U.S. patent application number 17/828436 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for system and method for robotic delivery.
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 | 20220292438 17/828436 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006366498 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220292438 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SIMMS; John ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ROBOTIC DELIVERY
Abstract
An improved method for the delivery of an ordered item to a
locked storage containers comprising determining the availability
of the container to receive a delivery; identifying a time interval
during which the delivery can be made; sending a signal to the
storage container allowing access by a delivery agent, the
improvement wherein delivery is achieved with a robotic positioner
and a driverless vehicle.
Inventors: |
SIMMS; John; (Mclean,
VA) ; SIMMS; Noel; (Jackson, MS) ; SIMMS, Jr.;
John; (Arlington, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
HOME VALET, INC. |
Vienna |
VA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
HOME VALET, INC.
Vienna
VA
|
Family ID: |
1000006366498 |
Appl. No.: |
17/828436 |
Filed: |
May 31, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15584053 |
May 2, 2017 |
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17828436 |
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62382926 |
Sep 2, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G05D 2201/0213 20130101;
G05D 1/0285 20130101; G05D 1/0278 20130101; G06Q 30/0633 20130101;
G06Q 10/083 20130101; G06Q 10/1097 20130101; G05D 2201/0212
20130101; G05D 1/0276 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 10/08 20060101
G06Q010/08; G06Q 10/10 20060101 G06Q010/10; G05D 1/02 20060101
G05D001/02 |
Claims
1. A method for the delivery of at least one ordered item from an
origin to at least one locked storage containers, associated with a
corresponding customer comprising: following the ordering of said
delivery, determining an identity of the locked storage container
to receive said delivery at one or more times; identifying when the
delivery is to be made to said locked storage container; sending a
signal to the locked storage container allowing access by a
delivery agent that is delivering said at least one ordered item to
said locked storage container so that when the locked storage
container is being delivered at the locked storage container that
the locked storage container will be unlocked, wherein the delivery
is achieved with a robotic positioner that is associated with an
sensor-based system that (1) includes one or more sensors for
detecting an object in an area and (2) is configured to monitor and
regulate the robotic positioning of the ordered item.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein delivery is made with a driverless
vehicle.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in a driverless
vehicle.
4. The method of claim 2 wherein delivery includes robotic
positioning of the at least one ordered item in the locked storage
container.
5. The method of claim 2 wherein the driverless vehicle is equipped
with a Global Positioning System adapted to establish an itinerary
from the origin to the storage container(s).
6. The method of claim 1 wherein the origin of the ordered goods is
equipped with a robotic positioner.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the storage container is equipped
with a robotic positioner
8. The method of claim 1 wherein the driverless vehicle is capable
of receiving the location of and driving to the storage
container.
9. The method of claim 5 wherein the driverless vehicle includes a
memory unit adapted to store the itinerary.
10. The method of claim 7 wherein the driverless vehicle includes a
processor to execute the itinerary.
11. The method of claim 2 wherein the driverless vehicle is powered
by an internal combustion engine, electric engine or hybrid
thereof.
12. The method of claim 2 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.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the sensor-based system comprises
one of the group comprising: a camera, a laser, and a radar sensor.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/584,053, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/382,926, filed Sep. 2, 2016, the entire contents
and disclosures of both are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] The recent upsurge in e-commerce whereby a consumer accesses
a website over the Internet to purchase goods for delivery to the
home, office or other site has created a need for secure
systems/methods for scheduling and tracking deliveries of the
purchased items, as well as for providing a safe and secure site
for receipt of the goods when they are delivered to an unoccupied
site. The convenience of being able to avoid making trips to a
brick and mortar store or outlet to purchase goods, and having the
goods delivered to home, office or other site is off-set by the
problems surrounding the secure delivery of the goods to the
purchaser. If the purchaser is not available on-site to receive the
goods, delivery must either be re-scheduled or the goods must be
left unsecured at the site, thereby being subject to theft or
damage.
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 6,933,832, the entire contents and disclosure
of which are incorporated by reference herein, describes a system
and method which enables the delivery, and safe and secure receipt
of purchased items or other goods, at an unattended site.
[0004] 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.
[0005] Copending patent application Ser. No. 14/544,035, filed Feb.
2, 2015, describes an improvement in the patented system wherein
the delivery agent is a drone aircraft.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention relates to a still further improvement
in the patented system wherein delivery is accomplished robotically
and with a driverless vehicle.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a storage container.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a flow sheet depicting the steps of the method of
the invention overlaid on the main components or participants in
the method.
[0009] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the front of a storage
container.
[0010] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the rear of a storage
container.
[0011] FIG. 5 is a cut-away view of the interior of a storage
container.
[0012] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a system utilizing a computer
as the controller between the electronic key to the storage
appliance and the communications network.
[0013] FIG. 7 is a simplified flow chart of the delivery
method.
[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an example environment for automated,
robotic delivery by a driverless vehicle as well as systems and
methods for automated delivery using the vehicle.
[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates is a flow chart illustrating a method for
automated, robotic delivery, in accordance to certain example
embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 10 is a block diagram depicting a system, in accordance
with certain example embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] 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.
[0018] The present invention is predicated on the unexpected
discovery that the method for 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, 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 can be vastly improved where
delivery to the locked storage container comprises a system and
method for robotic delivery with a driverless vehicle.
[0019] The method of the invention is predicated on the provision
of a system and method which include and comprise 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] 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.
[0024] 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
[0025] 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.
[0026] 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.
[0027] The method of the invention is predicated on the provision
of at least one locked storage container which is accessible by
means of an identifier which unlocks an entry door to the interior
of the locked storage container.
[0028] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that an
"identifier" includes a physical device, such as a key, electronic
key, smart card, magnetic card, or similar device carried or
transported by a delivery agent; a biometric property such as
fingerprint, voice recognition, retinal scan of a delivery person;
wireless communication options such as any duplex, half-duplex, or
full-duplex communication method including but not limited to: Near
Field Communications (NFC), WiFi, Bluetooth, Radio, RFID, Mesh
Networking Protocols (i.e. FabFi, G.hn, etc.), Ethernet, Telephone,
Fiber Optic, Optical, Barcode, QR Code, or any combination of
methods, or any other element which operates to unlock the
appliance, locker or device upon being sensed and identified by the
latter.
[0029] According to the improved method of the invention,
identification may be supplied by the driverless delivery vehicle.
A typical location for the locked storage container is near or
affixed to the exterior of a home or office. The locked storage
container is capable of receiving and storing goods for delivery or
pickup with a level of security preventing unauthorized entry or
theft and with protection against pests and unfavorable weather
conditions. The locked storage container may be equipped with
multiple storage areas, some of which may be cooled or heated. The
container may be free-standing, secured to a fixed location or
affixed to a structure.
[0030] The locked storage container is preferably in electronic
communication with a computer or computer network by any of a
variety of means, including, but not limited to a telephonic
signal, television cable, computer network cable, radio signal or
the like.
[0031] The locked storage container receives and transmits data to
the computer or computer network via a "scheduler" which is capable
of organizing and recording a schedule of deliveries and pickups
utilizing the appliance, locker or device and transmitting
instructions to the appliance allowing it to identify an identifier
authorized to access the appliance in accordance with a schedule.
The locked storage container is preferably identifiable by the
computer or computer network with which it is communicating by
identification number, name or location. Each locked storage
container is also preferably associated with a particular
customer's account records.
[0032] Still another embodiment of the invention comprises a method
and system of scheduling and tracking deliveries, of receiving
deliveries utilizing a specialized device, of making and processing
payment, of inventorying items scheduled for delivery and items
delivered and of making information about deliveries available
through a variety of means. Users of the method and system may be
entities desiring to make deliveries and/or to receive deliveries.
Users of the method and system may schedule delivery, track
shipment and delivery, make secure delivery via a specialized
appliance, locker or device, make and confirm payment, inventory
items scheduled for delivery and delivered. Users of the method and
system may access data regarding the appliance, device or locker
and/or delivery location stored on the computer or computer network
and accessed by a variety of means including telephone, radio,
computer network or the Internet. The type of data which may be
accessed includes, but is not limited to, data concerning the
location of the locked storage container and alternative delivery
locations, the capacity and type of storage of the appliance, the
type and availability of storage capacity at the time and date of
intended delivery and special instructions or other information
pertaining to the delivery appliance and location and method of
payment.
[0033] The present invention may alternately be described as a
method or system of a driverless vehicle delivery to one of a
plurality of locked storage containers, each associated with a
corresponding customer, using a delivery system including a
scheduler, the steps including: ordering a first delivery of one or
more goods for a first customer associated with a first locked
storage container of the plurality of locked storage containers;
following the ordering of the first delivery, determining the
availability of the first locked storage container to receive the
first delivery at one or more times by use of the scheduler;
identifying, using the scheduler, a first time interval during
which the first delivery can be made; and the delivery system
sending to the first locked storage container an access signal
allowing a first driverless delivery vehicle to access the first
locked storage container only during the first time interval. The
steps include: ordering a second delivery of one or more goods for
the first customer; following the ordering of the second delivery,
determining the availability of the first locked storage container
to receive the second delivery at one or more times by use of the
scheduler; identifying, using the scheduler, a second time interval
during which the second delivery can be made; and the delivery
system sending to the first locked storage container an access
signal allowing a second driverless delivery vehicle to access the
first locked storage container only during the second time
interval.
[0034] A delivery can be ordered for one or more goods for a second
customer associated with a second locked storage container of the
plurality of locked storage containers. Following the ordering of
the last-mentioned delivery, the availability of the second locked
storage container to receive the last-mentioned delivery at one or
more times by use of the schedule is determined. The method
identifies, using the scheduler, a second customer time interval
during which the last-mentioned delivery can be made; and the
delivery system sends to the second locked storage container an
access signal allowing a driverless vehicle which is delivering the
last-mentioned delivery to access the second locked storage
container only during the second customer time interval. The first
driverless vehicle opens the first locked storage container using
an identifier corresponding to the first driverless vehicle and the
second driverless vehicle opens the first locked storage container
using an identifier corresponding to the second driverless delivery
vehicle.
[0035] Following the ordering, the size of the delivery is
determined using the delivery system. Available room within the
first locked storage container is checked by use of the delivery
system. Upon availability as indicated by the checking step, the
delivery system reserves sufficient room within the first locked
storage container to receive the delivery.
[0036] Following the first delivery, an account of the first
customer is charged for the first delivery to the first locked
storage container signaling the delivery system of the insertion of
the first delivery into the first locked storage container. The
first locked storage container signals the delivery system of the
insertion of the first delivery into the first locked storage
container based on access by the first driverless delivery
vehicle.
[0037] The invention may alternately be described as a method and
system of delivery of ordered items to a plurality of locked
storage containers by driverless delivery vehicles using a delivery
system, the steps including: ordering a delivery of one or more
goods to a first customer; following the ordering, determining the
size of the delivery using the delivery system; checking available
room within a first locked storage container of the plurality of
locked storage containers, the first locked storage container
corresponding to the first customer, by use of the delivery system;
upon availability, reserving, by operation of the delivery system,
sufficient room within the first locked storage container to
receive the delivery; and delivering the delivery to within the
first locked storage container. Upon finding that the available
room within the first locked storage container is insufficient for
the size of the delivery, the ordered delivery is divided into at
least first and second partial deliveries for separate delivery
upon there being available room. The delivery system includes a
scheduler and the method further includes the steps of: following
the ordering of the delivery, determining the availability of the
first locked storage container to receive the first and parts at
one or more times by use of the scheduler; identifying, using the
scheduler, a first time interval during which the first partial
delivery can be made and a second time interval during which the
second partial delivery can be made; and the delivery system
sending to the first locked storage container an access signal
allowing access to the first locked storage container only during
the first time interval for delivery of the first partial delivery
and during the second time interval for delivery of the second
partial delivery. Prior to dividing the ordered delivery, input is
received from the customer indicating the customer's preference for
a complete delivery or delivery in multiple portions; and the
scheduler schedules delivery according to the customer's
preference. The method of further includes the step of: charging an
account of the first customer for a delivery upon the locked
storage container signaling the delivery system of the insertion of
a delivery into the locked storage container.
[0038] The invention may alternately be described as a method for
delivery of ordered items to a plurality of locked storage
containers by driverless delivery vehicles using a delivery system,
the steps including: ordering a delivery of one or more goods to a
customer; delivering the delivery to within one of the locked
storage containers corresponding to the customer; and automatically
sending a DELIVERY MADE signal from the one of the locked storage
containers signaling the delivery system of the insertion of the
delivery into the one of the locked storage containers. Upon the
delivery system receiving the DELIVERY MADE signal, the delivery
system performs one or more steps selected from the group
consisting of: charging an account of the customer for the
delivery; and automatically initiating a communication to the
customer. The delivery system includes a scheduler and further
includes the steps of: following the ordering, determining the
availability of the one of the locked storage containers to receive
the delivery at one or more times by use of the scheduler;
identifying, using the scheduler, a first time interval during
which the delivery can be made; and the delivery system sending to
the one of the locked storage containers an access signal allowing
a first driverless delivery vehicle to access one of the locked
storage containers only during the first time interval. The method
further includes the steps of: following the ordering, determining
the size of the delivery using the delivery system; and checking
available room with the one of the locked storage containers by use
of the delivery system.
[0039] The delivery system of the present invention may be
described as including: at least one locked storage container
corresponding to a customer, an order receiver for receiving orders
for delivery by a driverless delivery vehicle of one or more goods
for customer; availability determiner for determining the
availability of the locked storage container to receive deliveries
at one or more times; a scheduler receiving availability
information from the availability determiner and operable to
identify a time interval during which the delivery can be made and
operable to send to a locked storage container an access signal
allowing a driverless delivery vehicle that is delivering a
delivery to access the locked storage container only during the
time interval identified by the scheduler, wherein the storage
container is equipped with an element for receiving the access
signal and loading docks whereby a driverless delivery vehicle may
dock therewith, access the interior of a locked storage container
and robotically deliver goods thereinto.
[0040] The locked storage container of the present invention is an
appliance equipped as described above with loading docks for a
driverless delivery vehicle to dock therewith and securely deliver
goods/items therein robotically, without requiring a person in
attendance to accept delivery and which includes: a storage
container; a lock controlling access to the storage container; and
a communication link connected to the lock and operable to receive
an access signal from a remote location to allow access to the
storage container; and wherein the lock is responsive to the
communication link receiving the access signal by unlocking upon
presentation of an identifier such as described above.
[0041] FIG. 1 shows an appliance 10 according to the present
invention. The appliance 10 is a locked storage container with a
door handle 12 and an electronic lock 14. The lock 14 may be
accessed by a universal key, other physical device or other
identifier (including biometric properties as discussed above). The
lock 14 is capable of identifying electronically or by other means
the key (more generally the identifier) being used for unlocking or
opening the appliance. However, in the preferred design the
appliance 10 is capable of identifying specific keys authorized for
entry and/or permitting access by unlocking the door based on
instructions communicated to it by a scheduler, remotely located.
The scheduler is connected to lock 14 via communications link 16
such as a modem or other interface to the telephone system, the
internet or other communications, and discussed in more detail
below. The appliance is also capable of denying entry to keys not
authorized for delivery or not authorized for delivery at that
time. The appliance is preferably capable of recording and/or
transmitting a log or other itemized listing of authorized and
unauthorized attempt(s) at opening the appliance and may include
among other information the electronic identity of each key, the
date and time of the attempt.
[0042] The access to appliance 10 may be explained by an example. A
first driverless delivery vehicle working for a first company may
have an electronic key, such as a smart card or magnetic card,
unique to that vehicle. Alternately, and in lieu of the key or
other physical access device, a biometric property (such as
fingerprint, voice pattern, retinal pattern) of the delivery person
may be read by an optional biometric sensor 15. A second driverless
delivery vehicle working for a second company may have an
electronic key, such as a smart card or magnetic card, unique to
the second company. The first driverless delivery vehicle may be
scheduled for accessing the appliance 10 during a first time
interval such as between 9 AM and 12 noon on a given day, whereas
the second driverless delivery vehicle may be scheduled for
accessing the appliance 10 during a second time interval such as
between 1 PM and 4 PM on the same day. Under such circumstances,
the lock 14 could only be opened by the first driverless delivery
vehicle's electronic key (not shown) during the first time
interval, whereas the lock 14 could only be opened by the second
driverless delivery vehicle's electronic key (not shown) during the
second time interval. This assumes that the scheduler switches the
lock 14 into an access state in which it is unlockable by an
electronic key. Alternately, the scheduler could simply unlock the
lock 14 so that a driverless delivery vehicle could insert items in
the appliance without needing a lock.
[0043] The time intervals might be much longer then the several
hour time intervals above. For example, a time interval of 24 or
more hours for a delivery might be used. Further, the first and
second time intervals might overlap or even be identical (i.e., two
deliveries scheduled for the same time interval).
[0044] In a typical use of the device, system and method of the
invention, and with particular reference to FIG. 2, a flow chart is
shown overlaid on the main components or participants linked as
shown. Discussing first, the main components or participants, the
customer 18 is linked to website/retail partner 20 which in turn is
linked to a scheduler website software 22 and delivery partner 24.
The delivery partner 24 in turn is linked to website/retail partner
20 and also to the customer's home delivery attendant 26. The
various illustrated links between 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26 would
preferably be internet links, but telephone or other links could
also be used for some or all of the links. It should be understood
that the components 18 through 26 are shown for a particular
customer, but in practice there would be a plurality of customers
18 each having an associated home delivery attendant 26.
Additionally, the scheduler website/software may interact with a
plurality of retail outlets 20 and a plurality of delivery partners
24. For example, there may be a retailer 20 for books, a different
retailer 20 for clothing, and numerous other retailers, some
competitive with others, all linked to the scheduler 22. The
various delivery partners may be specialized on a geographic basis,
a delivery basis (i.e., one delivers within one day, another
delivers within three days, etc.), and possibly by the type of
delivery being made. As will be discussed below, some orders may
involve goods requiring special handling such as refrigeration in
transit and the delivery partner delivering such goods may need a
refrigerator section in a delivery truck.
[0045] Turning now to the flow chart part of FIG. 2, the steps are
numbered 28 to 50, steps 40 and 44 being within a common box. At
box 28, a consumer accesses an e-commerce website over the Internet
to purchase goods for home delivery. The consumer identifies
himself/herself as an account holder. The retailer/vendor 20
electronically looks up and verifies the account of the consumer
against a register or database of accounts made available on-line
by the scheduler 22. An account holder is an authorized user of an
appliance(s) 10 (FIG. 1 only) capable of unattended
receipt/delivery and of electronically communicating with a
specialized computer program (scheduler) which schedules deliveries
to the appliance and reports deliveries to the account holder. The
consumer selects items for purchase and delivery and fills an
electronic shopping cart.
[0046] It will be understood that the invention also contemplates
delivery of items ordered by telephone, mail, or in person at a
retail store. The invention also may be used for receiving items
that do not involve a commercial transaction. For example, a
neighbor could return a borrowed item to the person owning the
storage container.
[0047] As the shopping cart is loaded with goods selected, the
estimated total size of the bundle of items as measured by the
dimensions of height, width and depth is calculated (with software
provided by the scheduler) based on information provided by the
seller. Accessing information (provided by the scheduler over a
computer network of the Internet) regarding the type and capacity
of the appliance and the estimated remaining capacity of the
appliance at the projected time/date of delivery, the estimated
size of the bundle of items is compared against the total volume
(including the various dimensions) of space remaining available in
the consumer's designated appliance(s) on the time/date of the
proposed date of delivery. Thus, an order that has a length of 5
feet will require 5 feet available within the appliance 10. If the
volume or any dimension of the order exceeds available capacity,
the consumer is given the option of splitting the delivery into two
or more deliveries, of rescheduling the delivery for another time
when capacity is available, or of removing items from the shopping
cart.
[0048] The retailer or seller notifies the consumer of the final
purchase price including shipping and handling. At step 30, the
consumer authorizes the purchase and indicates method of payment.
The consumer may arrange for payment to seller directly or by debit
or credit accounts linked to the consumer's account. The seller
finalizes the sale. At block 32, the seller notifies the scheduler
22 (a specialized computer program running on a delivery system
computer) of the time/date of the intended delivery and the
estimated size of the bundle of items. The scheduler reserves the
capacity in the designated appliance for the scheduled time/date of
the delivery. The seller also electronically provides to the
scheduler (in format specified by the scheduler) an inventory of
items purchased, itemized prices of each item purchased, itemized
shipping and handling costs, and any other information permitted by
the scheduler including coupon or "cents off" offers and other
advertising and promotional information. This information provided
by the seller may be made accessible by the scheduler to the
consumer by a variety of means and formats, including computer
networks, the Internet, electronic mail, telephone or printed
matter.
[0049] The seller prepares the order for shipment. If any of the
items are unavailable at the time that the order is being filled or
if other items are added to the shipment for any reason, the
estimated size of the bundle of items is adjusted. At step 34, the
seller accesses information provided by the scheduler regarding the
then available capacity at the time/date of delivery. If space is
available, the shipment is scheduled at step 36. If space is
unavailable, the shipment is adjusted interactively until available
space capacity can be confirmed and reserved. At step 38, the
seller electronically provides to the scheduler information to
update the order, including any shipping information, routing or
tracking numbers, etc., and any additional advertising or
promotional information.
[0050] Preceding the time/date of each scheduled delivery, the
scheduler communicates at step 40 electronic instructions to the
appliance to permit entry to delivery personnel using a key which
is identified by the appliance and matches a key authorized for
entry for the scheduled delivery at that date/time (a time interval
within an assigned date, or optionally, more than one date). If a
key does not match a key authorized for entry at that time/date,
entry will be denied. Once entry is gained for an authorized key,
that key will be locked out until re-authorized.
[0051] When a delivery is made to the appliance 10 at step 42, the
appliance communicates to the scheduler (by sending a "delivery
made" signal) that the delivery was completed at step 44. Debit or
credit sales at the point of delivery are processed for payment
(costs of the goods and/or delivery applied to an account of the
customer) at step 46. The scheduler updates the consumer's account
with the time/date of receipt. The vendor selling the goods or
service making the delivery may also provide information to the
customer's account regarding the time/date of delivery, promotional
material and other information specified above, including a "thank
you" for the purchase at step 48.
[0052] The scheduler updates the consumer's account with various
information regarding each purchase and scheduled delivery at step
50. The consumer may access this information through a variety of
means including a computer network, an email, the Internet (i.e.,
checking a web page), a text message to the consumer's pager, or
telephone. The consumer may review his/her account through a
variety of views including available capacity by time period,
committed capacity by time period, chronological list of scheduled
deliveries, chronological list of scheduled deliveries by vendor,
chronological list of scheduled deliveries by vendor classification
(i.e., groceries, dry cleaning, etc.), deliveries made, deliveries
missed, inventory of items ordered or delivered (by vendor, vendor
classification, time period, etc.), inventory of items ordered but
not shipped, calculation of costs (by vendor, vendor type, time
period, method of payment, shipping and handling, etc.).
[0053] The consumer account holder may request to be notified at
various stages of the shipping and delivery process. In addition to
information, which is updated to the consumer's account and
available by means previously specified, the notification may be
made via electronic mail, voice or text pager, er telephone, smart
phone, Ipad type device or an app.
[0054] Although the discussion refers to consumers placing the
orders, it will be understood that the person ordering may also be
a business customer ordering supplies for a business.
[0055] Turning now to FIGS. 2-5, the appliance 10 details will be
discussed. Door handle 12 and electronic lock 14 are on the front
of the appliance 10 and would be used by delivery persons to access
the appliance via a front door 15. Door handle 52 and key lock 54
would be used by the customer (i.e., appliance owner) to access the
rear door 55 of the appliance 10. In practice, the appliance 10 may
have its front door 15 on the outside of a house (not shown) with
the rear door 55 on the inside of the house. In that case, the
appliance would fit in an opening in the wall of the house in
similar fashion to some room air conditioners. The inside of the
appliance 10 includes an insulated compartment 56 where items such
as hot food (pizza, etc.) may maintain their heat. Dry goods or
bulk items may be placed within compartment 58 which is subdivided
by a shelf 60. A refrigerated compartment 62 and dry cleaning
section 64 with a bar 66 for hanging clothes are also included.
Although not separately shown, a heated compartment and a freezer
compartment may also be included.
[0056] Turning now to FIG. 6, the electronic lock 14 is connected
to a computer/controller 68 that is in the appliance 10. The
computer/controller 68, which may operate solenoids or other
actuators (not shown) in order to unlock lock 14 or render it
accessible (i.e., ready to be unlocked) via electronic key 70,
communicates via communication link 16 with the scheduler 22. The
link 16 may connect to scheduler 22 via the internet, telephone
system, cable, wireless or other technique.
[0057] A digital signature 71 may be stored within computer 68 and
may be used for acknowledging special deliveries. For example, the
delivery of certain pharmaceutical goods may require a signature to
acknowledge receipt. Upon the insertion of a pharmaceutical
delivery (or any other delivery where signature is desired or
required), the computer 68 may send, as part of a DELIVERY MADE
signal, an appended digital signature to authenticate the delivery.
Alternately, the electronic key 70 may be part of or connected to a
small computer carried by the delivery person and operable to
receive the digital signature acknowledging receipt of the
delivery. Recent changes in the law in the United States, among
other countries, may allow such digital signatures to be used in
situations where written signatures were previously used.
[0058] Turning now to FIG. 7, but also considering FIG. 2, a flow
chart of some key aspects of the method of the present invention
will be discussed. Except as otherwise noted the steps in FIG. 7
are performed by scheduler 22. The order is placed at step 72 by a
customer on his/her computer which communicates it to the scheduler
22. At block 74, the scheduler 22 determines the dimensions of the
order. These dimensions may have been supplied to scheduler 22 by
the retailer 20. At block 76, the scheduler 22 compares the
dimensions of the order with the available space within the
appliance 10 for a given time period. The scheduler may keep a
running total of space available within the appliance. Alternately,
the computer 68 of FIG. 6 may keep a running total of space
available that is supplied, upon automated request, to the
scheduler.
[0059] If block 76 determines that not enough space is available,
control goes to block 78 where the order is divided into two or
more portions for separate delivery before returning to block
74.
[0060] Once block 76 determines that sufficient space is available,
control goes to block 80 where space for the delivery is reserved.
Next, block 82 sends an access signal from the scheduler 22 to the
appliance 10 such that a driverless delivery vehicle may unlock it
during a prescribed time interval. Block 84 indicates that the
delivery is made, after which block 86 corresponds to the computer
68 of the appliance 10 sending a delivery made signal to the
scheduler. Upon receipt of the signal indicating delivery, the
scheduler 22 or another part of the delivery system computer on
which the scheduling software runs, sends a charge account signal.
The charge account signal debits or charges the customer's account
for the delivery which had just been made.
[0061] FIG. 8 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.
[0062] 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.
[0063] 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 and/or
the driverless delivery vehicle 200. Optionally, the processor 150
may store the order 160 to a database.
[0064] 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.
[0065] 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.
[0066] FIG. 9 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.
[0067] 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 by the processor.
[0068] FIG. 10 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.
[0069] 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.
[0070] 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.
[0071] 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.
[0072] The tracking system 1026 tracks the OG dynamically in real
time with complete information about its location, orientation, and
other physical parameters.
[0073] 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.
[0074] 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.
[0075] 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.
[0076] 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.
[0077] 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.
[0078] Although specific embodiments have been described above in
detail, the description is merely for purposes of illustration. It
should be appreciated, therefore, that many aspects described above
are not intended as required or essential elements unless
explicitly stated otherwise. Modifications of, and equivalent
components or acts corresponding to, the disclosed aspects of the
example embodiments, in addition to those described above, can be
made by a person of ordinary skill in the art, having the benefit
of the present disclosure, without departing from the spirit and
scope of embodiments defined in the following claims, the scope of
which is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to
encompass such modifications and equivalent structures.
* * * * *