U.S. patent application number 16/109592 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-03 for autonomous unmanned road vehicle for making deliveries.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sounil Yu, Steven Sounyoung Yu. Invention is credited to Sounil Yu, Steven Sounyoung Yu.
Application Number | 20190004539 16/109592 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52116389 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190004539 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yu; Steven Sounyoung ; et
al. |
January 3, 2019 |
Autonomous Unmanned Road Vehicle for Making Deliveries
Abstract
An autonomous unmanned road vehicle and how it can be used to
make deliveries. The unmanned vehicle is capable of operating
autonomously on paved roadways. The vehicle has a control system
for autonomous driving and a perception system for detecting
objects in its surroundings. The vehicle also has one or more cargo
compartments for carrying the delivery items. The vehicle may have
a flashing light beacon to increase the conspicuousness of the
vehicle. In consideration that the vehicle does not carry
passengers, the size and/or motor power of the vehicle may be
reduced as compared to conventional passenger vehicles.
Inventors: |
Yu; Steven Sounyoung;
(Fairfax, VA) ; Yu; Sounil; (Reston, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Yu; Steven Sounyoung
Yu; Sounil |
Fairfax
Reston |
VA
VA |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52116389 |
Appl. No.: |
16/109592 |
Filed: |
August 22, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14318690 |
Jun 29, 2014 |
|
|
|
16109592 |
|
|
|
|
61841912 |
Jul 1, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 50/28 20130101;
G05D 1/0297 20130101; B60P 3/007 20130101; G01S 7/4813 20130101;
G06Q 10/08 20130101; G05D 1/024 20130101; G05D 2201/0213
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G05D 1/02 20060101
G05D001/02; G06Q 50/28 20120101 G06Q050/28; G06Q 10/08 20120101
G06Q010/08 |
Claims
1. A system for delivering retail goods to customers, comprising: a
retail facility that has an inventory of retail goods; an
autonomous unmanned road vehicle that comprises radio communication
equipment, wherein the autonomous vehicle is not the possession of
the customers; an operations hub that receives purchase orders of
retail goods from the customers and coordinates the use of the
autonomous vehicle for delivering the purchase orders to the
customers, and wherein the operations hub is in communication with
the autonomous vehicle as it drives the autonomous vehicle, at
least partly in an autonomous manner, to the customers' delivery
destination via paved roadways.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the retail facility operates as
both a conventional walk-in retail store and also a delivery
service.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the inventory of retail goods for
the walk-in retail store is also be used to supply the delivery
service.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein the retail facility is an
already-established conventional walk-in retail store that has been
modified to also operate the delivery service.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein the delivery service is operated
out of one or more back rooms or back areas of the retail
facility.
6. The system of claim 2, wherein at least some of the employee
staff at the retail facility are dedicated to the delivery
service.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations hub is combined or
integrated with the retail facility.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the retail facility has a covered
garage for storing the autonomous vehicle.
9. The system of claim 2, wherein the retail facility has a covered
garage for storing the autonomous vehicle.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the retail facility has a
vehicle bay for parking the autonomous vehicle.
11. The system of claim 2, wherein the retail facility has a
vehicle bay for parking the autonomous vehicle.
12. The system of claim 10, wherein the vehicle bay has a clearance
height of less than 15 feet.
13. The system of claim 10, wherein the purchase orders are loaded
into the autonomous vehicle while parked in the vehicle bay.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein there is a residential area or
an area that is zoned for residential use located within a 6 mile
radius of the retail facility.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations hub has personnel
and equipment to remotely communicate with the autonomous
vehicle.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the operations hub also
communicates with the retail facility for coordinating the
delivery.
17. The system of claim 15, wherein the customers are notified when
their purchase order is ready for delivery, and when the customers'
delivery request is received, the purchase order is loaded into the
autonomous vehicle at the retail facility.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein further, the customers are
notified that the autonomous vehicle is on its way or has arrived
at the customers' delivery destination.
19. The system of claim 2, wherein the customers are notified when
their purchase order is ready for delivery, and when the customers'
delivery request is received, the purchase order is loaded into the
autonomous vehicle at the retail facility.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein further, the customers are
notified that the autonomous vehicle is on its way or has arrived
at the customers' delivery destination.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Applications Ser. No. 61/841,912 (filed 1 Jul. 2013), No.
61/893,281 (filed 20 Oct. 2013), No. 61/909,227 (filed 26 Nov.
2013), No. 61/916,261 (filed 15 Dec. 2013), No. 61/921,464 (filed
28 Dec. 2013), and No. 61/970,881 (filed 26 Mar. 2014), all of
which are incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Our invention relates to using autonomous (e.g. driverless
or self-driving) vehicles for making deliveries.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In the transportation and logistics industry, the "last
mile" problem refers to the delivery of goods to the final
destination. There are many challenges to making delivery to the
final destination. Some examples include theft of packages if they
are left on the doorstep of the recipient's home, having to
schedule a delivery time with the recipient, having to skip the
delivery and return another day, leaving the package with an
unreliable concierge or roommate, requiring the presence of the
recipient at an inconvenient time, or requiring the recipient to
travel to a special locker or other designated location to pickup
their package. We propose using an autonomous unmanned road vehicle
for an improved delivery service.
SUMMARY
[0004] Our invention relates to autonomous unmanned road vehicles
and how they can be used to make deliveries. In one embodiment, our
invention is a method of transporting tangible goods. The method
comprises loading multiple packages onto a transport vehicle at a
regional distribution facility. The packages are destined for
multiple delivery destinations that are designated by different
postal addresses. The packages are transported to a local
distribution facility via the transport vehicle. The recipients are
notified that their packages are ready for delivery. After
receiving a delivery request notification from a recipient, the
package is loaded onto an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle. The
unmanned ground vehicle is driven on a paved roadway to the
recipient's delivery destination. The recipient is notified that
their package has arrived or will be arriving. The package is then
delivered to the recipient's delivery destination. In some
embodiments, the method further comprises: sending an access code
to the recipient for accessing the package; accepting the correct
access code entered by the recipient; and allowing access to the
package.
[0005] Another method for transporting tangible goods comprises
loading multiple packages onto an autonomous unmanned ground
vehicle for delivery to multiple delivery destinations that are
designated by different postal addresses. The unmanned vehicle is
driven on a paved roadway to a waiting area. At least 85% of the
delivery destinations are within a 6 mile radius of the waiting
area. The recipients are notified that their packages are ready for
delivery. After receiving a delivery request notification from a
recipient of a package, the vehicle is driven to the recipient's
delivery destination. The recipient is notified that their package
has arrived or will be arriving. The package is delivered at the
recipient's delivery destination. The vehicle may then return to
the same waiting area or go to a different waiting area. In some
embodiments, the method further comprises: sending an access code
to the recipient for accessing the package; accepting the correct
access code entered by the recipient; and allowing access to the
package.
[0006] Another embodiment of our invention is a system for
delivering tangible goods. The system comprises a regional
distribution facility and a local distribution facility that
receives packages from the regional distribution facility. The
packages received by the local distribution facility are destined
for multiple delivery destinations that are designated by different
postal addresses. The system further comprises an autonomous
unmanned ground vehicle for delivering the packages to the delivery
destinations and an operations hub having equipment to communicate
with the unmanned vehicle and the recipients of the packages.
[0007] In another embodiment, the system comprises: a distribution
facility that receives packages that are destined for multiple
delivery destinations that are designated by different postal
addresses; an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle for delivering the
packages to the delivery destinations; an operations hub having
equipment to communicate with the unmanned vehicle and the
recipients of the packages; and a waiting area where the unmanned
ground vehicle can park while awaiting a delivery request.
[0008] Another embodiment of our invention is a method of
transporting packages that are destined for multiple delivery
destinations using an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle. The
packages are transported from a first location to a second
(intermediate) location. The recipients of the packages are
notified that their packages are ready for delivery. After
receiving a delivery request notification from a recipient of a
package, the unmanned ground vehicle that is loaded with the
recipient's package is driven from the intermediate location to the
recipient's delivery destination. The recipient is notified that
their package has arrived or will be arriving. After delivering the
package, the vehicle is driven back to the intermediate
location.
[0009] Another embodiment of our invention is a method of
delivering retail goods to customers on-demand. The method
comprises receiving a purchase order from a customer for delivery
to a delivery destination (the purchase order comprising a
purchased item). At a local retail facility located within a 6 mile
radius of the delivery destination, the purchased item is put into
delivery packaging. A message is sent to the customer that their
purchase order is ready for delivery. The customer's delivery
request is received at a time after the purchase order is received.
After receiving this delivery request, the delivery packaging
containing the customer's purchased item is loaded into an
autonomous unmanned ground vehicle, which is driven to the
customer's delivery destination. The customer is notified that
their purchase order has arrived or will be arriving. The purchased
item is delivered at the customer's delivery destination.
[0010] In some cases, the purchase order includes a cold food item
that is put into a separate delivery packaging. In some cases,
while awaiting the delivery request, the delivery packaging holding
the cold food item is kept in a refrigerated space at the local
retail facility. In some cases, the vehicle has a cold compartment
that is thermally insulated and/or cooled, and the container
holding the cold food item is loaded into the cold compartment. In
some cases, the container for the cold food item is reusable, and
after making the delivery, the vehicle stands by and waits until
the container is returned to the vehicle, and departs afterwards.
In some cases, the purchased item is held in a cargo compartment in
the unmanned ground vehicle, and the method further comprises:
sending an access code to the customer for accessing the cargo
compartment; accepting the entry of a correct access code; and
allowing access to the cargo compartment.
[0011] Another embodiment of our invention is a delivery system for
delivering retail goods to customers. The system comprises a local
retail facility that has an inventory of retail goods and is
located within a 6 mile radius of the customers' residences. The
delivery system further comprises a computer system for receiving
purchase orders of retail goods from customers and an autonomous
unmanned ground vehicle for delivering the purchase orders to the
customers' residences. The delivery system further comprises an
operations hub having equipment to communicate with the unmanned
vehicle and the customers. In some cases, the local retail facility
operates both as a walk-in retail store and a delivery service of
retail goods. In some cases, the delivery service is operated out
of one or more back rooms/areas of the local retail facility.
[0012] Another embodiment of our invention is another method for
transporting tangible goods. The method uses a home base facility
that has a fleet of autonomous unmanned ground vehicles. After
receiving a request from a sender for delivery of an item from the
sender's designated location to a recipient at the recipient's
location, an unmanned vehicle is selected for the sender's request.
The selected vehicle may or may not be located at the home base
facility. The unmanned ground vehicle is driven to the sender's
designated location. The sender is notified that the unmanned
ground vehicle has arrived or will be arriving. At the sender's
designated location, the item is received into the unmanned ground
vehicle. The unmanned ground vehicle is driven to the recipient's
location. The recipient is notified that the unmanned ground
vehicle has arrived or will be arriving. The item is delivered at
the recipient's location.
[0013] Another embodiment of our invention is another system for
transporting tangible goods. The system comprises a fleet of
autonomous unmanned ground vehicles and a home base facility where
the unmanned ground vehicles are kept. The system further comprises
an operations hub for coordinating the use of the unmanned ground
vehicles. The unmanned ground vehicles operate only in an area that
is contained within a 15 mile radius around the home base
facility.
[0014] Another embodiment of our invention is a method for
transporting tangible goods over a regional area. The method uses a
fleet of autonomous unmanned ground vehicles and multiple home base
facilities that are geographically separated in an area contained
within a circle having a radius of 64 miles. After receiving a
request from a sender for delivery of an item from the sender's
designated location to a recipient at the recipient's location, an
unmanned vehicle is selected for the sender's request. The selected
vehicle may or may not be located at a home base facility. The
unmanned ground vehicle is driven to the sender's designated
location. The sender is notified that the unmanned ground vehicle
has arrived or will be arriving. At the sender's designated
location, the item is received into the unmanned ground vehicle.
The unmanned ground vehicle is driven to the recipient's location.
The recipient is notified that the unmanned ground vehicle has
arrived or will be arriving. The item is delivered at the
recipient's location. The overall area in which the vehicle
operates is contained within two or more adjoining or overlapping
circles that each have a radius of 9 miles around a home base
facility.
[0015] Another embodiment of our invention is a system for
transporting tangible goods over a regional area. The system
comprises a fleet of autonomous unmanned ground vehicles and a
network of multiple home base facilities geographically separated
in an area contained within a circle having a radius of 64 miles.
The system further comprises an operations hub for coordinating the
use of the unmanned ground vehicles. The unmanned ground vehicles
operate only in an area that is contained within two or more
adjoining or overlapping circles that each have a radius of 9 miles
around a home base facility.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIGS. 1A-1C show different views of an autonomous unmanned
road vehicle as an example of our invention.
[0017] FIG. 2A shows a lidar apparatus in operating mode when the
vehicle is traveling. FIG. 2B shows the lidar apparatus in
protected mode inside of a metal shield when the vehicle is
parked.
[0018] FIG. 3A shows a lidar apparatus in operating mode when the
vehicle is traveling. FIG. 3B shows the lidar apparatus lowered
into the mounting base and body of the vehicle when the vehicle is
parked.
[0019] FIG. 4A shows a side view of a light beacon and perception
apparatus integrated into a rotating cylinder; FIG. 4B shows an
overhead view.
[0020] FIG. 5A shows a front view of a perception apparatus mounted
on a stalk such that the sensor eye is elevated above the level of
the flashing light beacon; FIG. 5B shows an overhead view.
[0021] FIG. 6 shows an example of how an autonomous unmanned road
vehicle can be used to make deliveries from a distribution
facility.
[0022] FIG. 7 shows another example of how an autonomous unmanned
road vehicle can be used to make deliveries from a distribution
facility and waiting area.
[0023] FIGS. 8-10 show an example of how an autonomous unmanned
road vehicle can be used to make deliveries from a supermarket
store. FIGS. 8 and 9 show different views of the back of the
supermarket store. FIG. 10 shows the delivery vehicle loaded with a
customer order.
[0024] FIG. 11 shows examples of how operating areas may appear in
regards to shape.
[0025] FIG. 12 shows an example of how an autonomous unmanned road
vehicle can be used to make deliveries from a home base
facility.
[0026] FIG. 13 shows another example of an operating area for an
autonomous unmanned road vehicle in a regional delivery
network.
[0027] FIG. 14 shows an example of a regional delivery network.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Our invention contemplates the use of the unmanned ground
vehicle for transporting tangible goods, such as packages, retail
goods, or other items. An example of the unmanned ground vehicle is
shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, which will be explained in further detail
below. The unmanned vehicle is designed to be capable of operating
autonomously (e.g. navigating and driving) on paved roadways (e.g.
paved with asphalt, concrete, or composites) that are ordinarily
used for motor vehicle traffic. Examples of paved roadways include
streets, roads, highways, freeways, avenues, boulevards, bridges,
tunnels, etc. The paved roadways may be public or private. The
paved roadways may have traffic lanes, pavement markings, traffic
signals or traffic signs, speed limits, median dividers between
opposite-direction traffic, or other typical features of roadways.
The paved roadways may be designated with identifying names (e.g.
Main Street) or numbers (e.g. Route 101) by a government authority
(e.g. municipal government).
[0029] For operating on paved roadways, the autonomous driving
capabilities of the unmanned vehicle may include obeying traffic
signals and/or signs; obeying speed limits; making turns at
intersections; observing pavement line markings and staying within
travel lanes; changing lanes; avoiding other vehicles on the
roadway and maintaining a safe distance with the vehicle ahead;
avoiding pedestrians and stopping for pedestrians crossing the
roadway or school buses; giving signals (e.g. braking light, turn
signal, etc.) to other vehicles or other drivers; reducing speed
for shopping centers, parking lots, downtown areas, vicinity of
schools, vicinity of playgrounds, in vicinity of pedestrians,
and/or residential roadways; parking in designated areas or
according to parking rules or regulations; entering and exiting
limited access highways (e.g. interstate highways), and/or other
such capabilities. The vehicle's control system may include a
navigation system that is capable of autonomously driving the
vehicle to specific coordinates, landmarks, or street address
locations (e.g. 1250 Main Street, Anytown, Mass. 90210, a
fictitious address).
[0030] The vehicle's navigation system may use a map that, in
addition to the conventional roadway and navigational information,
further contains specific information about traffic or roadway
infrastructure features. Examples of such specific information
include location of off-site parking spaces; location of curbside
parking spaces; which lanes to use during travel or making turns;
locations and orientations of traffic signals (such as signal
lights and stop signs); speed limits; location of residential,
commercial, and/or industrial areas; traffic patterns; road
conditions such as the location speed bumps or potholes; location
of intersections; location of pedestrian crossings and areas
frequented by pedestrians; location of road construction sites,
etc. In addition to location information, other types of
information that may be associated include timing, orientation,
tolls/fees, times of availability, etc. This information may be
acquired in any suitable manner, such as by additional
pre-navigation and mapping of the area in which the vehicle will be
operated.
[0031] Perception System
[0032] The vehicle has a computer control system for its autonomous
driving capability and has a perception system for detecting
objects in its surroundings. The "perception system" includes a
perception apparatus to collect image information and other
components for processing the image information, such as associated
computer hardware and software. The "perception apparatus" includes
the sensor eye and other associated components, such as sensors,
detectors, emitters (e.g. radio, conventional light, laser), drive
motors and mechanical parts, mirrors, etc. Examples of perception
apparatus include cameras, lidar, radar, sonar, etc. The sensor eye
is the part of the perception apparatus where it directly receives
its "point-of-view" of the environment (e.g. the opening, lens, or
window through which light enters the perception apparatus).
[0033] The perception apparatus may use any of various types of
sensors, including photodetectors (e.g. in a camera or lidar),
radar receiver, or sonar receiver. The vehicle's perception system
may use a single or multiple different modalities. In some
embodiments, the perception apparatus uses a photodetector, such as
an optical image sensor in a camera or photodiodes in a lidar.
[0034] The perception apparatus may be one of the more expensive
components of the vehicle. Moreover, the perception apparatus may
be vulnerable to potentially damaging external forces, such as
vandalism, weather conditions, debris, etc. Thus, in some
embodiments, the perception apparatus may be enclosed in a
protective housing that is at least partially transparent, such as
a polycarbonate or poly(methyl-methacrylate) dome.
[0035] In some embodiments, the perception apparatus can be put
into a protected mode in which it is shielded or otherwise
protected from these potentially damaging external forces. The
perception apparatus can be put into the protected mode in
appropriate circumstances such as when the vehicle is not driving,
when a threat is detected, when parked, when under attack, when the
vehicle is disabled, etc. The perception apparatus can be switched
from the operational mode to the protected mode and vice versa.
[0036] This protected mode can be provided by any suitable
mechanism such as a shield being raised around the perception
apparatus or it being retracted into an internal part of the
vehicle.
[0037] For example, FIG. 2A shows the lidar apparatus 50 (with
sensor eye 52 and mounted on a stalk 54) in operating mode when the
vehicle is driving. But as shown in FIG. 2B, when the vehicle is
parked, the lidar apparatus 50 is put in protected mode with a
metal shield 56 being raised around the lidar apparatus 50. In
another example, FIGS. 3A and 3B show the lidar apparatus 50 put
into protected mode by retracting it into the mounting base 58 and
the body of the vehicle when parked. We consider that this
particular feature of the perception apparatus having a protected
mode can be used with any autonomous ground vehicle, such as
self-driving passenger vehicles, and not necessarily limited to the
passengerless delivery vehicles described herein.
[0038] Light Beacon
[0039] In some embodiments, the vehicle has a flashing light beacon
(e.g. on the roof of the vehicle) that operates while traveling on
a roadway. This may be useful to increase the conspicuousness of
the vehicle. The flashing may be produced in any suitable manner,
including electrically-produced (e.g. strobing as a burst-like
flash or pulsing) or mechanically-produced (e.g. rotating light
beam or reflective shield).
[0040] Since the unmanned vehicle does not pose a danger to anyone,
the light beacon may be designed to operate in a manner that avoids
causing annoyance, distraction, alarm, fright, or sense of
potential danger or urgency, such as causing other drivers to pull
over to the side of the road or causing pedestrians to be afraid of
crossing the street when an unmanned vehicle approaches. This can
be achieved by using a slower flash rate, lower luminous intensity,
selecting the color of the light, selecting the type of flashing,
or reducing the number of flashing lamps in the light beacon. In
some embodiments, none of the light beacon(s) on the vehicle
produce a strobing-type flash, which can be unnecessarily annoying,
distracting, or alarming to people. In some embodiments, only
mechanically-produced flashing is used for light beacon(s) on the
vehicle. In some embodiments, no strobing-type flashing is used for
any light beacon(s) on the vehicle.
[0041] In some embodiments, the flash rate of the light beacon is
relatively slow. In some cases, the flash rate of the light beacon
is slower than 120 per minute; in some cases, slower than 105 per
minute; in some cases, slower than 90 per minute; in some cases,
slower than 75 per minute; in some cases, slower than 60 per
minute; in some cases, slower than 45 per minute. As used herein,
"flash rate" means the rate as discerned by ordinary, unassisted
human perception. For example, some conventional warning lights
emit double flashes or quad flashes (i.e. two quick flashes or four
quick flashes that are perceived as a single flash). In such a
case, each double flash or quad flash would be counted as a single
flash.
[0042] The light beacon may have one or more flashing lamps. If the
light beacon has multiple flashing lamps, in some cases, the lamps
may flash synchronously, alternately, or some other pattern. If the
light beacon has multiple flashing lamps, in some cases, the
multiple lamps flash only in an alternating pattern. In some cases,
the light beacon has only a single or at most two flashing lamps.
This may be useful because having too many flashing lamps can be
unnecessarily annoying, distracting, or alarming to people.
[0043] In some embodiments, each flash of the light beacon has
relatively lower luminous intensity (candela) than beacons used on
emergency or hazard vehicles. In some cases, the light beacon is
designed to operate such that each flash has a luminous intensity
of less than 800 cd (candela) in full daylight conditions; in some
cases, less than 600 cd; in some cases, less than 500 cd; and in
some cases, less than 400 cd. This feature does not exclude the
possibility that there may be other intensities used for operating
in other or intermediate lighting conditions, such as night,
dawn/dusk, rain, fog, etc. The luminous intensity can be measured
using conventional instruments such as a photometer.
[0044] For the light beacon, it may be desirable to avoid colors
that are associated with emergencies or hazard vehicles. In some
embodiments, the vehicle has one or more light beacons, but none
are blue. In some embodiments, the vehicle has one or more light
beacons, but none are red. In some embodiments, the vehicle has one
or more light beacons, but none are amber. Combinations of the
preceding are also possible (e.g. not blue nor red). In some
embodiments, the light beacon uses only non-emergency colors, such
as white, amber, yellow, yellow-orange, orange, green,
green-yellow, purple, or violet.
[0045] In order to avoid interfering with the perception system, in
some embodiments, the light spectrum emitted by the light beacon is
different from the light spectrum emitted (if it does so) by the
perception apparatus. In order to avoid interfering with the
perception apparatus, in some embodiments, the light beacon may be
positioned at an elevation that is different from the sensor eye of
the perception apparatus. For example, the light beacon may be
positioned at an elevation above or below that of the sensor eye.
Setting the sensor eye of the perception apparatus at an elevation
higher than the light beacon can improve the field of perception,
especially if the vehicle has a relatively lower height.
[0046] In some embodiments, the light beacon and the perception
apparatus are mounted above or below each other with at least some
part of the perception apparatus vertically overlapping with at
least some part of the light beacon. For example, FIG. 5A shows the
perception apparatus 50 mounted on a stalk 54 such that the sensor
eye 52 is elevated above the level of the flashing light beacon 34.
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 5B, there is vertical overlap of the
perception apparatus 50 and the flashing light beacon 34 from the
overhead view.
[0047] In some cases, both the light beacon and the perception
apparatus are mounted on the same upwardly protruding structure on
top of the vehicle (e.g. on a stalk or mounting base). In some
cases, both the light beacon and the perception apparatus are
positioned on the same vertically-extending axis. In some cases,
both the light beacon and the perception apparatus are made to spin
on the same vertically-extending axis. In such cases, the light
beacon and the perception apparatus may rotate synchronously. For
example, FIGS. 4A and 4B show the light beacon and perception
apparatus being integrated into a rotating cylinder and housed
within a protective glass dome 24. There are three lamps 32 on the
cylinder that spins in the direction shown by the arrow. The sensor
eye 22 (i.e. a window in the cylinder) of the perception apparatus
is positioned between two of the lamps 32 and rotates together with
the lamps 32.
[0048] Vehicle Color & Graphics
[0049] In some embodiments, at least some part of the vehicle is
given a feminine color. This may be useful in deterring hostile
physical actions (e.g. vandalism) against the vehicle. The term
"feminine color" as used herein means a color that is generally
considered by Americans to be more feminine than being masculine or
neutral. This can be determined by a market research survey asking
people whether they believe that a particular color is feminine,
masculine, or neutral. The survey would be on a sample of adults in
America who received their entire K-12 (kindergarten through grade
12) schooling in America, and the survey group composition being
equally male and female in number. Examples of feminine colors
include pink and pastel colors. The feminine color may be the
predominant color of the vehicle (e.g. the base paint color) or may
play a lesser role (e.g. part of the graphics).
[0050] In some embodiments, the exterior of the vehicle displays an
image of a female person (e.g. photo or illustration) or female
character (e.g. cartoon drawing or figure, such as Tinker Bell). In
some cases, the female person or character in the image is smiling.
This may be useful in deterring hostile physical actions (e.g.
vandalism) against the vehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle
has an anti-graffiti surface provided by a specialized
anti-graffiti coating, paint, film, etc.
[0051] Speed Limit
[0052] Because the vehicle may have a relatively smaller size,
relatively weaker motor power, and/or relatively more unstable
aerodynamics, the vehicle may travel at a relatively slower speed
as compared to conventional passenger cars. In some embodiments,
the speed of the vehicle is limited to a maximum allowable speed V
(e.g. having a speed governor), with V being a value of 65 mph or
less (e.g. V=57 mph or V=48 mph); in some cases, V being a value of
60 mph or less; in some cases, V being a value of 55 mph or less;
in some cases, V being a value of 50 mph or less; in some cases, V
being a value of 45 mph or less. In some embodiments, the vehicle
does not operate on roadways having a speed limit of 50 mph or
greater; in some cases, on roadways having a speed limit of 55 mph
or greater; in some cases, on roadways having a speed limit of 65
mph or greater (e.g. does not operate on interstate highways).
[0053] However, because the vehicle is designed for traveling on
conventional roadways, the vehicle is capable of maintaining speeds
to keep pace with traffic. As such, in some cases, the vehicle is
capable of traveling at speeds faster than 25 mph; and in some
cases, faster than 35 mph; and in some cases, faster than 45
mph.
[0054] Technical Problems
[0055] The unmanned vehicle's control system may be programmed to
monitor the condition of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the
control system assesses technical problems being experienced by the
vehicle, and if needed, the control system drives the vehicle to
travel to a base facility (such as the nearest distribution
facility, retail facility, or home base facility as will be
described below) or to park itself (preferably at a safe place away
from the flow of traffic). The vehicle may park at any suitable
place, such as on the side of the road (e.g. on the shoulder), at
an on-street parking site, or off-street parking site. Afterwards,
the vehicle may standby and await the arrival of a recovery
truck.
[0056] The technical problems that can trigger this response may
include one or more of: mechanical problem (e.g. flat tire),
electrical problem (e.g. light beacon not working),
electromechanical problem (e.g. electric motor malfunction),
communication problem (e.g. loss of communication link), low
battery charge, or low fuel. Detection and/or response to the
problem may be performed autonomously or semi-autonomously (i.e.
under a combination of human and autonomous control). For example,
the vehicle may detect and assess the technical problem on its own
and find safe parking on its own; or the problem may be assessed at
the operations hub and the operations hub commands or guides the
vehicle to a safe parking area; or some combination of these
actions.
[0057] In some embodiments, this response is triggered by the
remaining battery charge falling below some threshold P, wherein P
has a value in the range of 20% to zero (e.g. triggered when less
than 17% battery charge remaining); in some cases, P has a value in
the range of 15% to zero; in some cases, P has a value in the range
of 10% to zero. In some embodiments, this response is triggered by
the remaining amount of fuel falling below some threshold F,
wherein F has a value in the range of 20% to zero (e.g. triggered
when less than 18% fuel remaining); in some cases, F has a value in
the range of 15% to zero; in some cases, F has a value in the range
of 10% to zero.
[0058] Surveillance System
[0059] In some embodiments, the vehicle has a surveillance system
that operates separately or in conjunction with the perception
system. The surveillance system may share the same components as
the perception system, such as using the same camera(s). The
surveillance system is designed to counter hostile physical actions
against the vehicle, such as vandalism. As such, the surveillance
system may be operating during a time when the vehicle is not
traveling or when the driving perception system is not active. For
example, the surveillance system may be operating when the vehicle
is parked.
[0060] The surveillance system includes a multidirectional camera
system that has one or more cameras for imaging in multiple
directions. A variety of different configurations are possible for
the camera system. For example, the camera system may have a single
camera that can turn to different directions, or multiple cameras
that are pointed in different directions. The cameras used may be
the same or different from any cameras used in the perception
system. The camera can be made to be easily visible or conspicuous
to deter hostile physical actions against the vehicle (e.g.
vandalism, theft, or aggressive driving against the vehicle).
[0061] Warning Sign
[0062] The vehicle may be the target of hostile physical actions,
such as vandalism or other drivers on the road interfering with the
operation of the vehicle (e.g. bump into it, nudge it, push if off
the road, block its path, etc.). To deter this kind of hostile
action, the vehicle may display an externally visible written
warning notice. Examples of such warning notices include: "Vehicle
Under Video Surveillance" or "Do Not Interfere with this
Vehicle/Violators Will be Prosecuted." Other methods for countering
against hostile physical actions are also described herein.
[0063] Communications Equipment
[0064] The vehicle is equipped with radio communications equipment
such as a receiver, transmitter, transceiver (e.g. cellular radio
transceiver), and/or antenna. The radio communications equipment
may be used for communicating with the operations hub and/or the
customers. The radio communications equipment may operate via any
suitable radio link such as a cellular network, WiFi, satellite, or
combinations thereof. The radio communications equipment may be
integrated with or in connection with the control system,
surveillance system, and/or perception system of the vehicle.
[0065] The vehicle may have audio and/or visual equipment to
communicate with people standing near the vehicle. In some
embodiments, the vehicle has an external loudspeaker, external
microphone, and/or external video display screen. These can be
useful in a variety of circumstances. For example, the external
loudspeaker can be used to talk with the delivery recipient or
passerby, or to ward off vandals (e.g. "please step away from the
vehicle"), or make requests (e.g. "please move out of the
way").
[0066] The microphone can allow the delivery recipient or passerby
to speak with someone at the operations hub for the vehicle. For
example, if the vehicle is improperly parked, a policeman can speak
into the microphone to ask the operations hub to move the vehicle;
or for example, a bystander can ask the operations hub to move the
vehicle because it is blocking the way.
[0067] In some embodiments, the vehicle has an electronic payment
device (e.g. credit card reader, smartphone payment processor,
etc.). In some cases, the electronic payment device is involved in
unlocking or opening a cargo compartment door of the vehicle. For
example, when the recipient makes a payment with the electronic
payment device, the compartment door is unlocked so that the
recipient can access the delivered item.
[0068] Vehicle Suspension & Body
[0069] Since the vehicle is not designed to carry passengers, the
suspension design can be different from those typically used in
contemporary passenger cars. In some embodiments, the vehicle has a
suspension that uses springs (e.g. coil, leaf, etc.), but no
damping mechanism (e.g. no shock absorbers). In some embodiments,
the vehicle does not have a fully independent suspension system on
all wheels. In such cases, only the front wheels, or only the rear
wheels, or neither have an independent suspension. That is, the
vehicle can have a suspension configuration with: (1) the front
wheels are independently linked, but the rear wheels are
dependently linked; (2) the rear wheels are independently linked,
but the front wheels are dependently linked; (3) both the front and
rear wheels are dependently linked.
[0070] The vehicle may have 3-6 wheels. In some embodiments, the
vehicle is steered at both the front and rear wheels (e.g. 4-wheel
steering). This can allow crab steering to facilitate parallel
parking curbside. In some embodiments, the vehicle has wheels
without separate tires, or has tires that are non-pneumatic (e.g.
solid rubber tires or the Tweel made by Michelin) or
semi-pneumatic. Semi-pneumatic tires have a hollow air-filled
center, but the air is not pressurized.
[0071] This feature can be useful in making the vehicle more
resistant to vandalism (e.g. tire slashing). This feature can also
be useful for reducing the maintenance cost of the vehicle. Also,
since the vehicle is not designed to carry passengers, not being
constrained by personal comfort considerations can lower the cost
of the vehicle.
[0072] Because the vehicle may be relatively lightweight, it may
experience instability at higher travel speeds. Vehicle stability
can be enhanced by aerodynamic design of the vehicle for reducing
air turbulence around the vehicle, reducing aerodynamic lift,
and/or produce downforce on the vehicle. Such designs can include
shaping the vehicle body appropriately (e.g. a wedge shaped front),
giving the vehicle a spoiler (to reduce turbulence and aerodynamic
lift), and/or giving the vehicle a wing to produce downforce.
[0073] Operations Hub
[0074] Coordination of the delivery operations may be performed by
an operations hub. To perform this, the operations hub may have
personnel and equipment to remotely operate the vehicle,
communicate with the vehicle (e.g. for sending commands, receiving
monitoring information from the vehicle, etc.), and/or remotely
monitor the vehicle.
[0075] The operations hub can also communicate with any of the
facilities described below (e.g. distribution facility, home base
facility, local retail facility). Communications with the customer
or recipient (sending and receiving) can be performed by operations
hub or by the vehicle itself, and can be made via any suitable
medium, such as through wired or wireless communication devices
such as mobile phones, desktop computers, home control panel (for a
home automation system), etc. The communications with the customer
or recipient may be in the form of phone calls, voice messages,
emails, text messages, message alerts, or any other suitable means
of notification.
[0076] The operations hub may be a single physical location or
multiple physical locations that functionally work together. The
operations hub may be physically and/or functionally combined or
integrated with any of the facilities described below (e.g.
distribution facility, home base facility, local retail facility),
or it may be separate functionally and/or physically.
[0077] In some embodiments, the person who remotely operates the
unmanned vehicle has a driver's license in the state where the
vehicle is being operated. The operations hub may be handling the
operation of multiple unmanned ground vehicles. In some cases, the
operations hub is in command of 10 or more vehicles; in some cases,
15 or more vehicles; in some cases, 25 or more vehicles.
[0078] Vehicle Dimensions
[0079] Because the vehicle should be large enough to carry cargo,
the unmanned vehicle may have a dry (empty) weight of at least 450
lbs; in some cases, at least 550 lbs; in some cases, at least 700
lbs. But because the vehicle does not carry passengers, typical
human comfort and safety features can be omitted, thus reducing the
weight of the vehicle. As such, the unmanned vehicle may have a dry
(empty) weight of less than 7,000 lbs; in some cases, less than
5,000 lbs.; in some cases, less than 3,000 lbs.; in some cases,
less than 2,000 lbs.; in some cases, less than 1,500 lbs.
[0080] In some embodiments, the unmanned vehicle has a wheelbase of
at least 30 inches; in some cases, at least 40 inches; in some
cases, at least 60 inches; in some cases, at least 75 inches. In
some embodiments, the unmanned vehicle has a wheelbase of less than
210 inches; in some cases, less than 170 inches; in some cases,
less than 150 inches; in some cases, less than 130 inches; in some
cases, less than 105 inches.
[0081] In some embodiments, the unmanned vehicle has a maximum
payload capacity of at least 75 lbs; in some cases, at least 150
lbs; in some cases, at least 200 lbs; in some cases, at least 300
lbs; in some cases, at least 400 lbs; in some cases, at least 600
lbs; in some cases, at least 800 lbs. In some embodiments, the
unmanned vehicle has a maximum payload capacity that is less than
2,000 lbs; in some cases, less than 1,500 lbs; in some cases, less
than 1,200 lbs; in some cases, less than 900 lbs.
[0082] In some embodiments, the unmanned vehicle has a total cargo
volume of at least 20 cu ft; in some cases, at least 40 cu ft; in
some cases, at least 60 cu ft; in some cases, at least 90 cu ft. In
some embodiments, the vehicle has a total cargo volume of less than
600 cu ft; in some cases, less than 400 cu ft; in some cases, less
than 200 cu ft; in some cases, less than 100 cu ft.
[0083] Examples of vehicle dimensions that may be suitable include
those similar to the Smart.TM. electric minicar, 4-wheel
all-terrain or sport utility vehicles (ATV), or golf carts.
[0084] Since the unmanned ground vehicle is not designed to carry
passengers, it can have a relatively narrower width. In some
embodiments, both the front and rear track widths of the vehicle
are narrower than 80 inches; in some cases, narrower than 75
inches; in some cases, narrower than 70 inches; in some cases,
narrower than 65 inches; in some cases, narrower than 60 inches; in
some cases, narrower than 55 inches; in some cases, narrower than
50 inches; in some cases, narrower than 45 inches; in some cases,
narrower than 40 inches.
[0085] In some embodiments, the main body of the unmanned vehicle
has a height of less than 8 feet (not including projecting elements
such as antennas, cameras, signal lights, perception apparatus,
light beacons, or other accessory elements, etc.); in some cases,
less than 7 feet; in some cases, less than 6 feet; in some cases,
less than 5 feet 6 inches; in some cases, less than 5 feet.
However, because the vehicle may be designed to allow recipients to
easily access the delivered items without the need for special
equipment, the height should not be too low. In some embodiments,
the main body of the unmanned vehicle has a height of greater than
4 feet; in some cases, greater than 5 feet.
[0086] Low Center of Gravity
[0087] The vehicle can be made to have a relatively lower center of
gravity (CoG) height. This feature can be useful for a variety of
reasons, including improving vehicle stability while traveling or
resisting tipping-over by vandals. In some embodiments, the vehicle
(unloaded and empty of fuel, if any required) has a CoG height of
lower than 25 inches from the ground; in some cases, lower than 24
inches; in some cases, lower than 23 inches; in some cases, lower
than 22 inches; in some cases, lower than 21 inches; in some cases,
lower than 20 inches; in some cases, lower than 19 inches; in some
cases, lower than 18 inches; in some cases, lower than 17 inches;
in some cases, lower than 16 inches from the ground.
[0088] The CoG height can be lowered by placement of batteries,
electric drive motors, and other equipment closer to the ground
level, or reducing the height of the vehicle. As such, in some
embodiments, any batteries and/or electric drive motors of the
vehicle are positioned beneath a cargo compartment or located at a
level beneath a cargo compartment of the vehicle.
[0089] Road Operating Equipment
[0090] The unmanned vehicle also has equipment for operating on
roadways. For example, the unmanned vehicle may have a signal light
(e.g. turn signal light); brake light (on the rear); forward facing
light (e.g. headlights or beam lights) for illumination when
operating during nighttime or reduced visibility conditions;
exterior light (e.g. navigation light, emergency light, hazard
light, strobe light, flashing light, spinning light, etc.) and/or
reflector to enhance the conspicuousness of the unmanned vehicle to
others; illuminated license plate; etc. The unmanned vehicle may
also be covered under liability insurance for personal injury
and/or property damage.
[0091] Cargo Compartment
[0092] The unmanned vehicle has one or more compartments for
holding delivery cargo. The compartments may be closed/locked and
be opened/unlocked in a secure manner. For example, the
compartments may be opened/unlocked remotely by the operations hub
upon request by the recipient. In another example, the recipient
may be given an access code (e.g. via a smartphone) and the vehicle
has an external keypad for entering the access code. Entry of the
correct access code will open/unlock the compartment. In another
example, the compartments may be unlocked/opened by the recipient's
personal electronic device such as a smartphone.
[0093] In some embodiments, one or more of the compartments are
designed for holding cold food items. For example, such cold
compartments could be thermally-insulated (specifically designed
for thermal insulation) and/or cooled. Temperature cooling can be
provided in any suitable manner. For example, cooling could be
provided by using refrigerant materials such as water ice, dry ice,
or reusable cold packs (e.g. gel bags or bricks). In another
example, cooling could be provided by electrical refrigeration.
[0094] In some embodiments, the vehicle has multiple separate cargo
compartments that are individually accessible and/or lockable. This
can allow the vehicle to make multiple deliveries to different
recipients. For example, the vehicle can travel to one destination
and deliver an item contained in one compartment, and then travel
to another destination and deliver another item contained in a
different compartment.
[0095] The cargo compartment may also have lighting to enhance
visibility for the user, which may be particularly useful for
nighttime deliveries. The lighting may be activated by opening of
the compartment door. The vehicle may also have a camera for
monitoring inside the compartment(s). This can be useful for
preventing theft or monitoring the security of the contents.
[0096] For safety reasons, access to the cargo compartment (e.g.
cargo door) may be located away from the side facing the street.
For example, the cargo compartment access may be located only on
the right side (with respect to the forward direction), top side,
front side, and/or back side of the vehicle. In some cases, access
to the cargo compartment is not located on the left side of the
vehicle.
[0097] Vehicle Power Source
[0098] The unmanned vehicle may be propelled by any suitable power
source, including conventional power sources such as gasoline or
diesel, or alternative power sources such as battery-electric,
natural gas, fuel cell, hybrid-electric, etc., or any combination
thereof. Because the unmanned vehicle may be making mostly short
trips, the unmanned vehicle may be powered by range-limited power
sources, such as by electricity accumulator apparatus (e.g.
batteries or capacitors). In some cases, the vehicle may be
hybrid-powered, i.e. electrically-powered in combination with a
fuel engine.
[0099] In some cases, such electrically-powered vehicles may not
have (omit) any apparatus for generating electricity from fuel
(e.g. fuel cell or gasoline-powered generator). For example, the
unmanned vehicle may draw all its motive power from electricity
accumulators only (e.g. battery-only) and has no other source of
motive power or electricity generation.
[0100] The vehicle is propelled by one or more motors, which can be
electric or fuel powered. Because the unmanned vehicle does not
carry passengers and because it may be designed to be relatively
lighter and relatively slower, the motor power of the vehicle may
be relatively weaker compared to passenger cars. In this regard,
the following embodiments are possible.
[0101] In embodiments where the vehicle is propelled by electric
motor(s) only and if the vehicle has only a single electric motor,
in some cases, the rated maximum horsepower of the electric motor
may be less than 90 hp; and in some cases, less than 75 hp; and in
some cases, less than 60 hp. However, because the vehicle is
designed for traveling on conventional roadways, the vehicle should
have sufficient power to maintain a speed that keeps pace with
traffic. As such, the rated maximum horsepower of the electric
motor may be greater than 25 hp; and in some cases, greater than 35
hp.
[0102] In embodiments where the vehicle is propelled by electric
motor(s) only and if the vehicle has multiple electric motors (e.g.
one on each of the front wheels), in some cases, the rated maximum
horsepower of each electric motor may be less than 75 hp; and in
some cases, less than 60 hp; and in some cases, less than 45 hp.
However, because the vehicle is designed for traveling on
conventional roadways, the vehicle should have sufficient power to
maintain a speed that keeps pace with traffic. As such, the rated
maximum horsepower of each electric motor may be greater than 15
hp; and in some cases, greater than 20 hp.
[0103] In embodiments where the vehicle is propelled by a
combination of an internal combustion motor and electric motor(s)
(i.e. a hybrid-powered vehicle) and if the vehicle has only a
single electric motor, in some cases, the rated maximum horsepower
of the electric motor may be less than 60 hp; and in some cases,
less than 45 hp; and in some cases, less than 30 hp.
[0104] In embodiments where the vehicle is propelled by a
combination of an internal combustion motor and electric motor(s)
(i.e. a hybrid-powered vehicle) and if the vehicle has multiple
electric motors, in some cases, the rated maximum horsepower of
each electric motor may be less than 45 hp; and in some cases, less
than 30 hp; and in some cases, less than 20 hp.
[0105] In embodiments where the vehicle is propelled by an internal
combustion motor (exclusively or in conjunction with an electric
motor), a relatively smaller motor may be used as compared to
passenger cars. In some cases, the internal combustion motor has
only three cylinders, in some cases only two cylinders, in some
cases only a single cylinder. The relatively smaller motor can also
be characterized by its displacement volume. In some cases, the
displacement volume of the internal combustion motor may be less
than 900 cc; in some cases, less than 750 cc; in some cases, less
than 600 cc.
[0106] Unmanned Operation
[0107] Not having a human operator on board, the unmanned vehicle
is able to operate on roadways in ordinary conditions without any
human control, i.e. autonomously. The unmanned vehicle operates
fully autonomously or partly autonomously, i.e. under a combination
of human and autonomous control. For example, although the vehicle
may be fully capable of driving autonomously, this autonomous
control may be supplemented by human control via remote-operation
on a as-needed basis, such as for vehicle breakdown, changes in
traffic patterns, road construction, road or lane closures,
detours, traffic accidents, severe weather conditions, or some
other unexpected disruption to roadway traveling conditions. Thus,
any reference made herein about the unmanned vehicle traveling to
various places means that the vehicle is driven at least partly in
an autonomous manner.
[0108] The unmanned vehicle is designed to carry cargo but not
human passengers. Because the unmanned vehicle is not designed for
onboard human presence, the vehicle may not have one or more of the
following: seats for passengers, windows, seatbelts, airbags,
climate control (e.g. heating or air conditioning), audio
entertainment system, passenger doors, etc.
[0109] Because the autonomous vehicle is designed to operate
without a human driver inside the vehicle, the vehicle may not have
(omit) one or more of the following: steering wheel, gear lever or
selector, accelerator pedal, foot brake, speedometer, side view
mirror, rear view mirror, glass windshield, windshield wiper,
etc.
[0110] Example Vehicle
[0111] FIGS. 1A-1C show an example of the unmanned ground vehicle
of our invention. A flashing light beacon 30 is mounted on the roof
of the main body 10. A perception apparatus 20 (here, a lidar
apparatus) is mounted on top of the light beacon 30. The vehicle
has a cargo compartment which can be accessed by opening the cargo
door 12 (having hinges 15 and door handle 14). To unlock the cargo
door 12, the customer enters the correct access code into the
keypad 42. To improve visibility and safety, the vehicle also has a
reflector stripe 16 and rear brake lights 44. The vehicle is also
equipped with an audio loudspeaker 40 so that someone in the
operations hub can speak with the delivery customer or
bystanders.
Uses of the Autonomous Unmanned Road Vehicle
[0112] The autonomous unmanned road vehicle of our invention can be
used in a variety of ways for making deliveries. The delivery
destinations can be designated in any suitable manner to identify
its location, such as GPS (global positioning system) coordinates,
cellular network, and/or postal address as recognized by the postal
service, emergency services (fire, ambulance, etc.), mapping
agencies or firms, or courier services, etc. For example, a
delivery destination may be designated as 1250 Main Street,
Anytown, Mass. 90210 (fictitious address). The delivery
destinations can be specified in even more detail (e.g. a specific
side of a corner or a specific side of a building). Non-limiting
examples of delivery destinations include residences and
businesses, such as restaurants, offices, retail stores, etc.
[0113] The delivery is received by the recipient or customer, or
someone on their behalf, such as a family member, friend, roommate,
doorman, receptionist, etc. Because the items may be delivered
without assistance, in some embodiments, the weight of each single
item (e.g. a parcel) or bundled item (e.g. a shopping bag or box
filled with grocery items), which is intended to be carried as a
unit, may be relatively light such that they can be lifted or
picked-up without assistance. In some cases, each single or bundled
item being delivered weighs less than 90 lbs; in some cases, less
than 75 lbs; in some cases, less than 50 lbs; in some cases, less
than 25 lbs; in some cases, less than 20 lbs.
A. Delivery of Packages
[0114] In one embodiment, the unmanned vehicle can be used for
delivering packages (e.g. boxes, parcels, envelopes, shipments,
mail items, letters, etc.) that are destined for multiple (two or
more) delivery destinations. This can be useful in situations where
the recipient is not present at the delivery destination when the
delivery is ready to be made. As such, the recipient can request
delivery upon demand. Our invention can be particularly useful in
making deliveries to residences (i.e. the delivery destinations are
peoples' homes). For example, the recipient may not be able to
receive their package until they return home from work, but can
request delivery after they arrive home from work. The residences
may be located in an area that is zoned for residential use.
[0115] Because the packages may be delivered to the recipient
without assistance, in some embodiments, the packages for delivery
may be limited to those that are relatively lighter such that they
can be lifted or picked-up without assistance. In some cases, each
of the packages are less than 90 lbs in weight; in some cases, less
than 75 lbs in weight; in some cases, less than 50 lbs in
weight.
[0116] Distribution Facility
[0117] At a distribution facility, one or more packages for
delivery are loaded onto the unmanned vehicle. The distribution
facility can be any facility that provides a place to receive
packages and load them onto the unmanned vehicle. Non-limiting
examples of distribution facilities include warehouses,
distribution centers, sorting facilities, loading facilities,
processing facilities, transportation facilities, etc. Other
examples of distribution facilities that can be used by our
invention are further described below. The distribution facility
may further be involved in receiving, sorting, storing, and/or
processing packages. The distribution facility may be combined or
integrated with an operations hub. The distribution facilities
referred to herein can be part of a larger distribution
network.
[0118] Regional and Local Distribution Facilities
[0119] In certain embodiments, our invention uses one or more
regional distribution facilities that each distribute packages to
multiple (two or more) local distribution facilities, each of which
serves a delivery zone with multiple delivery destinations. At a
regional distribution facility, the packages are loaded onto a
transport vehicle for delivery to a local distribution facility.
The vehicle used in this transport phase may be any conventional
ground vehicle and does not have to be an unmanned vehicle. The
transport vehicle then travels to the local distribution facility,
which is responsible for delivering the packages to their delivery
destinations. At the local distribution facility, the transport
vehicle may wait without unloading or unload the packages destined
for the delivery destinations served by the local distribution
facility.
[0120] The local distribution facility is connected to the delivery
destinations via paved roadways. To provide timely on-demand
delivery, the local distribution facility is generally located
close to the delivery destinations. In some embodiments, all the
delivery destinations served by the local distribution facility are
within a 10 mile radius of the local distribution facility; in some
cases, within a 6 mile radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile
radius. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the delivery
destinations served by the local distribution facility are within a
10 mile radius of the local distribution facility; in some cases,
within a 6 mile radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile radius.
[0121] In some cases, the local distribution facility is dedicated
solely for the delivery service. But in other cases, the local
distribution facility may be located at a business facility that
operates a different type of business (other than the delivery
service), such as a retail store, office building, gas station,
parking garage or parking lot, or school. For example, the delivery
service may be operated out of a back room, on the parking lot, or
from the back alley of the business facility. Examples of retail
stores where the local distribution facility could be located
include grocery store, supermarket, warehouse store, department
store, convenience store, variety store, drug or pharmacy store,
electronics store, restaurant, office supply store, hardware or
building supply store, etc. This is a useful feature because many
retail stores already exist in close proximity to residential areas
(e.g. neighborhood grocery stores).
[0122] In some embodiments, the local distribution facility is
located at an already-established business facility that has been
modified to also operate the delivery service but continues to
operate the already-existing business (e.g. by remodeling,
renovation, or other modification of the premises such that it can
continue the already-operating business). For example, a back room
or area of a retail store (e.g. grocery store or convenience store)
could be converted or renovated to operate the delivery service. In
another example, the parking lot of a shopping center could be
equipped to hold and maintain a fleet of unmanned vehicles, along
with other equipment, personnel, and/or housing to operate the
delivery service.
[0123] In cases where the local distribution facility is located at
a business facility that also operates a different type of
business, there may be some employee staff who are dedicated to the
delivery service (e.g. maintaining or operating the vehicles).
However, it may also be possible to have employee(s) who work both
the other business operations and also the delivery service. As
such, in some cases, the business facility operates with at least
one employee in at least one work shift working in both the other
business operation and the delivery service; and in some cases, at
least three employees in at least one work shift who work in this
manner.
[0124] In some embodiments, the local distribution facility is
located in an area that is zoned for commercial, industrial, and/or
mixed residential-commercial use. In some embodiments, there is a
residential area or an area that is zoned for residential use
located within a 6 mile radius of the local distribution facility;
in some cases, within a 3 mile radius. This can be a useful feature
because many deliveries may be made to residences. In some cases,
the local distribution facility has a covered garage for storing
the vehicle(s) when not in use (e.g. during idle time or
overnight).
[0125] Because the regional distribution facility does not
necessarily provide on-demand delivery, it can generally be located
farther away from the delivery destinations served by the local
distribution facility. In some embodiments, all the delivery
destinations served by the local distribution facility are outside
a 1 mile radius of the regional distribution facility; in some
cases, outside a 3 mile radius; in some cases, outside a 6 mile
radius. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the delivery
destinations served by the local distribution facility are outside
a 1 mile radius of the regional distribution facility; in some
cases, outside a 3 mile radius; in some cases, outside a 6 mile
radius. These statistical parameters may be applicable to a
particular regional distribution facility, a particular local
distribution facility, or system-wide. That is, infringement of our
patent may occur at the level of the particular regional
distribution facility, local distribution facility, or
system-wide.
[0126] The recipients are notified that their packages are ready
for delivery. This notification may occur at any suitable time
point, such as after the packages arrive at the local distribution
facility. This notification to the recipients may be performed by
the operations hub. After receiving this notification, a recipient
can request delivery of their package(s) (e.g. by replying back to
the ready notification). This delivery request is received at the
local distribution facility (e.g. via the operations hub) and the
requested package(s) is loaded onto an unmanned ground vehicle. If
multiple delivery requests are received, the packages for the
multiple requests may be loaded.
[0127] The unmanned vehicle is then sent to the recipient's
delivery destination. The unmanned ground vehicle travels, being
driven at least partly in an autonomous manner, to the recipient's
delivery destination via a paved roadway. To confirm the
recipient's request, the recipient may be notified (e.g. by the
operations hub) that the requested package(s) is on its way. This
notification may occur at any suitable time point, such as when the
package(s) is loaded onto the unmanned vehicle or when the vehicle
is in transit to the delivery destination.
[0128] Because the unmanned vehicle is expected to make deliveries
through multiple round trips as demanded, for each excursion from
the local distribution facility, the vehicle carries less than the
total number of packages to be delivered for all the delivery
destinations being served by that local distribution facility. For
example, considering a hypothetical situation in which the local
distribution facility has to deliver a total of 28 packages for
delivery to 25 delivery destinations, the vehicle may end up making
20 round trips to make these deliveries, and for each round trip,
carry the package(s) for only one or two delivery destinations. In
some embodiments, for each excursion from the local distribution
facility to make a delivery(s), the vehicle visits only two
delivery destinations or fewer before returning back to the local
distribution facility; in some cases, visits only three delivery
destinations or fewer; in some cases, visits only four delivery
destinations or fewer.
[0129] FIG. 6 shows an example of how the our invention can be
implemented. At a regional distribution facility 60, a conventional
delivery truck 62 is loaded with packages that are destined for
multiple residential delivery destinations (.tangle-solidup.).
After loading, the truck 62 travels to local distribution facility
70. Here, the packages destined for delivery zone X are unloaded.
All the delivery destinations in delivery zone X are within a 6
mile radius of the local distribution facility 70. After unloading
the packages at local distribution facility 70, the truck 62 then
travels to local distribution facility 72 to drop-off their
packages.
[0130] The operations hub notifies the package recipients that
their packages are ready for delivery to their delivery
destinations. When a recipient in delivery zone X requests a
delivery (e.g. upon returning home from work), the recipient's
package(s) is loaded into an unmanned ground vehicle 74 at local
distribution facility 70. On command, the unmanned vehicle 74 then
travels to the recipient's delivery destination in delivery zone X.
In transit, the operations hub notifies the recipient that the
package is on its way. When the unmanned delivery vehicle 74
arrives at the delivery destination, the operations hub notifies
the recipient that the package has arrived and provides an access
code for opening the cargo compartment of the unmanned delivery
vehicle.
[0131] When the recipient enters the correct access code (e.g. on
an external keypad on the unmanned vehicle), the cargo door is
unlocked. The recipient picks-up the package and closes the cargo
door. The recipient presses a button on the unmanned vehicle
indicating that the package delivery is completed. With this, the
unmanned vehicle 74 makes another delivery or returns to the local
distribution facility 70. Delivery to a recipient in delivery zone
Y can be made in the same manner, using an unmanned ground vehicle
76 sent from local distribution facility 72.
[0132] Waiting Areas
[0133] In certain embodiments, our invention uses a waiting area
where the unmanned vehicle can park while it awaits its next
delivery request (e.g. in between deliveries). At a base
distribution facility (e.g. a local distribution facility), the
unmanned ground vehicle is loaded with multiple packages to be
delivered to multiple delivery destinations. With the packages
loaded, the unmanned vehicle leaves the base distribution facility
and drives, at least partly in an autonomous manner, to the waiting
area (although it may first make a delivery(s) before arriving at
the waiting area). The unmanned vehicle parks at the waiting area
and awaits a command to make the next delivery.
[0134] The waiting area is a location that is a short distance away
from the delivery destinations so that deliveries can be made
on-demand. In some embodiments, all the delivery destinations being
served by the unmanned vehicle are within a 10 mile radius of the
waiting area; in some cases, within a 6 mile radius; in some cases,
within a 3 mile radius. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the
delivery destinations being served by the unmanned vehicle are
within a 10 mile radius of the waiting area; in some cases, within
a 6 mile radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile radius. These
statistical parameters may be applicable to a particular base
facility or system- wide. That is, infringement of our patent may
occur at the level of the particular base facility or
system-wide.
[0135] Any suitable location where the unmanned vehicle can
temporarily park can serve as the waiting area. In some
embodiments, the waiting area can be an on-street parking site
(e.g. curbside parking) and/or an off-street parking site such as a
parking structure, surface parking lot, or even a residential
garage or driveway (with the owner's authorization). In some
embodiments, the waiting area is located at a business facility
that operates a different type of business (other than the delivery
service) as explained above, such as a retail store. For example,
the waiting area can be in the parking lot of a grocery store.
[0136] In cases where the waiting area is located at a business
facility, there may be some employee staff who are dedicated to the
delivery service (e.g. maintaining or operating the vehicles).
However, it may also be possible to have employee(s) who work both
the other business operations and also the delivery service. As
such, in some cases, the business facility operates with at least
one employee in at least one work shift working in both the other
business operation and the delivery service; and in some cases, at
least three employees in at least one work shift who work in this
manner.
[0137] In some embodiments, the waiting area has equipment and/or
personnel for maintaining the unmanned vehicle (e.g. recharging
equipment, refueling equipment, repair equipment, tow truck or
recovery truck, security guards to guard over the vehicles, repair
personnel, etc.). In some embodiments, the waiting area is located
in an area that is zoned for commercial, industrial, and/or mixed
residential-commercial use.
[0138] There may be more than one waiting area available for
serving the delivery destinations. For example, after making a
delivery, the closest of several predetermined waiting areas may be
selected. But the waiting area(s) does not necessarily have to be
pre-determined. For example, a waiting area may be found on an ad
hoc basis (e.g. if the usual waiting area is not available). In
another example, after making a delivery, that delivery destination
or somewhere close may be made as the current waiting area.
[0139] The recipients are notified that their packages are ready
for delivery. This notification may occur at any suitable time
point, such as after the packages are loaded onto the unmanned
delivery vehicle or when the unmanned vehicle arrives at the
waiting area. This notification to the recipients may be performed
by the operations hub. After receiving this notification, a
recipient can request delivery of the package(s) (e.g. by replying
back to the ready notification).
[0140] The operations hub sends a command to the unmanned vehicle
to make the requested delivery. The unmanned ground vehicle then
travels, being driven at least partly in an autonomous manner, to
the recipient's delivery destination via a paved roadway. To
confirm the recipient's request, the recipient may be notified
(e.g. by the operations hub) that the requested package(s) is on
its way. This notification may occur at any suitable time point,
such as when the vehicle is in transit to the delivery
destination.
[0141] FIG. 7 shows another example of how the our invention can be
implemented. At a base distribution facility 80, unmanned ground
vehicles 82 and 84 are loaded with packages that are destined for
multiple residential delivery destinations (.tangle-solidup.)
within their assigned delivery zones A and B. After loading, the
unmanned vehicles are sent on their way to their respective
delivery zones A and B. Each vehicle travels to its respective
waiting area (X) and parks there, awaiting a command to make a
delivery. Alternatively, the vehicle may make a delivery(s) before
traveling to the waiting area. All the delivery destinations being
served by the unmanned vehicle for that particular excursion are
within a 6 mile radius of the waiting area (X).
[0142] Although FIG. 7 shows the waiting area being within the
delivery zone, this does not have to be the case. For example, the
delivery zone may be a residential area, but the waiting area may
be located in a commercial zone that is adjacent to the residential
area.
[0143] In transit, the operations hub notifies the package
recipients that their packages are ready for delivery to their
delivery destinations. When a recipient in delivery zone A requests
a delivery (e.g. upon returning home from work), the operations hub
sends a command to the unmanned vehicle 82 for delivery zone A to
make that delivery. The unmanned vehicle 82 departs from the
waiting area and travels to the delivery destination. In transit to
the recipient's delivery destination, the operations hub notifies
the recipient that the package is on its way. When the unmanned
delivery vehicle 82 arrives at the delivery destination, the
operations hub notifies the recipient that the package has arrived
and provides an access code for opening the cargo compartment of
the unmanned delivery vehicle.
[0144] When the recipient enters the correct access code (e.g. on
an external keypad on the unmanned vehicle), the cargo door is
unlocked. The recipient picks-up the package and closes the cargo
door. The recipient presses a button on the unmanned vehicle
indicating that the package delivery is completed. With this, the
unmanned vehicle 82 makes another delivery or returns to the
waiting area. Delivery to a recipient in delivery zone B can be
made in the same manner using unmanned ground vehicle 84.
[0145] General Embodiment
[0146] In certain embodiments, our invention may be considered more
generally as a method of transporting packages that are destined
for multiple delivery destinations using an unmanned ground
vehicle. The packages are transported from a first location to a
second (intermediate) location. Examples of first locations include
regional distribution facilities and base distribution facilities
as described above (e.g. a local distribution facility); examples
of intermediate locations include local distribution facilities and
waiting areas as described above. (Note that a local distribution
facility can be considered a first location or an intermediate
location, depending upon the overall configuration of the delivery
network.) The intermediate location is connected with the delivery
destinations via paved roadways.
[0147] In some embodiments, all the delivery destinations are
within a 10 mile radius of the intermediate location; in some
cases, within a 6 mile radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile
radius. In some embodiments, at least 85% of the delivery
destinations are within a 10 mile radius of the intermediate
location; in some cases, within a 6 mile radius; in some cases,
within a 3 mile radius. These statistical parameters may be
applicable to a particular first location, particular intermediate
location, or system-wide. That is, infringement of our patent may
occur at the level of the particular first location, particular
intermediate location, or system-wide.
[0148] In some embodiments, all the delivery destinations are
outside a 1 mile radius of the first location; in some cases,
outside a 3 mile radius; in some cases, outside a 6 mile radius. In
some embodiments, at least 85% of the delivery destinations are
outside a 1 mile radius of the first location; in some cases,
outside a 3 mile radius; in some cases, outside a 6 mile radius.
These statistical parameters may be applicable to a particular
first location or system-wide. That is, infringement of our patent
may occur at the level of the particular first location or
system-wide.
[0149] The method comprises notifying the recipients that their
packages are ready for delivery. After receiving this notification,
a recipient may communicate a request notification requesting
delivery of their package to the delivery destination. In response
to the delivery request, an unmanned ground vehicle that is loaded
with the package(s) is sent from an intermediate location to the
recipient's delivery destination on a paved roadway. The unmanned
ground vehicle travels, being driven at least partly in an
autonomous manner, to the recipient's delivery destination via a
paved roadway.
[0150] The recipient is notified that their package has arrived or
will be arriving. After making the delivery, the unmanned ground
vehicle makes another delivery or is driven, at least partly in an
autonomous manner, on a paved roadway back to the intermediate
location.
[0151] Delivery Performance
[0152] Because the second (intermediate) location is located close
to the recipient's delivery destination, our invention can provide
on-demand delivery in a timely manner. In some embodiments, greater
than 50% of the deliveries arrive at the recipient's delivery
destination within 45 minutes of the delivery request; and in some
cases, greater than 75% (as applied to a particular first location
and/or system-wide).
[0153] Whereas in conventional delivery methods the recipient often
must accommodate to the delivery schedule, our delivery method
allows the deliveries to be made at a time convenient for the
recipient. For example, many working people are not at home during
the workday. Our invention can offer the convenience of receiving a
package during after-work hours. While at work, the recipient may
receive a notification that a package has arrived and is ready for
delivery. When the recipient returns home, they can request
delivery of the package to their home. As such, in some
embodiments, at least 50% of the weekday deliveries to residences
are made between the hours of 3 pm to 11 pm (as applied to a
particular first location and/or system-wide); in some cases, at
least 70% of the weekday deliveries as aforementioned.
B. Delivery of Retail Goods
[0154] In this embodiment, our invention provides another method of
delivering retail goods to customers using an unmanned ground
vehicle. A variety of different types of retail goods can be
delivered using our method. For example, the retail goods may be
food products (e.g. groceries or prepared meals); consumables (e.g.
baby care, medicines, personal care products, health care products,
beauty care products, household products, cleaning supplies,
clothing/apparel, etc.); and/or durable goods (e.g. electronics,
appliances, hardware supplies, etc.). Such retail goods may be
found in retail stores such as grocery stores, supermarkets,
hypermarkets, warehouse stores, department stores, convenience
stores, variety stores, drug or pharmacy stores, electronics
stores, restaurants, etc.
[0155] Purchase Order
[0156] A purchase order is received from a customer. The purchase
order includes one or more purchased items to be delivered to the
customer at a designated delivery destination. The customer can
make the purchase order in any suitable manner, such using a wired
or wireless communication devices (e.g. mobile phones), desktop
computers, home control panel (for a home automation system), etc.
The purchase order can be made through any suitable type of
interface, such as website with a browser, specialized programs
(e.g. smartphone apps), telephone menu, an automated home inventory
system, etc. For example, the purchase order can be placed through
the Internet using a smartphone.
[0157] Local Retail Facility
[0158] The purchase order is received by and/or transmitted to a
local retail facility that serves end-user/consumer customers, i.e.
stocks products that are packaged in a manner intended for the
end-user/consumer. The local retail facility is connected to the
customer's delivery destination via paved roadways. To provide
timely on-demand delivery, the local retail facility is generally
located close to the customer's delivery destination. In some
embodiments, the local retail facility is located within a 10 mile
radius of the customer's delivery destination; in some cases,
within a 6 mile radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile radius. In
some embodiments, there is a residential area or an area that is
zoned for residential use located within a 6 mile radius of the
local retail facility; in some cases, within a 3 mile radius. This
can be a useful feature because many deliveries may be made to
residences.
[0159] Delivery Packaging
[0160] At the local retail facility, the item(s) in the customer's
purchase order are collected and placed into one or more delivery
packaging that are designated for that customer's purchase order.
The delivery packaging may be disposable or reusable, and may take
any suitable form such as paper or plastic bags, cardboard boxes,
cartons, plastic containers, etc. There may be delivery packaging
of different types, shapes, sizes, etc., to accommodate different
types of merchandise or different quantities of merchandise. For
example, non-perishable goods may be put into disposable paper bags
and perishable food products may be put into reusable insulated
plastic containers. Depending upon the type and quantity of
merchandise in the purchase order, the purchased items may be held
in multiple delivery packaging. Different packaging may used
together. For example, multiple paper bags may be put into a larger
plastic container. Some purchased items may be too large or bulky
to place into a delivery packaging. Such items may be held as loose
items while waiting to be loaded onto the delivery vehicle.
[0161] Because the purchased items may be delivered without
assistance, in some embodiments, the total weight of each packaging
holding the purchased item(s) may be relatively light such that
they can be lifted or picked-up without assistance. In some cases,
each of the loaded delivery packaging weighs less than 50 lbs; in
some cases, less than 25 lbs; in some cases, less than 20 lbs.
[0162] The customer's purchase order may include cold food products
(e.g. cooled, refrigerated, frozen, or perishable), such as
produce, frozen foods, milk, fruit juices, meats, cheese, dairy,
eggs, etc. To maintain freshness while waiting to be loaded onto
the delivery vehicle, packaging holding cold food items could be
stored in a cooled space at the local retail facility, such as a
refrigerator or freezer. For example, they could be stored in a
large commercial refrigerator or a refrigerated room such as a
walk-in cooler, refrigerator, or freezer. Alternatively or in
combination, cold food items could be placed into special delivery
containers that are thermally-insulated (specifically designed for
thermal insulation) and/or cooled. Temperature cooling can be
provided in any suitable manner. For example, cooling could be
provided by using refrigerant materials such as water ice, dry ice,
or reusable cold packs (e.g. gel bags or bricks). In another
example, cooling could be provided by electrical refrigeration.
[0163] Walk-In Retail Store
[0164] In some cases, the local retail facility is specialized
solely for delivery service of the retail goods (similar to a
warehouse). But in other cases, the local retail facility may
operate as both a conventional walk-in retail store and a delivery
service. Examples of walk-in retail stores include grocery stores,
supermarkets, hypermarkets, warehouse stores, department stores,
convenience stores, variety stores, drug or pharmacy stores,
electronics stores, restaurants, office supply store, hardware or
building supply store, etc. For example, the delivery service may
be operated out of one or more back rooms or areas of the walk-in
retail store. The inventory of merchandise for the walk-in retail
store may also be used to supply the delivery service.
[0165] In some cases, the local retail facility is an
already-established conventional walk-in retail store that has been
modified to also operate the delivery service but continues to
operate the already-existing business (e.g. by remodeling,
renovation, or other modification of the premises such that it can
continue the already-operating business). For example, one or more
back rooms or areas of the walk-in retail store could be converted
or renovated to operate the delivery service. This is a useful
feature because many retail stores already exist in close proximity
to residential areas (e.g. neighborhood grocery stores).
[0166] In cases where the local retail facility operates as both a
conventional walk-in retail store and a delivery service, there may
be some employee staff who are dedicated to the delivery service
(e.g. maintaining or operating the vehicles). However, it may also
be possible to have employee(s) who work both the walk-in retail
store and also the delivery service. As such, in some cases, the
local retail facility operates with at least one employee in at
least one work shift working in both the walk-in retail store and
the delivery service; and in some cases, at least three employees
in at least one work shift who work in this manner.
[0167] Delivery
[0168] The customer is notified when their purchase order is ready
for delivery. The purchase order is ready for delivery and now
awaits a delivery request from the customer. When the customer's
delivery request is received, the package(s) containing the
customer's purchase order are loaded into an unmanned ground
vehicle. The unmanned ground vehicle is not the possession of the
customer. Some other party, such as the local retail facility, has
legal possession of the unmanned ground vehicle (e.g. owns, leases,
or through other contractual arrangement).
[0169] In some cases, the local retail facility has a vehicle bay
where the unmanned ground vehicle(s) is parked while being loaded.
Because the unmanned vehicle may have a lower height than
conventional delivery trucks, in some cases, the vehicle bay has a
clearance height (e.g. ceiling height) of less than 15 feet; in
some cases, less than 12 feet; in some cases, less than 10 feet of
clearance height. In some cases, the local retail facility has a
covered garage for storing the vehicle(s) when not in use (e.g.
during idle time or overnight).
[0170] The unmanned vehicle is then sent to the customer's delivery
destination. The unmanned vehicle travels, being driven at least
partly in an autonomous manner, to the delivery destination via a
paved roadway. To confirm the customer's delivery request, the
customer may be notified (e.g. by the operations hub) that the
delivery is on its way. This notification may occur at any suitable
time point, such as when the goods are loaded onto the unmanned
vehicle or when the vehicle is in transit to the delivery
destination.
[0171] In some cases, one or more of the packaging used for making
the delivery is reusable and intended to be returned to the local
retail facility. For example, the container holding the cold food
items may be designed for reuse. The recipient removes the
container from the vehicle and unpacks it (e.g. move the cold food
items into the refrigerator). During this time, the vehicle will
stand-by until the container is returned to the vehicle.
[0172] Delivery Performance
[0173] Because the local retail facility is located close to the
customer's delivery destination and the customer's purchase order
is prepared before the delivery request, our invention can provide
on-demand delivery in a timely manner. In some embodiments, greater
than 50% of the purchase orders made by the customers arrive at the
delivery destination within 45 minutes of the customers' delivery
request; and in some cases, greater than 75% (as applied to a
particular local retail facility and/or system-wide).
[0174] Whereas in conventional delivery methods the customer often
must accommodate to the delivery schedule, our delivery method
allows the deliveries to be made at a time convenient for the
customer. For example, for many customers, receiving deliveries at
home after work hours is more convenient. In some embodiments of
our invention, greater than 50% of the weekday (Monday-Friday)
deliveries are made in the hours of 3 pm to 11 pm; in some cases,
greater than 70% (as applied to a particular local retail facility
and/or system-wide).
[0175] Our method can provide same day delivery with high
reliability. In some cases, greater than 75% of the purchase orders
received between the hours of 7 am to 3 pm are delivered the same
day; in some cases, greater than 90% of the purchase orders
received between the hours of 7 am to 3 pm are delivered the same
day (as applied to a particular local retail facility and/or
system-wide). Because our method uses unmanned delivery vehicles, a
high volume of deliveries can be made. In some cases, a local
retail facility makes an average of 25 purchase order deliveries
per day; in some cases, an average of 60 per day; in some cases, an
average of 125 per day.
[0176] Our invention can be useful in situations where the customer
will not be present at the delivery destination when the delivery
is ready to be sent. For example, many working people are not at
home during the workday. Our invention can offer the convenience of
making a purchase order in the morning or afternoon hours (e.g. at
their workplace). When they return home, they can request delivery
of the purchased goods to their homes. As such, in some
embodiments, at least 35% of the weekday purchase orders for
delivery to residences are made between the hours of 7 am to 5 pm,
and at least 50% of the weekday deliveries to residences (same day
as purchase order) are made between the hours of 3 pm to 11 pm (as
applied to a particular local retail facility and/or system-wide);
in some cases, at least 50% of the weekday purchase orders and at
least 70% of the weekday deliveries as aforementioned.
[0177] Our invention can offer the convenience of making a purchase
order on the night prior for on-demand delivery the next day. As
such, in some embodiments, at least 15% of the purchase orders for
delivery to residences the next day are made between the overnight
hours of 5 pm to 12 midnight (as applied to a particular local
retail facility and/or system-wide); in some cases, at least 25% of
the purchase orders as aforementioned.
Example Embodiment
[0178] FIGS. 8-10 show an example of how our invention might be
implemented. FIG. 8 shows the back of a supermarket store
(perspective view). The front of the store is a conventional
walk-in supermarket store. There is a vehicle bay 90 where the
unmanned delivery vehicle can be parked. Employees load the
delivery vehicle through the service doors 92.
[0179] FIG. 9 shows another view of the back of the supermarket
(elevation view with see-through). Multiple customer purchase
orders have been received. The employees have collected the
purchased items and put them into delivery packaging (for customer
order #1, #2, and so on). Some of the purchased items are cold food
items. These are put into thermally-insulated plastic containers
102 and stored in a refrigerated room 100 (e.g. walk-in
refrigerator). Non-perishable items are put into disposable
cardboard boxes 104 and kept at ambient temperatures. The customers
have been notified that their purchase orders are ready for
delivery to the designated destinations. The unmanned delivery
vehicle 96 is parked in the vehicle bay 90 awaiting a delivery
request.
[0180] In FIG. 10, the customer for purchase order #4 has requested
delivery to the customer's home. Store employees load purchase
order #4 into the delivery vehicle 96. The insulated container for
order #4 is loaded into the cold compartment 106 of the vehicle
(bottom), which itself is thermally-insulated and electrically
refrigerated. The cardboard boxes holding the non-perishable items
are loaded into the top compartment (no temperature control). After
loading, the delivery vehicle 96 is sent on its way to the
customer's home.
[0181] In transit to the delivery destination, the customer is
notified that the delivery is on its way. When the unmanned
delivery vehicle 96 arrives at the delivery destination, the
customer is notified that the delivery vehicle has arrived and is
given an access code for opening the cargo compartment of the
unmanned delivery vehicle. When the customer enters the correct
access code (e.g. on an external keypad on the unmanned vehicle),
the cargo door is unlocked. The customer picks-up the delivery
packaging and takes them inside home. After unpacking the cold food
items in the insulated container, the customer returns the
insulated container into the cold compartment of the vehicle and
closes the cargo door. The customer then presses a button on the
unmanned vehicle indicating that the delivery is completed. With
this, the unmanned vehicle returns to the supermarket or makes more
deliveries.
C. Taxi Delivery Service
[0182] This embodiment of our invention contemplates the use of an
autonomous unmanned road vehicle to transport items from a sender
to a recipient. The sender makes a request for a delivery vehicle
(like a request for a taxi) to pick-up an item for delivery to a
recipient at a designated delivery location.
[0183] Home Base Facility
[0184] In this embodiment, the invention uses a home base facility
that serves as a place where a fleet of unmanned ground vehicles is
kept and maintained. The home base facility can be any suitable
facility where the vehicles can be maintained, stored, house
equipment or personnel involved in the delivery service, and/or
house communication equipment for operating the delivery service,
etc. The home base facility may have personnel and equipment for
maintaining the unmanned vehicles, such as battery recharging
equipment, replacement batteries, replacement parts, fuel and
fueling equipment, repair tools and equipment, etc. The home base
facility may also have a recovery truck (e.g. tow truck or carrier
truck) to be dispatched to recover or repair an unmanned vehicle if
it experiences problems (e.g. loss of battery power, breakdown,
traffic collision, vandalism, etc.).
[0185] In some cases, the home base facility is dedicated solely
for the taxi delivery service. But in other cases, the home base
may be located at a business facility that operates a different
type of business (other than the delivery service), such as a
retail store, office building, gas station, parking garage or
parking lot, or school. For example, the delivery service may be
operated out of a back room, on the parking lot, or from the back
alley of the business facility. Examples of retail stores where the
home base facility could be located include grocery store,
supermarket, warehouse store, department store, convenience store,
variety store, drug or pharmacy store, electronics store,
restaurant, office supply store, hardware or building supply store,
etc. This is a useful feature because many retail stores already
exist in close proximity to residential areas (e.g. neighborhood
grocery stores).
[0186] The facility for the home base does not have to be newly
constructed. In some embodiments, the home base is located at an
already-established business facility that has been modified to
also operate the delivery service but continues to operate the
already-existing business (e.g. by remodeling, renovation, or other
modification of the premises such that it can continue the
already-operating business). For example, a back room or area of a
retail store (e.g. grocery store or convenience store) could be
converted or renovated to operate the delivery service. In another
example, the parking lot of a shopping center could be equipped to
hold and maintain a fleet of unmanned vehicles, along with other
equipment, personnel, and/or housing to operate the delivery
service.
[0187] In cases where the home base facility is located at a
business facility that also operates a different type of business,
there may be some employee staff who are dedicated to the delivery
service (e.g. maintaining or operating the vehicles). However, it
may also be possible to have employee(s) who work both the other
business operations and also the delivery service. As such, in some
cases, the business facility operates with at least one employee in
at least one work shift working in both the other business
operation and the delivery service; and in some cases, at least
three employees in at least one work shift who work in this
manner.
[0188] In some embodiments, the home base facility is located in an
area that is zoned for commercial, industrial, and/or mixed
residential-commercial use. In some embodiments, the home base
facility is located within 6 miles from a residential area, or land
that is zoned for residential use, or a residential building (e.g.
condominium, apartment building, townhouse, rowhouse, detached
single-family house, etc.). This is a useful feature because many
requests may involve delivery to residences. In some cases, the
home base facility has a covered garage for storing the vehicle(s)
when not in use (e.g. during idle time or overnight).
[0189] Delivery Request
[0190] The sender makes a request for transporting one or more
items from a location designated by the sender (which may be the
sender's own location or another location) to a recipient's
location, i.e. delivery destination. The delivery service of our
invention receives the request and assigns one or more of the
unmanned ground vehicles for the transportation job. The selected
vehicle is one that is in relative close proximity to the sender's
designated location to provide timely on-demand delivery service.
Proximity to the sender's designated location may be determined
based on any suitable parameter, such as straight-line distance,
travel distance, and/or travel time. Estimates of proximity may
vary depending upon various external factors such as road and
traffic conditions, time of day, weather conditions, traffic signal
patterns, number of turns required, availability of highways or
expressways on the way, etc.
[0191] The selected vehicle may be idle or traveling. For example,
the selected vehicle may be at the home base facility, parked at a
temporary waiting area, or in transit (e.g. returning to home base,
going to a temporary waiting area, finishing a delivery job,
roaming, etc.).
[0192] The selected vehicle is one that is in relative close
proximity to the sender's designated location to provide timely
on-demand delivery. As such, in some embodiments, for greater than
60% of all accepted taxi requests made by senders, the selected
vehicle arrives at the sender's designated location within 45
minutes of the sender's taxi request; in some cases, for greater
than 75% of all accepted taxi requests. These statistical
parameters may be applicable to a particular home base facility,
particular regional network, and/or system-wide. That is,
infringement of our patent may occur at the level of particular
home base facility(s), particular region(s), or system-wide. Here,
"all accepted requests" means not counting denied requests (such as
prank calls) but encompassing the possibility of delaying
incidents, whether expected or unexpected, such as traffic
collision, vandalism, road closure, heavy traffic conditions,
incorrect or non-existent sender location, inability to access the
sender's location (e.g. gated community), etc.
[0193] In some embodiments, the sender is a business entity and the
recipient is a customer (which may be another business entity or an
individual). Many types of businesses may be able to use our
invention for delivering items to customers, including retail
businesses (as described above). Many types of items can be
delivered using our invention, including consumer and commercial
items. Examples of consumer items (i.e. products that are packaged
in a manner intended for the end-user/consumer) that can be
delivered include foods, groceries, medical supplies and drugs,
propane gas, drinking water, postal packages, office supplies,
household products, personal care products, electronic goods, baby
care products, clothing/apparel, etc.
[0194] The sender does not have to be a business. Our invention can
also be used by individuals for delivering personal items (e.g. for
sending a gift package to a friend).
[0195] In some embodiments, the taxi request includes the
recipient's contact information, such as phone number, messaging
interface (e.g. texting app), email, etc. The taxi request can be
made in any suitable manner, such as using wired or wireless
communication devices (e.g. mobile phones), desktop computers, home
control panel (for a home automation system), etc. The request can
be made through any suitable type of interface, such as website
with a browser, specialized programs (e.g. smartphone apps),
telephone menu, an automated system, etc.
[0196] In some cases, the taxi request further includes information
about the item being delivered. This information can be useful in
assigning a suitable vehicle for the delivery task. Examples of
such useful information include the dimensions of the item, weight
of the item, whether it is hot food that needs a heated
compartment, or cold food that needs a cooled compartment, etc. For
example, if the item is a hot food item, a vehicle having a heated
compartment can be assigned. Or for example, if the item is a cold
food item, then a vehicle having a refrigerated compartment can be
assigned. If the item is relatively small, a smaller vehicle can be
assigned, and other such accommodations or optimizations for using
the fleet of available vehicles.
[0197] Drive to Sender
[0198] The unmanned vehicle travels, being driven at least partly
in an autonomous manner, to the sender's designated location via a
paved roadway. The sender may be notified (e.g. by the operations
hub) that the vehicle is on its way and/or has arrived. Upon
arrival at the sender's designated location, the vehicle is loaded
with the item(s) to be sent. After loading the vehicle, the vehicle
is made to proceed to the recipient's location. This may be
accomplished in any suitable manner, such as closing the cargo
compartment door and pressing a button indicating that the item has
been loaded.
[0199] Drive to Recipient
[0200] The unmanned vehicle travels, being driven at least partly
in an autonomous manner, to the recipient's location via a paved
roadway. The recipient may be notified that the vehicle is on its
way and/or has arrived. In some cases, one or more of the packaging
used for making the delivery is reusable and intended to be
returned to the sender or the home base facility. For example, the
container holding the cold food items may be designed for reuse.
The recipient removes the container from the vehicle and unpacks it
(e.g. move the cold food items into the refrigerator). During this
time, the vehicle will stand-by until the container is returned to
the vehicle.
[0201] After making the delivery, the vehicle may then (1) return
to a home base facility; (2) travel to another recipient's location
to make another delivery; (3) travel back to the sender's
designated location to pick-up another item for delivery; (4)
travel to another sender's designated location; or (5) travel to a
waiting area as described above.
[0202] Service Operating Area
[0203] As the vehicle travels from place to place, having the
vehicle stay within relatively close proximity to the home base
facility can be a useful feature in case the unmanned vehicle
experiences problems. If the unmanned vehicle becomes disabled, a
recovery truck can be dispatched from the home base facility to
reach the disabled vehicle quickly. As such, in some embodiments,
as the unmanned vehicle travels from place to place, the area in
which the vehicle operates (operating area) is contained within a
15 mile radius around the home base facility; in some cases, within
a 12 mile radius; in some cases, within a 9 mile radius; in some
cases, within a 6 mile radius. In addition to proximity to the home
base facility, the operating area may be planned in consideration
of many factors such as the local geography, road layouts,
population density, natural and man-made obstacles, traffic
patterns, etc. Examples of operating areas are shown in FIG. 11 (A,
B, and C), drawn as polygonal shapes. In each case, the vehicle's
operating area is contained within a radius R around the home base
facility HB.
[0204] FIG. 12 shows an example of how our invention might be
implemented. The delivery service provider has a fleet of unmanned
ground vehicles at the home base facility (HB) that are ready to
receive requests for making deliveries. Someone at an office
building calls a pizza restaurant and places an order for a pizza
for delivery to the office location. The pizza restaurant begins
preparing the pizza and requests a taxi delivery vehicle from the
delivery service indicating the office building as the delivery
destination and the customer's contact information (e.g. cell phone
number).
[0205] The delivery service assigns one of the unmanned ground
vehicles for this delivery job and is sent to the pizza restaurant.
The delivery vehicle self-drives to the pizza restaurant and the
delivery service notifies the pizza restaurant that the vehicle is
on its way. When the vehicle arrives at the sender's location, the
pizza restaurant may be notified of its arrival.
[0206] One of the pizza restaurant staff loads the customer's pizza
into the vehicle's cargo compartment. The staff person presses a
button on the vehicle indicating that the delivery item is loaded.
The vehicle then self-drives to the designated office building. The
delivery service notifies the customer that the vehicle is on its
way and/or has arrived (e.g. by a text message). The delivery
service also gives the customer an access code for unlocking the
cargo door on the vehicle. The customer goes to meet the vehicle
and enters the correct access code to open the cargo door to take
delivery of the pizza. The vehicle then leaves and returns to the
home base or proceeds to its next task.
[0207] In this instance, the delivery service has also received a
request from a pharmacy to deliver medications to an elderly
patient at her residence. This same vehicle is determined to be the
one in closest proximity and is therefore selected for this next
delivery task. As instructed, the vehicle self-drives from the
office building to the pharmacy and the delivery service notifies
the pharmacy that the vehicle is on its way. When the vehicle
arrives at the pharmacy, the pharmacy may be notified of its
arrival.
[0208] One of the pharmacy staff loads the medication into the
vehicle's cargo compartment. The staff person presses a button on
the vehicle indicating that the delivery item is loaded. The
vehicle then self-drives to the designated customer residence. The
delivery service notifies the customer that the vehicle is on its
way and/or has arrived (e.g. by a phone call). The delivery service
also gives the customer an access code for unlocking the cargo door
on the vehicle. When the vehicle arrives, the customer (or someone
on her behalf) enters the access code and takes the medication. The
vehicle then leaves and returns to the home base, goes to a waiting
area, or proceeds to its next task. As the vehicle travels from the
home base facility to the pizza restaurant, to the office building,
to the pharmacy, and to the patient's residence, the vehicle stays
in an operating area that is contained within a 15 mile radius
around the home base.
[0209] Regional Delivery Network
[0210] Our invention can also be implemented over a wider region
using multiple home base facilities distributed over a geographic
area. This feature may be useful for implementing our invention in
a metropolitan area (such as the Maryland/Virginia/DC metro area).
The vehicle may travel from place to place throughout the delivery
region while being kept in relatively close proximity to a home
base facility. As explained above, this can be a useful feature in
case the vehicle experiences problems on the road.
[0211] As such, in some embodiments, our invention uses a network
of multiple home base facilities in a delivery region. The network
of home base facilities allows the vehicle to roam throughout the
delivery region. As such, in some embodiments, each home base
facility in the delivery region is within a 9 mile radius of at
least one other home base facility; in some cases, within a 6 mile
radius; in some cases, within a 3 mile radius.
[0212] In some embodiments, all the home base facilities of the
regional network are contained within a circle (e.g. as drawn on a
map) having a radius of 64 miles; in some cases, 48 miles radius;
in some cases, 36 miles radius; in some cases, 24 miles radius; in
some cases, 18 miles radius; in some cases, 12 miles radius.
[0213] To keep the vehicle in close proximity to a home base
facility, in some embodiments, the overall area in which the
vehicle operates is contained within two or more adjoining or
overlapping circles that each have a radius of 9 miles around a
home base facility; in some cases, each having a radius of 6 miles;
in some cases, each having a radius of 3 miles.
[0214] FIG. 13 shows an example of an operating area for a vehicle.
The operating area for a particular unmanned vehicle is shown in
gray shading. The regional delivery network has four home base
facilities HB. The drawing figure also shows a circle of 9 mile
radius centered around each home base facility. As shown here, the
vehicle's operating area is contained within the four overlapping
circles.
[0215] FIG. 14 shows an example of a regional delivery network. The
delivery region is defined by the outer dashed line 110 around a
geographic region that includes a river and a forest area. There
are four service areas (designated as numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4) in
the region. Each service area has one or more home base facilities
HB. Each home base facility in the delivery region is within a 9
mile radius of at least one other home base facility. Moreover, for
this regional network, all the home base facilities are contained
within a circle having a radius of R. The dashed line inside the
delivery region shows an example of a route 112 taken by an
unmanned ground vehicle as it takes multiple service calls
throughout the day. These service calls take the unmanned vehicle
from the home base facility in service area 1 into service area 3
and ultimately ends at the home base facility for service area
4.
[0216] The foregoing description and examples have been set forth
merely to illustrate our invention and are not intended to be
limiting. Each of the disclosed aspects and embodiments of our
invention may be considered individually or in combination with
other aspects, embodiments, and variations of our invention.
Modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit
and substance of our invention may occur to persons skilled in the
art, and such modifications are within the scope of our
invention.
* * * * *