon, the first sidewall and the second sidewall of inner housing unit604may be above at least a portion of floor608. The retracted position for the inner housing unit604is illustrated inFIG.23.

To move from the retracted position to an extended position, inner housing unit604may move in a direction indicated by either directional arrow624or626.FIG.24illustrates inner housing unit604in an extended position. Here, inner housing unit604has moved in the direction of directional arrow624. In the extended position, at least a portion of the sidewalls of inner housing unit604is not above floor608. In the extended position, the open portion at the bottom of inner housing unit604may extend beyond edge628of floor608. In the extended position, at least a portion of inner housing unit604may extend beyond edge630of outer housing unit606, and thus, at least a portion of inner housing unit604may not be covered by outer housing unit606.

In embodiments that comprise outer housing unit606, outer housing unit606may serve to provide additional protection for parcels stored in containment unit600. For instance, if there is a parcel stored in containment unit600, containment unit600may retrieve another parcel for storage. During retrieval of the second parcel, outer housing unit606may protect the stored first parcel, while inner housing unit604is used to facilitate storage of the second parcel in containment unit600.

Referring now toFIGS.23-26, generally illustrate one example of how containment unit600may retrieve one or more parcels618from a delivery platform is provided. Only a portion of a delivery platform is shown. The figures illustrate elevating surface620and variable volume chamber622having parcels618. Initially, the delivery platform may receive a parcel from a UAV. Elevating surface620may be lowered to a lowered position where elevating surface620is horizontally aligned with floor608of containment unit600. Using chamber622, the tops of the parcels618may be lowered so that they are horizontally aligned with or they are below elevating surface620, which may include the entirety of parcels618being within chamber622.

As can be seen inFIG.24, inner housing unit604may be extended from the retracted position to an extended position by moving inner housing unit604in the direction of directional arrow624. Because the parcels618are within chamber622, inner housing unit604may be extended over parcels618and cover all of or a portion of elevating surface620. As previously noted, at least a portion of the bottom of inner housing unit604may be opened to allow access to the volume space within inner housing unit604. By extending inner housing unit604over the top of parcels218, parcels218may have access to the inside of inner housing unit604.

To insert parcels218within inner housing unit604, a surface of chamber622may be raised, as previously described, in the direction of directional arrow632. As the surface of chamber622is raised, so are parcels218, and parcels218are inserted into the volume space of inner housing unit604, as illustrated inFIG.25.

To remove parcels218from elevating surface620and onto floor608of containment unit600, inner housing unit604may be retracted to the retracted position by moving inner housing unit604in the direction of directional arrow626. As inner housing unit604is retracted into the retracted position, first end piece614begins to make contact with parcels618, which applies a force to parcels618in the direction of directional arrow626, e.g., from elevating surface620towards floor608. Thus, parcels618may slide from elevating surface620onto floor608of containment unit600. Sliding parcels618from elevating surface620onto floor608may be further facilitated by the horizontal alignment of elevating surface620and floor608. An example embodiment of parcels618stored within containment unit600is illustrated inFIG.26, which shows the inner housing unit604in the retracted position, having moved from the extended position shown inFIG.25.

To load parcels618onto elevating surface620, for example to send parcels618using a UAV delivery method, the process may act in reverse. Particularly, a person may have access to containment unit600by accessing through second end piece616, which may open for the person using a key or by receiving a message from a user device to open. Once parcels618are secured within containment unit600, inner housing unit604may move to the extended position. Here, second end piece616applies a force on parcels618to move them onto elevating surface620. The delivery platform may then perform methods that have previously been described to facilitate retrieval of parcels618by the UAV.

FIGS.27-29illustrate an example use-case environment for a plurality of containment units708,710, and712and delivery platform706. In this use-case example, containment units708,710, and712are associated with a multi-story, multi-occupant dwelling. In such cases, delivery platform706may be able to deliver parcels from each of containment units708,710, and712. This may have the benefit of limiting the number of delivery platforms, while still allowing individual people with different delivery addresses to send and receive parcels using UAVs.

FIG.27illustrates delivery platform706having delivery surface705. Delivery platform706is associated with a plurality of containment units. In this example, delivery platform706is may be usable with first containment unit708, which is associated with a first delivery address; second containment unit710, which is associated with a second delivery address; and third containment unit712, which is associated with a third delivery address. Each of the delivery addresses may be a different address for a respective dwelling unit.

As is shown inFIG.27, UAV702is approaching delivery platform706with parcel704for delivery. Once parcel704is released onto delivery platform706, a camera of delivery platform706may detect and image machine-readable indicia on parcel704, and the delivery address may be determined based on the machine-readable indicia. Based on determining the delivery address, delivery platform706may deliver parcel704to a containment unit associated with the determined delivery address.

In the example illustrated byFIGS.27-29, it is determined that one or more parcels, including parcel704, are to be delivered to the second delivery address, which is associated with second containment unit710. Using methods previously described, delivery platform706may lower elevating surface705to a lowered position at second containment unit710, such as inFIG.28, so that parcel704may be retrieved by second containment unit710, such as inFIG.29.

In some cases, containment units may interact with unmanned terrestrial vehicles (UTVs).FIG.30illustrates an example use-case environment800having containment unit802, UTV804, and delivery platform806. WhileFIG.30illustrates containment unit802, UTV804, and an embodiment of delivery platform806, it is contemplated that any combination of the components described herein may be used.

An embodiment of UTV804is illustrated inFIG.31, which provides an example of UTV804delivering one or more of parcels810and812to or from containment unit802. Parcels810and812may be separated by divider814. In this example, UTV804comprises storage area816that may house one or more parcels. UTV804may further comprise lift818that raises parcels810and812. In some cases, lift818may comprise a scissor lift. UTV804may comprise a top portion820that is movable. An opening to storage area816may be formed by moving top portion820to an open position. By opening storage area816at the top, lift818may raise or lower parcels through the opening in the top.

FIGS.32-36illustrate dropping off one or more parcels900at containment unit902using UTV904, having outer housing unit908and inner housing unit906. InFIG.32, UTV904may approach containment unit902with parcels900. UTV904has movable top portion912that may be moved to create top opening916to storage area914of UTV904, as illustrated inFIG.33. After creating top opening916to storage area914, containment unit902may move inner housing unit906to a position over top opening916. As in embodiments already described, inner housing unit906may have an opening on the bottom that allows access to the inside of inner housing unit906. By positioning at least a portion of inner housing unit906above top opening916of the UTV904, parcels900may be raised through top opening916and the bottom opening of inner housing unit906, such as by lift918, as can be seen inFIG.35. Similar to methods previously described, inner housing unit906may move to the retracted position, and in doing so, first end piece910may pull parcels900into containment unit902, the position shown inFIG.36.

Moving now toFIG.37, another embodiment of a containment unit is provided as containment unit1000. Containment unit1000may comprise inner housing unit1002and outer housing unit1004. As described in other embodiments, inner housing unit1002may also comprise first end piece1006, and inner housing unit1002may be movable, for example, by using a first gear and track system1010.

Containment unit1000may further comprise a movable second end piece1008. Movable second end piece1008may be in a first position at the location shown inFIG.37. That is, when movable second end piece1008is in the first position, movable second end piece1008is opposite a delivery end, i.e., the end where the parcel1016is being retrieved from or dropped off. As illustrated inFIG.37, the delivery end is the end of containment unit1000having first end piece1006. Movable second end piece1008may move in a direction indicated by directional arrows1012and1014. For example, movable second end piece1008may move in a direction towards the delivery end, such as toward first end piece1006and may move in a direction away from the delivery end, such as away from first end piece1006. By moving second end piece1008toward or away from the delivery end, second end piece1008may facilitate removing parcel1016from containment unit1000

FIGS.37-39illustrate an example of removing parcel1016from containment unit1000so that parcel1016may be retrieved by an unmanned system. For example, inFIG.37, parcel1016is inside containment unit1000, which includes at least inner housing unit1002. Like other embodiments of containment units, containment unit1000may comprise inner housing unit1002and not comprise outer housing unit1004, although containment unit1000is illustrated as having outer housing unit1004.

To remove parcel1016, inner housing unit1002may move to an extended position, such as that shown inFIG.38. As noted, movable second end piece1008may move in the direction of the delivery end, or first end piece1006, by moving in the direction indicated using directional arrow1014. As illustrated inFIG.39, when second end piece1008moves toward the delivery end of containment unit1000, it pushes parcel1016in the direction of the delivery end. When parcel1016moves toward the delivery end, parcel1016may exit a bottom opening of inner housing unit1002that is formed by moving inner housing unit1002.

With reference now toFIG.40, another embodiment of a containment unit, illustrated as containment unit1100, is described. Here, containment unit1100comprises housing1102, which may comprise one or more housing units. Containment unit1100may further comprise chamber area1104and movable floor1106, which may be movable using lift1108. In this embodiment, floor1106may be lowered, which increases the volume of chamber area1104, which allows for the storage of parcels1112within the chamber area1104and below housing1102. Floor1106may also be raised to decrease the volume of chamber area1104, which moves parcels1112in an upward direction toward housing1102. Parcel1112may be moved upward until they are within housing1102. In some cases, parcels1112may be moved into housing1102so that parcels1112may be removed from within housing1102using methods previously described. Parcels1112may be raised or lowered using floor1106so that a top portion of parcels1112is horizontally aligned with elevating surface1110so that another parcel may be received from elevating surface1110, not illustrated.

This disclosure provides several embodiments of containment units. Some embodiments of the containment units have been described having a set of components, while other embodiments have been described having a different set. For example, containment unit1100is described having movable floor1106, while containment unit600is described having floor608, which is associated with one or more housing units. It will be recognized, however, that not all embodiments of the containment unit can be described in this disclosure, and therefore, it is intended by the inventors that the various aspects and components described relative to each embodiment of the containment units are interchangeable and can be in any combination with any other embodiment.

Methods

With regard to various embodiments described in this disclosure, and with reference to the methods below, aspects of the present technology may take the form of methods; systems; one or more computer storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon that may be executed by one or more processors; or any combination thereof. Example methods are illustrated with reference toFIGS.42-46

FIG.42illustrates a flow diagram of method1300for delivering a parcel. Method1300includes, at block1310, approaching a delivery platform with a UAV having a parcel. The UAV may communicate to the delivery platform an indication that the UAV is approaching with the parcel for release on the delivery platform. The delivery platform may include any of the embodiments described herein. For example, the delivery platform may include a delivery surface that comprises an elevating surface and a stationary surface, the elevating surface having a lift that lowers the elevating surface from a raised position at a first height at the delivery platform to a lowered position where the parcel may be retrieved. Method1300further includes, at block1320, releasing the parcel onto the delivery platform, for example, releasing the parcel onto the elevating surface of the delivery platform. Subsequent to the release, the elevating surface lowers the parcel to a second height that is less than the first height. In response to releasing the parcel on the delivery platform, method1300further includes, at block1330, navigating the UAV away from the delivery platform.

FIG.43provides example method1400for retrieving a parcel from a delivery platform. At block1410, a UAV having a parcel carrier approaches a delivery platform. The delivery platform may be any type of delivery platform described herein. In an example, the delivery platform comprises a camera to read machine-readable indicia. At block1420, a delivery location for the parcel is received. The delivery location can be received at the UAV from delivery platform. The delivery location is received from the delivery platform based on the delivery platform determining the delivery location from machine-readable indicia on the parcel. The UAV uses the camera to scan the machine-readable indicia to determine the delivery location. At block1430, the UAV is positioned relative to the parcel. The position of the UAV is relative to the parcel based on the parcel carrier, for example, the parcel carrier may require the UAV to be positioned above the parcel carrier. The UAV can be positioned at any point relative to the parcel, such that parcel can be secured to or by the parcel carrier. Based on the position of the UAV, at block1440, the parcel is secured to the parcel carrier. In an aspect, the parcel carrier closes around the parcel to secure the parcel. In another aspect, the delivery platform secures the parcel to the parcel carrier. At block1450, the UAV navigates away from the delivery platform with the parcel. The UAV navigates away based on the delivery location. That is, the UAV may navigate away from delivery platform to the delivery location or to an intermediate location to facilitate delivery of the parcel to the delivery location.

Method1500is described with reference toFIG.44. Method1500includes an example method for delivering a parcel. At block1510, method1500includes receiving a parcel from a UAV at a delivery platform. The delivery platform may include any of the embodiments described herein. For example, the delivery platform may include a delivery surface that comprises an elevating surface and a stationary surface, the elevating surface may have a lift that lowers the elevating surface from a raised position at the delivery platform to a lowered position. At block1520, in response to receiving the parcel at the delivery platform, lowering the elevating surface having the parcel from the raised position to the lowered position. The method may include receiving an indication that the parcel has been delivered to the delivery platform. The parcel may be scanned by a camera on the delivery platform to determine a delivery address of the parcel. For example, the camera may image a machine-readable indicia on the parcel that is associated with the delivery information of the parcel. In some cases, the delivery address may be determined by receiving an indication of the delivery address from the UAV. Based on determining the delivery address, the method may include determining that the delivery address is associated with a containment unit of a plurality of containment units. The elevating surface may be lowered to the containment unit associated with the delivery address. At block1530, the elevating surface is aligned with a containment unit. The elevating surface may be lowered to horizontally align a bottom of the parcel with a floor of the containment unit. Based on receiving an indication that the parcel has been retrieved by the containment unit (e.g., the elevating surface no longer detects the parcel's weight), at block1540, the elevating surface may be raised to the raised position.

An example method of retrieving a parcel is provided by method1600with reference toFIG.45. Method1600can be performed using computer-readable media that store executable instructions. Such instructions may be in the form of an app that is executable by a user device, such as a smartphone. At block1610, an indication that a UAV has delivered a parcel to a delivery platform may be received by the user device. In response to receiving the indication, the user device, at block1620, receives an input indicating a retrieval request for the delivered parcel. In response to receiving the retrieval request, at block1630, the user device may communicate instructions to the delivery platform to initiate a retrieval process. The retrieval process may include lowering an elevating surface of the delivery platform having the parcel from an elevated position to a lowered position.

In some cases, the elevating surface of the delivery platform may be lowered to a lowered position where it is retrieved by a containment unit. The user device may receive an indication that the parcel has been retrieved by the containment unit. In some cases, the user device may communicate a retrieval request to the containment unit, where in response to the retrieval request to the containment unit, the containment unit releases the parcel.

Method1700provides an example method for securing a parcel to a UAV at a delivery platform. Method1700is described with reference toFIG.46. At block1710, a parcel is positioned at a securing area of a delivery platform. The delivery platform may be any delivery platform described herein. Positioning the parcel at the securing area may include receiving a parcel at an elevating surface of the delivery platform. In such cases, the elevating surface raises the parcel to a delivery surface. Securing area can be separate from, part of, or the same as delivery surface. Positioning the parcel at the securing area may include maneuvering the parcel into a particular position, which may be done using rollers. At block1720, it is determined that that a parcel carrier of a UAV is positioned around a parcel. This can be determined using sensors provided on the delivery platform, such as the camera. At block1730, the parcel is secured to the UAV. The parcel can be secured to the parcel carrier of the UAV. Using one method, the parcel carrier extends a securing arm over the parcel carrier and the parcel. The parcel carrier uses the securing arm to tighten a strap around the parcel carrier and the securing arm. The strap secures the parcel to the securing arm, such the UAV can be navigated away from the delivery platform with the parcel.

Computing Device

Referring back now toFIG.41, an exemplary operating environment for implementing embodiments of the present invention is shown and designated generally as computing device1200. Computing device1200is but one example of a suitable computing environment and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of the invention. Neither should the computing device1200be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated.

The invention may be described in the general context of computer code or machine-useable instructions, including computer-executable instructions such as program modules, being executed by a computer or other machine, such as a personal data assistant or other handheld device. Generally, program modules including routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. refer to code that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The invention may be practiced in a variety of system configurations, including hand-held devices, consumer electronics, general-purpose computers, more specialty computing devices, etc. The invention may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote-processing devices that are linked through a communications network.

With reference toFIG.41, computing device1200includes a bus1210that directly or indirectly couples the following devices: memory1212, one or more processors1214, one or more presentation components1216, input/output ports1218, input/output components1220, and an illustrative power supply1222. Bus1210represents what may be one or more busses (such as an address bus, data bus, or combination thereof). Although the various blocks ofFIG.41are shown with lines for the sake of clarity, in reality, delineating various components is not so clear, and metaphorically, the lines would more accurately be grey and fuzzy. For example, one may consider a presentation component such as a display device to be an I/O component. Also, processors have memory. We recognize that such is the nature of the art, and reiterate that the diagram ofFIG.41is merely illustrative of an exemplary computing device that can be used in connection with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Distinction is not made between such categories as “workstation,” “server,” “laptop,” “hand-held device,” etc., as all are contemplated within the scope ofFIG.41and reference to “computing device.”

Computing device1200typically includes a variety of computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by computing device1200and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media may comprise computer storage media and communication media.

Computer storage media include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by computing device1200. Computer storage media excludes signals per se.

Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

Memory1212includes computer storage media in the form of volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. The memory may be removable, non-removable, or a combination thereof. Exemplary hardware devices include solid-state memory, hard drives, optical-disc drives, etc. Computing device1200includes one or more processors that read data from various entities such as memory1212or I/O components1220. Presentation component(s)1216present data indications to a user or other device. Exemplary presentation components include a display device, speaker, printing component, vibrating component, etc.

I/O ports1218allow computing device1200to be logically coupled to other devices including I/O components1220, some of which may be built in. Illustrative components include a microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, printer, wireless device, etc.

Example embodiments described in and derived from the description above include the following:

Embodiment 1: A delivery platform to facilitate delivery of parcels by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the delivery platform comprising: a delivery surface, the delivery surface comprising a stationary surface and an elevating surface; a lift cable extendable from the delivery platform, the lift cable secured to the elevating surface, wherein extending the lift cable lowers the elevating surface from an elevated position to a lowered position and retracting the lift cable raises the elevating surface from the lowered position to the elevated position; and a guide wheel secured to the elevating surface and extending away from the elevating surface. Embodiment 2: Embodiment 1, wherein the delivery platform is secured to a track system, and wherein the delivery platform moves along the track system from a first position to a second position, the first position higher in elevation than the second position. Embodiment 3: Any of Embodiments 1-2, wherein the stationary surface surrounds the elevating surface. Embodiment 4: Any of Embodiments 1-3, further comprising a cover extendable from a retracted position to a covered position, the covered position extending over a top of the delivery surface. Embodiment 5: Any of Embodiments 1-4, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of segments that stack together when the cover is in the retracted position and extend end to end when the cover is in the covered position. Embodiment 6: Any of Embodiments 1-5, wherein the cover is pivotably secured to the delivery platform at a pivot such that rotation about the pivot in a first direction moves the cover from the retracted position to the covered position and rotation about the pivot in a second direction opposite the first direction moves the cover from the covered position to the retracted position. Embodiment 7: Any of Embodiments 1-6, further comprising a chamber below the stationary surface, wherein a bottom of the chamber corresponds to the elevating surface, the chamber formed by lowering the elevating surface away from the stationary surface.

Embodiment 8: A delivery system to facilitate delivery of parcels by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the delivery system comprising: a track system; and a delivery platform movably coupled to the track system such that the delivery platform moves about the track system from a first position to a second position, the first position having a higher elevation than the second position, wherein the delivery platform further comprises: a delivery surface comprising a stationary surface having a stationary edge; and an outer rim extending upward and away from the stationary edge. Embodiment 9: Embodiment 8 further comprising a chamber below the stationary surface. Embodiment 10: Any of Embodiments 8-9, wherein the chamber comprises a bottom portion corresponding to an elevating surface of the delivery surface, the chamber formed by lowering the elevating surface away from the stationary surface. Embodiment 11: Any of Embodiments 8-10, wherein the chamber comprises a top rim, the top rim horizontally aligned with the stationary surface, and the chamber comprises a sidewall extending from the top rim to the elevating surface. Embodiment 12: Any of Embodiments 8-11, wherein the elevating surface contacts a threaded shaft extending below the stationary surface, and wherein the elevating surface is lowered by rotating the threaded shaft in a first direction and is raised by rotating the threaded shaft in a second direction opposite the first direction. Embodiment 13: Any of Embodiments 8-12, further comprising an elongated member having a pivot joint end pivotably affixed to a bottom of the elevating surface and a movable end opposite the pivot joint end, the movable end coupled to a shaft such that movement of the shaft in a first direction lowers the elevating surface and movement of the shaft in a second direction raises the elevating surface. Embodiment 14: Any of Embodiments 8-13, further comprising a cover extendable from a retracted position to a covered position, the covered position extending over a top of the delivery surface. Embodiment 15: Any of Embodiments 8-14, wherein the cover is pivotably secured to the delivery platform at a pivot such that rotation about the pivot in a first direction moves the cover from the retracted position to the covered position and rotation about the pivot in a second direction opposite the first direction moves the cover from the covered position to the retracted position.

Embodiment 16: A delivery platform to facilitate delivery of parcels by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the delivery platform comprising: a delivery surface comprising an elevating surface movable from an elevated position to a lowered position, the elevated position having a higher elevation than the lowered position; a lift cable secured to the elevating surface, wherein extending the lift cable lowers the elevating surface from the elevated position to the lowered position and retracting the lift cable raises the elevating surface from the lowered position to the elevated position; and an arm extending away from the delivery surface to a mount. Embodiment 17: Embodiment 16, wherein the delivery surface further comprises a stationary surface, the stationary surface having a stationary edge and an outer rim extending upward and away from the stationary edge. Embodiment 18: Any of Embodiments 16-17, further comprising a cover extendable from a retracted position to a covered position, the covered position extending over a top of the delivery surface. Embodiment 19: Any of Embodiments 16-18, further comprising a chamber below the delivery surface, the chamber comprising a bottom portion corresponding to the elevating surface, and comprising a sidewall extending from a top rim of a stationary surface of the delivery platform, the chamber formed by lowering the elevating surface below the stationary surface. Embodiment 20: Any of Embodiments 16-19, further comprising a guide wheel extending from the elevating surface.

Embodiment 21: Any of Embodiments 1-20, further comprising: a containment unit for facilitating parcel delivery, the containment unit comprising: a housing having a housing floor, the housing comprising: a stationary outer housing unit; and a movable inner housing unit, the inner housing unit having a first inner sidewall and a second inner sidewall, the first inner sidewall and the second inner sidewall connected by an end piece, the inner housing unit comprising a bottom opening between the first inner sidewall and the second inner sidewall. Embodiment 22: Embodiment 21, wherein the first inner sidewall and the second inner sidewall are parallel and separated by a distance. Embodiment 23: Any of Embodiments 20-22, wherein the first inner sidewall and the second inner sidewall each have a first end and a second end, the end piece connecting the first end of the first inner sidewall and the first end of the second inner sidewall. Embodiment 24: Any of Embodiments 20-23, wherein the outer housing unit further comprises a first outer sidewall and a second outer sidewall, each of the first outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall having a first end and a second end, and wherein the outer housing unit is open between the first end of the first outer sidewall and the first end of the second outer sidewall. Embodiment 25: Any of Embodiments 20-24, wherein the inner housing unit further comprises a gear track, the gear track being in communication with a gear that is secured to a stationary portion of the containment unit.

Embodiment 26: Any of Embodiments 1-20, further comprising a containment unit for facilitating parcel delivery, the containment unit comprising: a housing floor having an edge; and a movable housing unit, the housing unit movable from a retracted position to an extended position, the housing unit comprising: a first sidewall and a second sidewall, each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall having a first end and a second end; a first end piece connecting the first end of the first sidewall and the second end of the second sidewall; and a bottom opening between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein when the housing unit is in the retracted position, the first sidewall and the second sidewall are above the housing floor, and wherein when the housing unit is in the extended position, at least a portion of both the first sidewall and the second sidewall extend beyond the edge of the housing floor. Embodiment 27: Embodiment 26, wherein the housing unit is an inner housing unit, the first sidewall is a first inner sidewall, and the second sidewall is a second inner sidewall, the containment unit further comprising an outer housing unit around the inner housing unit. Embodiment 28: Any of Embodiments 26-27, wherein the outer housing unit comprises a first outer sidewall and a second outer sidewall, each of the first outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall having a first end and a second end, wherein the outer housing unit is open between the first end of the first outer sidewall and the first end of the second outer sidewall. Embodiment 29: Any of Embodiments 26-28, wherein when in the retracted position, the outer housing unit covers the inner housing unit, and wherein when in the extended position, at least a portion of the inner housing unit is not covered by the outer housing unit. Embodiment 30: Any of Embodiments 26-29, wherein the outer housing unit is stationary. Embodiment 31: Any of Embodiments 26-30, wherein the second end of the first sidewall and the second end of the second sidewall are connected by a second end piece. Embodiment 32: Any of Embodiments 26-31, wherein the second end piece provides access to a volume of space within the housing unit. Embodiment 33: Any of Embodiments 26-32, further comprising a movement mechanism, the housing unit movable from the retracted position to the extended position using the movement mechanism.

Embodiment 34: A method of receiving a parcel at a containment unit to facilitate delivery of the parcel, the method comprising: extending a housing unit of the containment unit from a retracted position to an extended position, the housing unit comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall, each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall having a first end and a second end, the housing unit further comprising a first end piece connecting the first end of the first sidewall and the first end of the second sidewall; and subsequent to the parcel being placed in a volume of space of the housing unit, retracting the housing unit to the retracted position such that the first end piece applies a force to the parcel that slides the parcel onto a housing floor of the housing unit. Embodiment 35: Embodiment 34, wherein the housing unit is an inner housing unit, the first sidewall is a first inner sidewall, and the second sidewall is a second inner sidewall, the housing unit further comprising an outer housing unit around the inner housing unit. Embodiment 36: Any of Embodiments 34-35, wherein the outer housing unit is stationary. Embodiment 37: Any of Embodiments 34-36, wherein the outer housing unit comprises a first outer sidewall and a second outer sidewall, each of the first outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall having a first end and a second end, wherein the outer housing unit is open between the first end of the first outer sidewall and the first end of the second outer sidewall. Embodiment 38: Any of Embodiments 34-37, wherein the parcel is placed through a bottom opening between the first sidewall and the second sidewall when the housing unit is in the extended position. Embodiment 39: Any of Embodiments 34-38, wherein the second end of the first sidewall and the second end of the second sidewall are connected by a second end piece, wherein the method further includes providing access to the parcel using the second end piece. Embodiment 40: Any of Embodiments 34-39, wherein the housing unit further includes a gear track, the gear track being in communication with a gear that is secured to a stationary portion of the containment unit, wherein the containment unit extends the housing unit from the retracted position to the extended position by rotating the gear.

Embodiments described in the paragraphs above may be combined with one or more of the specifically described alternatives. In particular, an embodiment that is claimed may contain a reference, in the alternative, to more than one other embodiment. The embodiment that is claimed may specify a further limitation of the subject matter claimed.

The subject matter of embodiments of the invention is described with specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies. Moreover, although the terms “step” and/or “block” may be used herein to connote different elements of methods employed, the terms should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly described.

Throughout this disclosure, words such as “a” and “an,” unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, include the plural as well as the singular. Thus, for example, the constraint of “a feature” is satisfied where one or more features are present. Also, the term “or” includes the conjunctive, the disjunctive, and both (a or b thus includes either a or b, as well as a and b).

Embodiments of the present invention have been described in relation to particular embodiments which are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from its scope.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the structure.

It will be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features or sub-combinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. The described technology may be made without departing from the scope, it is to be understood that all matter described herein or illustrated in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.