An apparatus is provided for detecting duplicate travel. The apparatus may include at least one memory and at least one processor configured to detect a travel path of a vehicle based in part on received items of location data. The processor is also configured to determine whether the travel path is associated with a defined street segment including a plurality of location points corresponding to a street. The processor is further configured to determine whether the vehicle travels the street multiple times in a predefined time period. The processor is further configured to superimpose visible indicia on the defined street segment in response to detecting that the vehicle traveled the street multiple times during the predefined time period. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided.
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for shifting, orienting, organizing, and/or routing objects including parcels and packages. In different aspects, the systems can shift objects, re-orient the objects, e.g., based on dimensions and/or geometries, and then can deposit the objects into transport receptacles used for additional shifting, organizing, and/or routing. In one aspect, an object-orienting mechanism includes a pivot-assembly having a plurality of pivoting-extensions, e.g., that can be independently rotated into different positions, e.g., to manipulate a package. In another aspect, a bin for holding objects includes a base, a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base, and a releasing mechanism that is adjustable into different configurations. In another aspect, a method of re-orienting objects onto a side of smallest dimension or cross-section is provided. This can be used to increase the efficiency of processing objects, e.g., in a logistics network operation.
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for shifting, orienting, organizing, and/or routing objects including parcels and packages. In different aspects, the systems can shift objects, re-orient the objects, e.g., based on dimensions and/or geometries, and then can deposit the objects into transport receptacles used for additional shifting, organizing, and/or routing. In one aspect, an object-orienting mechanism includes a pivot-assembly having a plurality of pivoting- extensions, e.g., that can be independently rotated into different positions, e.g., to manipulate a package. In another aspect, a bin for holding objects includes a base, a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base, and a releasing mechanism that is adjustable into different configurations. In another aspect, a method of re-orienting objects onto a side of smallest dimension or cross- section is provided. This can be used to increase the efficiency of processing objects, e.g., in a logistics network operation.
B65G 47/252 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors orientating the articles by turning over or inverting them about an axis substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction
B65G 47/40 - Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyors by dumping, tripping, or releasing load-carriers by tilting conveyor buckets
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for autonomously performing and/or facilitating drone diagnostic functions. Prior to a mission of a UAV, an inspection station comprising at least one imaging sensor and at least one directional force sensor may be used to perform a plurality of air worthiness inspections and/or maintenance checks with little to no human intervention. Once the UAV has been determined to be air worthy, it is approved for a subsequent mission.
G07C 5/00 - Registering or indicating the working of vehicles
G07C 5/08 - Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle, or waiting time
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for optimizing package delivery and confimiation are disclosed. In one embodiment, the system's processors accesses a first image of an assigned delivery location captured by a first computing device. The first image comprises an annotation indicating a specific location at the assigned delivery location for delivery of a parcel. At a display device of a second computing device, a real-time image stream comprising the annotation is captured by a camera of the second computing device is displayed. The annotation is overlaid within the real-time image stream based on comparing the first image received from the first computing device to the real-time image stream. The system further captures, from the real-time image stream, a second image when the parcel is positioned at the specific location based on the annotation overlaid within the real-time image stream.
G06Q 10/0832 - Special goods or special handling procedures, e.g. handling of hazardous or fragile goods
G06V 20/70 - Labelling scene content, e.g. deriving syntactic or semantic representations
G09G 5/397 - Arrangements specially adapted for transferring the contents of two or more bit-mapped memories to the screen simultaneously, e.g. for mixing or overlay
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for optimizing package delivery and confirmation are disclosed. In one embodiment, the system's processors accesses a first image of an assigned delivery location captured by a first computing device. The first image comprises an annotation indicating a specific location at the assigned delivery location for delivery of a parcel. At a display device of a second computing device, a real-time image stream comprising the annotation is captured by a camera of the second computing device is displayed. The annotation is overlaid within the real-time image stream based on comparing the first image received from the first computing device to the real-time image stream. The system further captures, from the real-time image stream, a second image when the parcel is positioned at the specific location based on the annotation overlaid within the real-time image stream.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
G06V 10/74 - Image or video pattern matching; Proximity measures in feature spaces
G06V 10/82 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using neural networks
H04N 7/18 - Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
Systems and methods for facilitating the sorting of assets to sort locations. In various embodiments, a sort employee scans an asset indicia using a user device, which stores asset data corresponding to the stored asset. As the sort employee nears a sort location (e.g., a delivery vehicle) with the asset and the user device, the user device automatically communicates wirelessly with a sort location receiver to associate the asset data with data indicative of the sort location where the user deposits the asset. In various embodiments, a device may determine whether the user device is proximate the appropriate sort location for the item, and may generate an alert upon a determination that the user device is proximate an incorrect sort location.
G01S 5/02 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations using radio waves
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
An apparatus may automatically move one or more assets to or from one or more storage units to or from a delivery bot. The apparatus and the one or more storage units and the delivery bot may be stored in a logistics vehicle. The delivery bot may be configured to deliver or pick up the one or more assets to or from one or more delivery or pickup locations that are outside of the logistics vehicle.
Methods and apparatus for determining a parcel position error based on a comparison of load data and configuration data are provided. Embodiments describe a number of methods of determining the parcel position error such as by determining a parcel path from the load data.
G06Q 50/28 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading, distribution or shipping
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 19/07 - Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards with integrated circuit chips
G06Q 10/0631 - Resource planning, allocation, distributing or scheduling for enterprises or organisations
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to specific, networked, and technological processes and operations. For example, various embodiments are directed to a distributed and collaborative planning tool that allows users to create events based on a presently-approved production plan, enable/disable events submitted by other users, submit proposals, approve proposals, and integrate proposals to update the presently-approved production plan. An event published by a first user is communicated to other users using a single, universal framework that tracks and communicates proposed changes between remote users and their associated client devices during the planning cycle without the need to store multiple iterations of full-size production plans.
A multiple hoist system is used with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for delivering parcels. An example of the multiple hoist system comprises two or more hoists that are independently operable, meaning that a first hoist can lower or raise a first line independently of using a second hoist to raise or lower a second line. The hoists can independently raise and lower their associated lines to allow the UAV to deliver multiple parcels to multiple delivery locations, or the hoists can synchronously raise and lower the associated lines together so that larger parcels can be delivered using the UAV. The hoists can be comprised within a body of the multiple hoist system. The body can further include a securing device for releasably securing the multiple hoist system to the UAV.
Provided are embodiments for providing analytics indicative of object detection or fill-level detection at or near real-time based on video data captured during an unloading or loading process. A computerized system may detect and classify, using an object-detection machine learning (ML) model, an object based on the video data. A computerized system may further determine, using a fill-level ML model, a fill-level of the storage compartment based on a comparison of edges of the storage compartment to a total dimension corresponding to the edge. In this manner, the various implementations described herein provide a technique for computing systems employing image processing and machine learning techniques to a video data stream to generate analytics associated with the unloading or loading process at or near real-time.
A modular unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system comprises a body module, a rotor module, and a wing module. The body module includes a flight controller and a power distribution device. The body module is releasably attachable to the rotor module or the wing module, and the body module is releasably attachable to the rotor module. The rotor module includes one or more motors and electronic speed controllers (ESCs), while the wing module includes a wing having a flap, elevator, aileron, or rudder. Various UAV configurations can be formed from the body module, the rotor module, and the wing module. Each configuration includes different advantages for flight time, distance, battery life, and payload capacity. A UAV can be configured to a particular configuration to optimize parcel delivery.
Provided are embodiments for providing analytics indicative of object detection or fill-level detection at or near real-time based on video data captured during an unloading or loading process. A computerized system may detect and classify, using an object-detection machine learning (ML) model, an object based on the video data. A computerized system may further detennine, using a fill-level ML model, a fill-level of the storage compaitnient based on a comparison of edges of the storage compaitnient to a total dimension corresponding to the edge. In this manner, the various implementations described herein provide a technique for computing systems employing image processing and machine learning techniques to a video data stream to generate analytics associated with the unloading or loading process at or near real-time.
G06V 20/40 - Scenes; Scene-specific elements in video content
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G06F 3/0481 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] based on specific properties of the displayed interaction object or a metaphor-based environment, e.g. interaction with desktop elements like windows or icons, or assisted by a cursor's changing behaviour or appearance
G06Q 50/40 - Business processes related to the transportation industry (shipping G06Q 10/83)
15.
ELECTRONICALLY CONNECTABLE PACKAGING SYSTEMS CONFIGURED FOR SHIPPING ITEMS
Various embodiments are directed to methods and systems for initiating shipment of a connected shipment/item via a computing entity. The computing entity detects the presence of a shipment/item within a communication range of the computing entity based on received wireless communications, and initializes executable instructions upon detection of the electronically connected shipment/item to initiate shipment of the shipment/item. The executable instructions cause the computing entity to store a shipment identifier for the shipment/item, request and store shipment information/data from a user for the shipment/item, and transmit the stored shipment/item information/data and the stored shipment identifier to a carrier computing entity to generate a shipment profile for the shipment/item.
Aspects herein are directed to a clamp having a linkage coupled to a first end of a first and second clamp member. Based on applying a first directional force to the linkage, the linkage generates a force that moves the second ends of the first and second clamp member towards one another, thereby biasing the clamp to the closed position. The clamp secures a strap when the clamp is in the closed position and releases the strap when the clamp is in an open position.
F16B 2/10 - Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action using pivoting jaws
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B66C 1/42 - Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surface of the articles
17.
ENFORCING DATA CONSISTENCY IN A TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
Systems and methods are described for enforcing consistency of data between disparate systems of a transportation network with verified transactions. Embodiments include receiving a transaction that is generated based on a command indicating an intent to transfer an asset from the originating hub to a destination hub. The generated transaction can include a sender identifier associated with the originating hub, an asset identifier associated with the asset, and a detected location of the asset. The received transaction is communicated to any node of the plurality of nodes that are configured store it onto a distributed ledger based on a determined verification that the included detected location corresponds to a location associated with the included sender identifier.
Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and computer program products for providing dynamic real-time verification and validation of data associated with the receiving, loading, and positioning of a plurality of containers upon a transport vehicle. One or more computer processors are configured to: receive actual load data associated with at least one container; retrieve at least a portion of expected load data associated with the container for which actual load data has been received; verify the actual weight of the one of the plurality of packages and in response to a successful verification identifying no load weight discrepancies, validate the actual load position of the one of the plurality of packages. In response to a successful validation, at least one communication configured to facilitate at least one of further loading of the plurality of packages may be generated. If validation is unsuccessful, further loading may be prevented.
G06Q 10/0832 - Special goods or special handling procedures, e.g. handling of hazardous or fragile goods
G01G 19/40 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight
B64D 9/00 - Equipment for handling freight; Equipment for facilitating passenger embarkation or the like
19.
Systems, Methods, Apparatuses And Computer Program Products For Providing Notification Of Items For Pickup And Delivery
An apparatus is provided for providing notification of items for pickup at a location. The apparatus may include at least one memory and a processor(s) configured to automatically send an electronic message to a network device requesting pickup of an item(s) at a location of a user of the apparatus responsive to detecting pressing of a button on an exterior of the apparatus. The processor is also configured to receive an acknowledgement message from the network device denoting (i) confirmation that the network device received the electronic message requesting pickup of the item(s) at the location of the user and (ii) scheduled pickup of the item(s) from the location of the user at an estimated time. The processor is further configured to generate a visible indication regarding the pickup of the item(s) in response to detecting receipt of the acknowledgement message. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided.
Various embodiments employ multiple readers and tags in fixed locations in different geographical areas and/or along different storage units. This allows for more granular or precise location sensing. Particular embodiments employ multiple environment tags in various geographical locations and within multiple storage units. Using this new infrastructure setup, some embodiments can perform new functionality by predicting whether a target asset is in a particular geographical location, predict whether the asset is within a particular storage unit based on the proportion of readers mapped to that shelf which are actually reading the tag on the asset, and/or can predict where an asset's exact location in the located storage unit is based on comparing indications of signal strength values between each reader and tag in the storage unit with other indications of signal strength values between each reader and the tag that is attached to the asset.
A first feature is displayed within a first view of a user interface. A first selection of the first feature is configured to display a first set of identifiers corresponding to one or more tasks. A second feature is displayed within the first view of the user interface. A second selection of the second feature is configured to display a second set of identifiers corresponding to a set of workers. Each worker of the set of workers is associated with the one or more tasks and a first time that the one or more tasks are scheduled to be completed by. A set of status indicators are displayed. Each status indicator of the set of status indicators indicates whether the one or more tasks have been completed by the first time for the each worker of the set of workers based at least in part on the associating.
Read events capturing parcel information as a parcel is transported through a facility is received, and a configuration file mapping readers capturing the read events to workspace locations within the facility is accessed. Utilizing the read events and configuration file, one or more locations are determined for a parcel being transported through a facility. The locations may form a most likely path, or sequence of locations, through the facility. The determined locations may be utilized for generating one or more graphical user interface elements for tracking parcel and/or other operational aspects. For example, a graphical user interface may indicate errors, such as errors in the parcel's path and slowdowns, detected from the read events. Additionally, volume of parcels over time may be determined from the read events. Further, a graphical user interface may indicate employee performance based on errors and/or read events attributed to the employee.
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for selectively shifting and staging storage structures in a storage space are provided. Systems, methods, and apparatuses for dynamically organizing packages based on a travel route are also provided. In embodiments, a plurality of parcels may be stored on storage structures located within a vehicle and each storage structure may be provided in a modular assembly. During a delivery operation, the system may determine which parcels are next to be delivered and, either based on predetermined information or dynamic information, may adjust the position of the storage structures within the vehicle using shifting mechanisms and control systems coupled thereto to present the appropriate parcel for retrieval from the vehicle.
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a system, methods, and computer-readable media for automatically initiating post-delivery action based on pre-tender diagnostic test results and post-delivery diagnostic test results stored in a distributed electronic ledger for a particular item. In embodiments, the post-delivery action can include, among other things, automatically initiating a return action such as generating shipment information for a return of the item, initiating an insurance action for the item, and/or communicating an electronic notification to the item seller and/or item purchaser. The post-delivery action can be stored in the distributed electronic ledger, and the post-delivery action can electronically trigger a cascade of returns, billing, communications, and/or insurance actions, among other things.
G06F 16/27 - Replication, distribution or synchronisation of data between databases or within a distributed database system; Distributed database system architectures therefor
Providing business intelligence services; business risk management services; preparing business reports in the field of location-based package and parcel post-delivery theft risk; business consulting services in the field of package and parcel post-delivery theft risk.
26.
UPS MOVING OUR WORLD FORWARD BY DELIVERING WHAT MATTERS
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Business management; business management consulting; business administration; business management services for logistics management; logistics management for business purposes; business management services in the field of freight logistics administrative services for the monitoring and tracking of documents, and packages to ensure accurate, timely delivery; business management services, namely, managing logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain services, supply chain visibility and synchronization, supply and demand forecasting and product distribution processes for others; business assistance, advisory and consulting services relating to product distribution, transportation, shipping, operations management services, logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain and production systems and distribution solutions; administrative services relating to customs clearance; business management and consulting services; mail sorting services; data processing services; order fulfillment services; retail store services, namely stamps, office supplies, stationery, and shipping containers and envelopes; photocopying and document reproduction services; administrative support, namely, for the processing of visa quotas; administrative management, namely, for the processing of visa quotas; Organizational planning and implementation of business measures to coordinate processes involved in producing, shipping and distributing products; Business risk management; business risk management consultation; business consulting services in the field of healthcare supply chain management; business and management consulting for healthcare providers and related businesses; business consulting in the fields of healthcare operations management and hospital operations management. Transportation; transportation and delivery of goods; packaging and storage of goods; courier services; freight forwarding; packaging articles for transportation; services of transportation of letters, documents, communications, printed matter, and other goods and property by diverse means of transportation; warehousing, storage, packing, delivery and returns with respect to the foregoing; providing computerized information on domestic and international transportation and delivery services; transportation logistics; document box rental, document forwarding and receipt and delivery of documents for others; transport and delivery logistics services, namely, scheduling and processing shipments, preparing shipping documents and invoices, and tracking and tracing documents, and packages over wired and wireless computer networks, intranets and the internet; logistics management; transportation network management solution services; arranging expedited pick-up, storage, transportation and delivery services; monitoring and tracking of documents, and packages to ensure accurate, timely delivery; freight brokerage; freight and transport brokerage; freight transportation brokerage; freight transportation consultation in the field of freight transportation by truck, rail, air and ocean; supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, transportation of freight and property by land, sea, air, or rail; transportation logistics services, namely, arranging the transportation of goods for others; transportation logistics services, namely, planning and scheduling shipments for users of transportation services; transportation and distribution services, namely, delivery of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment; transport, delivery, merchandise packaging, and warehouse storage of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory supplies and equipment; warehousing services, namely, storage, distribution, pick-up, packing, and shipping of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment.
27.
MOVING OUR WORLD FORWARD BY DELIVERING WHAT MATTERS
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Business management; business management consulting; business administration; business management services for logistics management; logistics management for business purposes; business management services in the field of freight logistics administrative services for the monitoring and tracking of documents, and packages to ensure accurate, timely delivery; business management services, namely, managing logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain services, supply chain visibility and synchronization, supply and demand forecasting and product distribution processes for others; business assistance, advisory and consulting services relating to product distribution, transportation, shipping, operations management services, logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain and production systems and distribution solutions; administrative services relating to customs clearance; business management and consulting services; mail sorting services; data processing services; order fulfillment services; retail store services, namely stamps, office supplies, stationery, and shipping containers and envelopes; photocopying and document reproduction services; administrative support, namely, for the processing of visa quotas; administrative management, namely, for the processing of visa quotas; Organizational planning and implementation of business measures to coordinate processes involved in producing, shipping and distributing products; Business risk management; business risk management consultation; business consulting services in the field of healthcare supply chain management; business and management consulting for healthcare providers and related businesses; business consulting in the fields of healthcare operations management and hospital operations management. Transportation; transportation and delivery of goods; packaging and storage of goods; courier services; freight forwarding; packaging articles for transportation; services of transportation of letters, documents, communications, printed matter, and other goods and property by diverse means of transportation; warehousing, storage, packing, delivery and returns with respect to the foregoing; providing computerized information on domestic and international transportation and delivery services; transportation logistics; document box rental, document forwarding and receipt and delivery of documents for others; transport and delivery logistics services, namely, scheduling and processing shipments, preparing shipping documents and invoices, and tracking and tracing documents, and packages over wired and wireless computer networks, intranets and the internet; logistics management; transportation network management solution services; arranging expedited pick-up, storage, transportation and delivery services; monitoring and tracking of documents, and packages to ensure accurate, timely delivery; freight brokerage; freight and transport brokerage; freight transportation brokerage; freight transportation consultation in the field of freight transportation by truck, rail, air and ocean; supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, transportation of freight and property by land, sea, air, or rail; transportation logistics services, namely, arranging the transportation of goods for others; transportation logistics services, namely, planning and scheduling shipments for users of transportation services; transportation and distribution services, namely, delivery of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment; transport, delivery, merchandise packaging, and warehouse storage of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory supplies and equipment; warehousing services, namely, storage, distribution, pick-up, packing, and shipping of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment.
28.
MOVING OUR WORLD FORWARD BY DELIVERING WHAT MATTERS
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
(1) Business management services, namely, managing logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain services, supply chain visibility and synchronization, supply and demand forecasting and product distribution processes for others; data processing services in the field of transportation, delivery, logistics, and supply chain services; business management assistance services; business management consulting services; computerized tracking and tracing of packages in transit to ensure on-time delivery for business purposes; logistics management in the field of transportation and delivery services; integrated tracking and management of commercial transactions on a global computer network
(2) Storage, packaging, transportation, and delivery of documents, packages, raw materials, and other freight for others; courier services; freight forwarding; providing computerized tracing of packages in transit, namely, providing computerized status information for transportation, courier, and delivery services; providing computerized information on domestic and international transportation and delivery services; transportation and distribution services, namely, delivery of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment; transport, delivery, merchandise packaging, and warehouse storage of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory supplies and equipment; warehousing services, namely, storage, distribution, pick-up, packing, and shipping of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, surgical, laboratory and testing supplies and equipment; transportation logistics services, namely, arranging the transportation of goods for others
providing business intelligence services; business risk management services; preparing business reports in the field of location-based package and parcel post-delivery theft risk; business consulting services in the field of package and parcel post-delivery theft risk
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method comprises receiving location information for an item. The location information indicates the current physical location of the item. The method further comprises determining whether the item is located within a first configurable distance of an establishment and responsive to determining that the item is located within the first configurable distance of the establishment, requesting first location information for the consignee of the item and second location information for the consignee of the item. The method further comprises determining whether the consignee is within a second configurable distance of the establishment based at least in part on the first location information for the consignee and the second location information for the consignee and providing a notification for display via a user interface of an application executing on a customer computing entity.
Systems and methods are provided for processing requests to perform a stored procedure. A document chart is created having a unique identifier that corresponds to the stored procedure name. The document chart, being specific to the stored procedure, is populated with records that are associated with potential calls of the stored procedure. Each record comprises a key parameter and an output value, wherein the key parameter corresponds to a key that is generated based on the input parameters associated with the stored procedure call. The output value is communicated to the requesting client device without having to call the stored procedure on the targeted server.
Systems and methods are provided for creating and utilizing an improved data structure. A hierarchical or nested data structure having a recursive first set of attribute-values may be converted into a matrix data structure having a second set of non-recursive attribute-values. Utilizing the static nature of a nested data structure, values may be extracted from the first set of attribute-values and translated or converted into row values of a matrix. A plurality of binary values associated with a common set of attributes can be concatenated into a binary sequence and converted to a single decimal number with a corresponding column value representing the set of attributes. Consolidating binary attribute-values and eliminating recursive attribute information creates significantly smaller file sizes, reducing the burden on network communication links and computer storage.
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to identifying packages using existing sensors and tags present in items in a package. Various embodiments associate tags or sensors from a package with the package and compare signals from the tags and sensors read at a different time to identify the package using associated tags and sensors.
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to identifying packages using existing sensors and tags present in items in a package. Various embodiments associate tags or sensors from a package with the package and compare signals from the tags and sensors read at a different time to identify the package using associated tags and sensors.
An automatic storage and retrieval system is provided that is usable to sort, store and retrieve parcels for delivery. The system provides a multi-layered rail system allowing a high-density storage system for parcels. In some aspects, the parcels may be sorted between parcel containers in different layers, and in some aspects parcel containers may be transferred between layers, allowing individual parcels to be logically sorted and placed within a parcel container according to a delivery destination. Once at a delivery destination, the system may be used to load an unmanned delivery device, such as a robot, with a parcel container associated with the delivery destination.
An automatic storage and retrieval system is provided that is usable to sort, store and retrieve parcels for delivery. The system provides a multi-layered rail system allowing a high-density storage system for parcels. In some aspects, the parcels may be sorted between parcel containers in different layers, and in some aspects parcel containers may be transferred between layers, allowing individual parcels to be logically sorted and placed within a parcel container according to a delivery destination. Once at a delivery destination, the system may be used to load an unmanned delivery device, such as a robot, with a parcel container associated with the delivery destination.
B65G 1/10 - Storage devices mechanical with relatively-movable racks to facilitate insertion or removal of articles
B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
B65G 47/53 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices between conveyors which cross one another
B65G 61/00 - Use of pick-up or transfer devices or of manipulators for stacking or de-stacking articles not otherwise provided for
38.
Methods, apparatuses and computer program products for generating logistics zones
An apparatus is provided for generating logistics zones. The apparatus may include at least one memory and at least one processor configured to generate logistics zones responsive to receipt of a selection of a geographic area. The logistics zones are generated based on street segment attribute data. The logistics zones include a geo-fenced right zone on a right side of corresponding street segments and a geo-fenced left zone on a left side of the street segments. The processor is also configured to determine addresses in the logistics zones based on analyzing the street segment attribute data. The processor is further configured to generate a route for delivery or pickup of packages within the logistics zones based on a trace order of the logistics zones specifying a sequential order to travel within the logistics zones responsive to determining a shortest travel path. Corresponding computer program products and methods are also provided.
A system is provided for hands-free handling of at least one asset by a user. The system includes a user device configured to be worn by a user and a control system remotely located relative to the user device and configured to exchange asset-related data with the user device, the asset-related data including at least one or more notifications related to the handling of the at least one asset by the user at the asset location. The user device contains a processor configured to determine location data associated with the at least one asset and including a location for the at least one asset, the determination being based, in part, upon the obtained asset identifier data; dynamically generate and display, at the user device, one or more navigational projections configured to guide the user to the asset location; and detect handling of the at least one asset by the user.
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for locating, engaging, and shifting objects. The systems may be used to unload objects from a storage space, e.g., inside a vehicle or facility, including one associated with a logistics network operation. The systems disclosed herein may operate in automated or semi-automated fashion, e.g., at the direction of a control system associated with a computing device. The systems may further utilize shifter mechanisms that each include one or more belt-driven mechanisms and position-changing mechanisms that facilitate the locating, engaging, and shifting of objects in a storage space. The components of these systems may operate independently, or in coordination, thereby increasing the efficiency of an object-handling operation.
B65G 15/10 - Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface
41.
AUTOMATICALLY PREDICTING SHIPPER BEHAVIOR USING MACHINE LEARNING MODELS
Embodiments are disclosed for autonomously predicting shipper behavior. An example method includes the following operations. One or more learning models are generated. Shipper behavior data for at least one shipper is extracted. The shipper behavior data includes a plurality of features associated with the at least one shipper scheduled to ship one or more parcels. It is predicted whether one or more shipments will be sent or arrive at a particular time based at least in part on running the plurality of features of the at least one shipper through the one or more learning models.
G06Q 10/04 - Forecasting or optimisation specially adapted for administrative or management purposes, e.g. linear programming or "cutting stock problem"
G06F 18/21 - Design or setup of recognition systems or techniques; Extraction of features in feature space; Blind source separation
G06F 18/243 - Classification techniques relating to the number of classes
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Return management, namely, providing service locations for
consumers to return and exchange products from retailers;
return management services, namely, accepting consumer
returned products and sorting returned products; return
management services, namely, coordinating in-store returns;
return management services, namely, management of returned
merchandise provided to consumers at retail service
locations such as malls, namely, shipment processing, and
tracking and managing returns for business purposes;
business data analysis; business management services,
namely, supply chain logistics, reverse logistics, and
management of returned products; business management of
logistics for others in the field of shipping, returning,
and exchanging consumer products; management of returned and
exchanged product management services in the nature of
shipment processing, namely, preparing shipping documents
and invoices for business purposes; administrative services
relating to pick-up and drop off of consumer goods by
purchasers within retail stores and retail service locations
such as malls; data collection and data management relating
to shipping, verification, return, and exchange of consumer
products; business information services provided to
retailers and vendors for use in product return management,
validation of product return eligibility, product
authentication, and retailer product return policies;
inventory management services for others; business
management of supply chain logistics and reverse logistics
services, namely, coordinating for the storage,
transportation and delivery of goods for others by air,
rail, ship or truck. Reverse logistic services for retailers, namely, shipping
returned products to third party locations or third party
retailers; packaging articles for transportation; supply
chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely,
coordinating and facilitating the storage, transportation,
shipping and delivery of goods for others by air, rail, ship
or truck; warehousing, storage, and packing of goods and
packages for others; management of returned and exchanged
product management services in the nature of shipment
processing, namely, tracking documents, packages and freight
over computer networks, intranets and the internet for
business purposes; transportation services, namely
coordinating the pick-up and drop-off of goods at designated
or directed locations. Providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software
for facilitating exchanges and returns of products from
consumers to merchants; providing temporary use of online
non-downloadable software for enabling merchants to accept
and process exchanges and returns of products from
consumers; providing temporary use of online
non-downloadable software for accepting, processing and
managing product returns, refunds and exchanges; providing
temporary use of online non-downloadable software for data
analytics; providing temporary use of online
non-downloadable software for analyzing product returns
data; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable
software for coordinating logistics, storing, managing,
tracking, analyzing and reporting data in the field of
returns management; providing temporary use of online
non-downloadable software for customer support; providing
temporary use of online non-downloadable software for use by
retailers in conducting retail and online retail operations,
namely, software for use in retail inventory return
management; software as a service (SaaS) services, namely,
hosting software for use by retailers in conducting retail
and online retail operations, namely, software for use in
retail inventory return management.
Rule data sets are received. These rule sets are associated with constraints controlling how records that are associated with the goods are consolidated. These goods are to be received for importing. An estimate score indicative of the risk for inspection for a first set of goods that are to be imported is generated. Based at least in part on the rule data sets and the generated estimate, a plurality of records are consolidated to a single instance for the first set of goods. Based on the consolidating, a user interface is caused to be generated that renders information associated with the consolidating.
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to improving existing technologies by selecting a configuration for an asset array based on features of both the assets and a loading area. In order to select the configuration, a plurality of configurations may be generated and scored. The scores may be based on any number of factors, such as the number of return trips required, the time required to deliver all packages, or another aspect of asset loading and/or delivery. Based on the scores, a particular configuration is selected for the asset array. Instructions are provided for loading the vehicle in accordance with the set of loading area arrangements associated with the selected configuration, such as step-by-step instructions for loading each asset in a particular position and orientation may be provided to a computing device.
G06Q 10/04 - Forecasting or optimisation specially adapted for administrative or management purposes, e.g. linear programming or "cutting stock problem"
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to improving existing technologies by selecting a configuration for an asset array based on features of both the assets and a loading area. In order to select the configuration, a plurality of configurations may be generated and scored. The scores may be based on any number of factors, such as the number of return trips required, the time required to deliver all packages, or another aspect of asset loading and/or delivery. Based on the scores, a particular configuration is selected for the asset array. Instructions are provided for loading the vehicle in accordance with the set of loading area arrangements associated with the selected configuration, such as step-by-step instructions for loading each asset in a particular position and orientation may be provided to a computing device.
A multi-tiered automated parcel sortation system is utilized to sort parcels according to a common destination. A first tier includes an automated sorter configured to transport parcels from a source location to a release destination. A second tier includes accumulation containers each associated with a shipping destination, and the release destination within the first tier is a positioned directly above the accumulation container associated with the shipping destination of the parcel. Once transported to the release destination, a parcel is released into the accumulation container, and once the accumulation container is filled, the accumulation of parcels within the container is released into a third tier, which may include conveyors or autonomous guided vehicles with transport containers. In the third tier, the parcels are transported away for further processing.
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for locating, engaging, and shifting objects, to unload objects from a storage space, e.g., inside a vehicle or facility, including one associated with a logistics network operation. The systems disclosed herein may operate in automated or semi-automated fashion, e.g., at the direction of a control system associated with a computing device. The systems further utilize shifter mechanisms (88, 90, 92) that each include one or more belt-driven mechanisms and position-changing mechanisms that facilitate the locating, engaging, and shifting of objects in a storage space. The components of these systems may operate independently, or in coordination.
B65G 15/14 - Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface with two or more endless belts the load being conveyed between the belts
B65G 21/10 - Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively- movable parts; Devices for moving framework or parts thereof
B65G 47/91 - Devices for picking-up and depositing articles or materials incorporating pneumatic, e.g. suction, grippers
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to improving existing technologies by detecting engagement of the one or more components of the logistics vehicle, which may be indicative of receiving an indication that the user is performing at least a first logistics operation. At least partially in response to the detecting, various embodiments cause display, at one or more monitors, of data where the data includes one or more instructions for the user to perform at least a second logistics operation and/or the data includes a video feed of real world scenes.
G09B 9/05 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles the view from a vehicle being simulated
G06Q 50/28 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading, distribution or shipping
49.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SYNCHRONIZING DELIVERY OF RELATED PARCELS VIA A COMPUTERIZED LOCKER BANK
A synchronized delivery system for delivering parcels directly to an alternate delivery location such as a locker bank in lieu of making any delivery attempt at a primary delivery location such as a home or office. The system may deliver parcels directly to the alternate delivery location when a related parcel is currently stored at the alternate delivery location awaiting pickup. A related parcel may include a parcel addressed to the same consignee, to a related consignee (e.g., such as a neighbor, roommate, or spouse), or to another authorized to pick up parcels on behalf of the consignee. When delivering parcels to alternate deliver locations, the system may facilitate a grouping of related parcels in a single locker.
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for locating, engaging, and shifting objects. The systems may be used to unload objects from a storage space, e.g., inside a vehicle or facility, including one associated with a logistics network operation. The systems disclosed herein may operate in automated or semi-automated fashion, e.g., at the direction of a control system associated with a computing device. The systems may further utilize shifter mechanisms that each include one or more belt-driven mechanisms and position-changing mechanisms that facilitate the locating, engaging, and shifting of objects in a storage space. The components of these systems may operate independently, or in coordination, thereby increasing the efficiency of an object-handling operation.
B65G 15/10 - Conveyors having endless load-conveying surfaces, i.e. belts and like continuous members, to which tractive effort is transmitted by means other than endless driving elements of similar configuration comprising two or more co-operating endless surfaces with parallel longitudinal axes, or a multiplicity of parallel elements, e.g. ropes defining an endless surface
B65G 67/08 - Loading land vehicles using endless conveyors
51.
Systems and Methods for Supporting Regulatory Requirements for the Distribution of Controlled and Non-Controlled Items
Systems and methods for supporting regulatory requirements for the distribution of controlled and non-controlled items such as, for example, non-controlled prescriptions (Rx), medical devices, and controlled substances in countries such as the United States and Canada, are provided. The systems and methods incorporate a license verification module that is configured to perform license validation for a particular order placed for a controlled and/or non-controlled item. In certain embodiments, the license verification module compares order data to historically sorted data and if one or more discrepancies exist, validation is unsuccessful. The license verification module may further query a third party database for updated license information upon validation failure. The systems and methods further incorporate a suspicious order monitoring module that is configured to perform a plurality of checks on the order to identify the order as an “order of interest” that may be further investigated and deemed to be suspicious.
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to improving existing technologies by detecting engagement of the one or more components of the logistics vehicle, which may be indicative of receiving an indication that the user is performing at least a first logistics operation. At least partially in response to the detecting, various embodiments cause display, at one or more monitors, of data where the data includes one or more instructions for the user to perform at least a second logistics operation and/or the data includes a video feed of real world scenes.
G09B 5/06 - Electrically-operated educational appliances with both visual and audible presentation of the material to be studied
G09B 9/042 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles providing simulation in a real vehicle
G09B 9/052 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles characterised by provision for recording or measuring trainee's performance
A drone delivery system hub and method for sending for take-off and receiving for landing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The drone delivery system hub includes a center shaft frame, a parcel-conveying system supported by the center shaft frame, structural arms coupled to and extending outward from the center shaft frame in a spoke-like configuration, drone-conveying systems each supported by one of the structural arms, and a linking conveyor span. The drone-conveying system conveys the UAVs along a length of a correspond one of the structural arms toward and away from the center shaft frame. The linking conveyor span selectably rotates to different orientations between different pairs of the structural arms, selectively conveying a UAV thereon between any two of the structural arms. The linking conveyor span is located above the parcel-conveying system such for the UAV thereon to deposit and retrieve parcels from the parcel-conveying system.
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to improving existing technologies by detecting engagement of the one or more components of the logistics vehicle, which may be indicative of receiving an indication that the user is performing at least a first logistics operation. At least partially in response to the detecting, various embodiments cause display, at one or more monitors, of data where the data includes one or more instructions for the user to perform at least a second logistics operation and/or the data includes a video feed of real world scenes.
G09B 5/06 - Electrically-operated educational appliances with both visual and audible presentation of the material to be studied
G09B 9/04 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles
G09B 9/042 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles providing simulation in a real vehicle
G09B 9/052 - Simulators for teaching or training purposes for teaching control of vehicles or other craft for teaching control of land vehicles characterised by provision for recording or measuring trainee's performance
A user request associated with a first user and a shipment of one or more items is received. A prompt that the first user provide one or more biometric identifiers is provided. The prompt selectively excludes a request for billing information from the first user. A least partially in response to the providing of the prompt, at least a first biometric identifier of the first user is obtained. At least partially in response to the obtaining of the first biometric identifier of the first user, the billing information is automatically processed. Based at least in part on the automatically processing of the billing information, the user request associated with the shipment of the one or more items is completed.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for an augmented reality display using an actual image of the item. Additionally, the present disclosure provides for a proportionally dimensioned representation of the item in the augmented reality display. In some aspects, a beacon/tag/sensor-based approach may be used. In some aspects, a marker-based approach may be used.
G06T 11/60 - Editing figures and text; Combining figures or text
G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Return management, namely, providing service locations for consumers to return and exchange products from retailers; return management services, namely, accepting consumer returned products and sorting returned products; return management services, namely, coordinating in-store returns; return management services, namely, management of returned merchandise provided to consumers at retail service locations such as malls, namely, shipment processing, and tracking and managing returns for business purposes; business data analysis; business management services, namely, supply chain logistics, reverse logistics, and management of returned products; business management of logistics for others in the field of shipping, returning, and exchanging consumer products; management of returned and exchanged product management services in the nature of shipment processing, namely, preparing shipping documents and invoices for business purposes; administrative services relating to pick-up and drop off of consumer goods by purchasers within retail stores and retail service locations such as malls; data collection and data management relating to shipping, verification, return, and exchange of consumer products; business information services provided to retailers and vendors for use in product return management, validation of product return eligibility, product authentication, and retailer product return policies; inventory management services for others; business management of supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, coordinating for the storage, transportation and delivery of goods for others by air, rail, ship or truck.
(2) Reverse logistic services for retailers, namely, shipping returned products to third party locations or third party retailers; packaging articles for transportation; supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, coordinating and facilitating the storage, transportation, shipping and delivery of goods for others by air, rail, ship or truck; warehousing, storage, and packing of goods and packages for others; management of returned and exchanged product management services in the nature of shipment processing, namely, tracking documents, packages and freight over computer networks, intranets and the internet for business purposes; transportation services, namely coordinating the pick-up and drop-off of goods at designated or directed locations.
(3) Providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for facilitating exchanges and returns of products from consumers to merchants; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for enabling merchants to accept and process exchanges and returns of products from consumers; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for accepting, processing and managing product returns, refunds and exchanges; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for data analytics; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for analyzing product returns data; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for coordinating logistics, storing, managing, tracking, analyzing and reporting data in the field of returns management; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for customer support; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for use by retailers in conducting retail and online retail operations, namely, software for use in retail inventory return management; software as a service (SaaS) services, namely, hosting software for use by retailers in conducting retail and online retail operations, namely, software for use in retail inventory return management.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics services, namely, arranging for the transportation of goods for others, and scheduling shipments for users of transportation services; freight logistics management; Business management services, namely, managing logistics, reverse logistics, supply chain services, supply chain visibility and synchronization, supply and demand forecasting and product distribution processes for others Freight forwarding and brokering
59.
Predictive Parcel Damage Identification, Analysis, And Mitigation
A first parcel digital image associated with a first interaction point is received. The first parcel digital image may be associated with a first parcel being transported to or from the first interaction point. At least a second parcel digital image associated with at least a second interaction point is further be received. The second parcel digital image may be associated with the first parcel being transported to or from the second interaction point. A first parcel damage analysis is automatically generated based at least in part on analyzing the first parcel digital image and the at least second parcel image. The damage analysis can include determining whether the first parcel is damaged above or below a threshold.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities for determining/identifying confidence ratings/indicators for delivery of items. In one embodiment, this comprises determining a number of location events that occurred within a zone of confidence for delivery an item to a serviceable address; and responsive to determining the number of location events that occurred within the zone of confidence for delivery the item to the serviceable address, determining, via one or more processors, a confidence rating for delivery of the item to the serviceable address based at least in part on the number of location events that occurred within the zone of confidence.
A thermally controlled payload container for carrying payloads by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) comprising an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall forms a chamber having an open end and a closed end. The payload container also comprises a thermal control body adjacent to the inner wall and disposed between the inner wall and the outer wall. The payload container also comprises a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) extending through the outer wall from a first side of the TEC to a second side of the TEC, the first side adjacent the thermal control body and the second side coupled to an external heat sink.
A system for swapping one or more batteries includes a battery holder configured to store a first battery, wherein the battery holder further includes retainers positioned proximate a front end and a rear end of the battery holder, the retainers having a first position and a second position such that the retainers, in the first position, are configured to engage the first battery in order to dispose the first battery in a storage position in the battery holder and, in the second position, are configured to disengage from the first battery to allow the first battery to move from the storage position. The system further includes cartridges having a front end and a rear end configured to couple to at least one of the front end and the rear end of the battery holder and further configured to hold a second battery in a second enclosure.
A case for carrying loads by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) comprises a first end comprising a first cap and a first opening and a second end comprising a second cap and a second opening, the second opening being smaller than the first opening. The case also comprises a rechargeable battery pack that, when the case is secured to the UAV, is configured to provide a power source for the UAV and the first cap and the second cap each comprising at least one metal connector for providing power to the UAV.
A case for carrying loads by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) comprises a first end comprising a first cap and a first opening and a second end comprising a second cap and a second opening, the second opening being smaller than the first opening. The case also comprises a rechargeable battery pack that, when the case is secured to the UAV, is configured to provide a power source for the UAV and the first cap and the second cap each comprising at least one metal connector for providing power to the UAV.
A landing system suitable for receiving an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprises an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV). A landing surface is disposed on the AGV, and the landing system comprises a loading channel suitable for passing an object delivered by the UAV through a first loading channel opening in the landing surface. The object passes within the loading channel through to a second loading channel opening at a bottom aspect of the AGV. In this way, a UAV can land on the landing surface, and the AGV positions the object in line with a target delivery location, where the object is delivered. Aspects of the landing system comprise an electromagnet or vacuum chamber for securing the UAV to the landing surface, thereby enhancing stability of the UAV during movement of the landing system.
A system for swapping one or more batteries includes a battery holder configured to store a first battery, wherein the battery holder further includes retainers positioned proximate a front end and a rear end of the battery holder, the retainers having a first position and a second position such that the retainers, in the first position, are configured to engage the first battery in order to dispose the first battery in a storage position in the battery holder and, in the second position, are configured to disengage from the first battery to allow the first battery to move from the storage position. The system further includes cartridges having a front end and a rear end configured to couple to at least one of the front end and the rear end of the battery holder and further configured to hold a second battery in a second enclosure.
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64D 1/10 - Stowage arrangements for the devices in aircraft
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
B60L 53/80 - Exchanging energy storage elements, e.g. removable batteries
B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plant using steam, electricity, or spring force
B64F 1/22 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations installed for handling aircraft
67.
LOCKING MECHANISM AND CONTAINER FOR DELIVERING ITEMS
A canister (200) is coupled to a delivery vehicle using a rail bracket (300). The canister comprises a securing channel having a first securing channel volume (216) and a second securing channel volume (218). A width of the first securing channel volume is less than a width of the second securing channel volume. The rail bracket comprises a rotational shaft (310) having a finger (318) at one end. The rail bracket is inserted into the securing channel, and the rotational shaft is rotated. When rotated, the finger inhibits removal of the rail bracket from the securing channel, thereby providing a mechanism by which the canister can be releasably coupled to the rail bracket. The rail bracket may be provided on a delivery vehicle, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV, 400) to transport the canister and contents within it.
A canister is coupled to a delivery vehicle using a rail bracket. The canister comprises a securing channel having a first securing channel volume and a second securing channel volume. A width of the first securing channel volume is less than a width of the second securing channel volume. The rail bracket comprises a rotational shaft having a finger at one end. The rail bracket is inserted into the securing channel, and the rotational shaft is rotated. When rotated, the finger inhibits removal of the rail bracket from the securing channel, thereby providing a mechanism by which the canister can be releasably coupled to the rail bracket. The rail bracket may be provided on a delivery vehicle, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to transport the canister and contents within it.
A landing system suitable for receiving an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprises an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV). A landing surface is disposed on the AGV, and the landing system comprises a loading channel suitable for passing an object delivered by the UAV through a first loading channel opening in the landing surface. The object passes within the loading channel through to a second loading channel opening at a bottom aspect of the AGV. In this way, a UAV can land on the landing surface, and the AGV positions the object in line with a target delivery location, where the object is delivered. Aspects of the landing system comprise an electromagnet or vacuum chamber for securing the UAV to the landing surface, thereby enhancing stability of the UAV during movement of the landing system.
A thermally controlled payload container for carrying payloads by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) comprising an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall forms a chamber having an open end and a closed end. The payload container also comprises a thermal control body adjacent to the inner wall and disposed between the inner wall and the outer wall. The payload container also comprises a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) extending through the outer wall from a first side of the TEC to a second side of the TEC, the first side adjacent the thermal control body and the second side coupled to an external heat sink.
A system for swapping one or more batteries includes a battery holder configured to store a first battery, wherein the battery holder further includes retainers positioned proximate a front end and a rear end of the battery holder, the retainers having a first position and a second position such that the retainers, in the first position, are configured to engage the first battery in order to dispose the first battery in a storage position in the battery holder and, in the second position, are configured to disengage from the first battery to allow the first battery to move from the storage position. The system further includes cartridges having a front end and a rear end configured to couple to at least one of the front end and the rear end of the battery holder and further configured to hold a second battery in the second enclosure.
H01M 50/269 - Mechanical means for varying the arrangement of batteries or cells for different uses, e.g. for changing the number of batteries or for switching between series and parallel wiring
B60L 53/80 - Exchanging energy storage elements, e.g. removable batteries
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
H01M 50/204 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
H01M 50/264 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders with fastening means, e.g. locks for cells or batteries, e.g. straps, tie rods or peripheral frames
H01M 50/296 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by terminals of battery packs
H01M 50/249 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
72.
LOCKING MECHANISM AND CONTAINER FOR DELIVERING ITEMS
A canister (200) is coupled to a delivery vehicle using a rail bracket (300). The canister comprises a securing channel having a first securing channel volume (216) and a second securing channel volume (218). A width of the first securing channel volume is less than a width of the second securing channel volume. The rail bracket comprises a rotational shaft (310) having a finger (318) at one end. The rail bracket is inserted into the securing channel, and the rotational shaft is rotated. When rotated, the finger inhibits removal of the rail bracket from the securing channel, thereby providing a mechanism by which the canister can be releasably coupled to the rail bracket. The rail bracket may be provided on a delivery vehicle, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV, 400) to transport the canister and contents within it.
A thermally controlled payload container for carrying payloads by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) comprising an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall forms a chamber having an open end and a closed end. The payload container also comprises a thermal control body adjacent to the inner wall and disposed between the inner wall and the outer wall. The payload container also comprises a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) extending through the outer wall from a first side of the TEC to a second side of the TEC, the first side adjacent the thermal control body and the second side coupled to an external heat sink.
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64D 1/10 - Stowage arrangements for the devices in aircraft
B65D 81/38 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents with thermal insulation
74.
LATCHING MECHANISMS, STORAGE RECEPTACLES WITH LATCHING MECHANISMS, AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING AND USING THE SAME
Latching mechanisms, storage receptacles with latching mechanisms, and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, the latching mechanism (10) includes a first latching element (12), a second latching element (14), and a ball-locking mechanism. The ball-locking mechanism allows the first latching element to be releasably secured to the second latching element. The latching mechanism may be integrated with a frame, which may be adjustable, and which may further be integrated with a storage receptacle, e.g., one that has a storage compartment and an opening. The components of the latching mechanism may be shaped, sized, or otherwise configured to enable, and facilitate, automated and/or semi-automated handling and manipulation. The latching mechanisms, storage receptacles, and associated handling systems described herein may be used in a logistics network operation.
F16B 21/16 - Means without screw-thread for preventing relative axial movement of a pin, spigot, shaft, or the like and a member surrounding it; Stud-and-socket releasable fastenings without screw-thread by separate parts with grooves or notches in the pin or shaft
75.
SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR LOADING, SHIFTING, AND STAGING OBJECTS IN AUTOMATED OR SEMI-AUTOMATED FASHION
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.
B60P 1/38 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using endless chains or belts thereon forming the main load supporting or containing element or part thereof
B60P 1/44 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading having a loading platform thereon raising the load to the level of the load supporting or containing element
76.
SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR LOADING, SHIFTING, AND STAGING OBJECTS IN AUTOMATED OR SEMI-AUTOMATED FASHION
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.
B60P 1/38 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using endless chains or belts thereon forming the main load supporting or containing element or part thereof
77.
Latching Mechanisms, Storage Receptacles with Latching Mechanisms, and Methods of Manufacturing and Using the Same
Latching mechanisms, storage receptacles with latching mechanisms, and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, the latching mechanism includes a first latching element, a second latching element, and a ball-locking mechanism. The ball-locking mechanism allows the first latching element to be releasably secured to the second latching element. The latching mechanism may be integrated with a frame, which may be adjustable, and which may further be integrated with a storage receptacle, e.g., one that has a storage compartment and an opening. The components of the latching mechanism may be shaped, sized, or otherwise configured to enable, and facilitate, automated and/or semi-automated handling and manipulation. The latching mechanisms, storage receptacles, and associated handling systems described herein may be used in a logistics network operation.
An identifier associated with one or more assets is obtained in response to a reader component reading a tag associated with one or more assets as the one or more assets traverse a conveyor apparatus. At least partially in response to the obtaining of the identifier, a storage unit of a plurality of storage units is caused to automatically rotate to a loading location to receive the one or more assets.
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.
B60P 3/00 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
B65G 1/133 - Storage devices mechanical with article supports or holders movable in a closed circuit to facilitate insertion or removal of articles the circuit being confined in a horizontal plane
80.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR UTILIZING TELEMATICS DATA TO IMPROVE FLEET MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS
According to various embodiments, a fleet management system is provided for capturing, storing, and analyzing telematics data to improve fleet management operations. The fleet management system may be used, for example, by a shipping entity (e.g., a common carrier) to capture telematics data from a plurality of vehicle sensors located on various delivery vehicles and to analyze the captured telematics data. In particular, various embodiments of the fleet management system are configured to analyze engine idle data in relation to other telematics data in order to identify inefficiencies, safety hazards, and theft hazards in a driver's delivery process. The fleet management system may also be configured to assess various aspects of vehicle performance, such as vehicle travel delays and vehicle speeds. These analytical capabilities allow the fleet management system to assist fleet managing entities, or other entities, in analyzing driver performance, reducing fuel and maintenance costs, and improving route planning.
G07C 5/02 - Registering or indicating driving, working, idle, or waiting time only
B60R 25/34 - Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems of conditions of vehicle components, e.g. of windows, door locks or gear selectors
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions
81.
SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR LOADING, SHIFTING, AND STAGING OBJECTS IN AUTOMATED OR SEMI-AUTOMATED FASHION
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.
E05F 15/649 - Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators using rotary electromotors for horizontally-sliding wings operated by swinging arms
E05F 15/70 - Power-operated mechanisms for wings with automatic actuation
82.
LATCHING MECHANISMS, STORAGE RECEPTACLES WITH LATCHING MECHANISMS, AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING AND USING THE SAME
Latching mechanisms, storage receptacles with latching mechanisms, and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, the latching mechanism (10) includes a first latching element (12), a second latching element (14), and a ball-locking mechanism. The ball-locking mechanism allows the first latching element to be releasably secured to the second latching element. The latching mechanism may be integrated with a frame, which may be adjustable, and which may further be integrated with a storage receptacle, e.g., one that has a storage compartment and an opening. The components of the latching mechanism may be shaped, sized, or otherwise configured to enable, and facilitate, automated and/or semi-automated handling and manipulation. The latching mechanisms, storage receptacles, and associated handling systems described herein may be used in a logistics network operation.
F16B 21/16 - Means without screw-thread for preventing relative axial movement of a pin, spigot, shaft, or the like and a member surrounding it; Stud-and-socket releasable fastenings without screw-thread by separate parts with grooves or notches in the pin or shaft
83.
SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR LOADING, SHIFTING, AND STAGING OBJECTS IN AUTOMATED OR SEMI-AUTOMATED FASHION
Loading, shifting, and staging objects in automated or semi-automated fashion including systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same. The embodiments hereof enable automated and/or semi-automated loading, shifting, organizing, staging, and accessing of objects in different environments, e.g., those associated with a logistics network operation. For example, one such environment is a vehicle. In one aspect, a loading mechanism is used to load objects into a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a shifting mechanism is used to shift objects in a storage space of the vehicle. In another aspect, a door assembly allows for automated opening and closing of a door into a storage space of a vehicle. In addition, methods of manufacturing and using the same are provided.
B60P 3/00 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
B65G 1/133 - Storage devices mechanical with article supports or holders movable in a closed circuit to facilitate insertion or removal of articles the circuit being confined in a horizontal plane
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Business consulting services in the field of healthcare supply chain management; business and management consulting for healthcare providers and related businesses; business management consulting; consulting in the fields of healthcare operations management and hospital operations management; organizational planning and implementation of measures to coordinate processes involved in producing, shipping and distributing products
(2) Financing services; cash management; providing working capital
(3) Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring a non-downloadable integrated suite of order fulfillment and optimization functions, namely, order intake, order processing, customer data verification, customer interactions, return authorizations, credit and debit processing, invoicing, accounts receivable management, chargeback recovery, data analytics, supply chain visibility and management, and logistics, shipping, and delivery visibility and management
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Business consulting services in the field of healthcare supply chain management; Business and management consulting for healthcare providers and related businesses; Business management consulting; Business consulting in the fields of healthcare operations management and hospital operations management; Organizational planning and implementation of business measures to coordinate processes involved in producing, shipping and distributing products. Financing services; Cash management; Providing working capital. Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring a non-downloadable integrated suite of order fulfillment and optimization functions, namely, order intake, order processing, customer data verification, customer interactions, return authorizations, credit and debit processing, invoicing, accounts receivable management, chargeback recovery, data analytics, supply chain visibility and management, and logistics, shipping, and delivery visibility and management.
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Business consulting services in the field of healthcare supply chain management; Business consulting for healthcare providers and related businesses; Business management consulting; Consulting in the fields of healthcare operations management and hospital operations management; Organizational planning and implementation of measures to coordinate processes involved in producing, shipping and distributing products Financing services; Cash management; Providing working capital Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring a non-downloadable integrated suite of software for order fulfillment and optimization functions, namely, order intake, order processing, customer data verification, customer interactions, return authorizations, credit and debit processing, invoicing, accounts receivable management, chargeback recovery, data analytics, supply chain visibility and management, and logistics, shipping, and delivery visibility and management
A landing system suitable for receiving an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) comprises an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV). A landing surface is disposed on the AGV, and the landing system comprises a loading channel suitable for passing an object delivered by the UAV through a first loading channel opening in the landing surface. The object passes within the loading channel through to a second loading channel opening at a bottom aspect of the AGV. In this way, a UAV can land on the landing surface, and the AGV positions the object in line with a target delivery location, where the object is delivered. Aspects of the landing system comprise an electromagnet or vacuum chamber for securing the UAV to the landing surface, thereby enhancing stability of the UAV during movement of the landing system.
In various aspects, a first set of attributes associated with a target location are determined. The target location is a location that one or more items are to be delivered to by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The first set of attributes are compared with a second set of attributes. The second set of attributes indicate attributes of each UAV of a plurality of UAVs. Based on the comparing, a UAV, of the plurality of UAVs, is recommended to deliver the one or more items to the target location.
In various aspects, a first set of attributes associated with a target location are determined. The target location is a location that one or more items are to be delivered to by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The first set of attributes are compared with a second set of attributes. The second set of attributes indicate attributes of each UAV of a plurality of UAVs. Based on the comparing, a UAV, of the plurality of UAVs, is recommended to deliver the one or more items to the target location.
In various aspects, a first set of attributes associated with a target location are determined. The target location is a location that one or more items are to be delivered to by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The first set of attributes are compared with a second set of attributes. The second set of attributes indicate attributes of each UAV of a plurality of UAVs. Based on the comparing, a UAV, of the plurality of UAVs, is recommended to deliver the one or more items to the target location.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons
G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Return management, namely, providing service locations for consumers to return and exchange products from retailers; return management services, namely, accepting consumer returned products and sorting returned products; return management services, namely, coordinating in-store returns; return management services, namely, management of returned merchandise provided to consumers at retail service locations such as malls, namely, shipment processing, and tracking and managing returns for business purposes; business data analysis; business management services in the field of supply chain logistics, reverse logistics, and management of returned products; logistics management in the field of shipping, returning, and exchanging consumer products; management of returned and exchanged product management services in the nature of shipment processing, preparing shipping documents and invoices, tracking documents, packages and freight over computer networks, intranets and the internet for business purposes; return management, namely, facilitating the pick-up and drop off of consumer goods by purchasers within retail stores and retail service locations such as malls; data collection and data management for business purposes relating to shipping, verification, return, and exchange of consumer products; business information services provided to retailers and vendors for use in product return management, validation of product return eligibility, product authentication, and retailer product return policies; inventory management services for others; business management of supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, coordinating for the storage, transportation and delivery of goods for others by air, rail, ship or truck Reverse logistic services for retailers, namely, shipping returned products to third party locations or third party retailers; packaging articles for transportation; supply chain logistics and reverse logistics services, namely, coordinating and facilitating the storage, transportation, shipping and delivery of goods for others by air, rail, ship or truck; warehousing, storage, and packing of goods and packages for others Providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for facilitating exchanges and returns of products from consumers to merchants; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for enabling merchants to accept and process exchanges and returns of products from consumers; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for accepting, processing and managing product returns, refunds and exchanges; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for data analytics; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for analyzing product returns data; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for coordinating logistics, storing, managing, tracking, analyzing and reporting data in the field of returns management; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for customer support; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for use by retailers in conducting retail and online retail operations, namely, software for use in retail inventory return management; Software as a Service (SAAS) services, namely, hosting software for use by retailers in conducting retail and online retail operations, namely, software for use in retail inventory return management
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Providing online non-downloadable software for connecting e-commerce merchants with multiple logistics providers to manage warehousing, post-purchase communications, and order fulfilment, namely, same-day delivery, curbside pickup, in-store pickup, and shipping; computer systems integration services for e-commerce order management and fulfilment; application service provider (ASP), namely, hosting digital platforms for logistics as a service; providing digital hosting platforms on the internet for logistics services; platform as a service (PAAS) featuring software that enables omnichannel delivery management for electronic commerce transactions
93.
Systems and Methods for Identifying Suspicious Orders
Various embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and methods for identifying suspicious orders for controlled substances based on performing checks on a received order using historical information on previous orders. According to various embodiments, these checks may include: (1) comparing the order quantity for the received order with the order quantity history for the customer who placed the order for the controlled substance; (2) comparing the order quantity and the days since the last order was shipped to the customer for the same controlled substance with the order quantity history and the days between orders for the particular customer and controlled substance; (3) comparing the order quantity with order quantity history for orders received by customers of the same type for the controlled substance; and (4) comparing the order quantity with order quantity history for any customer for the particular controlled substance.
Various systems and methodologies may be utilized to determine whether a particular shipment/item is eligible for delivery between a manual delivery vehicle and a final destination location via an autonomous delivery vehicle. To ensure autonomous deliveries are performed in a resource effective manner, shipments/items deemed eligible for autonomous delivery may be vetted by comparing the destination for the autonomous delivery shipment/item against one or more manual delivery destinations (serviced by the manual delivery vehicle operator), and ultimately identifying an optimal launch location for the autonomous delivery vehicle to leave the manual delivery vehicle to complete the autonomous delivery. If the autonomous delivery location does not satisfy applicable autonomous delivery criteria, the autonomous delivery shipment/item may be reclassified for manual delivery by the manual delivery vehicle operator.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
G06Q 10/04 - Forecasting or optimisation specially adapted for administrative or management purposes, e.g. linear programming or "cutting stock problem"
95.
CLOUD-BASED PLATFORM FOR DETERMINING AND GENERATING OPTIMIZED NAVIGATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are disclosed herein that generate computer-executable instructions that are executed by an autonomous vehicle and cause the autonomous vehicle to follow a specific route to deliver or pickup of an item. Using an inference model, historical data of off-street terrain used for prior deliveries and on-street terrain in map data are leveraged to generate candidate routes for the "last 10 feet" of a delivery. One of the candidate routes is selected by the inference model. Then, computer-executable instructions are generated that, when executed by an autonomous vehicle, cause the autonomous vehicle to follow the selected route and perform the last 10 feet of delivery.
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are disclosed herein that generate computer-executable instructions that are executed by an autonomous vehicle and cause the autonomous vehicle to follow a specific route to deliver or pickup of an item. Using an inference model, historical data of off-street terrain used for prior deliveries and on-street terrain in map data are leveraged to generate candidate routes for the “last 10 feet” of a delivery. One of the candidate routes is selected by the inference model. Then, computer-executable instructions are generated that, when executed by an autonomous vehicle, cause the autonomous vehicle to follow the selected route and perform the last 10 feet of delivery.
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are disclosed herein that generate computer-executable instructions that are executed by an autonomous vehicle and cause the autonomous vehicle to follow a specific route to deliver or pickup of an item. Using an inference model, historical data of off-street terrain used for prior deliveries and on-street terrain in map data are leveraged to generate candidate routes for the "last 10 feet" of a delivery. One of the candidate routes is selected by the inference model. Then, computer-executable instructions are generated that, when executed by an autonomous vehicle, cause the autonomous vehicle to follow the selected route and perform the last 10 feet of delivery.
A multiple hoist system is used with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for delivering parcels. An example of the multiple hoist system comprises two or more hoists that are independently operable, meaning that a first hoist can lower or raise a first line independently of using a second hoist to raise or lower a second line. The hoists can independently raise and lower their associated lines to allow the UAV to deliver multiple parcels to multiple delivery locations, or the hoists can synchronously raise and lower the associated lines together so that larger parcels can be delivered using the UAV. The hoists can be comprised within a body of the multiple hoist system. The body can further include a securing device for releasably securing the multiple hoist system to the UAV.
Loading, securing, transporting, and/or depositing objects as well as systems, methods, and apparatuses for the same, including those that operate in automated or semi-automated fashion, are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a mobile robotic platform is provided. The mobile robotic platform is designed to receive, transport, and deposit objects at desired destinations. In another embodiment, a flat transport surface, e.g., a pallet, is provided. The flat transport surface is designed to facilitate efficient loading, transport, and deposit of objects, e.g., between automated or semi-automated handling systems, in one aspect. In another embodiment, a system for handling objects is provided. The system is designed to support automated or semi-automated loading and/or unloading of objects, e.g., onto or from a mobile robotic platform, and may be implemented in a vehicle, in one aspect.
A multiple hoist system is used with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for delivering parcels. An example of the multiple hoist system comprises two or more hoists that are independently operable, meaning that a first hoist can lower or raise a first line independently of using a second hoist to raise or lower a second line. The hoists can independently raise and lower their associated lines to allow the UAV to deliver multiple parcels to multiple delivery locations, or the hoists can synchronously raise and lower the associated lines together so that larger parcels can be delivered using the UAV. The hoists can be comprised within a body of the multiple hoist system. The body can further include a securing device for releasably securing the multiple hoist system to the UAV.
