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.
B65G 1/137 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec des aménagements ou des moyens de commande automatique pour choisir les objets qui doivent être enlevés
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 - Prévision ou optimisation spécialement adaptées à des fins administratives ou de gestion, p. ex. programmation linéaire ou "problème d’optimisation des stocks"
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 - Transporteurs comportant des surfaces porteuses de charges sans fin, c. à d. des tapis roulants ou autres systèmes équivalents, auxquelles l'effort de traction est transmis par des moyens différents des éléments d'entraînement sans fin de même config comprenant plusieurs surfaces sans fin travaillant ensemble et à axes parallèles longitudinaux, ou une multiplicité d'éléments parallèles, p.ex. des cordes formant une surface sans fin avec plusieurs courroies sans fin la charge étant transportée entre les courroies
B65G 21/10 - Châssis ou carters de support ou de protection pour transporteurs sans fin ou éléments de traction des transporteurs à courroies ou à chaînes mobiles ou à pièces interchangeables ou relativement mobiles; Dispositifs pour déplacer le châssis ou des parties de celui-ci
B65G 47/91 - Dispositifs pour saisir et déposer les articles ou les matériaux comportant des pinces pneumatiques, p.ex. aspirantes
B65G 65/02 - Machines à charger ou à décharger comportant essentiellement un transporteur pour déplacer les charges associé à un dispositif pour les saisir
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 - Matériel à but éducatif à commande électrique avec présentation à la fois visuelle et sonore du sujet à étudier
G09B 9/04 - Simulateurs pour l'enseignement ou l'entraînement pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules ou autres moyens de transport pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules terrestres
G09B 9/042 - Simulateurs pour l'enseignement ou l'entraînement pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules ou autres moyens de transport pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules terrestres avec une simulation dans un véhicule réel
G09B 9/052 - Simulateurs pour l'enseignement ou l'entraînement pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules ou autres moyens de transport pour l'enseignement de la conduite des véhicules terrestres caractérisés par des moyens pour enregistrer ou mesurer les performances de l'élève
G09B 9/30 - Simulation de vue à partir d'un aéronef
G09B 19/16 - Conduite des véhicules ou autres moyens de transport
6.
PAYLOAD CONTAINER WITH POWER SUPPLY FOR UNMANNED SYSTEMS
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 - Aéronefs non prévus ailleurs caractérisés par un emploi spécial
B64D 1/10 - Arrimage de ces dispositifs sur aéronefs
B65D 81/38 - Réceptacles, éléments d'emballage ou paquets pour contenus présentant des problèmes particuliers de stockage ou de transport ou adaptés pour servir à d'autres fins que l'emballage après avoir été vidés de leur contenu avec isolation thermique
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 - Aéronefs non prévus ailleurs caractérisés par un emploi spécial
B64D 1/10 - Arrimage de ces dispositifs sur aéronefs
B65D 81/38 - Réceptacles, éléments d'emballage ou paquets pour contenus présentant des problèmes particuliers de stockage ou de transport ou adaptés pour servir à d'autres fins que l'emballage après avoir été vidés de leur contenu avec isolation thermique
11.
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 - Dispositifs sans filetage pour empêcher le mouvement relatif selon l'axe d'une broche, d'un ergot, d'un arbre ou d'une pièce analogue par rapport à l'organe qui l'entoure; Fixations à ergots et douilles largables sans filetage à parties séparées par gorges ou encoches pratiquées dans l'axe ou l'arbre
12.
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 - Véhicules adaptés pour transporter, porter ou comporter des charges ou des objets spéciaux
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
13.
SELECTION OF UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES FOR CARRYING ITEMS TO TARGET LOCATIONS
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.
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 pneumatic delivery system (300) is used to facilitate delivery of canisters (304) comprising delivery payloads by unmanned systems, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) (318). The pneumatic delivery system comprises a tube (302) having a channel within a tube wall, where a canister is configured to move through the tube. The tube comprises a tube opening (306) and a transfer mechanism proximate the tube opening. The transfer mechanism engages a canister having a payload that is moved within the tube. The transfer mechanism moves the canister through the tube opening by extending from a first transfer position to a second transfer position. At the second transfer position, the transfer mechanism orients the tube and releases it to a UAV for delivery.
A landing gear system that can be used with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) retrieves and releases canisters suitable for delivering items. To do so, the landing gear comprises a first leg and a second leg. The first landing leg and the second landing leg are rotationally engages at a first leg connection end and a second leg connection end. A tensioning member applies a rotational force about the engagement location, biasing the first leg toward the second leg. Each of the first and second legs can include a curved portion. A UAV comprising the landing gear can be lowered over a canister, and the canister is secured in place within the curved portions of the legs. To release, the landing legs are rotated against the bias, which can be facilitated by landing the UAV and placing the rotors into a reverse thrust.
A payload container for delivering canisters having payloads is provided. The payload container includes an open end and a closed end. The open end is configured to couple to a terminal end of a tube of a pneumatic delivery system to receive or provided a canister. The payload container further comprises a gas vent having a first gas vent opening located at the closed end of the payload container and a second gas vent opening located at the open end of the payload container. The open end is configured to couple to an air hose outlet of the pneumatic delivery system, which delivers air into the payload container to push the canister into the pneumatic delivery system tube. A depressed landing platform aids in guiding an unmanned aerial vehicle, having a payload container, into a position where a canister can be delivered to or from the pneumatic delivery system.
An intelligent container system is provided that accommodates a variety of sizes and shapes of parcels, and that allows the parcels to be dispensed from the container one at a time, in any order. The container system has an open face, such as the bottom. A first panel cooperates with a second panel to selectively close the open bottom, and to selectively open the bottom below a desired parcel, allowing the parcel to be individually dispensed when desired. The container system has a plurality of dividers that can be moved along the length of the container to create a series of compartments that match the sizes of the parcels within the compartments. A position sensing system is used to determine the location of the dividers, and thus the location of the compartments.
A47G 29/14 - Récipients pour déposer des aliments, p.ex. petit déjeuner, lait; Récipients similaires pour colis avec accessoires pour éviter que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés
21.
AUTOMATED HANDLING AND MANIPULATION OF PACKAGES AND PACKAGES SPECIALLY ADAPTED THEREFOR
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for handling and manipulating packages in automated or semi-automated fashion and packages adapted for the same. The systems may include package-holding devices, package-manipulating devices, and package-detection components for locating packages or portions thereof in a three-dimensional space. The packages may include features that enable automated or semi-automated handling and manipulation thereof, such as different types of opening/closing mechanisms with different geometric structures that allow for holding, shifting, and manipulating the packages and/or portions thereof with the package-manipulating devices. The packages additionally or alternatively may include mechanical fasteners, magnets, and/or spring-biased opening/closing mechanisms for keeping the packages closed prior to manipulation thereof. Such packages and systems may be used in a logistics network to the increase speed, accuracy, and efficiency of processing packages having, at least in part, a non-fixed geometry.
B65B 61/18 - Dispositifs accessoires, non prévus ailleurs, opérant sur feuilles, flans, bandes, attaches, réceptacles ou paquets pour appliquer ou incorporer des éléments d'ouverture ou de déballage des paquets, p.ex. bandes de déchirure
B65B 9/08 - Enserrage d'objets les uns à la suite des autres ou de quantités de matériaux, dans une bande pliée en long ou dans une bande pliée en forme de tube autour des objets ou quantités de matériaux placés sur elle dans une bande pliée et scellée transversalement pour former des poches qui sont ensuite remplies et scellées
B65B 3/16 - Procédés ou moyens pour charger le matériau dans les réceptacles ou récipients pour remplir des tubes rétractables
B65B 5/02 - Machines caractérisées par l'incorporation de moyens pour fabriquer les réceptacles ou récipients
B65B 7/02 - Fermeture des réceptacles ou récipients déformés par le contenu ou en prenant la forme, p.ex. sacs
B65B 43/04 - Formation de sacs plats à partir de bandes
B65B 43/14 - Alimentation en sacs ou en flans de carton séparément à partir de piles ou de chargeurs
B65B 43/26 - Ouverture ou distension des sacs; Ouverture, dressage des boîtes, montage des boîtes, cartons ou flans de carton
B65B 43/54 - Moyens pour tenir les réceptacles ou les récipients pendant le remplissage
B65D 33/25 - Dispositifs de fermeture de l'extrémité ou de l'ouverture utilisant des boutons-pression ou des fermetures à glissières
B31B 70/81 - Formation ou fixation d’accessoires, p.ex. de dispositifs d’ouverture ou de fermeture, de cordons de déchirure
B65D 33/24 - Dispositifs de fermeture de l'extrémité ou de l'ouverture utilisant des éléments de fermeture à emboîtage formant corps ou rapportés, p.ex. pattes
B65D 33/00 - MANUTENTION; EMBALLAGE; EMMAGASINAGE; MANIPULATION DES MATÉRIAUX DE FORME PLATE OU FILIFORME ÉLÉMENTS D'EMBALLAGE; PAQUETS - Parties constitutives ou accessoires pour sacs ou sachets
Aspects herein are directed to a clamp (200) having a linkage (212) coupled to a first ends (208a-b) of a first and second clamp member (202, 204). 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. Also disclosed is a clamping system with two interlinked clamps. Also disclosed is a method transporting an item via an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the method comprising the step of securing a strap around the item using a clamp, the strap having a first end and a second end, the first end of the strap mounted to the clamp and the second end of the strap secured by the clamp when the clamp is in a closed position.
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.
H04W 4/029 - Services de gestion ou de suivi basés sur la localisation
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
H04W 4/33 - Services spécialement adaptés à des environnements, à des situations ou à des fins spécifiques pour les environnements intérieurs, p.ex. les bâtiments
H04W 4/35 - Services spécialement adaptés à des environnements, à des situations ou à des fins spécifiques pour la gestion de biens ou de marchandises
H04W 4/021 - Services concernant des domaines particuliers, p.ex. services de points d’intérêt, services sur place ou géorepères
In some aspects, an item storage unit for storing one or more items includes the following components, A first frame component and a first stretch member coupled to at least a first surface of the first frame component. The first stretch member being more flexible relative to the first frame component. The one or more items are configured to be supported by at least the first stretch member and the first frame component.
B65D 81/07 - Réceptacles, éléments d'emballage ou paquets pour contenus présentant des problèmes particuliers de stockage ou de transport ou adaptés pour servir à d'autres fins que l'emballage après avoir été vidés de leur contenu spécialement adaptés pour protéger leur contenu des dommages mécaniques maintenant le contenu en position éloignée des parois de l'emballage ou des autres pièces du contenu utilisant des moyens de suspension élastiques
25.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDICIA AVOIDANCE IN INDICIA APPLICATION
Aspects herein provide a system, methods, and media for applying labels (616) to objects (302, 602) without overlapping or obscuring existing labels (304, 604) or other indicia. In some aspects, an object (302, 602) in motion and labels (304, 604) or indicia on the object are visually identified using near real-time imaging (106) and details of geometric characteristics are determined. An additional label (616) is then generated, printed, and physically applied or attached to the object in motion so that the angle, placement, and orientation of the additional label matches or aligns with the existing labels or indicia, without overlapping or obscuring the existing labels or indicia.
Subject matter described in this disclosure relates to a label applicator for varied surfaces. In some instances, the label applicator may include one or more elements that may adjust to individual package properties and may adjust from one package to the next. For example, in one aspect the label applicator may include a label-retaining surface that is nonlinear, hi other examples, the label applicator may include a force attenuator that dampens compressive forces between the label applicator and the package. In a further example, the label applicator may include an articulating joint that permits pivotable adjustment when a label applicator contacts a package, in yet another example, the label applicator may include a magnetic coupling attaching the label applicator to an actuator to provide a breakaway and reattachment mechanism.
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 (18), a parcel-conveying system (22) supported by the center shaft frame, structural arms (20) coupled to and extending outward from the center shaft frame in a spoke-like configuration, drone-conveying systems (24) each supported by one of the structural arms, and a linking conveyor span (26). 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.
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.
A system and method for shifting objects, the system comprising: a plurality of object-support structures (62), an object-shifting apparatus (80) configured to: locate and identify an object positioned on a first object-support structure of the plurality of object-support structures when the first object-support structure is positioned adjacent to the object-shifting apparatus, engage the object positioned on the first object-support structure, and transfer the object onto a second object-support structure of the plurality of object-support structures; a shifting mechanism (58) operable to move the plurality of object-support structures to different locations; and a computing device (38) configured to direct operation of: the object-shifting apparatus, and the shifting mechanism.
B65G 1/10 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports relativement mobiles pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets
B60P 1/36 - Véhicules destinés principalement au transport des charges et modifiés pour faciliter le chargement, la fixation de la charge ou son déchargement utilisant des chaînes sans fin ou des courroies
B60P 3/00 - Véhicules adaptés pour transporter, porter ou comporter des charges ou des objets spéciaux
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
30.
LOCATING, IDENTIFYING, AND SHIFTING OBJECTS IN AUTOMATED OR SEMI-AUTOMATED FASHION INCLUDING DURING TRANSIT
A computer-implemented method for directing the shifting of objects (106), the method comprising: directing a shifting mechanism (58) to move a first object-support structure (62) of a plurality of object-support structures to a first location in a space, the first location being located in a three-dimensional space in which an object-shifting apparatus (80) operates; receiving, from the object- shifting apparatus (80), identifying data associated with an object positioned on the first object-support structure, determining a designated destination of the object based at least in part on the identifying data; directing the shifting mechanism (58) to move a second object-support structure (62) of the plurality of object-support structures (62) to a second location in the space based on the second object-support structure (62) being associated with the designated destination of the object, the second location being located in the three-dimensional space in which the object-shifting apparatus (80) operates; and directing the object-shifting apparatus (80) to transfer the object from the first object-support structure (62) to the second object-support structure (62).
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
An object-shifting apparatus, comprising: a base (82); a frame (84) extending from the base (82); and an object-shifting mechanism (86), the object-shifting mechanism movable to different positions along the frame (84), and the object-shifting mechanism comprising one or more object-engaging components (110) useable for engaging and shifting objects having a range of different dimensions; and at least one object-detection component (92) configured to: determine a location of an object positioned in a three-dimensional space in which the object-shifting apparatus operates, and determine an identity of the object.
B65G 1/10 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports relativement mobiles pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
B66F 9/06 - Dispositifs pour lever ou descendre des marchandises volumineuses ou lourdes aux fins de chargement ou de déchargement se déplaçant, avec leurs charges, sur des roues ou sur un dispositif analogue, p.ex. chariots élévateurs à fourche
B60P 3/00 - Véhicules adaptés pour transporter, porter ou comporter des charges ou des objets spéciaux
B65G 47/90 - Dispositifs pour saisir et déposer les articles ou les matériaux
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 transporting a plurality of modular containers using one or more autonomous vehicles. The system may include a housing, motorized wheels, a proximity sensor, and a control system. The housing may have a body with a floor, a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and the motorized wheels may be rotatably attached to the housing. The proximity sensor may identify proximity of the housing to other objects. The control system may be communicably coupled to the proximity sensor and the plurality of motorized wheels and may instruct rotatable actuation and steering of at least one of the motorized wheels based on user input, input from the proximity sensor and/or input read from a memory storage device.
Adjustable storage systems, adjustable storage receptacles, and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, an adjustable storage system includes a plurality of adjustable storage receptacles, each of which may include a housing, an opening/closing mechanism, and an expansion mechanism. The expansion mechanism may be operable to increase or decrease an interior storage volume of the associated storage receptacle, enabling greater flexibility in storing objects of different shapes and sizes, relative to a fixed-size or fixed-geometry storage receptacle. In additional aspects, a method of using an adjustable storage receptacle and a method of using an adjustable storage system are provided, and further, a method of manufacturing an adjustable storage receptacle and a method of manufacturing an adjustable storage system are provided.
A47B 45/00 - Meubles à tiroirs, étagères ou rayonnages caractérisés par la possibilité de les étendre en hauteur, en longueur ou en profondeur
A47G 29/12 - Réceptacles pour courrier ou journaux, p.ex. boîtes aux lettres; Ouvertures dans les portes ou similaires pour la distribution du courrier ou des journaux
B07C 7/02 - Meubles à compartiments, p.ex. classeurs à casiers
B65G 1/137 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec des aménagements ou des moyens de commande automatique pour choisir les objets qui doivent être enlevés
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
35.
A MODULAR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE SYSTEM FOR ADAPTABLE PARCEL DELIVERY
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.
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.
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.
B65G 1/137 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec des aménagements ou des moyens de commande automatique pour choisir les objets qui doivent être enlevés
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
B60P 1/00 - Véhicules destinés principalement au transport des charges et modifiés pour faciliter le chargement, la fixation de la charge ou son déchargement
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.
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.
Embodiments herein provide a system and method for generating mobile mesh networks that monitor multi-package shipments. In embodiments, mobile mesh networks are created using a plurality of devices that are associated with and travel with packages in a multi-package shipment. The plurality of devices are configured to form a mesh network: some devices act as child nodes and at least one device acts as a parent node. In embodiments, the devices acting as child nodes provide information to the device acting as the parent node through the mesh network. Then, the device acting as the parent node provides information to an external device for monitoring purposes. As such, a portion or all of the packages in a multi-package shipment are monitored using the device acting as the parent node as a proxy for the packages in the multi-package shipment.
An indication that one or more physical objects have been detected in a first geographical environment is received via one or more sensors. The one or more sensors are coupled to a logistics vehicle as the logistics vehicle performs one or more shipping operations. Based at least in part on the receiving of the indication that one or more physical objects have been detected, a mapping of the first geographical environment is caused to be generated. The mapping includes at least an image representation of the first geographical environment associated with the first geographical environment. The mapping is stored. The stored mapping is for use by an autonomous vehicle or partially autonomous vehicle for detecting objects in the first geographical environment.
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.
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.
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.
A containment unit that facilitates delivery of parcels using drones is provided. An example containment unit comprises an inner housing unit and an outer housing unit. The inner housing unit includes a first and second sidewall that are connected by an end piece and have a bottom opening in between. The inner housing unit is movable from a retracted position over a floor of the containment unit to an extended position, where a portion of the opening is extended beyond the floor. A parcel may be inserted into a volume of space within the inner housing unit from below through the opening and pulled into the containment unit by the end piece when the inner housing unit is retracted. The containment unit can be used as part of a drone delivery system that can also include an elevated delivery platform, a computer application, or any combination of these aspects.
B64F 1/32 - Installations au sol ou installations pour ponts d'envol des porte-avions pour la manutention du fret
A47G 29/14 - Récipients pour déposer des aliments, p.ex. petit déjeuner, lait; Récipients similaires pour colis avec accessoires pour éviter que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés
A47G 29/22 - Récipients pour déposer des aliments, p.ex. petit déjeuner, lait; Récipients similaires pour colis avec accessoires pour éviter que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés avec accessoires pour empêcher que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés ayant des éléments rotatifs ou à mouvement de va-et-vient
B64C 39/02 - Aéronefs non prévus ailleurs caractérisés par un emploi spécial
B64D 1/22 - Enlèvement d'objets à la surface du sol
B66B 9/187 - Ascenseurs mobiles ou transportables spécialement adaptés pour permettre leur transfert d'une partie d'un bâtiment ou édifice vers une autre partie ou un autre bâtiment ou édifice avec une cage spécialement adaptée pour l'adjonction temporaire à un bâtiment ou un autre édifice
B66B 9/193 - Ascenseurs mobiles ou transportables spécialement adaptés pour permettre leur transfert d'une partie d'un bâtiment ou édifice vers une autre partie ou un autre bâtiment ou édifice avec des cages inclinées
46.
A DRONE DELIVERY PLATFORM TO FACILITATE DELIVERY OF PARCELS BY UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES
An elevated delivery platform having a delivery surface that can be placed at a location off the ground to better facilitate delivery of parcels by unmanned aerial vehicles, such as delivery drones, is provided. By placing the elevated delivery platform in an area above the ground, such as atop a home or a pole, a drone is more capable of making deliveries because it avoids obstacles nearer to the ground that typically make drone delivery challenging. The elevated delivery platform raises and lowers parcels to a position where they can easily be retrieved. Some systems also provide a deployable cover to protect parcels from adverse weather conditions while awaiting pickup or following delivery. The elevated delivery platform can be used as part of a drone delivery system that can also include a containment unit, a computer application, or any combination of these aspects.
B64F 1/32 - Installations au sol ou installations pour ponts d'envol des porte-avions pour la manutention du fret
A47G 29/14 - Récipients pour déposer des aliments, p.ex. petit déjeuner, lait; Récipients similaires pour colis avec accessoires pour éviter que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés
B64C 39/02 - Aéronefs non prévus ailleurs caractérisés par un emploi spécial
B64D 1/22 - Enlèvement d'objets à la surface du sol
B66B 9/187 - Ascenseurs mobiles ou transportables spécialement adaptés pour permettre leur transfert d'une partie d'un bâtiment ou édifice vers une autre partie ou un autre bâtiment ou édifice avec une cage spécialement adaptée pour l'adjonction temporaire à un bâtiment ou un autre édifice
B66B 9/193 - Ascenseurs mobiles ou transportables spécialement adaptés pour permettre leur transfert d'une partie d'un bâtiment ou édifice vers une autre partie ou un autre bâtiment ou édifice avec des cages inclinées
47.
SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR SHIFTING AND STAGING STORAGE STRUCTURES AND PARCELS THEREON
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.
B60P 1/64 - Véhicules destinés principalement au transport des charges et modifiés pour faciliter le chargement, la fixation de la charge ou son déchargement l'élément supportant ou contenant la charge étant rapidement démontable
B65G 1/133 - Dispositifs d'emmagasinage mécaniques avec supports ou porte-objets mobiles en circuit fermé pour faciliter l'insertion ou l'enlèvement des objets le circuit étant entièrement situé dans un plan horizontal
48.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MOBILE PARCEL DIMENSION CALCULATION AND PREDICTIVE CONDITION ANALYSIS
Present aspects are directed to a system that receives digital images of parcels at various points throughout a transportation and logistics network. Based on analysis of a single digital image of a parcel, the dimensions of the parcel are detected and calculated. A single digital image of a parcel is captured at various points throughout a transit or shipping network. The single digital image is processed using computer vision for image manipulation. Key identifying points of the parcel (e.g., a label or bar code) can be detected through the processing. The processed digital image is input into a mathematical model that generates an estimate for all dimensions of the parcel.
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 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 10/04 - Prévision ou optimisation spécialement adaptées à des fins administratives ou de gestion, p. ex. programmation linéaire ou "problème d’optimisation des stocks"
50.
AUTOMATICALLY GENERATING VOLUME FORECASTS FOR DIFFERENT HIERARCHICAL LEVELS VIA MACHINE LEARNING MODELS
Embodiments are disclosed for autonomously generating volume forecasts. An example method includes accessing volume information units from a volume forecast data management tool. The example method further includes extracting features from volume information units, wherein the features are representative of one or more of a package received time, or package information. The features can be categorized by different hierarchical level information. The example method further includes generating, using a volume forecast learning model and the features, an output comprising a volume forecast for a particular hierarchical level. Corresponding apparatuses and non-transitory computer readable storage media are also provided.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 10/04 - Prévision ou optimisation spécialement adaptées à des fins administratives ou de gestion, p. ex. programmation linéaire ou "problème d’optimisation des stocks"
A mobile locker bank system for providing parcel pickup/delivery at various locations is provided. A mobile locker bank can be automatically routed and travel to a location to facilitate pickup/delivery of parcels. Further, the mobile locker bank system may expand capacity of a fixed locker bank having monitors when the number of available lockers drops below a predefined threshold capacity at the fixed locker bank. In response to this trigger, a mobile locker bank is automatically routed to the fixed locker bank to increase a number of available lockers at the location. Each locker bank further includes a communication system that is adapted to facilitate direct or indirect communication between the fixed locker bank computing system and the mobile locker bank computing system when the mobile locker bank is positioned adjacent the location of the fixed locker bank.
An occupancy database is in electronic communication with a plurality of location-specific distributed computing entities to maintain real-time update occupancy data for various entities. As those entities relocate from one location to another (e.g., moving from one apartment to another), distributed computing entities associated with both the prior and new location of the entity transmit information to the occupancy database to reflect the changed location for the entity. The occupancy database also maintains communication data for the entities and/or locations associated with the entities, and the occupancy database may share that communication data with authorized mobile/user computing entities to enable communication between those authorized mobile/user computing entities and the particular entity or devices located at the entity's location.
Systems, methods, and media are described for enriched logistics decision-making for logistics systems having unmanned systems for use in delivering parcels. In some cases, logistics route plans may be determined based on historical, real-time, and predicted navigation factors or variables, such as weather, traffic, transporter type, etc. Using this information, a set of candidate route plans may be determined. The candidate route plans may be ranked using one or more weighted objectives, such as reducing delivery time and/or cost. Parcel transporters may navigate the highest ranked route plan to transport a parcel. In some aspects, implementation of route plans may be monitored by comparing measured real-time data to the predicted values from the enriched decision-making. In some cases, the implemented route plans may be monitored and adjusted or abandoned based on the monitoring.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 50/28 - Logistique, p.ex. stockage, chargement, distribution ou expédition
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
54.
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.
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
55.
AUTOMATIC ROUTING OF AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES INTRA-FACILITY MOVEMENT
Various embodiments are directed to autonomous vehicles and systems and methods for guiding autonomous vehicles within a facility. The autonomous vehicle guide system comprises a mapping computing entity configured to determine a recommended route for the autonomous vehicle and a plurality of location devices configured to emit navigational cues detectable by an autonomous vehicle. The autonomous vehicles each comprise one or more sensors configured to detect the navigational cues emitted by the one or more location devices and an onboard controller configured to selectively activate locomotion mechanisms of the autonomous vehicle to move along the recommended route as indicated by the one or more navigational cues.
Embodiments are provided for automating selection of insurance policies for physical assets via a distributed ledger. A computing device, which in some instances can be coupled to or associated with a physical asset, can determine that a distributed ledger maintained by a plurality of distributed nodes includes a first transaction that corresponds to a request for insurance associated with the physical asset being transported from a first location to a second location.. The computing device can also determine that the distributed ledger includes a set of second transactions that correspond to a set of insurance policies that each reference the first transaction, each transaction in the corresponding set of second transactions having insurance policy parameters that are determined based on the insurance request criteria. A transaction is generated for communication to a node for storage into the distributed ledger, where the generated transaction references an optimal insurance policy selected from the set of insurance policies based on predetermined weights.
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.
G09G 5/00 - Dispositions ou circuits de commande de l'affichage communs à l'affichage utilisant des tubes à rayons cathodiques et à l'affichage utilisant d'autres moyens de visualisation
58.
VERIFIABLE PARCEL DISTRIBUTED LEDGER SHIPPING AND TRACKING SYSTEM
Embodiments are provided for tracking physical transfers of tokenized physical assets. A transferor request to transfer a digital token from a first address associated with the first computing device to a second address associated with a second computing device may be received by a first computing device, where the digital token corresponds to a unique identifier associated with a physical asset. The first computing device communicates the received transferor request including at least a first location parameter, determined by the first computing device based on signals received at a physical location thereof, to at least one node of a distributed ledger network. The first computing device receives a confirmation that the transfer of the digital token is approved based on a determination that a transferee request from the second computing device includes at least a second location parameter corresponding to the physical location of the first computing device.
G06F 21/30 - Authentification, c. à d. détermination de l’identité ou de l’habilitation des responsables de la sécurité
G06F 21/50 - Contrôle des usagers, programmes ou dispositifs de préservation de l’intégrité des plates-formes, p.ex. des processeurs, des micrologiciels ou des systèmes d’exploitation
Systems, media, and methods for collecting front-end information from a customer to establish a delivery/pickup location for delivery/pickup of a parcel by unmanned vehicles are provided. In some embodiments, a customer may be guided though a registration process that includes establishing release/retrieve zones for unmanned delivery/pickup. In some cases, release/retrieve zones may be determined using a map provided to the customer. Areas to establish release/retrieve zones may be suggested to the customer, or in some cases, the customer may suggest potential release/retrieve zones. It may be determined whether a release/retrieve zone is suitable based on customer configurations and consents. Some embodiments include establishing a release/retrieve zone using augmented reality. In some cases, customers may wish to designate off-limits areas, including no-fly zones, to prohibit certain unmanned vehicles from entering the off-limits areas.
G05D 1/10 - Commande de la position ou du cap dans les trois dimensions simultanément
H04W 84/04 - Réseaux à grande échelle; Réseaux fortement hiérarchisés
H04W 4/80 - Services utilisant la communication de courte portée, p.ex. la communication en champ proche, l'identification par radiofréquence ou la communication à faible consommation d’énergie
B64C 39/02 - Aéronefs non prévus ailleurs caractérisés par un emploi spécial
G03B 7/08 - Réglage effectué uniquement sur la base de la réponse, à l'intensité de l'éclairage reçu par l'appareil, d'un dispositif incorporé sensible à la lumière
60.
IMPROVED CONVEYOR BELT ASSEMBLY FOR IDENTIFYING AN ASSET SORT LOCATION AND METHODS OF UTILIZING THE SAME
Provided are systems and methods for associating an asset with a sort location, the system comprising a conveyor belt assembly and a user device configured to be worn by a user. The conveyor belt assembly comprises: an acquisition device and a plurality of stripes defining a non-repeating pattern, the plurality of stripes comprising a plurality of unique sets of stripes. The acquisition device is configured to capture image data comprising asset identifier data and conveyor mechanism data, the conveyor mechanism data including one of the plurality of unique sets of stripes. The user device is configured to capture conveyor mechanism data including one of the plurality of unique sets of stripes; remotely receive asset identifier data associated with the user device captured conveyor mechanism data; and generate and display to the user, relative to the asset, at least one visual indicator of one or more sort instructions for the asset.
As deliveries of items containing dangerous goods are made from a vehicle/container, systems update stored information to reflect the reduced number of points of dangerous goods currently on the vehicle/container. Conversely, when the vehicle/container picks up dangerous goods, the systems update the information to reflect the increased number of points of dangerous goods currently on the vehicle/container. The systems identify potential delivery routes, such that the vehicle/container may deliver items containing dangerous goods prior to picking up new items, so as to maintain the total points of dangerous goods on the vehicle/container below a predetermined threshold.
Data encoded in multiple languages, such as single byte languages and multi-byte languages, may be generated and stored in a single indexable information/data profile in a database. The information/data profile may comprise indexable information/data fields configured for storing information/data in a standardized language encoding and non-indexable information/data fields configured for storing information/data in a language different from the standardized language. The standardized language may be generated by translating the information/data stored in the non-indexable information/data fields to enable indexing of the entire information/data profile. The information/data profile may be utilized to generate various information/data outputs, such as shipping labels including at least one of the standardized language or the other language while enabling the information/data profile to be indexed based at least in part on the standardized language.
An item drop box sensor system for detecting items deposited within a drop box may be configured to detect movement of an item deposit tray and to detect items deposited within the drop box. The drop box sensor system may comprise one or more tray movement sensors for detecting movement of the deposit tray, one or more item detection sensors configured to detect items passing into the drop box via the deposit tray, and an onboard controller for selectively activating the various sensors to conserve power and for transmitting data indicative of the status of the drop box to a central server configured for scheduling item pickups for various geographically spaced drop boxes.
G07C 9/00 - Enregistrement de l’entrée ou de la sortie d'une entité isolée
A47G 29/14 - Récipients pour déposer des aliments, p.ex. petit déjeuner, lait; Récipients similaires pour colis avec accessoires pour éviter que les articles déposés ne soient indûment retirés
64.
ENGAGING A SERVICE PROVIDER TO PERFORM A LOCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICE INVOLVING AN ITEM
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for engaging a service provider to perform a delivery service to redirect a shipment to be delivered to an alternative intended destination upon receipt of a redirection request. Based on a monitored current location of a last mile delivery vehicle scheduled to deliver the shipment to an initial intended destination, a computing entity monitors the location of available service providers capable of meeting the last mile delivery vehicle to pick up the shipment and transport the shipment to the alternative intended destination. The computing entity may engage one of the service providers by transmitting a signal to a mobile computing entity carried by the service provider and may monitor the service provider's progress in meeting the last mile delivery vehicle and transporting the shipment to the alternative intended destination.
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.
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.
Computer-implemented methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided. In one embodiment, shipment information/data corresponding to a proposed shipment from a customer computing device is received. The shipment information/data may be generated based on a task-management record from user input provided from a shipper. The shipment information/data also identifies a destination location and a desired delivery date for the proposed shipment. In one embodiment, updated shipment information/data is generated and causes the customer computing device to generate updated task-management records via a task-management software application based at least in part on one or more tender dates.
A secure, computerized locker bank that is adapted to facilitate the payment for, and physical exchange of an item between entities who have brokered the sale of the item via a marketplace, such as an on-line marketplace (e.g., an on-line auction site, an on-line classified advertisement site, or an online retail marketplace), or a traditional marketplace (e.g., traditional paper classified advertisements). In particular embodiments, each locker in the computerized locker bank comprises one or more imaging devices for allowing a potential purchaser to view an item (e.g., stored within a locker) before purchasing the item and retrieving it from the locker.
Systems and methods for tracking the location of an asset may utilize wireless asset beacons broadcasting asset information/data and powered asset beacons secured relative to movable powered assets. The powered asset beacons may be configured to receive signals transmitted from the asset beacons and to ascertain a relative location between the asset beacon and the powered asset to determine an estimated location of the asset. Moreover, the asset beacons may be selectively activated based on the occurrence of a trigger event, such that the asset beacons do not wireless transmit information/data when it is desirable to limit wireless data transmissions.
G01S 19/48 - Détermination de position en combinant ou en commutant entre les solutions de position dérivées du système de positionnement par satellite à radiophares et les solutions de position dérivées d'un autre système
G01S 5/00 - Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de direction ou de ligne de position; Localisation par coordination de plusieurs déterminations de distance
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for facilitating movement within a facility by providing internal navigation instructions to a user, and/or for automatically operating various transportation mechanisms within the facility to move the user therein. Various embodiments thus comprise a computing entity configured to receive location information/data indicative of a current location of a user and destination information/data indicative of a desired destination for the user, generate a recommended route for the user, and transmit one or more signals to location devices along the recommended route to provide navigations cues to the user, or to one or more transportation mechanisms to enable the user to board the transportation mechanism at a first location, and disembark the transportation mechanism closer to the desired destination.
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for determining whether an individual uses proper posture to perform a job duty/task. For example, systems may determine whether an individual utilizes proper posture when lifting a heavy item from a floor. Accordingly, various embodiments comprise an image capture device and a central computing entity configured to receive item information/data for an item to be moved by an individual and to determine whether the item information/data satisfies one or more image collection criteria. Upon determining the item information/data satisfies one or more of the image collection criteria, the computing entity may activate an image capture device to collect image information/data of individuals performing the job duty/task, to compare collected image information/data against a plurality of reference images, and to determine whether the collected image information/data is indicative of the individual performing the job duty/task according to proper posture considerations.
Systems and methods include UAVs that serve to assist carrier personnel by reducing the physical demands of the transportation and delivery process. A UAV (100) generally includes a UAV chassis (110) including an upper portion, a plurality of propulsion members (102) configured to provide lift to the UAV chassis (110), and a parcel carrier (200) configured for being selectively coupled to and removed from the UAV chassis (110). UAV support mechanisms are utilized to load and unload parcel carriers to the UAV chassis, and the UAV lands on and takes off from the UAV support mechanism to deliver parcels to a serviceable point. The UAV includes computing entities that interface with different systems and computing entities to send and receive various types of information.
Systems and methods include UAVs that serve to assist carrier personnel by reducing the physical demands of the transportation and delivery process. A UAV (100) generally includes a UAV chassis (110) including an upper portion, a plurality of propulsion members (102) configured to provide lift to the UAV chassis (110), and a parcel carrier (200) configured for being selectively coupled to and removed from the UAV chassis (110). UAV support mechanisms are utilized to load and unload parcel carriers to the UAV chassis, and the UAV lands on and takes off from the UAV support mechanism to deliver parcels to a serviceable point. The UAV includes computing entities that interface with different systems and computing entities to send and receive various types of information.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities for tracking an item delivery are provided. In one embodiment, an item is associated with a vehicle (e.g., manned or unmanned terrestrial vehicle, nautical vehicle, and/or aerial vehicle) by updating item data in a database. An item tracking session is then generated based on the item data. Upon the determination that session availability trigger has occurred, access to the item tracking session is provided to a user. Data representing an updated location of the delivery vehicle is then used to update the item data to indicate the current location of the item as the updated location of the vehicle.
Methods, apparatuses, systems, and computer program products for interactive deliveries are provided. For an upcoming service point that is associated with a service point device, it is determined whether the item to be delivered to the service point is within an activation zone for activating the service point device. Responsive to determining that the item is within the activation zone, the service point device is remotely activated. Remotely activating the service point device triggers dynamical provision of an alert interface. An indication of user interaction via the user interface indicating availability of the user to receive the item is received. A notification of the indication of the user interaction is provided. If the notification indicates that the individual is available to receive the item at the service point, the item is delivered to or picked-up from the service point.
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 50/28 - Logistique, p.ex. stockage, chargement, distribution ou expédition
Systems and methods include UAVs that serve to assist carrier personnel by reducing the physical demands of the transportation and delivery process. A UAV (100) generally includes a UAV chassis (110) including an upper portion, a plurality of propulsion members (102) configured to provide lift to the UAV chassis, and a parcel carrier (200) configured for being selectively coupled to and removed from the UAV chassis. UAV support mechanisms are utilized to load and unload parcel carriers to the UAV chassis, and the UAV lands on and takes off from the UAV support mechanism to deliver parcels to a serviceable point. The UAV includes computing entities that interface with different systems and computing entities to send and receive various types of information.
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for monitoring and compiling weather information/data for a plurality of identified locations along a route. A central computing entity 100 may store and retrieve a weather information/data inquiry template from memory, and may populate the weather information/data inquiry template with relevant information/data identifying locations for which weather information/data is requested. The central computing entity 100 may utilize the populated inquiry template to retrieve weather information/data from one or more weather information/data sources by transmitting the populated weather information/data inquiry to the one or more weather information/data sources to cause the weather information/data sources to provide weather information/data to the one or more computer processors; and to compile the retrieved weather information/data from the one or more weather information/data sources.
Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products for determining delivery or pick-up windows. In one embodiment a method is provided comprising determining whether sufficient historical information/data to determine an estimated pick-up/delivery time is received for each weekday when deliveries are made and in response to determining that the sufficient historical information/data is available for a first weekday, determining an estimated pick-up/delivery time for the first serviceable point and for the first weekday based on the sufficient historical information/data for the first serviceable point and for the first weekday. Similarly, in response to determining that the sufficient historical information/data is not available for a second weekday, determining an estimated pick-up/delivery time for the first serviceable point and for the second weekday based on the first historical information/data.
A conveyor belt assembly comprises: - a conveyor belt (10) having a visible surface with a plurality of first stripes (12) and a plurality of second stripes (14), wherein the second visible appearance of the second stripes (14) provides a contrasting appearance relative to the first visible appearance of the first stripes (12), and wherein each of the plurality of second stripes (14) are located intermediate two of the plurality of first stripes (12) such that the plurality of first and second stripes collectively define an alternating contrasting pattern on the visible surface of the conveyor belt (10); - an imaging system (30) comprising a plurality of cameras (32) positioned in a plurality of locations relative to said visible surface of said conveyor belt (10), said imaging system (30) being configured to provide continuous visibility of each of a plurality of packages (20) received on said visible surface during movement thereof.
B07C 5/342 - Tri en fonction d'autres propriétés particulières selon les propriétés optiques, p.ex. la couleur
G01B 11/04 - Dispositions pour la mesure caractérisées par l'utilisation de techniques optiques pour mesurer la longueur, la largeur ou l'épaisseur spécialement adaptés pour mesurer la longueur ou la largeur d'objets en mouvement
Methods, systems, apparatus, and computer program products are provided. In an example embodiment, a method is provided comprising receiving input identifying load information corresponding to a load to be inserted into a transportation plan. The transportation plan comprises a plurality of transportation schedules, each schedule comprising a plurality of transportation movements. The method further comprises identifying an available movement network comprising portions of transportation schedules having open capacity, each portion of a transportation schedule having open capacity being a potential leg of a path from the origin location to the destination location; determining potential solutions for transporting the load from the origin location to the destination location by combining one or more legs to determine a path of open capacity movements from the origin location to at least part way to the destination location; and providing one or more potential solutions for display via a user interface.
Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products for facilitating remote access of customer computing entities in a secure environment. In one embodiment a method is provided comprising providing, by a first user computer entity and through a first window displaying a first webpage in a browser, a request for instruction for a particular device, the instructions being in a native command language of the particular device, wherein the request is provided over a first secure encrypted connection using a first protocol, receiving, the instructions over the first secure encrypted connection using the first protocol, initiating a bridge webpage, the bridge webpage being initiated in a second window in the browser, wherein the first window and the second window are in communication, and wherein the first page belongs to a first domain different from a second domain to which the second page belongs.
Methods, systems, apparatus, and computer program products are provided. In an example embodiment, a communication comprising form fields is received. A form field corresponding to first item information for a first item is identified. A textual item description for the first item is extracted from the form field. A code schedule is accessed and one or more codes are determined for the first item based on the textual item description and the code schedule. An item database is queried to identify second items that are relevant to the first item and a confidence level for each of the codes is determined based on the relevant second items. If a confidence level corresponding to one of the codes is greater than a configurable confidence level, a first code is selected from the codes. An item database is updated to reflect the first code being assigned to the first item.
Systems, methods, and computer program products for validating billing data and detecting anomalies in billing data are provided. In one embodiment a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving historical billing data for a customer, the historical billing data organized into a plurality of historical data sets; calculating a plurality of statistical representations of each of the plurality of historical data sets; generating a historical profile for the customer based on the plurality of statistical representations of the historical billing data; receiving current billing data for the customer; generating a current profile for the customer; comparing the current profile to the historical profile, the current profile and the historical profile being associated with the same at least one category attribute; and, based at least in part on the result of the comparison, determining whether one or more anomalies are present in the current billing data for the customer.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatuses, and computing entities are provided for enforcing usage of a canonical model. For example, machine-automatable artifacts that express the canonical model using a set of metadata constraints and a set of transformation rules can be received from a canonical model artifact repository. These machine-automatable artifacts can be converted into language- specific bindings and applications can subsequently utilize those language-specific bindings to enforce conformity to the canonical model.
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.
Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, systems, computer program products, and apparatuses for determining whether a street segment is a one-way street segment or a bi-directional segment, validating map data, and/or updating map data. In one embodiment, a method for determining whether a street segment is a one-way street segment or a bi-directional segment is provided. The method comprises receiving vehicle telematics data associated with one or more vehicles during one or more time periods, the vehicle telematics data indicating a street segment traveled by the one or more vehicles during the one or more time periods; and based at least in part on the vehicle telematics, determining whether the street segment is a one-way street segment or a bi-directional segment.
G06Q 10/04 - Prévision ou optimisation spécialement adaptées à des fins administratives ou de gestion, p. ex. programmation linéaire ou "problème d’optimisation des stocks"
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for segmenting operational data and identifying events of interested in the segmented operational data. With the events of interest identified, a total time between the events of interest can be determined.
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for defining travel paths in parking areas. In one embodiment, travel paths in parking areas can be defined by automatically, semi-automatically, and/or manually.
Various embodiments provide methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products for shipping an item. One embodiment provides a method comprising receiving shipping information for the item via a short range wireless communication from a user computing device executing a shipping application. The shipping information comprises (a) consignor identifying information and (b) consignee identifying information. The shipping information is provided by the shipping application. The method further comprises identifying a user computing entity associated with the consignor identifying information; requesting location information from the user computing entity; and processing the location information to determine if the user computing entity is located in the vicinity of the user computing device. Responsive to determining that the user computing entity is located in the vicinity of the user computing device, a shipping record configured to facilitate the transportation and delivery of the item in accordance with the shipping information is generated.
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.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 50/28 - Logistique, p.ex. stockage, chargement, distribution ou expédition
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided. In one embodiment, the location of entities (e.g., computing entities and establishments) can be monitored or identified to determine whether they are within a configurable/determinable distance/proximity from each other. Such determinations can be used to automatically provide notifications and/or allow or disallow events.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities for enhanced cargo screening capabilities are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises: automatically and electronically executing a first screening procedure for capturing and storing first screening data comprising (a) an x-ray image and (b) first screening decontrol data; automatically and electronically determining whether at least a second screening procedure is required, the determination involving identifying at least one discrepancy between at least a portion of the first screening data and at least one predefined parameter; responsive to determining that the second screening is required, generating and transmitting one or more notifications configured to initiate the second screening procedure within a predetermined period of time; and responsive to determining that the at least second screening is not required, generating and transmitting a decontrol message configured to release the packages from further automated screening procedures.
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for a user interface for enforcement of shipping rules. In one aspect, a method includes accessing regulation information/data, the regulation information/data being a multi-level hierarchy of nodes arranged in a tree structure, each node specifying one or more keywords, wherein the nodes comprise one or more starting nodes having one or more child nodes and having no parent nodes, one or more intermediate nodes having at least one of a child node and a parent node, and one or more end nodes having at least one parent node and no child nodes. Determining, that a particular keyword from the received one or more keywords matches a keyword of a node in the hierarchy. Determining, a level and a type of the node in the hierarchy, wherein the type of the node specifies whether the node is one of a starting node, an intermediate node, and an end node. The method then identifies, based, at least in part, on the level and the type of the node in the hierarchy, one or more actions to be performed.
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for verifying the content of shipments based at least in part on images representing the interior of the shipments generated by an imaging device. Embodiments comprise features for receiving shipment data identifying expected contents of a shipment, receiving image data comprising an image of an interior of the shipment, detecting one or more items in the image of the interior of the shipment, and determining whether the detected items match the expected content of the shipment.
Computer program products, methods, systems, apparatus, and computing entities are provided for automated loading and retrieval of items. In various embodiments, items are received at a loading station where identification data may be captured for each item and handling instructions may be generated. In some embodiments, a label having indicia associated with the item may be generated and affixed to the item. The items may then be deposited through an access door into the vehicle identified in the handling instructions. Once the items are loaded into the access door, an automated load/unload device may deposit the item in the appropriate storage location. The automated load/unload device may also retrieve and rearrange items as desired.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
B60P 1/44 - Véhicules destinés principalement au transport des charges et modifiés pour faciliter le chargement, la fixation de la charge ou son déchargement ayant une plate-forme de chargement qui élève la charge au niveau de l'élément supportant ou contenant la charge
B60P 1/52 - Véhicules destinés principalement au transport des charges et modifiés pour faciliter le chargement, la fixation de la charge ou son déchargement utilisant des rouleaux sur l'élément supportant ou contenant la charge
B60P 3/00 - Véhicules adaptés pour transporter, porter ou comporter des charges ou des objets spéciaux
96.
CONCEPTS FOR LOCATING ASSETS UTILIZING LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for utilizing Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensors to facilitate loading and unloading of assets into receptacles. The LIDAR sensors may be configured to detect the location of various surfaces (e.g., asset surfaces) within a receptacle such that mapping data indicative of the location of the detected surfaces may be generated. This mapping data may facilitate a determination of a total volume of unoccupied space within the receptacle and/or the identification of an unoccupied volume sufficient to accommodate an item having defined dimensions. The mapping data may additionally be indicative of the location of asset identifiers disposed on one or more detected surfaces to facilitate locating a particular asset associated with a provided asset identifier.
An exemplary item return shipping system is configured to: receive a request to return an item to a retailer; provide the user with a unique identifier associated with the request; and receive an indication that the user has presented the parcel and the unique identifier at an access point. The system may then facilitate placement of a pre-printed machine-readable indicia (e.g., a barcode) on the parcel at the access point and associate it with the retailer information. The system then facilitates delivery of the parcel from the access point to a handling facility and facilitates placement of a shipping label (that includes the address of a returns processing facility that is determined using the retailer information) on the parcel at the handling facility. In various embodiments, the system then facilitates shipment of the parcel to the returns processing facility.
Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for requesting commodities/items from a plurality of competing vendors. In various embodiments, vendor information/data indicative of commodities/items offered by each vendor is received and stored, request information/data is received from a consumer indicative of the commodities/items desired, as well as any additional request parameters. The system filters the vendor information/data to identify those vendors who satisfy the request parameters, and displays a graphical user interface identifying these vendors to the consumer. The consumer may then select one or more of the identified vendors, and the system enables access to a bidding tool for each of the selected vendors to submit a detailed bid/response to provide the goods or services to the consumer. The consumer may then select one or more of the bids/responses and confirm the commodities/items requested.
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for tracking the location of a shipped item. According to various embodiments, the systems and methods may include features designed to determine whether the shipped item is likely to comply with customer-defined shipping requirements throughout the entire shipping process. In various embodiments, the systems and methods are configured to indicate to a user certain shipments that are likely to arrive without complying with all of the customer-defined shipping requirements, such that a user can take remedial action to minimize or eliminate the likelihood of the shipment failing to comply with the customer-defined shipping requirements.
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
G06Q 50/28 - Logistique, p.ex. stockage, chargement, distribution ou expédition
In an embodiment, a method comprises receiving, at a translation server, a request for translation services from a requesting device for text data associated with a token and a first language; retrieving, at the translation server, a translated version of the text data in a second language from a translation database storing automatically translated text data and manually translated text data, if the token matches a previously processed token; retrieving, at the translation server, the translated version of the text data in the second language from an automated translation service, if the token does not match the previously processed token; retrieving, at the translation server, the translated version of the text data in the second language from the manual translation service; and transmitting, at the translation server, one or more of the automatically translated text data and the manually translated text data to the requesting device.
brevets
