U.S. patent application number 16/100250 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-16 for system and method for managing the delivery of goods.
This patent application is currently assigned to HOME VALET, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is HOME VALET, INC.. Invention is credited to John Simms, John Simms, JR., Noel Simms.
Application Number | 20220188762 16/100250 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006374473 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220188762 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Simms; John ; et
al. |
June 16, 2022 |
System and Method for Managing the Delivery of Goods
Abstract
A system and method for managing the delivery of goods ordered
by a customer from a provider thereof to at least one Smart Locked
Storage Container (SLSC), each SLSC associated with the customer
utilizing: a customer server for ordering and managing the goods to
be delivered to the at least one SLSC; a delivery server for
managing deliveries of the goods to the at least one SLSC by a
delivery agent; a smart communicator for enabling communications
between the provider of goods, the delivery server, a signaler
and/or the customer server; a controller for controlling the
communications; a signaler communicatively connected to the SLSC
for transmitting a signal to the SLSC allowing access thereinto by
the delivery agent, the customer, and/or an agent of the customer,
and at least one of: a system comprising at least one server
processor enabled to conduct a transaction between the server and
customer for the purchase, order, and/or delivery of goods to the
SLSC as part of an automated mobile transaction performed with a
mobile device, the delivery agent is an unmanned delivery aircraft,
at least one security camera associated with at least one SLSC, a
delivery associated system which provides the deliveree with
discounts, incentives, rewards and other advantages based on the
loyalties of the deliveree, a robotic positioner of the goods with
a driverless delivery vehicle agent, the at least one SLSC is a
plurality of interlocking smart storage appliances, or a system
comprising an element for preparing invitations to bid for the
delivery of goods to the SLSC; distributing, receiving, and
evaluating the bids from a pool of delivery agents in an auction;
and selecting a delivery agent.
Inventors: |
Simms; John; (Mclean,
VA) ; Simms, JR.; John; (Arlington, VA) ;
Simms; Noel; (Jackson, MS) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
HOME VALET, INC. |
Vienna |
VA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
HOME VALET, INC.
Vienna
VA
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20200051009 A1 |
February 13, 2020 |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006374473 |
Appl. No.: |
16/100250 |
Filed: |
August 10, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15677680 |
Aug 15, 2017 |
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16100250 |
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15690413 |
Aug 30, 2017 |
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15677680 |
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15695284 |
Sep 5, 2017 |
10643173 |
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15690413 |
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15897389 |
Feb 15, 2018 |
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15695284 |
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62383409 |
Sep 3, 2016 |
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62382798 |
Sep 2, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/0832 20130101;
G06Q 30/0222 20130101; B64C 39/024 20130101; B64C 2201/128
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 10/08 20060101
G06Q010/08; G06Q 30/02 20060101 G06Q030/02; B64C 39/02 20060101
B64C039/02 |
Claims
1. A system for managing the order, purchase and/or delivery of
goods from a provider thereof to at least one smart locked storage
container (SLSC), each SLSC associated with a customer, the system
comprising: a customer server for purchasing, ordering and/or
managing the goods to be delivered to the at least one SLSC; a
delivery server for managing deliveries of the goads to the at
least one SLSC by a delivery agent; a smart communicator for
enabling communications between the provider of goods, the delivery
server, a signaler and/or the customer server; a controller for
controlling the communications; a signaler communicatively
connected to the SLSC for transmitting a signal to the SLSC
allowing access thereinto by the delivery agent, the customer,
and/or art agent of the customer, and at least one of: a system
comprising at least one server processor enabled to conduct a
transaction between the server and customer for the purchase,
order, and/or delivery of goods to the SLSC as part of an automated
mobile transaction performed with a mobile device, the delivery
agent is an unmanned delivery aircraft, at least one security
camera associated with at least one SLSC, a delivery associated
system which provides the deliveree with discounts, incentives,
rewards and other advantages based on the loyalties of the
deliveree, a robotic positioner of the goods with a driverless
delivery vehicle agent. the at least one of SLSC is a plurality of
interlocking smart storage appliances. a system comprising an
element for preparing invitations to bid for the delivery of goods
to the SLSC; distributing, receiving, and evaluating the bids from
a pool of delivery agents in an auction; and selecting a delivery
agent.
2. A computer readable non-transitory recording medium having a
program stored thereon which is executable by at least one
processor to operate the system of claim 1.
3. A method for managing the sale, order, and/or delivery of goods
ordered by a customer from a provider thereof to at least one smart
locked storage container (SLSC), each SLSC associated with the
customer, the method comprising utilizing: a customer server for
ordering the goods to be delivered to the at least one SLSC; a
delivery server for managing deliveries of the ordered goods to the
at least one SLSC by a delivery agent; a smart communicator for
enabling communications between the provider of goods, the delivery
server, a signaler and/or the customer server; a controller for
controlling the communications; a signaler for transmitting a
signal to the SLSC allowing access thereinto by the delivery agent,
the customer, and/or an agent of the customer, and at least one of:
a system comprising at least one server processor enabled to
conduct a transaction between the server and customer for the
purchase, order, and/or delivery of goods to the SLSC as part of an
automated mobile transaction performed with a mobile device, the
delivery agent is an unmanned delivery aircraft, at least one
security camera associated with at least one SLSC, a delivery
associated system which provides the deliveree with discounts,
incentives, rewards and other advantages based on the loyalties of
the deliveree, a robotic positioner of the goods with a driverless
delivery vehicle agent, the at least one of SLSC is a plurality of
interlocking smart storage appliances, or a system comprising an
element for preparing invitations to bid for the delivery of goods
to the SLSC; distributing, receiving, and evaluating the bids from
a pool of delivery agents in an auction; and selecting a delivery
agent.
4. A computer readable non-transitory recording medium having a
program stored thereon which is executable by at least one
processor to perform the method of claim 3.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein said signal allows access to said
locked storage container upon said drone aircraft docking
therewith.
6. The system of claim 1 further including: following said
ordering, determining the size of said delivery and checking
available room therefore in said locked storage container.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the security camera is associated
with a processor-implemented system programmed in a non-transitory
computer-readable medium, the system comprising at least one server
processor enabled to operate the at least one security camera.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein the security camera is physically
attached to the at least one storage container.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the security camera is located
remotely from the at least one storage container.
10. The system of claim 1 wherein the processor-implemented system
is also enabled to securitize the delivery by requiring the
delivery agent and or the customer to supply a pre-approved
identification code that permits access to the locked storage
container.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the at least one security camera
is associated with the at least one storage container such that the
interior of the at least one storage container may be monitored
thereby.
12. The system of claim 1 including at least one server which
comprises one or more linked databases for storing deliveree data,
said server being associated with a program of loyalties of the
deliveree to the system, the customer data including, but not
limited to, the purchase history of said customer and a processor
configured to analyze said deliveree data and determine a suitable
discount, reward or other incentive to be provided to said
deliveree based thereon.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein said processor is further
configured to redeem said discount, reward or other incentive
provided to said deliveree upon employing said system for
delivery.
14. The system of claim 13 further comprising a non-transitory
computer readable medium having stored thereon computer executable
instructions that when executed by the processor causes the at
least one server to store, in said one or more linked databases,
said deliveree data, including said purchase history, and redeem
said discount, reward or other incentive provided to said deliveree
upon receiving a purchase or order therefrom.
15. A non-transitory computer readable medium configured to be
associated with the system of claim 14 having stored thereon
computer executable instructions that, when executed by a processor
and server results in the storage of a deliveree's loyalty data
when employing said system and then determines and allocates to the
deliveree at least one customized reward/incentive and, if desired
and requested by the deliveree, also results in the redemption of
the reward/incentive, upon the deliveree.
16. The system of claim 1 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the driverless
vehicle.
17. The system of claim 1 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the locked storage
container.
18. The system of claim 1 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the driverless
vehicle, and robotic positioning of the at least one ordered item
in the locked storage container.
19. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is
equipped with a Global Positioning System adapted to establish an
itinerary from the origin to the storage container(s).
20. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is
equipped with a robotic positioner.
21. The system of claim 1 wherein the origin of the ordered goods
is equipped with a robotic positioner
22. The system of claim 1 wherein the storage container is equipped
with a robotic positioner.
23. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is capable
of receiving the location of and driving to the storage
container.
24. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle includes a
memory unit adapted to store the itinerary.
25. The system of claim 24 wherein the driverless vehicle includes
a processor to execute the itinerary.
26. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is powered
by an internal combustion engine, electric engine or hybrid
thereof.
27. The system of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is a cargo
van, minivan, pickup truck, panel van, platform truck, flatbed
truck, refrigerated truck, tank truck, and semi-trailer truck, or
automobile.
28. The system of claim 1 wherein said plurality of smart storage
appliances are positioned on top of a base element.
29. The system of claim 28 wherein said base element comprises at
least one element capable of electronic communication with at least
one of said smart storage containers.
30. The system of claim 29 wherein said electronic communication
enables the provision of electrical power or internet connectivity
to said at least one of said smart storage containers.
31. The system of claim 30 wherein at least one SLSC comprises at
least one element enabled by said electrical power to provide a
function selected from the group consisting of heating, cooling,
inventory, scheduling management, delivery notifications, access
control and any combination thereof.
32. The system of claim 3 wherein said electronic communication
comprises a wireless protocol.
33. The system of claim 1 wherein said plurality of smart locked
storage containers are interconnected together either vertically,
horizontally, or both.
34. The system of claim 1 wherein the auction comprises: submitting
invitations to a pool of potential delivery agents to bid on
delivering said at least one purchased or ordered item from said
origin to said at least one locked storage container; receiving
bids from members of said pool to carry out said delivery;
evaluating said bids to determine the identity of the delivery
agent selected to make said delivery; selecting a delivery agent;
and transmitting authorization to said selected delivery agent to
carry out aid delivery.
35. The system of claim 34 conducted online.
36. The system of claim 35 wherein said evaluation of said bids is
based on data collected from prior invitations, prior bids received
from bidders, and prior performance of accepted bids and contracts
by bidders.
37. The system of claim 36 wherein, during said delivery, the
performance of said delivery agent is monitored and the data
obtained therefrom added to said data collection.
38. The system of claim 1 wherein said auction comprises a
traditional English auction, a reverse auction, a forward auction,
a Yankee auction, a multiple-item Dutch auction, a Chinese auction,
an absolute auction, a minimum-bid auction, a reserve auction, a
first-price-seated-bid auction, a second-price-sealed-bid auction,
a multi-par bidding auction, a silent auction, a secret auction, or
an open auction.
39. The system of claim 1, including archiving and updating said
collect data in a database.
40. The system of claim 39, wherein the steps of archiving and
updating the database is performed automatically.
41. The method of claim 3 wherein said signal allows access to said
locked storage container upon said drone aircraft docking
therewith.
42. The method of claim 3 further including: following said
ordering, determining the size of said delivery and checking
available room therefore in said locked storage container.
43. The method of claim 3 wherein the security camera is associated
with a processor-implemented system programmed in a non-transitory
computer-readable medium, the system comprising at least one server
processor enabled to operate the at least one security camera.
44. The method of claim 3 wherein the security camera is physically
attached to the at least one storage container.
45. The method of claim 3 wherein the security camera is located
remotely from the at least one storage container.
46. The method of claim 3 wherein the processor-implemented system
is also enabled to securitize the delivery by requiring the
delivery agent and or the customer to supply a pre-approved
identification code that permits access to the locked storage
container.
47. The method of claim 3 wherein the at least one security camera
is associated with the at least one storage container such that the
interior of the at least one storage container may be monitored
thereby.
48. The method of claim 3 including at least one server which
comprises one or more linked databases for storing deliveree data,
said server being associated with a program of loyalties of the
deliveree to the system, the customer data including, but not
limited to, the purchase history of said customer and a processor
configured to analyze said deliveree data and determine a suitable
discount, reward or other incentive to be provided to said
deliveree based thereon.
49. The method of claim 3 wherein said processor is further
configured to redeem said discount, reward or other incentive
provided to said deliveree upon employing said system for
delivery.
50. The method of claim 49 further comprising a non-transitory
computer readable medium having stored thereon computer executable
instructions that when executed by the processor causes the at
least one server to store, in said one or more linked databases,
said deliveree data, including said purchase history, and redeem
said discount, reward or other incentive provided to said deliveree
upon receiving a purchase or order therefrom.
51. A non-transitory computer readable medium configured to be
associated with the method of claim 50 having stored thereon
computer executable instructions that, when executed by a processor
and server results in the storage of a deliveree's loyalty data
when employing said system and then determines and allocates to the
deliveree at least one customized reward/incentive and, if desired
and requested by the deliveree, also results in the redemption of
the reward/incentive, upon the deliveree.
52. The method of claim 3 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the driverless
vehicle.
53. The method of claim 3 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the locked storage
container.
54. The method of claim 3 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the driverless
vehicle, and robotic positioning of the at least one ordered item
in the locked storage container.
55. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle is
equipped with a Global Positioning System adapted to establish an
itinerary from the origin to the storage container(s).
56. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle is
equipped with a robotic positioner.
57. The method of claim 3 wherein the origin of the ordered goods
is equipped with a robotic positioner
58. The method of claim 3 wherein the storage container is equipped
with a robotic positioner.
59. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle is capable
of receiving the location of and driving to the storage
container.
60. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle includes a
memory unit adapted to store the itinerary.
61. The method of claim 60 wherein the driverless vehicle includes
a processor to execute the itinerary.
62. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle is powered
by an internal combustion engine, electric engine or hybrid
thereof.
63. The method of claim 3 wherein the driverless vehicle is a cargo
van, minivan, pickup truck, panel van, platform truck, flatbed
truck, refrigerated truck, tank truck, and semi-trailer truck, or
automobile.
64. The method of claim 3 wherein said plurality of smart storage
appliances are positioned on top of a base element.
65. The method of claim 64 wherein said base element comprises at
least one element capable of electronic communication with at least
one of said smart storage containers.
66. The method of claim 65 wherein said electronic communication
enables the provision of electrical power or internet connectivity
to said at least one of said smart storage containers.
67. The method of claim 66 wherein at least one SLSC comprises at
least one element enabled by said electrical power to provide a
function selected from the group consisting of heating, cooling,
inventory, scheduling management, delivery notifications, access
control and any combination thereof.
68. The method of claim 3 wherein said electronic communication
comprises a wireless protocol.
69. The method of claim 3 wherein said plurality of smart locked
storage containers are interconnected together either vertically,
horizontally, or both.
70. The method of claim 3 wherein the auction comprises: submitting
invitations to a pool of potential delivery agents to bid on
delivering said at least one purchased or ordered item from said
origin to said at least one locked storage container; receiving
bids from members of said pool to carry out said delivery;
evaluating said bids to determine the identity of the delivery
agent selected to make said delivery; selecting a delivery agent;
and transmitting authorization to said selected delivery agent to
carry out said delivery.
71. The method of claim 70 conducted online.
72. The method of claim 71 wherein said evaluation of said bids is
based on data collected from prior invitations, prior bids received
from bidders, and prior performance of accepted bids and contracts
by bidders.
73. The method of claim 72 wherein, during said delivery, the
performance of said delivery agent is monitored and the data
obtained therefrom added to said data collection.
74. The method of claim 3 wherein said auction comprises a
traditional English auction, a reverse auction, a forward auction,
a Yankee auction, a multiple-item Dutch auction, a Chinese auction,
an absolute auction, a minimum-bid auction, a reserve auction, a
first-price-sealed-bid auction, a second-price-sealed-bid auction,
a multi-par bidding auction, a silent auction, a secret auction, or
an open auction.
75. The method of claim 3, including archiving and updating said
collected data in a database.
76. The method of claim 75, wherein the steps of archiving and
updating the database is performed automatically.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of Non-provisional
patent application Ser. No. 15/626,896, filed Jun. 9, 2017;
Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/677,680, filed Aug.
15, 2017; Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62/383,409, filed
Sep. 3, 2016; Non-provisional patent application Ser. No.
15/690,413, Aug. 30, 2017; Non-provisional patent application Ser.
No. 15/584,053, filed May 5, 2017; Non-provisional patent
application Ser. No. 15/695,284, filed Sep. 5, 2017;
Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/626,506, filed Jun.
19, 2017; and Non-provisional patent application Ser. No.
15/887,389, filed Feb. 15, 2018 the entire contents and disclosures
of each of which, both express and implied, are incorporated herein
by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Home delivery of ordered/purchased goods comprises a
multi-hundred billion dollar market.
[0003] The home food delivery market alone is estimated to be over
$200 billion. However, theft is common. Nearly 11 million U.S.
homeowners have had at feast one package stolen within the past
year.
[0004] Existing Band-Aid type solutions to the theft problem have
turned out to be easily side-stepped by determined thieves. Recent
"solutions", such as, installing smart lock+ camera combinations
accomplish secure delivery of the ordered/purchased goods only by
allowing entry into the interior of the building to which delivery
is being made, have very low customer acceptance as being too
invasive.
[0005] On-demand delivery systems requiring tight time windows for
delivery only when the delivery site is occupied have proven to be
logistically difficult and expensive. Delivery solutions which are
exclusive and brand-specific do not reflect customer buying habits
and result in bad customer experiences. Present day "Lockers" still
require the consumer to travel to a pick-up location, thereby
defeating the purpose of the proposed of perishable goods without
the considerable expense of packing materials and the concomitant
waste.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 6,933,832 describes a system and method which
enables the delivery, and safe and secure receipt of purchased
items or other goods, at an unattended site.
[0007] The patented method and system enables the delivery of at
least one purchased or ordered item to a locked storage container,
associated with a corresponding customer, the method comprising,
following the purchase or order of the at least one item,
determining the availability of the locked storage container to
receive the delivery at one or more times, identifying a time
interval during which the delivery can be made, and sending to the
locked storage container an access signal allowing a delivery agent
access to the locked storage container only during the time
interval for delivery thereto of the at least one item.
[0008] Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/897,389
describes a system and method, hereinafter referred to collectively
and individually as HomeValet or HV systems and methods, which
satisfies the need for secure delivery and provides a better
customer experience at less cost. Disclosed therein is a system for
managing the delivery of goods ordered by a customer from a
provider thereof to at least one Smart Locked Storage Container
(SLSC), each SLSC associated with the customer comprising:
a customer server for ordering and managing the goods to be
delivered to the at least one SLSC; a delivery server for managing
deliveries of the goods to the at least one SLSC by a delivery
agent; a smart communicator for enabling communications between the
provider of goods, the delivery server, a signaler and/or the
customer server; a controller for controlling the communications;
and a signaler communicatively connected to the SLSC for
transmitting a signal to the SLSC allowing access thereinto by the
delivery agent, the customer, and/or an agent of the customer.
[0009] Also described therein is a method for managing the delivery
of goods ordered by a customer from a provider thereof to at least
one SLSC, each SLSC associated with the customer comprising
utilizing:
a customer server to order and manage the goods to be delivered to
the at least one SLSC; a delivery server to manage deliveries of
the ordered goods to the at least one SLSC by a delivery agent; a
smart communicator to enable communications between the provider of
goods, the delivery server, a signaler and/or the customer server;
a controller to control the communications; and a signaler
communicatively connected to the SLSC to transmit a signal to the
SLSC allowing access thereinto by the delivery agent, the customer,
and/or an agent of the customer.
[0010] Finally, the application discloses a non-transitory
recording medium which is readable by a device such as a processor,
computer, a machine, or the like and on which a program for
utilizing the above-described HomeValet (HV) system to carry out
the above-described HomeValet (l-IV) method is recorded. In this
case, a recording medium that is readable by a computer or the like
refers to a recording medium which stores information such as data
and programs by an electric action, a magnetic action, an optical
action, a mechanical action, or a chemical action and which can be
read by a computer or the like.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention relates to improvements in the
above-described HV methods, systems and non-transitory recording
media for operating the HV systems and performing the HV
methods.
[0012] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an
improvement in the HV system comprising at least one server
processor enabled to conduct a transaction between the server and
customer for the purchase, order, and/or delivery of goods to the
SLSC as part of an automated mobile transaction performed with a
mobile device,
[0013] Another embodiment of the invention is predicated on the
unexpected discovery that the HV method and system can be vastly
improved by enabling the delivery to be made by an unmanned
delivery aircraft; i.e., a drone aircraft.
[0014] An additional embodiment of the invention concerns an
improvement in the HV method and system wherein the at least one
SLSC is associated with a central logistics management platform
which includes a security camera, associated with the at least one
SLSC.
[0015] A further embodiment of the invention relates to a still
further improvement in the HV system and method wherein delivery is
associated with a system which provides the customer with
discounts, incentives, rewards and/or other advantages based on the
loyalties of the customer to the provider.
[0016] A still further embodiment of the invention relates to
another improvement in the HV system and method wherein delivery is
accomplished robotically and with a driverless vehicle.
[0017] An additional embodiment of invention relates to a still
further improvement in HV method and system wherein delivery is
made to at least one of plurality of interlocking SLSCs.
[0018] Another embodiment of the present invention concerns an
improvement of the HV method and system, the improvement comprising
the incorporation therein of a method or system, respectively, for
preparing invitations to bid for delivery of the ordered or
purchased goods; distributing, receiving, and evaluating the bids
from a pool of delivery agents in an auction; and selecting a
delivery agent.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
system according to the invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating embodiments of the
method according to the invention
[0021] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
controller in the system according to the invention.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating the disadvantages of
the systems of the prior art.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating embodiments of the
method according to the invention which ameliorate the
disadvantages illustrated in FIG. 12
[0024] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating embodiments of the
method according to the invention.
[0025] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a revenue model of
embodiments of the method according to the invention.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
system of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the invention
employing a mobile device.
[0028] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of the top of a storage
container of the invention equipped with a loading dock for an
unmanned aircraft delivery agent
[0029] FIG. 11 is an elevational view of a side of the storage
container of the invention docking with an unmanned aircraft
delivery agent
[0030] FIG. 12 is an elevational view of the front of a storage
container showing security camera options.
[0031] FIG. 13 is a flowsheet demonstrating an embodiment of the
method and system of the invention
[0032] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary topology using a
network.
[0033] FIG. 15 is a block diagram exemplifying an embodiment of the
topology of FIG. 14,
[0034] FIG. 16 FIG. 9 depicts a flow chart illustrating an
embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 17 illustrates is a flow chart illustrating a method
for automated, robotic delivery, in accordance to certain example
embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 18 is a block diagram depicting a system, in accordance
with certain example embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 19 is a perspective front view of a system comprising a
single file of interlocking smart locked storage appliances.
[0038] FIG. 20 is a perspective front view of a system comprising a
plurality of files of interlocking smart locked storage
appliances.
[0039] FIG. 21 is a perspective side view of a system comprising a
single file of interlocking smart locked storage appliances.
[0040] FIG. 22 is a block diagram depicting an auction system, in
accordance with certain example embodiments.
[0041] FIG. 23 is a block diagram depicting an exemplary collection
of performance data histories for use in evaluating auction
bids.
[0042] FIG. 24 is a block diagram depicting an exemplary
auction.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] The following detailed description is of the best currently
contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the
invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense,
but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general
principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is
best defined by the appended claims.
[0044] The HV method and system and the non-transitory recording
media which are improved by the various embodiments of the
invention significantly enhances the delivery to and the receipt of
goods or other items to and from a SLSC, which includes but is not
limited to ordering or purchasing goods, scheduling and tracking
deliveries, receiving deliveries of the goods, making and
processing payment, inventorying items scheduled for delivery and
items delivered and making information about deliveries available
to the deliverer and/or customer.
[0045] The system, method and program improved by the invention,
referred to herein in their entirety as HomeValet [HV], relate to a
delivery platform for the secure, unattended receipt of goods
delivered by any provider thereof and delivery agent to a SLSC
located at any suitable venue, such as, for example, the home or
office.
[0046] Goods delivered to most homes or other venues today are left
unattended at the front door vulnerable to elements and theft. As
consumers come to rely on e-commerce to supply groceries and
everyday consumables, in addition to clothing and specialty items,
and as the frequency and cumulative value of deliveries increases,
delivery problems due to damage, theft and inconvenience will
become a major concern of online consumer and retailers and an
impediment to growth.
[0047] HomeValet integrates a platform for consumers and delivery
agents, a network and a SLSC at a venue for the unattended, local
delivery of goods, groceries, prepared foods, prescription drugs,
electronics, alcoholic beverages, clothing, gifts and more.
Deliveries will be made to the SLSC at any time without consumers
inconvenienced by inconvenient delivery time windows and retailers
burdened with the costs of compressed delivery schedules,
protective delivery packaging, and package re-delivery, damage and
returns.
[0048] HomeValet may become an integral complement to every smart
home and as necessary as a home security system and at about the
same monthly cost, and less than a high speed Internet connection
or cable tv subscription. Depending on the consumers choice of
loyalty program. HomeValet may be substantially free to the
consumer.
[0049] Retailers will experience savings because of less spoilage,
damage and theft, less expensive packaging, streamlined delivery
with no multiple attempts and lower cost delivery cost of returns.
A better customer experience and an expanding customer audience in
home delivery will be the greatest gain for customer and
retailer.
[0050] HomeValet is retailer, delivery service and SLSC agnostic.
Access will be provided to e-commerce retailers, brick and mortar
retailers [Jet.com, Amazon, Ebay, Peapod, CVS, Macys, Wayfair,
Grubhub, Williams Sonoma, and the like], and national, regional and
local delivery carriers [FedEx, UPS, USPS, Doordash, Instacart,
Uber, Postmates, Amazonlogistics, and the like]. Typical of
manufacturers of SLSC would include Kenmore, Maytag, Viking,
Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Coleman, Yeti, and the like.
[0051] Those provided access will receive a mobile app (or APIs),
scheduling software, and permissions on request to access SLSCs to
make deliveries. Retailers with a local or regional presence, by
employing local carriers with access to the HomeValet system, will
be able to compete with existing systems for ordering and
delivering goods, without the high cost of developing their own
delivery capability. One option for HomeValet is to offer a crowd
sourced, Uber-like, system as an alternative. A copending U.S.
patent application describes a real-time auction of scheduled
deliveries to participating crowd sourced drivers.
[0052] HomeValet will provide connectivity and functionality to
appliance manufacturers who may build, install, and market their
branded version of SLSC. These may comprise appliances in a wide
variety of sizes, facades, and capabilities, some integral to the
home and some standalone. Manufacturers will be able to innovate
and differentiate design to address physical requirements and
market segments as is presently accomplished with refrigerators,
stoves, or any major home appliance.
[0053] Having access to HomeValet's scheduling and delivery system
and SLSC appliance provide a competitive advantage for retailers
and delivery couriers. HomeValet will enable appliance
manufacturers and retailers to provide new products and an enhanced
income stream, such as, for example, income on every package
delivered, on the licensing of connectivity to appliance
manufacturers, on retailer and delivery agent subscriptions to
integrate with the HomeValet system, and, in some cases, the rental
or purchase of SLSCs to homes and offices.
[0054] HomeValet is predicated on the unexpected discovery that
methods and systems for the delivery of purchased or ordered items
to a SLSC can be vastly improved by managing the delivery utilizing
the method, system and computer readable non-transitory recording
media described herein.
[0055] The system, method and program are predicated on the
availability of at least one Smart Locked Storage Container (SLSC)
which is accessible by means of an identifier which unlocks an
entry door to the interior of the SLSC.
[0056] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system 10 for
managing the delivery of goods ordered from a provider thereof to a
SLSC according to the present invention.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 1, the system 10 includes a smart
communicator 90, controlled by controller 100, for internetworking
and communicating with a delivery server 300, a provider of ordered
goods 400, and a customer server 500, and a system of SLSCs 200,
which may comprise individual SLCSs A-F, in a form of one or more
short messages (SMS messages) or electronic mail (e.g.,
e-mail).
[0058] Upon receiving the one or more SMS messages or e-mails
containing information on the articles ordered, the controller 100
stores information relating to the ordered articles, the provider,
the customer, the SLSC, and delivery agent in a database 600.
[0059] The controller 100 preferably incorporates a computer and
controls the overall operation of the system 10, including
scheduling the delivery of goods, managing the communications via
the smart communicator 90 between the delivery server 300, the
customer server 500, the provider 400 and the signaler 700. These
communications may take the any convenient forms; e.g., wired or
wireless communication links.
[0060] Signaler 700 sends a signal to the designated SLSC [A-F]
allowing access thereinto by the delivery agent, customer, or agent
of the customer. The communicator 90 notifies the customer server
500, by transmitting an arrival message thereto when the goods are
delivered into the SLSC.
[0061] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for utilizing
the system of FIG. 8 to manage deliveries of ordered goods to a
SLSC, according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2, the
customer server 500 accesses the provider via communicator 90 to
order and pay for goods at step S1. The communicator transmits
information regarding the ordered goods to controller 100 at step
S2, which schedules delivery of the ordered goods to the customer.
Upon completing the scheduling process, the controller sends
delivery instructions to the delivery server via smart communicator
90 at step S3. The delivery server provides instructions to the
delivery agent (not shown) for delivery of the ordered goods and
communicates with signaler 700 (shown in FIG. 8), to allow access
to the appropriate SLSC by the delivery agent, and the customer or
an agent of the customer.
[0062] The ordered goods are then delivered to the SLSC at step S4.
Information concerning the goods delivered at step S4 is also
conveyed to controller 100 via the smart communicator 90 at step
S5. The controller then compares the information received from the
delivery server with the original order stored in data storage 800.
If the comparison evidences identity between the two pieces of
information, the controller forwards to the customer server 500 an
indication that the delivery was successful at step S6. If the
comparison shows a discrepancy between the ordered goods and the
goods delivered, the controller sends a misdelivery message to the
customer server 500 at step S7.
[0063] It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that
the system and method of the invention may also be employed to
allow the customer to return misdelivered goods to the provider by
simply reversing the above described process.
[0064] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the controller in
more detail. As shown in FIG. 3, the controller 100 includes a
display device 110, smart communicator 90, a data storage 600, an
ordered goods information unit 112, and a delivered goods
information analyzer 114. The display unit 110, displays the
operation status of the various units operated, managed, and
controlled by controller 100. The controller also compares the
information concerning the ordered good with the information
relating to the delivered goods. If the two are in agreement, a
message of successful delivery is sent to the customer server 500,
as described above. If the two pieces of information are not in
accord, a message of mis-delivery is forwarded to the customer
server 500, again as described above.
[0065] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram that illustrates the problematic
disadvantages associated with the models/systems of the prior art.
[Each of the arrows () depicted in the diagram is an indication of
what the numbered disadvantages of the prior art lead to].
Insecure, outdoor, remotely located delivery sites 116 lead to
damaged and stolen goods 118, as well as the necessity for costly
and inconvenient returns 124 of ordered/purchased goods. The sites
116 typical of the prior art also lead to replacement costs 120 of
the damaged or stolen goods 118.
[0066] The inconvenient, costly and largely inefficient delivery
scheduling and coordination steps required by the prior art lead to
costly and inconvenient returns 124 of ordered/purchased goods,
which, in turn, leads to consumer inconvenience 126, as well as a
disincentive for the purchaser 130 to utilize the seller/provider
of goods and a loss of brand loyalty and poor brand experience
128.
[0067] The above detailed disadvantages ultimately lead to
considerable losses 132 to the seller/provider of the ordered
goods.
[0068] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that illustrates embodiments of the
invention which ameliorate the above described problematic
disadvantages associated with the models/systems of the prior art.
[Again, each of the arrows () depicted in the diagram is an
indication of to what the numbered solutions lead].
[0069] The centralized base platform/host system 136 which is
powered by HomeValet 134 communicates directly with the
seller/provider 140 of goods, which are bought/ordered by the
consumer 144. The platform, upon completion of the buying/ordering
process, immediately communicates with the carrier 142 of the
ordered/purchased goods to deliver same to the SLSC 138.
[0070] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram that illustrates further
embodiments of the invention. [Each of the arrows () depicted in
the diagram is an indication of to what can be achieved among and
between the numbered components].
[0071] Depicted are the centralized HomeValet platform System, the
consumer/customer 224, the supplier of goods 222, the carrier of
the purchased/ordered goods 226 and the SLSC 228.
[0072] The supplier of goods 222 provides purchase and delivery
information to HomeValet, which provides this information to
prospective purchasers/orderers of goods to customer 224, and
thereafter monitors and manages deliveries from the carrier 226
through, for example, a mobile app; it being understood by those
skilled in the art that any convenient app may be employed to
accomplish the goals of the invention. The supplier of goods 222
may also communicate directly with carrier 226 to exchange, for
example, delivery information and tracking statuses. HomeValet may
also directly communicate with carrier 226 to provide authorization
for the delivery and exchange other information required to
complete the delivery process. Carrier 226 communicates directly
with SLSC 228 for purposes of accessing the latter to deliver the
goods and provide information thereto which may be required. The
customer 224, upon retrieval of the goods from SLSC 228, may also
receive from SLSC 228, further information as to the condition of
the container such as, for example, that additional goods are
present therein for retrieval or that it is empty. HomeValet may
also exchange information with SLSC 228 such as, for example,
authorization for access by carrier 226. The latter may also update
HomeValet as to the status of the delivery. Customer 224 and
supplier 222 may also exchange information such as, for example,
loyalty/reward benefits, discounts, auto-refills and the like.
[0073] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram that illustrates an exemplary
revenue model achievable by an embodiment of the invention. [Each
of the arrows () depicted in the diagram is an indication of the
direction of flow of revenue]. Fees paid by the supplier of
ordered/purchased goods 320 and the carrier thereof 322, which may
include a per item fee 324 flow to HomeValet. The customer 326 also
may pay a subscription fee to HomeValet. Finally, the manufacturer
of the SLSC may also pay a license fee to HomeValet.
[0074] In its simplest form, the crux of the invention resides in a
centralized host platform/system communicably coupled to the above
herein described servers via an application programming interface
(API) such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN),
the Internet or others.
[0075] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the immediately above described
system 500, wherein the centralized HomeValet system is in
communication with and manages each of the internal platform APIs
502, the SLSC API 506, the customer server 504, which is depicted
as a mobile app, but, as will be understood by those skilled in the
art may comprise any convenient server and corresponding app/API.
HomeValet also communicates with the carrier server API 508 and the
supplier of ordered/purchased goods 510.
[0076] The improved invention enables a customer to interact with
automated systems via a mobile device to transact the purchase,
order, and/or delivery of goods to the smart locked storage
containers. The components of the system are implemented in
non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for execution on
one or more processing devices that are configured to execute the
components. The components are also enabled to operate and
communicate with one another over a network. The network can be
wired, wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless.
[0077] The relationship of the components shown in the FIG. 9 are
presented for illustrative purposes. Accordingly, other
arrangements and interactions of the components are possible
without departing from the scope of the invention. The improved
method of the invention enables sellers/providers of goods and
their customers to conduct purchases, orders of goods via secure
mobile transaction services, and/or manage the delivery thereof to
a SLSC. Thus, the invention permits a customer to register a mobile
device on the sellers website, for example, which then submits an
encrypted token to the customer that enables the device to utilize
the token for the sale, purchase, order, and/or delivery
transaction.
[0078] Another embodiment of the present invention is predicated on
the unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is vastly
improved by associating the delivery with a network platform which
enables delivery utilizing unmanned aircraft.
[0079] FIG. 10 illustrates the method and system of the present
invention, which comprises an improvement over the prior art system
and method described above. Depicted is the top of a storage
container 10, in which is positioned a hatch 100, ports 102 for
docking with an unmanned delivery aircraft, and fixture 104 for
receiving the hereinbefore described access signal from the
unmanned aircraft.
[0080] FIG. 11 depicts the storage container 10 shown in FIG. 10
being approached by unmanned delivery aircraft 106 carrying the
cargo to be delivered 108. The aircraft is fitted with elements 110
for docking with ports 102 (FIG. 8), after sending signal 112 to
receiving fixture 104 and receiving therefrom an access signal
which opens hatch 100 (FIG. 8). After docking is successfully
completed, cargo 108 is delivered through open hatch 100 (FIG. 8).
The unmanned aircraft 106 then undocks from the container 10 and
hatch door 100 closes and locks. In a particularly preferred
embodiment of the invention, the ordered goods are deposited by the
unmanned aircraft into that area of the SCLC to which the customer
has direct access. This embodiment is highly advantageous over
presently available systems wherein delivery is accomplished via
unmanned aircraft, which require movement within the storage box of
the goods deposited by the unmanned aircraft to an area which is
accessible by the customer, thereby adding greatly to the cost and
inefficiency thereof.
[0081] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that arty
of the scheduling, signaling and communication techniques described
herein may be employed in connection with any of the improved
delivery systems and methods of the invention without departing
from the spirit and scope thereof.
[0082] Although various specific constructions and steps have been
shown and discussed, these are for illustrative purposes only.
Various modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the
art. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be
determined with reference to the claims appended hereto.
[0083] An additional embodiment of the invention is predicated on
the unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is vastly
improved where the locked storage container is monitored by a
security camera associated therewith.
[0084] FIG. 12 depicts the front of the storage container showing
three types of security cameras associated therewith. It will be
understood by those skilled in the art that either type of security
camera, or any other suitable security camera, or any combination
thereof may be employed in the practice of the invention.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 12, a suitable dome security camera A'
includes a housing 2' for affixing the camera to the front of the
storage container 10, a hemispherical cover 4', a camera module,
and a bracket 8'. A circuit part (not shown) is installed in the
housing 2'. The hemispherical cover 4' is coupled to the housing
2'. The camera module includes a casing 7' which has a lens 6'
mounted to the central portion thereof, and has a plurality of IR
LEDs 72' (hereinafter referred to as `LED`) around the lens 6'. The
bracket 8' is provided in the housing 2' so that the casing 7' is
rotatably coupled thereto. Further, the lens 6' is coupled to a
barrel. The barrel is constructed so that the lens 6' is moved up
and down by rotating a knob 64' provided on a side of the barrel,
thus adjusting a focus. The knob 64' passes through an actuating
hole 74' formed in the casing 7' in such a way as to be exposed to
the outside. Further, a sensor 9' for detecting the movement of a
subject is embedded in a portion which is opposite the knob
64'.
[0086] Also, as shown in FIG. 12, an alternative type of security
system B' may be affixed to the storage container. Pole 64' may be
installed at the front edge of the container 10, to which may be
affixed a light 66' and a security camera 68'. Optionally, security
system B' can be installed in the interior of the storage container
as depicted in FIG. 5 to enable monitoring activity inside the
storage container
[0087] FIG. 12 also illustrates a further embodiment of the
invention wherein security camera C' is not affixed physically
attached to the storage camera but is situated remote therefrom at
a distance and location that enables secure monitoring of the
storage container.
[0088] It wilt be understood by those skilled in the art that the
particular location of the security camera/system, whether inside
the storage container or outside thereof is only critical to the
extent that it enables the desired degree of monitoring of the
activity in and around the latter.
[0089] The method and system of the invention utilize a processor
implemented system programmed in a non-transitory,
computer-readable medium, the system comprising at least one server
processor, such as a computer, enabled to operate at least one
security camera, wherein the security camera is affixed to the
storage container. The computer may be configured to control the
security camera situated at the storage bin(s). The security camera
may be configured to detect when a delivery agent leaves, or
optionally, the security camera may simply take one or a number of
pictures during the interaction. The security camera collects
digital color high-resolution images that are recorded within the
computer to further enable a remote authorized and authenticated
user to monitor the interior and exterior of the storage bins in
real time and in time-late modes.
[0090] The system preferably may include strategically positioned
high-resolution digital cameras, the controls of which may include,
for example, pointing, zooming, panning, field of view, field of
regard, lighting, etc. The imagery collected by each camera is
stored within the computer system and is available for review, file
transfer, and processing. The system may be configured to record
continuous or time-lapsed frames.
[0091] FIG. 13 shows a typical flowchart of a further embodiment of
the invention. A securitization method and system may be integrated
with the server processor/computer to further securitize the
delivery. A user interface 210 which communicates with the server
processor further communicates with a screen 215 which may display
a message such as "touch to begin," When the user touches the
screen, the flow proceeds to the main menu screen 220. The system
may allow for the user to enter a code at 230. If entry of the code
is successful the code will be validated at 235, and the location
of the package in the system is determined at 245. Optionally, the
system may include a request for additional pre-approved
identification of the user at 250. Upon satisfaction of the
request, the storage container is allowed to be opened in
accordance with the method and system described above.
[0092] An additional embodiment of the invention is predicated on
the unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is vastly
improved by associating the delivery with a program/platform which
provides the deliveree with discounts, incentives, rewards and
other advantages based on the loyalties of the deliveree.
[0093] FIG. 14 illustrates an environment for implementing the
incentive rewards program. The environment may include a network
100 such as, for example, the Internet, a local area network (LAN),
a wide area network (WAN), and the like. At least one server 102,
connected to one or more databases 104, communicates with the
network 100, and hosts the site for a vendor to manage the
incentive rewards program; i.e., a system run by the vendor
functions on the servers 102, and operates the incentive rewards
program. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the
method and system of the invention are not limited to scenarios
that only consider loyalty of a customer to a vendor of goods/items
to the locked storage containers. For example, the entity which
provides the deliveree with access to the network might also offer
incentives, such as, for example, a reduction in monthly
subscription fees based on the volume of deliveries to a particular
deliveree's locked storage container.
[0094] The system also includes computers 106 and 108 and mobile
devices 110 and 112. Customers, utilizing the PCs 108 and 108
and/or mobile devices 110 and 112 access the incentive rewards
program on the seniors 102 via network 100. Accordingly, the
servers 102 notify customers of the incentive rewards program
through the network 100 to the PCs and/or mobile devices. One or
more vendors 114 or 116 may access the server 102 via network
100.
[0095] The system associated with the above-described delivery
methods and systems that, for example, provides customers of the
provider with discounts, incentives, rewards and other advantages
based on the loyalty of the customer to the provider preferably
comprises at least one server which, in turn, comprises one or more
linked databases for storing customer data associated with a
loyalty program of the provider. The customer data includes, but is
not limited to the purchase history of the customer. The system
also comprises a processor configured to analyze the customer data
and determine a suitable discount, reward or other incentive to be
provided to the customer. The processor is further configured to
redeem the discount, reward or other incentive provided to the
customer upon receiving a purchase request or order therefrom.
[0096] FIG. 15 is an exemplary block diagram of a subsystem 200
that may be utilized to implement the delivery method and system.
According to some embodiments, one or more subsystems 200 operating
in parallel with each other may be utilized to implement the
delivery method and system.
[0097] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the subsystem
200 includes a non-transitory computer readable medium 202, having
stored thereon computer executable instructions, which may be read
by processor 204. The instructions, when executed by the processor
causes the at least one server 206 to store the instructions in the
one or more linked customer databases 208, 210, 212, and 214. These
instructions relate to customer data, which include, but are not
limited to the purchase histories of the customer. The at least one
server also communicates with network interface 100 [FIG. 8] to
notify customers of awarded discounts, incentives, and the like
upon receiving a purchase request or order therefrom, and redeem
them when desired by the customer.
[0098] As noted above, the method and system of the invention are
associated with a non-transitory computer readable medium 202
having stored thereon computer executable instructions that when
executed by processor 204 in the individualized discount and reward
server 206 results in the storage of customer loyalty, such as, for
example, purchase history and the like, determine and allocate at
least one customized reward/incentive to the loyalty customer and
also results in the redemption of the reward/incentive, if desired
and requested by the customer, as well as delivery of the
purchased/ordered items/goods.
[0099] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the incentive
rewards program may take any convenient form, tailored to the
nature of both the vendor's and customer's needs. For example, the
program may be designed to offer benefits to loyal customers, such
as discounts, coupons, rebates, free products, awards, prizes,
extended warranties, insurance and amenities, as well as other
purchasing incentives.
[0100] A further embodiment of the invention is predicated on the
unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is significantly
improved where delivery to the locked storage container comprises a
system and method for robotic delivery with a driverless
vehicle.
[0101] More particularly, this aspect of the invention comprises a
processing device capable of (1) receiving a purchase order of at
least one element, (goods) from a client/customer/buyer, (2)
computing itinerary information to the locked storage containers,
which are accessible by means of an identifier which unlocks an
entry door to the interior of the locked storage container, (3)
transmitting the purchase order to a robotic positioner, which is
capable of placing the ordered goods into a driverless vehicle, and
(4) transmitting the order and itinerary information to the
driverless vehicle, which is capable of conveying the ordered goods
to the locked storage containers, unlocking the storage containers,
robotically depositing the ordered goods into the storage
containers, and relocking the storage containers.
[0102] The improvement of the patented system and method by
utilizing the driverless vehicle and robotic delivery system of the
present invention provides many significant advantages.
[0103] In the United States alone, more than 30,000 people die in
traffic-related deaths every year, whereas driverless delivery
vehicles would drastically reduce the number of accidents helping
to save thousands of lives. Moreover, driverless vehicles have a
great potential in efficiency in terms of better traffic flow, and
also less fuel consumption. They will also reduce carbon emissions
by as much as 300 million tons per year. The driverless vehicle may
take many forms, including those powered by an internal combustion
engine, electric engine or hybrid thereof. The vehicle may be a
cargo van, minivan, pickup truck, panel van, platform truck,
flatbed truck, refrigerated truck, tank truck, semi-trailer truck,
or automobile. It will be understood by those skilled in the art
that any conventional driverless platform may be utilized in the
delivery vehicle for the practice of the present invention, such
as, for example, the Google.RTM. car.
[0104] Preferably, the driverless vehicle is equipped with a Global
Positioning System to provide location data associated with a
location of the driverless vehicle. The location data may be
processed based on the itinerary information transmitted thereto by
the processor and, based on the comparison, instructions on travel
distance and travel direction associated with a destination may be
adjusted.
[0105] The driverless vehicle is preferably equipped with the
robotic positioner; however, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the invention includes an embodiment wherein the
origin of the ordered goods and the destination storage
container(s) are also equipped with their own robotic
positioner
[0106] The driverless vehicle may receive the itinerary information
from the processor and/or robotic positioner. To store the
itinerary information, the driverless vehicle may include a memory
unit. The memory unit may include an external hard drive, CD, DVD,
and so forth. Additionally, the driverless vehicle may include its
own processor to execute itinerary instructions.
[0107] The robotic positioner may be equipped with one or more arms
configured to grasp the goods and place the goods on or in the
driverless vehicle. The robot may be configured to pour an ordered
amount of the goods into the driverless vehicle. In other
embodiments, the robot may include a conveyor configured to move
goods into the driverless vehicle.
[0108] FIG. 16 illustrates is a flow chart illustrating a method
400 for automated delivery, in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the invention. Method 400 starts with a receiving, at
operation 402, of an order from a purchaser. The order may specify
one or more goods to be delivered to the purchaser and/or itinerary
information. The order is received by a processor and transmitted
by the processor to a robotic positioner and a driverless delivery
vehicle at operation 404. At operation 406, the robotic positioner
places the goods on or in the driverless delivery vehicle. The
driverless delivery vehicle then transports the goods to the locked
storage containers at operation 408, using the itinerary
information transmitted thereto.
[0109] FIG. 17 illustrates an environment 100 within which a
driverless delivery vehicle 200, systems and methods for automated
delivery using the driverless delivery vehicle 200 can be
implemented. The environment 100 may include a network 110, the
driverless delivery vehicle 200, a source of goods 120, a robotic
positioner 130, goods 140, a processing device 150, a buyer 170,
one or more client devices 180, an order 160, and storage container
190.
[0110] The purchaser 170, using the one or more client devices 180
sends an order 160 to the processor 150. The one or more client
devices 180 may include a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet PC,
a lap top, a personal computer, and so forth. The one or more
client devices 180 may communicate with the processing device 150
via the network 110 wirelessly or by wires using various
connections.
[0111] The order 160 may include information on one or more goods
140 the buyer wants to be delivered to the storage containers 190
and itinerary information associated with the destination 190. The
itinerary information may include instructions on travel distance
and travel direction associated with destination 190. The order 160
is transmitted via network 110 to the processor 150. The processor
150 may include a server, a computing device, and so forth. The
processor 150 may optionally process the order 160 to extract
information to be transmitted to the robotic positioner 130 anchor
the driverless delivery vehicle 200. Optionally, the processor 150
may store the order 160 to a database.
[0112] The order 160 may be transmitted to the robotic positioner
130 or driverless vehicle 200. As noted above a robotic positioner
may be located in both the driverless vehicle 200 and source of
goods 120 and/or destination 190. The robotic positioner 130 picks
up the goods 140 based on the order 160. In another embodiment, the
order 160 may be transmitted directly to the driverless vehicle
200, which may then travel to the source of goods 120 and transmit
a command to a robotic positioner provided on the vehicle to
deposit the goods thereon.
[0113] The driverless vehicle 200 will then transport the goods 140
to the delivery destination 190 based on the order 160 and
itinerary information, such as instructions on travel distance and
travel direction associated with the destination 190.
[0114] FIG. 18 illustrates a preferred command system 1000 for
directing the robotic positioning of the ordered goods (OG) on the
driverless delivery vehicle (DDV), directing the DDV to the
location of the locked storage containers (LSC) and directing the
robotic transfer of the OG to the LSC, depicted in FIG. 10, is
controlled by computer 1010, which may include elements such as an
imaging regulator 1012, a tracking regulator 1014, a robotic tool
regulator 1016, and an overall system regulator 1018. The computer
1010 may, of course, comprise CPU's dedicated for each operation or
group of operations, or an individual CPU which handles all of the
operations within a centralized control system.
[0115] Preferably connected to the computer 1010 are an electronic
display 1022, a user interaction element 1024 (an interface device:
e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, a touchpad, a motion gesture sensor, a
microphone for voice recognition, or an imaging device) and a
memory 1020. The supporting software is stored in the memory 1020
and is run by the computer 1010. The robotic positioning and
transfer tool 1030 is also connected to the computer 1010 for
receiving movement command signals. Also connected to and
communicating with the computer 1010 are an imaging system 1028 and
a tracking system 1026.
[0116] The imaging regulator 1012 generates virtual images of the
robotic OG positioning and transfer work spaces at the location of
the OG and on the DDV, respectively, and enables an operator (not
shown) to manipulate the images and manually operate robotic
positioning and transfer tool 1030 at any point during the delivery
operation, it will be understood by those skilled in the art,
however, that the robotic transfer and positioning operations may
be conducted automatically by the computer 1010.
[0117] The imaging system 1028 is used to generate a digital model
of the OG positioning and transfer areas and display the digital
model as a virtual image on the electronic display 1022 and
communicate it to the other computer controlled devices such as the
robotic positioning and transfer tool 1030. The imaging system 1028
may also include cameras mounted on the tool that monitor the work
areas during the various operations during the delivery process and
aid in guiding the robotic tool 1030 in response to movements
detected during the procedure.
[0118] The tracking system 1026 tracks the OG dynamically in real
time with complete information about its location, orientation, and
other physical parameters.
[0119] Those skilled in the art will recognize that any suitable
robotic tool may be employed in the practice of the invention,
provided that is capable of grasping, transferring and positioning
OG to and from the origin of OG, the DDV and the LSC. Typically
such tools comprise a guidance system and a drive subsystem
therefore, an obstacle detection element, and other typical
elements for controlling robotic tools. The robotic tool may be
operated manually, or automatically by the computer 1010 to perform
various functions, including transferring OG from the point of
origin to the DDV, and from the DDV to the LSC.
[0120] The system 1000 functions like any conventional computer
system, an embedded controller, a laptop, a server, a mobile
device, a smartphone, a set-top box, a kiosk, a vehicular
information system, one or more processors associated with a
television, a customized machine, any other hardware platform, or
any combination thereof. The system 1000 may be distributed for
operation employing multiple computers interconnected via a data
network or bus system.
[0121] The computer 1010 executes code or instructions to perform
the required operations and functions described herein, address
mappings, and perform any necessary calculations and generate
commands required to achieve optimum deliveries. The computer 1010
monitors and controls the operation of the components of the system
1000 and may comprise any general purpose processor, processor
core, multiprocessor, reconfigurable processor, microcontroller,
digital signal processor (DSP), application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), graphics processing unit (GPU), field programmable
gate array (FPGA), programmable logic device (PLD), controller,
state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware components, any other
processing unit, or any combination thereof. The computer 1010 may
consist of a single processor, multiple processors, single
processor core, multiple processor cores, special purpose processor
cores, co-processors, or any combination thereof, and may, along
with other components of the system 1000 be a virtualized computer
capable of executing within one or more other computers.
[0122] The memory 1020 includes non-volatile memories, for example,
read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM),
erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or
any other device capable of storing program instructions or data
with or without applied power. The memory 1020 also may include
volatile memories, for example, random access memory (RAM), static
random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM),
and synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM). Other types
of RAM also may be utilized in the memory 1020. The memory 1020
operates utilizing a single memory module or multiple memory
modules. The memory 1020 is depicted as part of the system 1000;
however, one skilled in the art will recognize that the memory 1030
may be separate from the system 1000 without departing from the
scope of the invention, it will also be appreciated that the memory
1020 may include, or operate in conjunction with, a non-volatile
storage device.
[0123] The system 1000 may function in a networked environment
using logical connections to one or more other systems or computers
across a network. The network may include wide area networks (WAN),
local area networks (LAN), intranets, the Internet, wireless access
networks, wired networks, mobile networks, telephone networks,
optical networks, or combinations thereof. The network may be
packet switched, circuit switched, of any topology, and use any
communication protocol. Communication links within the network may
involve various digital or an analog communication media, for
example, fiber optic cables, free-space optics, waveguides,
electrical conductors, wireless links, antennas, radio-frequency
communications, and the like.
[0124] A still further embodiment of the invention is predicated on
the unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is
significantly enhanced where the locked storage appliance is part
of a system of "smart" interlocking locked storage appliances.
[0125] The term, "smart", as used herein in connection with locked
storage appliances, is refers to an electronic device in each
appliance generally connected to each other and to networks via
different wireless protocols such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, 3G,
etc., that can operate to at least some extent interactively and
autonomously. The term also refer to a device that exhibits some
properties of ubiquitous computing, including, but not limited to,
artificial intelligence.
[0126] The method and system of the invention allow access to at
least one of the locked smart storage appliance in the system of
interlocking smart storage appliance at fixed
sites/locations/addresses by means of a specific identifier which
only unlocks the entry door to the interior of a particular,
pre-identified locked smart storage container,
[0127] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a system 80 of
interlocking smart locked storage appliances 82 according to the
invention.
[0128] The interlocking mechanism (shown in FIG. 23) would allow
for a variety of smart locked storage appliances 82 to be
interlocked together. The smart locked storage containers are
stacked and locked onto the top 84 of a base 86 which contains at
least one element 88 which may provide electrical power, internet
connectivity, and the like to each and/or all of the locked smart
storage appliances. These functions would allow the locked smart
storage appliance to provide heating, cooling, inventory and
scheduling management, delivery notifications, and access
control.
[0129] The base 86 that the locked smart storage appliances 82
would lock into may be in constant connection with any part of the
system via ethernet or wireless connectivity protocol (WIFI,
Cellular, etc). The locked smart storage appliances 82 would
register themselves with the base and communicate to the
deliveree's account that the purchased or ordered items had been
delivered.
[0130] The deliveree could also be informed about the contents of
the locked smart storage appliance 82. Upon delivery, the contents
of the locked smart storage appliance would be registered via
element 88 with the base 86 from which it would be communicated to
a central inventory management and logistics database. Once
entered, the locked smart storage appliance contents would be
available for viewing by the intended deliveree in their
account.
[0131] The base 86 may have electronic connectors (not shown) on
the bottom, top or sides thereof to allow for the stacked,
interconnected and locked smart storage containers 82 to be
provided power and Internet connectivity via element 88.
Alternatively, wireless protocols such as Bluetooth, WIFI, NFC,
RFID, or other wireless protocols could be used for internet
connectivity or simple data transfer while power could be supplied
by physical connection between the interconnected smart locked
storage containers.
[0132] The locked smart storage appliances, themselves, could,
according to the invention, be delivered by an agent, driverless
vehicle, drone, or other delivery means to any desired location for
future deliveries of ordered items.
[0133] Another embodiment of the invention relates to a locked
smart storage appliance base 86 that may be permanently affixed at
a secure location. It is an advantageous feature of the invention
that the smart locked storage containers delivery containers 82 may
be easily connected with or removed from base 86 or interchanged
with other containers 82.
[0134] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of a system 80 comprising
multiple files or rows 81 of interlocking smart locked storage
appliances 82 of differing sizes.
[0135] FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of a system BO showing the
locked storage containers 82 affixed to base 86 and interconnected
with each other via locking mechanisms 83 which are connected to
stabilizing rack 85.
[0136] A final embodiment of the present invention is predicated on
the unexpected discovery that the HV method and system is improved
where delivery to the SLSC is managed by a system, method or
platform wherein the delivery agent is selected from a group
consisting of bidders in an auction of the delivery of the ordered
item.
[0137] FIG. 22 is a block diagram of some preferred aspects of the
method and system of the present invention.
[0138] At block 1001, the order or purchase of the goods to be
delivered to the locked storage container(s) is received. The order
or purchase will include information as to the location of the
container(s), preferred times of delivery of the goods thereto, and
the like.
[0139] At block 1003, invitations to bid in an auction for delivery
of the goods are conveyed to a pool of delivery agents. In a
preferred embodiment, the invitations are transmitted by a
computerized system through a website, and may take the form of an
email, a text message, an electronic message, and the like. The
invitations may take any desired or convenient form, listing all of
the parameters to be considered for the delivery such as, for
example, price of delivery range, nature and size of goods, time
frame of delivery, deadline for submitting bids, and the like.
[0140] Block 1005 indicates receipt by the delivery agents of the
invitations to bid. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art
that the pool of delivery agents have ready access to the preferred
website described above.
[0141] At block 1007, those delivery agents in the pool to which
invitations were sent, prepare their bids based on considerations
of the nature and cost of delivery, the time of delivery and their
availability to make the delivery, and the like.
[0142] At block 1008, the delivery agents participating in the
auction deliver their bids to the origin of the purchased or
ordered goods.
[0143] Block 1011 indicates receipt by the origin of the purchased
or ordered goods of the delivery agents' bids. In a preferred
embodiment, the bids are received through a website. The bids will
include information about costs, times and any other parameters set
forth above in the description of block 1003 in the invitations to
bid.
[0144] At block 1013, the originator of the bids selects the
delivery agent at the end of the time period for bidding. The
selection may be accomplished utilizing any convenient formula or
algorithm suitable for such purposes. One of the critical factors
in making the selection is the reputation and performance history
of the delivery agent. Therefore, the method and system of the
invention includes the collection of data from prior invitations,
prior bids received from bidders, and prior performances of
accepted bids and contracts by bidders, and the archiving of such
data in a database on which the selection of delivery agent may be
based.
[0145] As indicated at block 1015, delivery according to the
improved system and method of the invention is effected by the
selected bidder.
[0146] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that any
desired and suitable auction system may be employed in the practice
of the invention. Exemplary, but not exhaustive of suitable systems
are traditional, reverse, silent, secret, or open auctions.
Preferably, the auction process is conducted on line.
[0147] FIG. 23 illustrates the data format and structure of
information 900 collected and maintained for evaluating bids from
delivery agents participating in an auction conducted in accordance
with an embodiment of the invention.
[0148] Information relating to prior auction bids and deliveries
previously performed in accordance with the system and method of
the invention by members i, ii, iii, iv, v, vi, vii, etc, of a pool
903 of delivery agents is stored in database 901. In accordance
with a preferred embodiment of the invention, goods to be delivered
are categorized as Type 1, Type 2, and so on. For example, the
goods to be delivered could be typed as bulk liquids, solids,
particulate matter, and the like. Those skilled in the art wilt
appreciate that the system and method of the invention are amenable
to any kind of characterization of the goods to be delivered.
[0149] In some cases, it may be desirable to further subdivide the
Types into Subtypes 1, 2, etc. For example, a Type 2 solid could be
Subtyped as refrigerated, and the like. It will be appreciated by
those skilled in the art that any hierarchical system of
classifying the kinds of deliveries and goods may be employed in
the practice of the invention.
[0150] The past bids and aspects of the delivery performances of
the various delivery agents, i, ii, iii, . . . are represented in
FIG. 9 by Data Point 1, Data Point 2, Data Point 3, and so on. Data
Point 1 may refer to bid price, for example. Data Point 2 may
represent a grade for timeliness of delivery. Data Point 3 could
indicate the satisfaction or lack thereof by the owner of the
locked storage container to which the ordered or purchased goods
were delivered. Those skilled in the art that be aware that the
number and kinds of Data Points to be included in any embodiment of
the invention is limited only by the imagination of the user
thereof.
[0151] The historical data contained in database 901 is relied upon
to evaluate those bidding in the auction conducted in the practice
of the system and method of the invention in order to select the
best possible option for delivery of the ordered or purchased
goods.
[0152] A preferred embodiment of an auction system which comprises
part of the improved system and method of delivery of ordered or
purchased goods to locked storage containers comprising the present
invention is illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0153] As illustrated in FIG. 24 a preferred auction system 20
comprises a server 21, which is connected to three databases 22,
23, and 24, and to the Internet. and further connected to terminals
(not shown) of members of a pool of potential delivery agents, for
communications therewith through the Internet.
[0154] The server 21 illustrated in FIG. 26 stores an auction
program which communicates to members of the pool of delivery
agents through the Internet or other electronic means invitations
to bid in an auction. The respective members of the pool prepare
their bids and communicate the bids to the server 21
[0155] As further illustrated in FIG. 26, the auction system 20
comprises a communication element 81, a control element 82, a bid
collection computing element 83, and a bid evaluation computing
element 84. The communication element 81, control element 82, bid
collection computing element 83 and bid evaluation computing
element 84 are implemented by the server 21 in a preferred
embodiment of the invention, the communication element 81 functions
according to a predetermined communication protocol; e.g., (HTTP).
A storage system 23, comprising a bid storage element 85 which is
further comprised of a bid data storage element 85A and a bid
history storage element 858. The control element 82 and the
respective computing elements 83 and 84 are employed for computing
a successful bidder in the auction from the data stored in the
respective storage elements 86A and 858.
[0156] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any
of the scheduling, signaling and communication techniques described
above may be employed in connection with the improved delivery
system and method of the invention without departing from the
spirit and scope thereof.
[0157] Although various specific constructions and steps have been
shown and discussed, these are for illustrative purposes only.
Various modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the
art. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be
determined with reference to the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *