A technique for avoiding obstacles by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: acquiring an aerial image of a ground area below the UAV; analyzing the aerial image to identify a shadow in the aerial image cast by an object rising from the ground area; determining a pixel length of the shadow in the aerial image; calculating an estimated height of the object based at least on the pixel length of the shadow and an angle of the sun when the aerial image is acquired; and generating a clearance zone around the object having at least one dimension determined based on the estimated height, wherein the clearance zone represents a region in space to avoid when navigating the UAV.
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
G06V 10/24 - Aligning, centring, orientation detection or correction of the image
G06V 10/25 - Determination of region of interest [ROI] or a volume of interest [VOI]
G06V 10/50 - Extraction of image or video features by summing image-intensity values; Projection analysis
G06V 10/60 - Extraction of image or video features relating to illumination properties, e.g. using a reflectance or lighting model
G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects
2.
OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE FOR AIRCRAFT FROM SHADOW ANALYSIS
A technique for avoiding obstacles by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: acquiring an aerial image of a ground area below the UAV; analyzing the aerial image to identify a shadow in the aerial image cast by an object rising from the ground area; determining a pixel length of the shadow in the aerial image; calculating an estimated height of the object based at least on the pixel length of the shadow and an angle of the sun when the aerial image is acquired; and generating a clearance zone around the object having at least one dimension determined based on the estimated height, wherein the clearance zone represents a region in space to avoid when navigating the UAV.
A method includes determining, by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a position of an autoloader device for the UAV; based on the determined position of the autoloader device, causing the UAV to follow a descent trajectory in which the UAV moves from a starting position to a first nudged position in order to deploy a tethered pickup component of the UAV to a payout position on an approach side of the autoloader device; deploying the tethered pickup component of the UAV to the payout position; causing the UAV to follow a side-step trajectory in which the UAV moves laterally to a second nudged position in order to cause the tethered pickup component of the UAV to engage the autoloader device; and retracting the tethered pickup component of the UAV to pick up a payload from the autoloader device.
B64F 1/32 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for handling freight
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
4.
UAV WITH DISTRIBUTED PROPULSION AND BLOWN CONTROL SURFACES
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, a pair of fixed wings attached to the fuselage, a tail assembly attached to an aft portion of the fuselage and including a pair of stabilizers, a plurality of distributed propulsion units having first propellers that rotate about first rotational axes positioned below the fixed wings, and a plurality of tail propulsion units having second propellers that rotate about second rotational axes each positioned inline with one of the stabilizers. The first propellers are mounted fore of the fixed wings and the second propellers are mounted fore of a corresponding one of the stabilizers. Three or more of the distributed propulsion units are mounted to each of the fixed wings.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, a pair of fixed wings attached to the fuselage, a tail assembly attached to an aft portion of the fuselage and including a pair of stabilizers, a plurality of distributed propulsion units having first propellers that rotate about first rotational axes positioned below the fixed wings, and a plurality of tail propulsion units having second propellers that rotate about second rotational axes each positioned inline with one of the stabilizers. The first propellers are mounted fore of the fixed wings and the second propellers are mounted fore of a corresponding one of the stabilizers. Three or more of the distributed propulsion units are mounted to each of the fixed wings.
B64U 40/10 - On-board mechanical arrangements for adjusting control surfaces or rotors; On-board mechanical arrangements for in-flight adjustment of the base configuration for adjusting control surfaces or rotors
B64U 20/75 - Constructional aspects of the UAV body the body formed by joined shells or by a shell overlaying a chassis
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/69 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs provided with means for airdropping goods, e.g. deploying a parachute during descent
6.
PIXEL-BY-PIXEL SEGMENTATION OF AERIAL IMAGERY FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE CONTROL
In some embodiments, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The UAV comprises one or more processors; a camera; one or more propulsion devices; and a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the one or more processors, cause the UAV to perform actions comprising: receiving at least one image captured by the camera; generating labels for pixels of the at least one image by providing the at least one image as input to a machine learning model; identifying one or more landing spaces in the at least one image based on the labels; determining a relative position of the UAV with respect to the one or more landing spaces; and transmitting signals to the one or more propulsion devices based on the relative position of the UAV with respect to the one or more landing spaces.
A method includes receiving configuration data for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) simulation system, the configuration data indicating at least one base location specification, at least one aircraft specification, and at least one virtual vehicle specification and determining an aircraft record comprising, for each of the at least one aircraft to be simulated, aircraft mission data associated with an aircraft identifier of the at least one aircraft to be simulated. The method further includes configuring the UAV simulation system so that each of the at least one aircraft has a corresponding base location as specified by the at least one base location specification and. a corresponding vehicle software version as specified by the at least one virtual vehicle specification and executing a. simulation of the at least one aircraft carrying out flying missions by using the configured UAV simulation system and updating the aircraft mission data in the aircraft record.
A method includes receiving configuration data for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) simulation system, the configuration data indicating at least one base location specification, at least one aircraft specification, and at least one virtual vehicle specification and determining an aircraft record comprising, for each of the at least one aircraft to be simulated, aircraft mission data associated with an aircraft identifier of the at least one aircraft to be simulated. The method further includes configuring the UAV simulation system so that each of the at least one aircraft has a corresponding base location as specified by the at least one base location specification and a corresponding vehicle software version as specified by the at least one virtual vehicle specification and executing a simulation of the at least one aircraft carrying out flying missions by using the configured UAV simulation system and updating the aircraft mission data in the aircraft record.
In some embodiments, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The UAV comprises one or more processors; a camera; one or more propulsion devices; and a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the one or more processors, cause the UAV to perform actions comprising: receiving at least one image captured by the camera; generating labels for pixels of the at least one image by providing the at least one image as input to a machine learning model; identifying one or more landing spaces in the at least one image based on the labels; determining a relative position of the UAV with respect to the one or more landing spaces; and transmitting signals to the one or more propulsion devices based on the relative position of the UAV with respect to the one or more landing spaces.
A drop test system includes support members offset from each other and having corresponding tracks, a lifting rod bridging the support members and having rod ends adapted to engage with the tracks to move along the tracks, and a pair of spiral cams adapted to rotate in unison and positioned to engage with and reciprocally lift and drop the lifting rod as the spiral cams rotate. The spiral cams each have a perimeter shape that includes an abrupt section and a curved section that connects to opposing ends of the abrupt section with a smooth curvature. The lifting rod is adapted to ride on the perimeter shape of the spiral cams and gradually lift and drop a unit under test (UUT) as the spiral cams rotate.
A technique for validating a presence of a package carried by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: capturing an image of a scene below the UAV with a camera mounted to the UAV and oriented to face down from the UAV; analyzing the image to identify whether the package is present in the image; and determining whether the package is attached to the UAV, via a tether extending from an underside of the UAV, based at least on the analyzing of the image.
12.
PROCESSES FOR GENERATING AND UPDATING FLYABLE AIRSPACE FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES
A method includes receiving a digital surface model of an area for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) navigation. The digital surface model represents an environmental surface in the area. The method includes determining, for each grid cell of a plurality of grid cells in the area, a confidence value of an altitude of the environmental surface at the grid cell and determining a terrain clearance value based at least on the confidence value of the altitude of the environmental surface at the grid cell. The method includes determining a route for a UAV through the area such that the altitude of the UAV is above the altitude of the environmental surface at each grid cell of a sequence of grid cells of the route by at least the terrain clearance value determined for the grid cell. The method includes causing the UAV to navigate through the area using the determined route.
A unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage including a top, a. bottom, a cavity that forms a cargo bay between the top and the bottom, and a lower access opening in the bottom for lowering a payload from the cargo bay. A movable stage is coupled to the fuselage and adjustable between an upper position in which the stage is above the cargo bay and. a lower position in which the stage is at the bottom of the fuselage, the stage including an opening extending through the stage. Hie UAV also includes a winch disposed in the fuselage and a tether coupled to the winch. The winch is configured to be secured to the payload and is movable through the opening in the stage so as to raise or lower the payload.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64D 1/10 - Stowage arrangements for the devices in aircraft
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
14.
VISUAL AND TACTILE CONFIRMATION OF PACKAGE PRESENCE FOR UAV AERIAL DELIVERIES
A technique for validating a presence of a package carried by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: capturing an image of a scene below the UAV with a camera mounted to the UAV and oriented to face down from the UAV; analyzing the image to identify whether the package is present in the image; and determining whether the package is attached to the UAV, via a tether extending from an underside of the UAV, based at least on the analyzing of the image.
In some embodiments, techniques are provided for analyzing time series data to detect anomalies. In some embodiments, the time series data is processed using a machine learning model. In some embodiments, the machine learning model is trained in an unsupervised manner on large amounts of previous time series data, thus allowing highly accurate models to be created from novel data. In some embodiments, training of the machine learning model alternates between a fitting optimization and a trimming optimization to allow large amounts of training data that includes untagged anomalous records to be processed. Because a machine learning model is used, anomalies can be detected within complex systems, including but not limited to autonomous vehicles such as unmanned aerial vehicles. When anomalies are detected, commands can be transmitted to the monitored system (such as an autonomous vehicle) to respond to the anomaly.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Business management of logistics for others; business
management of logistics for others in the field of drone
delivery, retail, delivery, and transportation; business
advisory services in the field of transportation logistics. Transportation and delivery services of goods by air;
management of autonomous aircraft and drone navigation in
the nature of traffic flow through advanced communications
network and technology; routing of autonomous aircraft and
drones by computer on data networks; aeronautic navigation
services, namely, aeronautic radio navigation services;
expedited shipping service of goods for others; GPS
navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; air
navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones;
storage of goods; storage of goods for later pickup and
delivery purposes; storage of goods at designated pickup
locations; transportation logistics services, namely,
arranging, planning, and scheduling the delivery of goods by
drone for others.
17.
UAV with distributed propulsion for short takeoffs and landings
A technique of operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) adapted for a package delivery mission includes: powering distributed propulsion units during takeoff and landing segments of the package delivery mission and idling at least a portion of the distributed propulsion units while powering a pair of outboard propulsion units during a cruise segment of the package delivery mission. The distributed propulsion units are mounted below fixed wings of the UAV and have first propellers mounted fore of the fixed wings. The outboard propulsion units are each mounted to a corresponding one of the fixed wings outboard of the distributed propulsion units. The outboard propulsion units include outboard propellers having a larger diameter than the first propellers.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Business management of logistics for others; business
management of logistics for others in the field of drone
delivery, retail, delivery, and transportation; business
advisory services in the field of transportation logistics. Transportation and delivery services of goods by air;
management of autonomous aircraft and drone navigation in
the nature of traffic flow through advanced communications
network and technology; routing of autonomous aircraft and
drones by computer on data networks; aeronautic navigation
services, namely, aeronautic radio navigation services;
expedited shipping service of goods for others; GPS
navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; air
navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones;
storage of goods; storage of goods for later pickup and
delivery purposes; storage of goods at designated pickup
locations; transportation logistics services, namely,
arranging, planning, and scheduling the delivery of goods by
drone for others.
19.
TECHNIQUES FOR VALIDATING UAV POSITION USING VISUAL LOCALIZATION
Systems and methods for validating a position of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are provided. A method can include receiving map data for a location, the map data including labeled data for a plurality of landmarks in a vicinity of the location. The method can include generating image data for the location, the image data being derived from images of the vicinity generated by the UAV including at least a subset of the plurality of landmarks. The method can include determining a visual position of the UAV using the image data and the map data. The method can include determining a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) position of the UAV. The method can include generating an error signal using the visual position and the GNSS position. The method can also include validating the GNSS position in accordance with the error signal satisfying a transition condition.
20.
MACHINE-LEARNED MONOCULAR DEPTH ESTIMATION AND SEMANTIC SEGMENTATION FOR 6-DOF ABSOLUTE LOCALIZATION OF A DELIVERY DRONE
A method includes receiving a two-dimensional (2D) image captured by a camera on a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and representative of an environment of the UAV. The method further includes applying a trained machine learning model to the 2D image to produce a semantic image of the environment and a depth image of the environment, where the semantic image comprises one or more semantic labels. The method additionally includes retrieving reference depth data representative of the environment, wherein the reference depth data includes reference semantic labels. The method also includes aligning the depth image of the environment with the reference depth data representative of the environment to determine a location of the UAV in the environment, where the aligning associates the one or more semantic labels from the semantic image with the reference semantic labels from the reference depth data.
G06V 20/17 - Terrestrial scenes taken from planes or by drones
G01S 19/39 - Determining a navigation solution using signals transmitted by a satellite radio beacon positioning system the satellite radio beacon positioning system transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
A method includes causing an aerial vehicle to deploy a tethered component to a particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle by releasing a tether connecting the tethered component to the aerial vehicle. The method also includes obtaining, from a camera connected to the aerial vehicle, image data that represents the tethered component while the tethered component is deployed to the particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle. The method additionally includes determining, based on the image data, a position of the tethered component within the image data. The method further includes determining, based on the position of the tethered component within the image data, a wind vector that represents a wind condition present in an environment of the aerial vehicle. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the wind vector.
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
G01W 1/02 - Instruments for indicating weather conditions by measuring two or more variables, e.g. humidity, pressure, temperature, cloud cover or wind speed
G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
B64D 47/02 - Arrangements or adaptations of signal or lighting devices
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
22.
TECHNIQUES FOR VALIDATING UAV POSITION USING VISUAL LOCALIZATION
Systems and methods for validating a position of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are provided. A method can include receiving map data for a location, the map data including labeled data for a plurality of landmarks in a vicinity of the location. The method can include generating image data for the location, the image data being derived from images of the vicinity generated by the UAV including at least a subset of the plurality of landmarks. The method can include determining a visual position of the UAV using the image data and the map data. The method can include determining a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) position of the UAV. The method can include generating an error signal using the visual position and the GNSS position. The method can also include validating the GNSS position in accordance with the error signal satisfying a transition condition.
G01S 19/48 - Determining position by combining or switching between position solutions derived from the satellite radio beacon positioning system and position solutions derived from a further system
G01S 19/40 - Correcting position, velocity or attitude
G01S 19/26 - Acquisition or tracking of signals transmitted by the system involving a sensor measurement for aiding acquisition or tracking
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) including a fuselage body having a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload, and a lower access opening for lowering the payload from the cargo bay, the lower access opening including a cargo bay door; a winch system positioned in the cargo bay configured to suspend a payload within the cargo bay; and a cargo bay door monitor which is configured to detect when the payload is applying a weight to the cargo bay door.
A unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage body including a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload, an upper access opening for receiving the payload into the cargo bay from a first direction, and a lower access opening for lowering the payload from the cargo bay. The UAV also includes an upper door associated with the upper access opening that is movable between a closed position in which the upper access opening is obstructed and an open position providing a path for the payload into the cargo bay. The upper door includes a winch configured to unwind or retract a tether secured to the payload.
A unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage including a top, a bottom, a cavity that forms a cargo bay between the top and the bottom, and a lower access opening in the bottom for lowering a payload from the cargo bay. A movable stage is coupled to the fuselage and adjustable between an upper position in which the stage is above the cargo bay and a lower position in which the stage is at the bottom of the fuselage, the stage including an opening extending through the stage. The UAV also includes a winch disposed in the fuselage and a tether coupled to the winch. The winch is configured to be secured to the payload and is movable through the opening in the stage so as to raise or lower the payload.
A method includes obtaining sensor data indicating a tension experienced by a tether while a payload coupling apparatus connected to the tether is lowered from an aerial vehicle using the tether. The method also includes determining, based on the sensor data, a ground contact time at which the payload coupling apparatus or a payload coupled thereto made initial contact with a ground surface. The method additionally includes determining a length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method further includes determining a tether-based altitude of the aerial vehicle based on the length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the tether-based altitude.
A method includes receiving a two-dimensional (2D) image captured by a camera on a unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and representative of an environment of the UAV. The method further includes applying a trained machine learning model to the 2D image to produce a semantic image of the environment and a depth image of the environment, where the semantic image comprises one or more semantic labels. The method additionally includes retrieving reference depth data representative of the environment, wherein the reference depth data includes reference semantic labels. The method also includes aligning the depth image of the environment with the reference depth data representative of the environment to determine a location of the UAV in the environment, where the aligning associates the one or more semantic labels from the semantic image with the reference semantic labels from the reference depth data.
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
G01S 19/48 - Determining position by combining or switching between position solutions derived from the satellite radio beacon positioning system and position solutions derived from a further system
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, a pair of wings attached to the fuselage, and a propulsion system mounted to the wings to provide propulsion to the UAV. The fuselage has an outer fuselage shell that is a first mechanical support structure for an airframe of the UAV. The pair of wings is attached to the fuselage and shaped to provide aerodynamic lift. The wings have outer wing shells that are second mechanical support structures for the airframe. The outer fuselage shell or the outer wing shells comprise one or more formed-metal sheets.
A method includes causing an aerial vehicle to deploy a tethered component to a particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle by releasing a tether connecting the tethered component to the aerial vehicle. The method also includes obtaining, from a camera connected to the aerial vehicle, image data that represents the tethered component while the tethered component is deployed to the particular distance beneath the aerial vehicle. The method additionally includes determining, based on the image data, a position of the tethered component within the image data. The method further includes determining, based on the position of the tethered component within the image data, a wind vector that represents a wind condition present in an environment of the aerial vehicle. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the wind vector.
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64U 20/87 - Mounting of imaging devices, e.g. mounting of gimbals
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
G01P 5/00 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft
G01P 13/02 - Indicating direction only, e.g. by weather vane
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
A method includes obtaining sensor data indicating a tension experienced by a tether while a payload coupling apparatus connected to the tether is lowered from an aerial vehicle using the tether. The method also includes determining, based on the sensor data, a ground contact time at which the payload coupling apparatus or a payload coupled thereto made initial contact with a ground surface. The method additionally includes determining a length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method further includes determining a tether-based altitude of the aerial vehicle based on the length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the tether-based altitude.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64D 45/00 - Aircraft indicators or protectors not otherwise provided for
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
31.
SLOTTED RECEPTACLE FOR PAYLOAD HANDLE TO SECURE PAYLOAD WITHIN A UAV
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) including a fuselage body having a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload; an access opening positioned in the cargo bay adapted to receive the payload; a. winch system positioned in an upper portion of the fuselage body above the cargo bay, the winch system configured to suspend the payload within the cargo bay; wherein a tether has a first end attached to the winch system and a second end attached to a payload coupling apparatus that includes a. downwardly extending slot positioned above a lip of the payload coupling apparatus, the lip of the payload coupling apparatus is configured to extend through an opening in the handle of the pay load to secure the payload to the handle of the payload; and wherein the upper portion of the fuselage body includes a. vertical handle slot tor receiving the handle of the payload.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64D 1/10 - Stowage arrangements for the devices in aircraft
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B66D 1/60 - Rope, cable, or chain winding mechanisms; Capstans adapted for special purposes
B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) including a fuselage body having a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload, and a lower access opening for lowering the payload from the cargo bay, the lower access opening including a cargo bay door; a winch system positioned in the cargo bay configured to suspend a payload within the cargo bay; and a cargo bay door monitor which is configured to detect when the payload is applying a weight to the cargo bay door.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
33.
UAV WITH UPPER DOOR INCLUDING WINCH AND METHOD OF OPERATION
A unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage body including a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload, an upper access opening for receiving the payload into the cargo bay from a first direction, and a lower access opening for lowering the payload from the cargo bay. The UAV also includes an upper door associated with the upper access opening that is movable between a closed position in which the upper access opening is obstructed and an open position providing a path for the payload into the cargo bay. The upper door includes a winch configured to unwind or retract a tether secured to tire payload.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, a pair of wings attached to the fuselage, and a propulsion system mounted to the wings to provide propulsion to the UAV. The fuselage has an outer fuselage shell that is a first mechanical support structure for an airframe of the UAV. The pair of wings is attached to the fuselage and shaped to provide aerodynamic lift. The wings have outer wing shells that are second mechanical support structures for the airframe. The outer fuselage shell or the outer wing shells comprise one or more formed-metal sheets.
An unmanned aerial vehicle system including an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV); a tether having a first end positioned in a winch system of the UAV and a second end secured to a payload coupling apparatus; a payload coupling apparatus receptacle positioned in the UAV; a payload having a handle, wherein the handle of the payload is positioned within a slot in the payload coupling apparatus; wherein the UAV has a recessed restraint slot for receiving a top portion of the payload.
An example method of manufacturing a wing includes providing a wing frame. The wing frame includes a primary spar, a drag spar, a plurality of transverse frame elements having at least one spar joiner, and a plurality of mounting elements. The primary spar is coupled to the drag spar via the at least one spar joiner. The method further includes placing the wing frame into a mold, wherein the mold defines a shape of the wing. The method also includes injecting the mold with an air-filled matrix material, such that the air-filled matrix material substantially encases the wing frame and fills the defined shape of the wing, and such that the plurality of transverse frame elements provide torsional rigidity to the wing.
B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
B64C 29/02 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft having its flight directional axis vertical when grounded
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
A delivery method using curbside payload pickup by a UAV is provided. The method includes providing instructions to cause physical loading of a payload onto an autoloader device for subsequent UAV transport of the payload. A communication signal is received indicating that the autoloader device has been physically loaded with the payload. A UAV from a group of one or more UAVs is selected to pick up the payload from the autoloader device. Instructions are provided to cause the selected UAV to navigate to the autoloader device to pick up the payload and transport the payload to a delivery location.
A delivery method using curbside payload pickup by a UAV is provided. The method includes providing instructions to cause physical loading of a payload onto an autoloader device for subsequent UAV transport of the payload. A communication signal is received indicating that the autoloader device has been physically loaded with the payload. A UAV from a group of one or more UAVs is selected to pick up the payload from the autoloader device. Instructions are provided to cause the selected UAV to navigate to the autoloader device to pick up the payload and transport the payload to a delivery location.
G06Q 50/28 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading, distribution or shipping
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
39.
STAGING UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES AT MERCHANT FACILITIES
A UAV package delivery system includes a cabinet for deployment inside a merchant facility. The cabinet is configured for storing and charging UAVs on-site at the merchant facility remote from a command and control of the UAVs. The cabinet includes a plurality of cubbies, power circuitry, communication circuitry, and a controller. The cubbies are each sized and shaped to receive one of the UAVs. The power circuitry is configured for charging the UAVs when the UAVs are stowed within the cubbies. The communication circuitry is configured for communicating with the UAVs when the UAVs are proximate to the cabinet or stowed within the cubbies and for communicating with the command and control. The controller causes the UAV package delivery system to retrieve status information from the UAVs, relay the status information to the command and control, and relay mission data between the command and control and the UAVs.
A method includes determining, by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a position of an autoloader device for the UAV; based on the determined position of the autoloader device, causing the UAV to follow a descent trajectory in which the UAV moves from a starting position to a first nudged position in order to deploy a tethered pickup component of the UAV to a payout position on an approach side of the autoloader device; deploying the tethered pickup component of the UAV to the payout position; causing the UAV to follow a side-step trajectory in which the UAV moves laterally to a second nudged position in order to cause the tethered pickup component of the UAV to engage the autoloader device; and retracting the tethered pickup component of the UAV to pick up a payload from the autoloader device.
A method includes determining, by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a position of an autoloader device for the UAV; based on the determined position of the autoloader device, causing the UAV to follow a descent trajectory in which the UAV moves from a starting position to a first nudged position in order to deploy a tethered pickup component of the UAV to a payout position on an approach side of the autoloader device; deploying the tethered pickup component of the UAV to the payout position; causing the UAV to follow a side-step trajectory in which the UAV moves laterally to a second nudged position in order to cause the tethered pickup component of the UAV to engage the autoloader device; and retracting the tethered pickup component of the UAV to pick up a payload from the autoloader device.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
A method includes determining, by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a position of an autoloader device for the UAV; based on the determined position of the autoloader device, causing the UAV to follow a descent trajectory in which the UAV moves from a starting position to a first nudged position in order to deploy a tethered pickup component of the UAV to a payout position on an approach side of the autoloader device; deploying the tethered pickup component of the UAV to the payout position; causing the UAV to follow a side-step trajectory in which the UAV moves laterally to a second nudged position in order to cause the tethered pickup component of the UAV to engage the autoloader device; and retracting the tethered pickup component of the UAV to pick up a payload from the autoloader device.
A method includes, during a delivery process of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), receiving, by an image processing system, a depth image captured by a downward-facing stereo camera on the UAV. One or more pixels are within a sample area of the depth image and are associated with corresponding depth values indicative of distances of one or more objects to the downward-facing stereo camera. The method also includes determining, by the image processing system an estimated depth value representative of depth values within the sample area. The method further includes determining that the estimated depth value is below a trigger depth. The method further includes, based at least on determining that the estimated depth value is below the trigger depth, aborting the delivery process of the UAV
A UAV package delivery system includes a cabinet for deployment inside a merchant facility. The cabinet is configured for storing and charging UAVs on-site at the merchant facility remote from a command and control of the UAVs. The cabinet includes a plurality of cubbies, power circuitry, communication circuitry, and a controller. The cubbies are each sized and shaped to receive one of the UAVs. The power circuitry is configured for charging the UAVs when the UAVs are stowed within the cubbies. The communication circuitry is configured for communicating with the UAVs when the UAVs are proximate to the cabinet or stowed within the cubbies and for communicating with the command and control. The controller causes the UAV package delivery system to retrieve status information from the UAVs, relay the status information to the command and control, and relay mission data between the command and control and the UAVs.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
H04W 4/35 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for the management of goods or merchandise
H04W 4/40 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for vehicles, e.g. vehicle-to-pedestrians [V2P]
H04W 4/44 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for vehicles, e.g. vehicle-to-pedestrians [V2P] for communication between vehicles and infrastructures, e.g. vehicle-to-cloud [V2C] or vehicle-to-home [V2H]
B64U 101/00 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications
B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons
B64U 101/64 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons for parcel delivery or retrieval
45.
AUTONOMOUS CONTROL TECHNIQUES FOR AVOIDING COLLISIONS WITH COOPERATIVE AIRCRAFT
In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having logic stored thereon is provided. The logic, in response to execution by one or more processors of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), causes the UAV to perform actions comprising receiving at least one ADS-B message from an intruder aircraft; generating a intruder location prediction based on the at least one ADS-B message; comparing the intruder location prediction to an ownship location prediction to detect conflicts; and in response to detecting a conflict between the intruder location prediction and the ownship location prediction, determining a safe landing location along a planned route for the UAV and descending to land at the safe landing location.
In some embodiments, a mobile computing device comprising one or more processors, a display, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided. The computer-readable medium has logic stored thereon that, in response to execution by the one or more processors, causes the mobile computing device to perform actions comprising: determining, by the mobile computing device, a location associated with flight plan information; transmitting, by the mobile computing device, the location to a restriction management system; receiving, by the mobile computing device from the restriction management system, information for presenting a checklist including checklist items indicating statuses of flight restriction conditions associated with the location; generating, by the mobile computing device, an interface having a format based on whether all checklist items are passed, wherein the interface includes a map, a pin, and a checklist; and presenting, by the mobile computing device, the interface on the display.
A technique for detecting an environmental change to a delivery zone via an unmanned aerial vehicle includes obtaining an anchor image and an evaluation image, each representative of the delivery zone, providing the anchor image and the evaluation image to a machine learning model to determine an embedding score associated with a distance between representations of the anchor image and the evaluation image within an embedding space, and determining an occurrence of the environmental change to the delivery zone when the embedding score is greater than a threshold value.
A mobile nest for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) includes a cuboid-shaped frame, staging pads, charging electronics, and exterior siding. The cuboid-shaped frame includes vertical supports positioned at corners of the cuboid-shaped frame. The staging pads are adapted for landing, launching, and charging the UAVs. The staging pads are mounted to pivot about two or more of the vertical supports. Each of the staging pads rotates into the cuboid-shaped frame when stowed and rotates out of the cuboid-shaped frame when deployed for launching or landing the corresponding one of the UAVs. The charging electronics are disposed within the cuboid-shaped frame and coupled to the staging pads to charge the UAVs when the UAVs are positioned on the staging pads. The exterior siding is mounted to the cuboid-shaped frame to provide a weather barrier that protects the UAVs from weather when the UAVs are stowed within the mobile housing structure.
A payload coupling apparatus is provided that includes a housing. The housing is adapted for attachment to a first end of a tether. The apparatus further includes a slot extending downwardly from an outer surface of the housing towards a center of the housing thereby forming a lower lip on the housing beneath the slot. The slot is adapted to receive a handle of a payload. The apparatus further includes a sensor configured to detect touchdown of the payload and a transmitter configured to send a touchdown confirmation signal to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) based on a touchdown detection by the sensor.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
Goods & Services
Metal stands for holding packages; metal stand devices for
holding packages for subsequent drone pickup and delivery;
metal storage containers for storage of packages; metal
stands containing metal storage containers for holding
packages. Loading and unloading machines; machines for holding
packages; machines for holding packages for drone pickup and
delivery.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
Goods & Services
Metal stands for holding packages; metal stand devices for
holding packages for subsequent drone pickup and delivery;
metal storage containers for storage of packages; metal
stands containing metal storage containers for holding
packages. Loading and unloading machines; machines for holding
packages; machines for holding packages for drone pickup and
delivery.
52.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Trajectories for Nudging and Un-nudging
A method includes navigating, by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), to a first altitude above a first delivery point at a delivery location. The method further includes determining, by the UAV, a second delivery point at the delivery location. The method includes navigating, by the UAV, through a descending trajectory to move the UAV from the first altitude above the first delivery point to a second altitude above the second delivery point at the delivery location. The second altitude is lower than the first altitude. The method additionally includes delivering, by the UAV, a payload to the second delivery point at the delivery location. The method includes after delivering the payload, navigating, by the UAV, through an ascending trajectory to move the UAV from a third altitude above the second delivery point to a fourth altitude above the first delivery point. The fourth altitude is higher than the third altitude.
A method includes capturing, by a sensor on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), an image of a delivery location. The method also includes determining, based on the image of the delivery location, a segmentation image. The segmentation image segments the delivery location into a plurality of pixel areas with corresponding semantic classifications. The method additionally includes determining, based on the segmentation image, a percentage of obstacle pixels within a surrounding area of a delivery point at the delivery location, wherein each obstacle pixel has a semantic classification indicative of an obstacle in the delivery location. The method further includes based on the percentage of obstacle pixels being above a threshold percentage, aborting a delivery process of the UAV.
A computer-implemented method (1000) comprises receiving (1005), by an image processing system, a depth image captured by a stereo camera on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), wherein one or more pixels of the depth image are associated with corresponding depth values indicative of distances of one or more objects to the stereo camera. The image processing system determines (1010) that one or more pixels of the depth image are associated with invalid depth values. The image processing system infers (1015), based on a distribution of the one or more pixels of the depth image that are associated with invalid depth values, a presence of a potential obstacle in an environment of the UAV. The UAV is controlled (1020) based on the inferred presence of the potential obstacle.
A method includes capturing, by a sensor on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), an image of a delivery location. The method further includes determining, based on the image of the delivery location, a segmentation image. The segmentation image segments the delivery location into a plurality of pixel areas with corresponding semantic classifications. The method also includes determining, based on the segmentation image, a distance-to-obstacle image of a delivery zone at the delivery location. The distance-to-obstacle image comprises a plurality of pixels, each pixel representing a distance in the segmentation image from a nearest pixel area with a semantic classification indicative of an obstacle in the delivery location. Additionally, the method includes selecting, based on the distance-to-obstacle image, a delivery point in the delivery zone. The method also includes positioning the UAV above the delivery point in the delivery zone for delivery of a payload.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
G06V 20/17 - Terrestrial scenes taken from planes or by drones
G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestrians; Recognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
Example implementations relate to a method of dynamically updating a transport task of a UAV. The method includes receiving, at a transport-provider computing system, an item provider request for transportation of a plurality of packages from a loading location at a given future time. The method also includes assigning, by the transport-provider computing system, a respective transport task to each of a plurality of UAVs, where the respective transport task comprises an instruction to deploy to the loading location to pick up one or more of the plurality of packages. Further, the method includes identifying, by the transport-provider system, a first package while or after a first UAV picks up the first package. Yet further, the method includes based on the identifying of the first package, providing, by the transport-provider system, a task update to the first UAV to update the respective transport task of the first UAV.
A computer-implemented method comprises receiving, by an image processing system, a depth image captured by a stereo camera on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). One or more pixels of the depth image are associated with corresponding depth values indicative of distances of one or more objects to the stereo camera. The image processing system determines that one or more pixels of the depth image are associated with invalid depth values. The image processing system infers, based on a distribution of the one or more pixels of the depth image that are associated with invalid depth values, a presence of a potential obstacle in an environment of the UAV. The UAV is controlled based on the inferred presence of the potential obstacle.
A computer-implemented method comprises receiving an image captured by a camera on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The image depicts an environment below the UAV. A feature mask associated with the image is generated via a machine learning model that is trained to identify and semantically label pixels representing the environment depicted in the image. One or more reference tiles associated with the environment are retrieved. The reference tiles are associated with particular geographic locations and specify semantically labeled pixels representing the geographic locations. The semantically labeled pixels of the feature mask are correlated with the semantically labeled pixels of at least one of the one or more reference tiles to determine the geographic location of the UAV in the environment.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) including a fuselage body having a cavity that forms a cargo bay for transporting a payload; an access opening positioned in the cargo bay adapted to receive the payload; a winch system positioned in an upper portion of the fuselage body above the cargo bay, the winch system configured to suspend the payload within the cargo bay; wherein a tether has a first end attached to the winch system and a second end attached to a payload coupling apparatus that includes a downwardly extending slot positioned above a lip of the payload coupling apparatus, the lip of the payload coupling apparatus is configured to extend through an opening in the handle of the payload to secure the payload to the handle of the payload; and wherein the upper portion of the fuselage body includes a vertical handle slot for receiving the handle of the payload.
A method includes determining a threshold capacity associated with at least a first unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a second UAV. The method includes initially setting a target charge voltage of a first battery of the first UAV to less than a full charge voltage to limit a state of charge of the first battery based on the threshold capacity. The method includes, over a lifetime of the first battery of the first UAV, periodically comparing a full charge capacity of the first battery to the threshold capacity. The method includes, based on the comparing, periodically adjusting the target charge voltage of the first battery, such that, as the full charge capacity of the first battery decreases with age, the target charge voltage increases towards the full charge voltage of the first battery.
B60L 58/13 - Maintaining the SoC within a determined range
G01R 31/387 - Determining ampere-hour charge capacity or SoC
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
G01R 31/392 - Determining battery ageing or deterioration, e.g. state of health
B60L 58/16 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to battery ageing, e.g. to the number of charging cycles or the state of health [SoH]
B64U 50/19 - Propulsion using electrically powered motors
A landing pad for an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) is disclosed. The landing pad includes a support structure, a charging pad, and a plurality of movable UAV supports. The charging pad is coupled to the support structure and able to move relative to the support structure. The UAV supports are also coupled to the support structure and configured to translate along the support structure from a first position to a second position. When the UAV supports are in the first position, the charging pad supports the UAV. When the UAV supports are in the second position, the charging pad is lowered and the UAV supports then provide support to the UAV.
Described herein are methods and systems for picking up, transporting, and lowering a payload coupled to a tether of a winch system arranged on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). For example, the winch system may include a motor for winding and unwinding the tether from a spool, and the UAV's control system may operate the motor to lower the tether toward the ground so a payload may be attached to the tether. The control system may monitor an electric current supplied to the motor to determine whether the payload has been attached to the tether. In another example, when lowering a payload, the control system may monitor the motor current to determine that the payload has reached the ground and responsively operate the motor to detach the payload from the tether. The control system may then monitor the motor current to determine whether the payload has detached from the tether.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a retractable payload delivery system. The payload delivery system can lower a payload to the ground using a delivery device that secures the payload during descent and releases the payload upon reaching the ground. The location of the delivery device can be determined as it is lowered to the ground using image tracking. The UAV can include an imaging system that captures image data of the suspended delivery device and identifies image coordinates of the delivery device, and the image coordinates can then be mapped to a location. The UAV may also be configured to account for any deviations from a planned path of descent in real time to effect accurate delivery locations of released payloads.
Described is a method that involves operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to begin a flight, where the UAV relies on a navigation system to navigate to a destination. During the flight, the method involves operating a camera to capture images of the UAV's environment, and analyzing the images to detect features in the environment. The method also involves establishing a correlation between features detected in different images, and using location information from the navigation system to localize a feature detected in different images. Further, the method involves generating a flight log that includes the localized feature. Also, the method involves detecting a failure involving the navigation system, and responsively operating the camera to capture a post-failure image. The method also involves identifying one or more features in the post-failure image, and determining a location of the UAV based on a relationship between an identified feature and a localized feature.
A payload retrieval apparatus is provided including a stand or base, wherein the base or stand has an upper end and a lower end, a first sloped surface positioned over the upper end of the stand or base, a second sloped surface positioned over the upper end of the stand or base and adjacent the first sloped surface, a tether slot positioned in a channel having a first end and a second end, the channel positioned under or near the first sloped surface, and a payload holder positioned at the second end of the channel, wherein the payload holder is adapted to secure a payload.
A payload retrieval apparatus is provided including a channel having a first end and a second end provided with a curved portion, wherein the channel has a tether slot therein and is configured to receive a payload retriever attached to a tether suspended from a UAV; and a payload holder positioned at the second end of the channel on the curved portion, wherein the payload holder is adapted to hold a payload having a handle with an opening therein, wherein the curved portion is configured to change an exit angle of the payload retriever such that a lip of the payload retriever is angled upwardly to ease entry of the lip into the opening of the handle of the payload.
A package coupling apparatus for securing a package to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The package coupling apparatus includes a hanger and a strap coupled to the hanger. The hanger includes a base configured to be positioned adjacent to the package and a handle extending up from the base. The handle includes a handle opening and a bridge that extends over the handle opening. The bridge is configured to be secured by a component of the UAV. The strap is configured to surround the package and secure the package to the hanger.
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes lift rotors and control rotors. The lift rotors are mounted to the UAV and oriented to provide a first vertical thrust to the UAV. The control rotors are mounted to the UAV outboard of the lift rotors and oriented to provide a second vertical thrust to the UAV. The control rotors are each smaller than any of the lift rotors.
A package coupling apparatus for securing a package to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The package coupling apparatus includes a hanger and a strap coupled to the hanger. The hanger includes a base configured, to be positioned, adjacent to the package and a. handle extending up from the base. The handle includes a handle opening and a. bridge that extends over the handle opening. The bridge is configured to be secured by a component of the UAV. The strap is configured to surround the package and secure the package to the hanger.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes lift rotors and control rotors. The lift rotors are mounted to the UAV and oriented to provide a first vertical thrust to the UAV. The control rotors are mounted to the UAV outboard of the lift rotors and oriented to provide a second vertical thrust to the UAV. The control rotors are each smaller than any of the lift rotors.
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
B64C 11/00 - Propellers, e.g. of ducted type; Features common to propellers and rotors for rotorcraft
B64C 27/30 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with provision for reducing drag of inoperative rotor
B64C 27/80 - Mechanisms for controlling blade adjustment or movement relative to rotor head, e.g. lag-lead movement for differential adjustment of blade pitch between two or more lifting rotors
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
71.
Package Coupling Apparatus with Attachment Plate for Securing a Package to a UAV and Method of Securing a Package for Delivery
A package coupling apparatus for securing a package to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The package coupling apparatus includes a support plate configured to be secured to an upper surface of the package and a handle extending up from the support plate. The handle includes a handle opening and a bridge that extends over the handle opening, wherein the bridge is configured to be secured by a component of the UAV.
A payload retrieval apparatus is provided including a channel having a first end and a second end provided with a curved portion, wherein the channel has a tether slot therein and is configured to receive a payload retriever attached to a tether suspended from a UAV; and a payload holder positioned at the second end of the channel on the curved portion, wherein the payload holder is adapted to hold a payload having a handle with an opening therein, wherein the curved portion is configured to change an exit angle of the payload retriever such that a lip of the payload retriever is angled upwardly to ease entry of the lip into the opening of the handle of the payload.
A payload retrieval apparatus is provided including a stand or base, wherein the base or stand has an upper end and a lower end, a first sloped surface positioned over the upper end of the stand or base, a second sloped surface positioned over the upper end of the stand or base and adjacent the first sloped surface, a tether slot positioned in a channel having a first end and a second end, the channel positioned under or near the first sloped surface, and a payload holder positioned at the second end of the channel, wherein the payload holder is adapted to secure a payload.
A package coupling apparatus for securing a package to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided. The package coupling apparatus includes a support plate configured to be secured to an upper surface of the package and a handle extending up from the support plate. The handle includes a handle opening and a bridge that extends over the handle opening, wherein the bridge is configured to be secured by a component of the UAV.
B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64U 101/67 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons the UAVs comprising tethers for lowering the goods
75.
ACTIVE THERMAL CONTROL OF UAV ENERGY STORAGE UNITS
Systems, devices, and techniques for active thermal control of energy storage units are described. In some embodiments, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a battery pack. The battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells and an enclosure coupled with the plurality of battery cells to physically retain the plurality of battery cells in an arrangement. The arrangement defines a void space between the plurality of battery cells. The UAV also includes a cooling system configured to cool the battery cells. The cooling system includes a source of forced convection fluidically coupled with the battery pack to drive a cooling fluid through the void space. The cooling system also includes a cooling controller electrically coupled with the source of forced convection to controllably activate the source of forced convection.
In some embodiments, techniques are provided for verifying operability of an automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) receiver included in a first unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which includes receiving ADS-B data representative of ADS-B messages broadcast by traffic within a reception range of the ADS-B receiver during a first period of time, estimating a traffic environment for a service area spanning, at least in part, a first operating area of the first UAV during the first period of time, determining an expected observed traffic of the first UAV during the first period of time based on the estimated traffic environment, and verifying operability of the ADS-B receiver of the first UAV based on a comparison between the expected observed traffic of the first UAV and the traffic associated with the ADS-B data received by the ADS-B receiver of the first UAV.
Systems, devices, and techniques for active thermal control of energy storage units are described. In some embodiments, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a battery pack. The battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells and an enclosure coupled with the plurality of battery cells to physically retain the plurality of battery cells in an arrangement. The arrangement defines a void space between the plurality of battery cells. The UAV also includes a cooling system configured to cool the battery cells. The cooling system includes a source of forced convection fluidically coupled with the battery pack to drive a cooling fluid through the void space. The cooling system also includes a cooling controller electrically coupled with the source of forced convection to controllably activate the source of forced convection.
H01M 10/647 - Prismatic or flat cells, e.g. pouch cells
H01M 10/6557 - Solid parts with flow channel passages or pipes for heat exchange arranged between the cells
H01M 10/6563 - Gases with forced flow, e.g. by blowers
H01M 50/211 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape adapted for pouch cells
H01M 50/213 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells characterised by their shape adapted for cells having curved cross-section, e.g. round or elliptic
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
H01M 50/291 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by spacing elements or positioning means within frames, racks or packs characterised by their shape
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, electronics disposed with the fuselage, a heat sink, and a solar shield. The heat sink is thermally connected to the electronics and includes a cooling plate disposed on or extends through an exterior surface of the fuselage. The cooling plate is exposed to an external environment of the UAV to conduct heat from the electronics to the external environment via convection. The solar shield extends over the cooling plate and defines an air scoop within which the cooling plate is disposed. The air scoop directs airflow from the external environment across the cooling plate. The solar shield shades the cooling plate from solar radiation to prevent or reduce solar heating of the cooling plate.
B60L 53/00 - Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehicles; Charging stations or on-board charging equipment therefor; Exchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles
B64C 1/38 - Constructions adapted to reduce effects of aerodynamic or other external heating
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a fuselage, electronics disposed with the fuselage, a heat sink, and a solar shield. The heat sink is thermally connected to the electronics and includes a cooling plate disposed on or extends through an exterior surface of the fuselage. The cooling plate is exposed to an external environment of the UAV to conduct heat from the electronics to the external environment via convection. The solar shield extends over the cooling plate and defines an air scoop within which the cooling plate is disposed. The air scoop directs airflow from the external environment across the cooling plate. The solar shield shades the cooling plate from solar radiation to prevent or reduce solar heating of the cooling plate.
A payload retrieval apparatus including a stand having an upper end and a lower end, a channel having a first end and a second end, the channel coupled to the stand, a first extension that extends in a first direction from the first end of the channel, wherein the first extension is configured to direct a tether extending from a UAV and a payload retriever attached to an end of the tether toward the first end of the channel, wherein the second end of the channel has a payload engaging member positioned near the second end of the channel that is adapted to secure a payload, and wherein the payload retrieval apparatus is configured to cause the UAV to pick up the payload with the payload retriever while maintaining flying.
Example methods, systems, and articles of manufacture may relate to an aerial vehicle. The methods, systems, and articles of manufacture may include receiving an audio signal with a microphone of the aerial vehicle. The methods, systems, and articles of manufacture may also include processing the audio signal to determine at least one of a distance and type of aircraft located near the aerial vehicle. Additionally, the methods, systems, and articles of manufacture may include, based on the determination, performing at least one maneuver of the aerial vehicle.
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
B64D 45/00 - Aircraft indicators or protectors not otherwise provided for
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Described is a method that involves operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to begin a flight, where the UAV relies on a navigation system to navigate to a destination. During the flight, the method involves operating a camera to capture images of the UAV's environment, and analyzing the images to detect features in the environment. The method also involves establishing a correlation between features detected in different images, and using location information from the navigation system to localize a feature detected in different images. Further, the method involves generating a flight log that includes the localized feature. Also, the method involves detecting a failure involving the navigation system, and responsively operating the camera to capture a post-failure image. The method also involves identifying one or more features in the post-failure image, and determining a location of the UAV based on a relationship between an identified feature and a localized feature.
A method for automated assignment of a staging pad to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: launching the UAV from a launch location; tracking a drift of the UAV from the launch location; determining a subsequent position of the UAV after the launching based upon geofiducial navigation; calculating an estimated position of the launch location by offsetting the subsequent position by the drift; attempting to match the estimated position to an available staging pad of a plurality of staging pads; and assigning the UAV to the available staging pad when the estimated position successfully matches to the available staging pad.
In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for simulating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to improve control system performance is provided. A computing system obtains ground truth aerial imagery for a region that depicts the region during a first state. The computing system determines a route for a simulated UAV within the region. The computing system generates, based on the ground truth aerial imagery, predicted aerial imagery that depicts portions of the region associated with the route. The computing system generates simulated aerial imagery that depicts portions of the region associated with the route during a second state different from the first state by providing the predicted aerial imagery to a machine learning model. The computing system simulates travel of the simulated UAV along the route during the second state by providing the simulated aerial imagery as simulated input to at least one control system of the simulated UAV.
A method for automated assignment of a staging pad to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes: launching the UAV from a launch location; tracking a drift of the UAV from the launch location; determining a subsequent position of the UAV after the launching based upon geofiducial navigation; calculating an estimated position of the launch location by offsetting the subsequent position by the drift; attempting to match the estimated position to an available staging pad of a plurality of staging pads; and assigning the UAV to the available staging pad when the estimated position successfully matches to the available staging pad.
In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for simulating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to improve control system performance is provided. A computing system obtains ground truth aerial imagery for a region that depicts the region during a first state. The computing system determines a route for a simulated UAV within the region. The computing system generates, based on the ground truth aerial imagery, predicted aerial imagery that depicts portions of the region associated with the route. The computing system generates simulated aerial imagery that depicts portions of the region associated with the route during a second state different from the first state by providing the predicted aerial imagery to a machine learning model. The computing system simulates travel of the simulated UAV along the route during the second state by providing the simulated aerial imagery as simulated input to at least one control system of the simulated UAV.
A payload loading system is disclosed. The payload loading system includes a UAV and a loading structure. A retractable tether is coupled to a payload coupling apparatus at a distal end and the UAV at a proximate end. A payload is loaded to the UAV by coupling the payload to the payload coupling apparatus. The loading structure of the payload loading system includes a landing platform and a tether guide. The tether guide is coupled to the landing platform and directs the tether as the UAV approaches and travels across at least a portion of the landing platform such that the payload coupling apparatus arrives at a target location. The payload is loaded to the payload coupling apparatus while the payload coupling apparatus is within the target location.
A method includes receiving a digital surface model of an area for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) navigation. The digital surface model represents an environmental surface in the area. The method includes determining, for each grid cell of a plurality of grid cells in the area, a confidence value of an altitude of the environmental surface at the grid cell and determining a terrain clearance value based at least on the confidence value of the altitude of the environmental surface at the grid cell. The method includes determining a route for a UAV through the area such that the altitude of the UAV is above the altitude of the environmental surface at each grid cell of a sequence of grid cells of the route by at least the terrain clearance value determined for the grid cell. The method includes causing the UAV to navigate through the area using the determined route.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics services, namely, arranging, planning, and scheduling the delivery of goods by drone for others; business management of logistics for others; logistics management in the field of drone delivery, retail, delivery, and transportation; business advisory services in the field of transportation logistics Transportation and delivery services of goods by air; management of autonomous aircraft and drone navigation in the nature of traffic flow through advanced communications network and technology; routing of autonomous aircraft and drones by computer on data networks; aeronautic navigation services, namely, aeronautic radio navigation services; expedited shipping service of goods for others; GPS navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; air navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; storage of goods; storage of goods for later pickup and delivery purposes; storage of goods at designated pickup locations
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics services, namely, arranging, planning, and scheduling the delivery of goods by drone for others; business management of logistics for others; logistics management in the field of drone delivery, retail, delivery, and transportation; business advisory services in the field of transportation logistics Transportation and delivery services of goods by air; management of autonomous aircraft and drone navigation in the nature of traffic flow through advanced communications network and technology; routing of autonomous aircraft and drones by computer on data networks; aeronautic navigation services, namely, aeronautic radio navigation services; expedited shipping service of goods for others; GPS navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; air navigation services for autonomous aircrafts and drones; storage of goods; storage of goods for later pickup and delivery purposes; storage of goods at designated pickup locations
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
Goods & Services
Metal stands for holding packages; metal stand devices for holding packages for subsequent drone pickup and delivery; metal storage containers for storage of packages; metal stands containing metal storage containers for holding packages Loading and unloading machines; machines for holding packages; machines for holding packages for drone pickup and delivery
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
Goods & Services
Metal stands for holding packages; metal stand devices for holding packages for subsequent drone pickup and delivery; metal storage containers for storage of packages; metal stands containing metal storage containers for holding packages Loading and unloading machines; machines for holding packages; machines for holding packages for drone pickup and delivery
An apparatus for visual navigation of a UAV includes a geo-fiducial mat and a plurality of geo-fiducials. The geo-fiducial mat includes a landing pad region that provides a location for aligning with a landing pad of a UAV. The geo-fiducials each includes a two-dimensional (2D) pattern that visually conveys a code. The 2D pattern has a shape from which a visual navigation system of the UAV can visually triangulate a position of the UAV.
Methods and systems for recipient-assisted recharging during delivery by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are disclosed herein. During a UAV transport task, a UAV determines that the UAV has arrived at a delivery location specified by a first flight leg of the transport task. The UAV responsively initiates a notification process indicating that a recipient-assisted recharging process should be initiated at or near the delivery location. When the UAV determines that the recipient-assisted recharging process has recharged a battery of the UAV to a target level, and also determines that a non-returnable portion of the payload has been removed from the UAV while a returnable portion of the payload is coupled to or held by the UAV, the UAV initiates a second flight segment of the transport task.
In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method of managing a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is provided. A fleet management computing system receives telemetry information from a plurality of UAVs. The fleet management computing system generates a map interface having a plurality of UAV icons based on the telemetry information. The fleet management computing system receives a selection of an initial group of UAV icons via the map interface, wherein the initial group of UAV icons includes two or more UAV icons. The fleet management computing system receives a de-selection of one or more UAV icons from the initial group of UAV icons to create a final selected group of UAV icons. The fleet management computing system transmits a command to UAVs associated with the UAV icons of the final selected group of UAV icons.
G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
G06F 3/04817 - 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 using icons
G06F 3/0482 - Interaction with lists of selectable items, e.g. menus
97.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONCURRENT MANAGEMENT OF MULTIPLE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT
In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method of managing a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is provided. A fleet management computing system receives telemetry information from a plurality of UAVs. The fleet management computing system generates a map interface having a plurality of UAV icons based on the telemetry information. The fleet management computing system receives a selection of an initial group of UAV icons via the map interface, wherein the initial group of UAV icons includes two or more UAV icons. The fleet management computing system receives a de-selection of one or more UAV icons from the initial group of UAV icons to create a final selected group of UAV icons. The fleet management computing system transmits a command to UAVs associated with the UAV icons of the final selected group of UAV icons.
In some embodiments, a system comprising a user device and a restriction management system is provided. The restriction management system includes one or more processors and at least one computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium has logic stored thereon that, in response to execution by the one or more processors, cause the restriction management system to perform actions comprising receiving flight plan information, querying a restriction data store to retrieve an initial set of restriction definitions relevant to the flight plan information, generating information for presenting a checklist based on a comparison of restriction definitions from the initial set of restrictions to a set of checklist items, and transmitting the information for presenting the set of checklist items to the user device for presentation. In some embodiments, the flight plan information includes a planned flight area and a planned flight period of time.
In some embodiments, a system comprising a user device and a restriction management system is provided. The restriction management system includes one or more processors and at least one computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium has logic stored thereon that, in response to execution by the one or more processors, cause the restriction management system to perform actions comprising receiving flight plan information, querying a restriction data store to retrieve an initial set of restriction definitions relevant to the flight plan information, generating information for presenting a checklist based on a comparison of restriction definitions from the initial set of restrictions to a set of checklist items, and transmitting the information for presenting the set of checklist items to the user device for presentation. In some embodiments, the flight plan information includes a planned flight area and a planned flight period of time.
An example UAV landing structure includes a landing platform for a UAV, a cavity within the landing platform, and a track that runs along the landing platform and at least a part of the cavity. The UAV may include a winch system that includes a tether that may be coupled to a payload. Furthermore, the cavity may be aligned over a predetermined target location. The cavity may be sized to allow the winch system to pass a tethered payload through the cavity. The track may guide the UAV to a docked position over the cavity as the UAV moves along the landing platform. When the UAV is in the docked position, a payload may be loaded to or unloaded from the UAV through the cavity.
