U.S. patent application number 16/149834 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-02 for user interface of autonomous delivery vehicle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ford Global Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Paul Kenneth Dellock, Cornel Lewis Gardner, David Brian Glickman, Kosta Papanikolaou, Stuart C. Salter.
Application Number | 20200101938 16/149834 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 69781672 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200101938 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Salter; Stuart C. ; et
al. |
April 2, 2020 |
USER INTERFACE OF AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY VEHICLE
Abstract
An automated delivery vehicle includes a user interface for
controlling access to a designated cargo within the vehicle. The
user interface provides access to the cargo for a first period and
activates second keys in response to receiving an access code via
first keys while the vehicle is parked. The user interface
provides, for a second period, access to the cargo and prevents the
vehicle from moving in response to one of the activated second keys
being actuated.
Inventors: |
Salter; Stuart C.; (White
Lake, MI) ; Dellock; Paul Kenneth; (Northville,
MI) ; Glickman; David Brian; (Southfield, MI)
; Gardner; Cornel Lewis; (Romulus, MI) ;
Papanikolaou; Kosta; (Huntington Woods, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ford Global Technologies, LLC |
Dearborn |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
69781672 |
Appl. No.: |
16/149834 |
Filed: |
October 2, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07C 2209/08 20130101;
B60R 25/23 20130101; G06Q 10/083 20130101; B60R 25/305 20130101;
G07C 9/00309 20130101; G07C 9/00896 20130101; G07C 2009/0042
20130101; G07C 2009/00793 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B60R 25/23 20060101
B60R025/23; B60R 25/30 20060101 B60R025/30; G07C 9/00 20060101
G07C009/00; G06Q 10/08 20060101 G06Q010/08 |
Claims
1. A vehicle comprising: a cargo; a door designated for the cargo;
a user interface comprising a keypad that includes first keys and
second keys; and a processor configured to: activate the first keys
upon the vehicle being parked; responsive to receiving an access
code via the first keys while the vehicle is parked: unlock and
open the door to provide access to the cargo for a first period;
and activate the second keys; and responsive to a hold-to-load key
of the second keys being actuated, continue to provide access to
the cargo for a second period.
2. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein, responsive to a hold-and-lock
key of the second keys being actuated, the processor is further
configured to: close and lock the door to prevent access to the
cargo; deactivate the second keys; and reactivate the first
keys.
3. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein responsive to a loading complete
key of the second keys being actuated, the processor is further
configured to: close and lock the door to prevent access to the
cargo; and deactivate the keypad.
4. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first keys include first
lighting devices and the second keys include second lighting
devices.
5. The vehicle of claim 4, wherein, upon the vehicle being parked,
the processor is further configured to: activate the first lighting
devices to display a first illumination; and deactivate the second
lighting devices.
6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein, while the first lighting
devices are displaying the first illumination, the processor is
further configured to cause at least one of the first lighting
devices to display a second illumination for a duration of an
actuation of at least one of the first keys.
7. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein, responsive to receiving an
incorrect code via the first keys, the processor is further
configured to cause the first lighting devices to display a third
illumination.
8. The vehicle of claim 7, wherein, responsive to the one of the
activated second keys being actuated, the processor is further
configured to cause one of the second lighting devices
corresponding to the one of the activated second keys to display a
fourth illumination during the second period.
9. The vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a camera, wherein,
subsequent to the vehicle being parked, the processor is further
configured to cause the camera to take one or more pictures of an
area surrounding the user interface responsive to any one of the
first keys being actuated for a first instance.
10. The vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a directional
antenna, wherein, when the vehicle is parked, the processor is
further configured to: wirelessly couple to at least one mobile
device via the directional antenna; and transmit, to the mobile
device, information regarding the user interface via the
directional antenna.
11. A method of controlling a vehicle comprising: activating, via a
processor, first keys of a keypad of a user interface upon the
vehicle being parked; responsive to receiving an access code via
the first keys of the user interface while the vehicle is parked:
unlocking and opening, via the processor, a door designated for a
cargo to provide access to the cargo of the vehicle for a first
period; and activating, via the processor, second keys of the user
interface; and responsive to a hold-to-load key of the second keys
being actuated, continuing to provide access to the cargo for a
second period.
12. The method of claim 11, responsive to a hold-and-lock key of
the second keys being actuated, further comprising: closing and
locking, via the processor, the door to prevent access to the
cargo; deactivating, via the processor, the second keys; and
reactivating, via the processor, the first keys.
13. The method of claim 11, responsive to a loading complete key of
the activated second keys being actuated, further comprising:
closing and locking, via the processor, the door to prevent access
to the cargo; and deactivating, via the processor, the keypad.
14. (canceled)
15. The method of claim 11, upon the vehicle being parked, further
comprising: activating first lighting devices of the first keys to
display a first illumination; and deactivating second lighting
devices of the second keys.
16. The method of claim 15, while the first lighting devices are
displaying the first illumination, further comprising: responsive
to an actuation of at least one of the first keys, causing, via the
processor, at least one of the first lighting devices to display a
second illumination for a duration of the actuation; and responsive
to receiving an incorrect code via the first keys, causing, via the
processor, the first lighting devices to display a third
illumination.
17. (canceled)
18. The method of claim 16, responsive to the one of the activated
second keys being actuated, causing, via the processor, one of the
second lighting devices corresponding to the one of the activated
second keys to display a fourth illumination during the second
period.
19. The method of claim 11, subsequent to the vehicle being parked,
further comprising causing, via the processor, a camera to take one
or more pictures of an area surrounding the user interface
responsive to any one of the first keys being actuated for a first
instance.
20. The method of claim 11, when the vehicle is parked, further
comprising: wirelessly coupling at least one mobile device with the
user interface via a directional antenna; and transmitting, to the
mobile device, information regarding the user interface via the
directional antenna.
21. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to
deactivate the first keys when the first period has elapsed.
22. The method of claim 11, further comprising, deactivating, via
the processor, the first keys in response to the first period
elapsing.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a user interface
of an autonomous delivery vehicle and, more specifically, systems
and methods for controlling the user interface of the autonomous
delivery vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Certain known autonomous vehicles automatically deliver
packages. For example, one known autonomous delivery vehicle
include a cargo for storing packages and an interface for granting
access to the cargo. To access the cargo, a user provides an access
code to the interface, and in response, the interface unlocks a
door to the cargo.
SUMMARY
[0003] The appended claims define this application. The present
disclosure summarizes aspects of the embodiments and should not be
used to limit the claims. Other implementations are contemplated in
accordance with the techniques described herein, as will be
apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon examination
of the following drawings and detailed description, and these
implementations are intended to be within the scope of this
application.
[0004] Apparatus and methods for controlling an autonomous delivery
vehicle are disclosed. An example vehicle includes a cargo and a
user interface. The user interface includes first keys, second
keys, and a processor. While the vehicle is parked, the processor,
in response to receiving an access code via the first keys,
provides access to the cargo for a first period and activates
second keys. The processor, in response to one of the activated
second keys being actuated, continues to provide access to the
cargo and prevents the vehicle from moving for a second period.
[0005] An example method of controlling a vehicle includes,
responsive to receiving an access code via first keys of a user
interface while the vehicle is parked, providing access to a cargo
of the vehicle for a first period and activating second keys of the
user interface. The method further includes, responsive to one of
the activated second keys being actuated, for a second period,
providing an access to the cargo and preventing the vehicle from
moving.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] For a better understanding of the invention, reference may
be made to embodiments shown in the following drawings. The
components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and related
elements may be omitted, or in some instances proportions may have
been exaggerated, so as to emphasize and clearly illustrate the
novel features described herein. In addition, system components can
be variously arranged, as known in the art. Further, in the
drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts
throughout the several views.
[0007] FIG. 1. illustrates a vehicle operating in accordance with
this disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates a delivery interface of FIG. 1.
[0009] FIG. 2B illustrates a printed circuit board (PCB) included
in the delivery interface of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates is a flowchart of a method 300 for
operating the delivery interface of FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the access operation of FIG. 3.
[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the hold-to-load operation of FIG. 3.
[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the hold-and-lock operation of FIG. 3.
[0014] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the loading complete operation of FIG. 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0015] While the invention may be embodied in various forms, there
are shown in the drawings, and will hereinafter be described, some
exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, with the understanding that
the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of
the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the
specific embodiments illustrated.
[0016] Autonomous delivery vehicles automatically deliver packages.
Generally, a user orders an autonomous delivery vehicle from a
depot, and receives, from the depot, an access code for accessing a
designated cargo of the autonomous delivery vehicle. When the
autonomous vehicle arrives at the location of the user, the user
provides the access code to an interface provided on the exterior
of the autonomous vehicle. While the interface provides features
for verifying the user and granting access to the designated cargo,
the interface typically lacks options for the user to further
interact with the autonomous delivery vehicle. Further, addition of
such features increases manufacturing costs and complexity for
first time users of the interface.
[0017] Example methods and apparatus disclosed herein describes a
delivery interface. The delivery interface includes a keypad and
lighting devices. The key pad includes a first plurality of keys
and a second plurality of keys. The first plurality of keys serve
as an interface for receiving the access code for accessing the
designated cargo of the autonomous vehicle. The second plurality of
keys serve as an interface for controlling the autonomous vehicle.
The lighting devices are responsive to actuations of the first
plurality of keys and the second plurality of keys. The lighting
devices indicate the status of the autonomous package delivery. The
delivery interface allows a user to: (1) extend a duration for
accessing the designated cargo, (2) temporarily lock the access to
the designated cargo, and (3) temporarily hold the autonomous
delivery vehicle from departing.
[0018] Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an example
vehicle 100 in accordance with the teachings herein. The vehicle
100 may be a standard gasoline powered vehicle, a hybrid vehicle,
an electric vehicle, a fuel cell vehicle, and/or any other mobility
implement type of vehicle. The vehicle 100 includes parts related
to mobility, such as a powertrain with an engine, a transmission, a
suspension, a driveshaft, and/or wheels, etc. The vehicle 100 may
be semi-autonomous (e.g., some routine motive functions controlled
by the vehicle) or autonomous (e.g., motive functions are
controlled by the vehicle without direct driver input). In the
illustrated example, the vehicle 100 includes a body control module
110 (also referred to as a BCM), a communication module 120, a
designated cargo 130, a designated door 140, a camera 150, a
speaker 180, a microphone 190, and an delivery interface 200. The
BCM 110, the communication module 120, the camera 150, the speaker
180, the microphone 190, the delivery interface 200, and other
electronic device (e.g., door motor) are electrically coupled to
each other via one or more vehicle data/power bus (not
illustrated).
[0019] The BCM 110 of the illustrated example is an electronic
control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 100. ECUs monitor and control the
subsystems of the vehicle 100. For example, the ECUs are discrete
sets of electronics that include their own circuit(s) (e.g.,
integrated circuits, microprocessors, memory, storage, etc.) and
firmware, sensors, actuators, and/or mounting hardware. The ECUs
communicate and exchange information (e.g., via a vehicle data
bus). Additionally, the ECUs may communicate properties (e.g.,
status of the ECUs, sensor readings, control state, error and
diagnostic codes, etc.) to and/or receive requests from each other.
For example, the vehicle 100 may include dozens of ECUs that are
positioned in various locations around the vehicle 100. The BCM 110
controls one or more subsystems throughout the vehicle 100, such as
electronic door latches (e-latches), vehicle door motors, power
windows, an immobilizer system, power mirrors, etc. For example,
the BCM 110 includes circuits that drive one or more of relays
(e.g., to control wiper fluid, etc.), brushed direct current (DC)
motors (e.g., to control power seats, power windows, wipers, etc.),
stepper motors, LEDs, etc.
[0020] The communication module 120 of the illustrated example
includes wired or wireless network interface(s) that enable
communication with remote devices, an external server, other
vehicles, etc. The communication module 120 includes hardware
(e.g., processors, memory, storage, antenna, etc.) and software to
control the wired or wireless network interface(s). In some
examples, the communication module 120 includes a wireless personal
area network (WPAN) module that is configured to wirelessly
communicate with nearby device(s) via short-range wireless
communication protocol(s). For example, the communication module
120 includes antenna(s) to wirelessly communicate via the
Bluetooth.RTM. and/or Bluetooth.RTM. Low Energy (BLE) protocols.
Additionally or alternatively, the communication module 120
includes antenna(s) to wirelessly communicate via Wi-Fi.RTM., low
frequency (LF) communication, Near Field Communication (NFC),
Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), ultra-wide band (UWB)
communication, ultra-high frequency (UHF) communication, and/or any
other wireless communication protocol. Additionally or
alternatively, the communication module 120 includes wired or
wireless network interface(s) that enable communication with
external networks. For example, the communication module 120 is
configured to wirelessly communicate with a nearby device via an
external network. The external network(s) may be a public network,
such as the Internet; a private network, such as an intranet; or
combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking
protocols now available or later developed including, but not
limited to, TCP/IP-based networking protocols. For example, the
communication module 120 includes one or more communication
controllers for cellular networks, such as Global System for Mobile
Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
(UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Code Division Multiple Access
(CDMA).
[0021] The designated cargo 130 is a storage space within the
vehicle 100 for storing packages of the user. In some examples, the
designated cargo 130 may be defined by an existing interior space
within the vehicle 100. In some examples, the designated cargo 130
may be separate and independent from the existing interior space.
In the illustrated example, the designated cargo 130 is a passenger
side vehicle cabin.
[0022] The designated door 140 is a gateway to the designated cargo
130. The designated door 140 may be hingedly connected to the
vehicle 100 or slidably connected to the vehicle 100. In this
illustrate example, movements of the designated door 140 are fully
automated. For example, movements of designated door may be powered
by a vehicle door motor (not illustrated).
[0023] The camera 150 monitors an area surrounding the delivery
interface 200. In the illustrated example, the camera 150 is
mounted on a pillar 160 positioned between a front door 170 and the
designated door 140. In some examples, the vehicle 100 may include
additional cameras (not illustrated) for monitoring the area (e.g.,
cameras mounted on side view mirrors).
[0024] The microphone 190 and the speaker 180 enable a user to
establish communication with a depot. In some examples, the speaker
180 further provides an audible warning. In this illustrate
example, the microphone 190 and the speaker 180 are mounted on the
pillar 160.
[0025] The delivery interface 200 serves as an interface for the
user to control the vehicle 100 and accesses to the designated
cargo 130. In the illustrated example, the delivery interface 200
is mounted on the pillar 160.
[0026] FIG. 2A illustrates the delivery interface 200 of FIG. 1.
The delivery interface 200 includes a housing 210, a keypad 220,
lighting devices 250, and a printed circuit board 280 (PCB) (see
FIG. 2B).
[0027] In the illustrated example, the keypad 220 and the lighting
devices 250 are disposed along an external surface of the housing
210. The housing 210 stores the PCB 280 and other electronic
components (not illustrated).
[0028] The key pad includes mechanical switches defining a first
plurality of keys 230 and a second plurality of keys 240. Each of
the mechanical switches include an indicia indicative of a function
associated with the corresponding mechanical switch.
[0029] The first plurality of keys 230 include alphanumeric keys,
an enter key and a cancel key. The first plurality of keys 230
serve as an interface for entering the access code for accessing
the designated cargo 130.
[0030] The second plurality of keys 240 include a hold-to-load key
242, a hold-and-lock key 244, and a loading-complete key. The
second plurality of keys 240 serve as an interface for controlling
the vehicle 100.
[0031] The lighting devices 250 serve as backlighting of the keypad
220. In the illustrated example, the lighting devices 250 include a
first plurality of lighting devices 260 and a second plurality of
lighting devices 270. Each of the first plurality of lighting
devices 260 is integrated with each of the first plurality of keys
230, and each of the second plurality of lighting devices 270 is
integrated with each of the second plurality of keys 240. The
lighting devices 250 are capable of emitting light from a range
colors. For example, the light devices may be multi-color light
emitting diodes (LED). The lighting device may display a first
illumination, a second illumination, a third illumination, or a
fourth illumination. For example, the first illumination may be
green, the second illumination may be blue or while, the third
illumination may be red, and the fourth illumination may be amber.
The lighting devices 250 are responsive to actuations of the first
plurality of keys 230 and the second plurality of keys 240. The
lighting devices 250 indicate the status of operations related to
autonomous package delivery.
[0032] FIG. 2B illustrates the PCB 280 included in the delivery
interface 200 of FIG. 1. The delivery interface 200 includes memory
282, an antenna 284, and a processor 286.
[0033] The memory 282 may be volatile memory (e.g., RAM, which can
include non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, and any
other suitable forms); non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory,
FLASH memory, EPROMs, EEPROMs, non-volatile solid-state memory,
etc.), unalterable memory (e.g., EPROMs), read-only memory, and/or
high-capacity storage devices (e.g., hard drives, solid state
drives, etc). In some examples, the memory 282 includes multiple
kinds of memory, particularly volatile memory and non-volatile
memory. The memory 282 is computer readable media on which one or
more sets of instructions, such as the software for operating the
methods of the present disclosure can be embedded. The instructions
may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described herein.
In a particular embodiment, the instructions may reside completely,
or at least partially, within any one or more of the memory, the
computer readable medium, and/or within the processor 286 during
execution of the instructions.
[0034] The terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and
"tangible computer-readable medium" should be understood to include
a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or
distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers that
store one or more sets of instructions. The terms "non-transitory
computer-readable medium" and "tangible computer-readable medium"
also include any tangible medium that is capable of storing,
encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a
processor or that cause a system to perform any one or more of the
methods or operations disclosed herein. As used herein, the term
"tangible computer readable medium" is expressly defined to include
any type of computer readable storage device and/or storage disk
and to exclude propagating signals.
[0035] The antenna 284 is a directional antenna. The antenna 284
transmits and/or receives signals at greater magnitude in certain
directions. For example, the antenna 284 may only wirelessly couple
with a mobile device that are directly in front the delivery
interface 200 (e.g., within 5 feet of the antenna 284). The antenna
284 support Bluetooth.RTM. and/or Bluetooth.RTM. Low Energy (BLE)
protocols
[0036] The processor 286 may be any suitable processing device or
set of processing devices such as, but not limited to: a
microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable
integrated circuit, one or more field programmable gate arrays
(FPGAs), and/or one or more application-specific integrated
circuits (ASICs). The processor 286 transmits/receives commands
to/from the lighting device, the antenna 284, the memory, one or
more ECUs, and/or other electronic devices included in the vehicle
100.
[0037] Example operations of the delivery interface 200 will be
describe in detail below.
[0038] At the outset, the vehicle 100 may be instructed to
autonomously travel to a designated location for meeting a user.
While the vehicle 100 is in motion, functions of the delivery
interface 200 are partially or fully disabled. For example, the
lighting devices 250 and the keypad 220 may be operational only
when the vehicle 100 is parked and/or the vehicle 100 arrives at
the designated location.
[0039] Once the vehicle 100 arrives at the designated location
and/or the vehicle 100 is parked, the delivery interface 200
initiates an access operation. During the access operation, the
package delivery interface 200 activates only the first plurality
of the lighting devices 250 in order to indicate to the user that
the delivery interface 200 is ready to accept the access code. At
this time, the first plurality of lighting devices 260 display the
first illumination. Preferably, the first illumination is
displayed, since the green light from the visible spectrum is most
sensitive to a human eye. Therefore, to account for environmental
lighting (e.g., daylight), it may be preferable to display an
illumination that is most recognizable to a user.
[0040] While the first plurality of keys 230 display the first
illumination, and one or more of the first plurality of keys 230
are actuated by the user, one or more lighting devices
corresponding to the one or more of the first plurality of keys 230
temporally displays the second illumination to indicate to a user
that the delivery interface 200 has received the user input. In
such examples, the duration at which each of the one or more
lighting devices displays the second illumination is the same or
substantially the same as a duration at which each of the one or
more of the first plurality of keys 230 is actuated by the
user.
[0041] While the first plurality of keys 230 display the first
illumination, and any key of the first plurality of keys 230 is
actuated for the first instance, the delivery interface 200 causes
the camera 150 to capture one or more images of the user and/or an
area surrounding the delivery interface 200 for security.
[0042] While the first plurality of keys 230 display the first
illumination, and no user input is received by the first plurality
of keys 230, the first plurality of lighting devices 260 pulses the
light intensity of the first illumination within a predetermined
range (e.g., 50%-100%) to indicate that the delivery interface 200
is idling and waiting for a user input.
[0043] When an incorrect code is provided by the user, the first
plurality of lighting devices 260 display the third illumination
for a predetermined period (e.g., 5 seconds) and return to the
first illumination. In some examples, when an incorrect code is
entered a threshold amount (e.g., 5 times), the delivery interface
200 establishes a direct communication between the depot and the
user. For example, the delivery interface 200 may cause the
communication module 120 to establish direct communication with the
depot and the user's mobile device. In some examples, the delivery
interface 200 may cause the speaker 180 and the microphone 190 may
establish direct communication between the depot and the user.
[0044] When the delivery interface 200 receives the correct access
code, the delivery interface 200: (1) deactivates the first
plurality of keys 230 and the first plurality of lighting devices
260; (2) activates the second plurality of keys 240 to display the
first illumination; and (3) automatically unlock and open the
designated door 140. At this time, the delivery interface 200
grants the user a designated period (e.g., 15 seconds). When the
designated period elapses, the delivery interface 200 initiates a
loading complete operation.
[0045] When the hold-to-load key 242 is actuated, the delivery
interface 200 performs a hold-to-load operation. During the
hold-to-load operation, the delivery interface 200: (1) causes the
lighting device corresponding to the hold-to-load key 242 to
display the fourth illumination; (2) pulses the fourth
illumination; (3) deactivates the second plurality of keys 240; (4)
deactivates the remaining second plurality of lighting devices 270;
(5) notifies the depot an occurrence of the hold-to-load operation.
In some examples, during the hold-to-load operation, the delivery
interface 200 may provide an option for the user to opt out of the
hold-to-load operation. In such examples, the delivery interface
200: (1) reactivates the first plurality of keys 230; (2) cause the
first plurality of lighting devices 260 to display the first
illumination; and (3) opts out of the hold-to-load operation in
response to receiving the access code. After a predetermined period
(e.g., 5 minutes), the delivery interface 200 issues an alarm to
the user via the user's mobile device and/or the speaker 180.
Subsequently, the delivery interface 200 waits for an additional
period (e.g., 1 minute) prior to terminating the hold-to-load
operation.
[0046] When the hold-and-lock key 244 is actuated, the delivery
interface 200 performs a hold-and-lock operation. During the
hold-and-lock operation, the delivery interface 200: (1)
automatically closes and locks the designated door 140; (2) causes
the lighting device corresponding to the hold-and-lock key 244 to
display the fourth illumination; (3) pulses the fourth
illumination; (4) deactivates the remaining second plurality of
lighting devices 270; (5) deactivates the second plurality of
lighting devices 270; (6) notifies the depot an occurrence of the
hold-and-lock operation; (7) reactivates the first plurality of
keys 230; (8) causes the first plurality of lightings to display
the first illumination; and (9) automatically open and unlock the
designated door 140 in response to receiving the access code via
the first plurality of keys 230. After a predetermined period
(e.g., 5 minutes) the delivery interface 200 issues an alarm to the
user via the user's mobile device and/or the speaker 180.
Subsequently, the delivery interface 200 waits for an additional
period (e.g., 1 minute) prior to terminating the hold-and-lock
operation. In some examples, the delivery interface 200 initiates
the hold-and-lock operation when the hold-and-lock key 244 is
sequentially actuated twice. In some examples, the delivery
interface 200 initiates the hold-and-lock operation after a short
delay (e.g., 3 seconds) subsequent to the actuation of the
hold-and-lock key 244. In such examples, the short delay ensures a
small window of time for the user to select a different key among
the second plurality of keys 240.
[0047] In some examples, subsequent to the termination of the
hold-to-load operation or the hold-and-lock operation, the delivery
interface 200 may reset the designated period and cause the second
plurality of keys 240 to be available to the user. In alternative
examples, the delivery interface 200 may initiate a loading
complete operation at the termination of the hold-to-load operation
or the hold-and-lock operation.
[0048] When the loading complete key 246 is actuated or the
designated period has elapsed, the delivery interface 200 initiates
the loading complete operation For example, during the loading
complete operation, the delivery interface 200: (1) checks for any
passengers within the designated cargo 130 via one or more sensors
within the vehicle 100 (not illustrated); (2) automatically closes
and locks the designated door 140; and (3) deactivate the keypad
220 and the lighting devices 250. In some examples, the delivery
interface 200 may grant a grace period (e.g., 5 seconds) after the
actuation of the loading complete key 246 and prior to the
deactivation of the keypad 220 and the lighting devices 250. During
the grace period, the delivery interface 200: (1) causes the
lighting device corresponding to the loading complete key 246 to
display and pulse the first illumination; and (2) causes the
lighting devices 250 of the hold-to-load key 242 and the
hold-and-lock key 244 to display the fourth illumination. The grace
period ensures a small window of time for the user to select the
hold-to-load key 242 or the hold-and-lock key 244.
[0049] In some examples, the delivery interface 200 establishes
communication with the user's mobile device to facilitate the
interaction between the delivery interface 200 and the user. For
example, the delivery interface 200 may transmit, to the mobile
device, information regarding current operations of the delivery
interface 200. For example, the information may include
instructions/tutorials for using the delivery interface 200, an
amount of time remaining and/or elapsed for the current operation,
the current status of the designated door 140, etc.
[0050] In some examples, the delivery interface 200 transmits, to
the depot, information regarding user interaction with the delivery
interface 200. For example, the information include may include a
total amount of time elapsed from the arrival of the vehicle 100 to
the departure of the vehicle 100.
[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates is a flowchart of a method 300 for
operating the delivery interface 200 of FIG. 1.
[0052] At block 302, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
vehicle 100 has arrived at a designated location for meeting a
user. If so, the method 300 continues to block 304. Otherwise, the
method 300 returns to block 302.
[0053] At block 304, the delivery interface 200 broadcasts a
message to a mobile device.
[0054] At block 306, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
delivery interface 200 has wirelessly paired with a mobile device.
If so, the method 300 continues to step 308. Otherwise, the method
300 continues to step 400.
[0055] At block 308, the delivery interface 200 transmits
information to the mobile device. For example, the information may
include instructions/tutorials for using the delivery interface
200, an amount of time remaining and/or elapsed for the current
operation, the current status of the designated door 140, etc.
[0056] At block 400, the delivery interface 200 performs the access
operation. A method 300 for performing the access operation will be
describe in detail with reference to FIG. 4.
[0057] At block 310, the delivery interface 200 activates only the
second plurality of keys 240 and the second plurality of lighting
devices 270.
[0058] At block 312, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
hold-to-load key 242 has been actuated. If so, the method 300
continues to block 500. Otherwise, the method 300 continues to
block 314.
[0059] At block 500, the delivery interface 200 performs the
hold-to-load operation. A method 300 for performing the
hold-to-load operation will be describe in detail with reference to
FIG. 5.
[0060] At block 314, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
hold-and-load key has been actuated. If so, the method 300
continues to block 600. Otherwise, the method 300 continues to
block 316.
[0061] At block 600, the delivery interface 200 performs the
hold-and-lock operation. A method 300 for performing the
hold-and-lock operation will be described in detail with reference
to FIG. 6.
[0062] At block 316, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
loading complete key 246 has been actuated. If so, the method 300
continues to block 700. Otherwise, the method 300 continues to
block 318.
[0063] At block 700, the delivery interface 200 initiates the
loading complete operation. A method 300 for performing the loading
complete operation will be described in detail with reference to
FIG. 7. Subsequently, the method 300 terminates.
[0064] At block 318, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
designated period has elapsed. If so, the method 300 returns to
block 700.
[0065] At block 320, the delivery interface 200 resets the
designated period.
[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the access operation of FIG. 3.
[0067] At block 402, the delivery interface 200 activates only the
first plurality of keys 230 and the first plurality of lighting
devices 260.
[0068] At block 404, the delivery interface 200 causes the first
plurality of lighting devices 260 to display and pulse the first
illumination.
[0069] At block 406, the delivery interface 200 determines if any
key among the first plurality of key has been actuated. If so, the
method continues to block 408. Otherwise, the method returns to
block 404.
[0070] At block 408, the delivery interface 200 determines if any
key among the first plurality of key has been actuated for the
first time. If so, the method continues to block 410. Otherwise,
the method continues to block 412.
[0071] At block 410, the delivery interface 200 causes the camera
150 to capture one or more images of the user and/or an area
surrounding the delivery interface 200.
[0072] At block 412, the delivery interface 200 temporarily
displays the second illumination for each actuations of one or more
keys among the first plurality of keys 230.
[0073] At block 414, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
correct access code has been received. If so, the method
terminates. Otherwise, the method continues to block 416.
[0074] At block 416, the delivery interface 200 causes the first
plurality of lighting devices 260 to display the third
illumination.
[0075] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the hold-to-load operation of FIG. 3.
[0076] At block 502, the delivery interface 200 causes the lighting
device of the hold-to-load key 242 to display and pulse the fourth
illumination.
[0077] At block 504, the delivery interface 200 deactivates the
second plurality of keys 240.
[0078] At block 506, the delivery interface 200 deactivates the
remaining second plurality of lighting devices 270.
[0079] At block 508, the delivery interface 200 notifies the depot
an occurrence of the hold-to-load operation.
[0080] At block 510, the delivery interface 200 activates the first
plurality of keys 230.
[0081] At block 512, the delivery interface 200 causes the first
plurality of lighting devices 260 to display the first
illumination. In some examples, the first plurality of lighting
devices 260 may be pulsing the first illumination. In some
examples, the first plurality of lighting devices 260 may
temporarily display the second illumination in response actuations
of the first plurality of keys 230.
[0082] At block 514 the delivery interface 200 determines if a
correct access code has been received. If so, the method
terminates. Otherwise, the method continues to block 516.
[0083] At block 516, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
predetermined period has elapsed. If so, the method continues to
block 518. Otherwise, the method returns to block 514.
[0084] At block 518, the delivery interface 200 alerts the user via
the mobile device and/or the external speaker 180.
[0085] At block 520, the delivery interface 200 determines if an
additional amount of time has elapsed. If so, the method
terminates. Otherwise, the method returns to block 520.
[0086] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the hold-and-lock operation of FIG. 3.
[0087] At block 602, the delivery interface 200 automatically
closes and locks the designated door 140.
[0088] At block 604, the delivery interface 200 causes the light
device of the hold-and-lock key 244 to display and pulse the fourth
illumination.
[0089] At block 606, the delivery interface 200 deactivates the
second plurality of keys 240.
[0090] At block 608, the delivery interface 200 deactivates the
remaining second plurality of lighting devices 270.
[0091] At block 610, the delivery interface 200 notifies the depot
an occurrence of the hold-and-lock operation.
[0092] At block 612, the delivery interface 200 activates the first
plurality of keys 230.
[0093] At block 614, the delivery interface 200 causes the first
plurality of lighting devices 260 to display the first
illumination. In some examples, the first plurality of lighting
devices 260 may be pulsing the first illumination. In some
examples, the first plurality of lighting devices 260 may
temporarily display the second illumination in response actuations
of the first plurality of keys 230.
[0094] At block 616, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
correct access has been received. If so, the method continues to
block 622. Otherwise, the method continues to block 618.
[0095] At block 618, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
predetermined period has elapsed. If so, the method continues to
block 620. Otherwise, the method returns to block 616.
[0096] At block 620, the delivery interface 200 alerts the user via
the mobile device and/or the external speaker 180.
[0097] At block 622, the delivery interface 200 automatically
unlocks and opens the designated door 140.
[0098] At block 624, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
predetermined period has elapsed. If so, the method continues to
block 620. Otherwise, the method returns to block 624.
[0099] At block 626, the delivery interface 200 determines if an
additional amount of time has elapsed. If so, the method
terminates. Otherwise, the method returns to block 626.
[0100] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method for performing
the loading complete operation of FIG. 3.
[0101] At block 702, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
grace period has elapsed. If so, the method continues to block 704.
Otherwise, the method continues to block 712.
[0102] At block 704, the delivery interface 200 checks, via one or
more sensors within the vehicle 100, for a passenger is within the
designated cargo 130.
[0103] At block 706, the delivery interface 200 determines if a
passenger is within the designated cargo 130. If so, the method
continues to block 708. Otherwise, the method continues to block
710.
[0104] At block 708, the delivery interface 200 alerts the user via
the user via the mobile device and/or the external speaker 180.
[0105] At block 710, the delivery interface 200 deactivates the
keypad 220 and the lighting devices 250.
[0106] At block 712, the delivery interface 200 activates the first
plurality of keys 230.
[0107] At block 712, the delivery interface 200 causes the lighting
device corresponding to the loading complete key 246 to display and
pulse the first illumination.
[0108] At block 714, the delivery interface 200 causes the
hold-to-load key 242 and the hold-and-lock key 244 to display the
fourth illumination.
[0109] At block 718, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
hold-to-load key 242 has been actuated. If so, the method continues
to block 720. Otherwise, the method continues to block 722.
[0110] At block 720, the delivery interface 200 performs the
hold-to-load operation as described in reference with FIG. 5.
Subsequently, the method continues at step 320 of FIG. 3.
[0111] At block 722, the delivery interface 200 determines if the
hold-and-lock key 244 has been actuated. If so, the method
continues to block 724. Otherwise, the method continues to block
722.
[0112] At block 724, the delivery interface 200 performs the
hold-and-lock operation as describe in reference with FIG. 6.
Subsequently, the method continues at step 320 of FIG. 3.
[0113] Although example methods are described with reference to the
flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 3-7, many other methods of
operating the delivery interface 200 may alternatively be used. For
example, the order of execution of the blocks may be changed,
and/or some of the blocks described may be changed, eliminated, or
combined.
[0114] In this application, the use of the disjunctive is intended
to include the conjunctive. The use of definite or indefinite
articles is not intended to indicate cardinality. In particular, a
reference to "the" object or "a" and "an" object is intended to
denote also one of a possible plurality of such objects. Further,
the conjunction "or" may be used to convey features that are
simultaneously present instead of mutually exclusive alternatives.
In other words, the conjunction "or" should be understood to
include "and/or". As used here, the terms "module" and "unit" refer
to hardware with circuitry to provide communication, control and/or
monitoring capabilities, often in conjunction with sensors.
"Modules" and "units" may also include firmware that executes on
the circuitry. The terms "includes," "including," and "include" are
inclusive and have the same scope as "comprises," "comprising," and
"comprise" respectively.
[0115] The above-described embodiments, and particularly any
"preferred" embodiments, are possible examples of implementations
and merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of
the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the
above-described embodiment(s) without substantially departing from
the spirit and principles of the techniques described herein. All
modifications are intended to be included herein within the scope
of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.
* * * * *