Delivery sites and delivery methods

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a distribution site and a distribution method. The distribution site comprises: a building (1) having a storage space (6) for storing goods and a drone landing pad (12) for docking a drone (2); a cargo receiving device (4) at least partially disposed in the building (1) for receiving goods unloaded by the drone (2) from the drone landing pad (12); and a cargo sorting device (5) disposed in the building (1) for sorting the received goods into the storage space (6). The embodiments of the present disclosure reduce the manual reliance on transporting goods to the distribution site and loading and unloading goods at the distribution site, and also improve the flexibility of the logistics distribution process through drones.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of logistics, and in particular to a distribution site and a distribution method. Background Art

[0002] In the distribution and automated storage of goods, logistics is the process of combining basic functions such as transportation, storage, loading and unloading, handling, distribution, and information processing to meet user requirements in the physical flow of goods from the supply point to the receiving point. Logistics plays a very important role in modern business.

[0003] In the field of logistics, transfer transportation and cargo collection are very important links. The cost of this link accounts for a large proportion of the entire logistics cost, so technical optimization has always been the research and development direction of the industry. The distribution sites of related technologies are generally multiple outlets established in the city, and each outlet is equipped with relevant staff, who are responsible for the transfer of goods or helping customers to collect goods. Summary of the invention

[0004] The inventors have observed and researched that, although there are applications of using drones / unmanned vehicles for cargo delivery in the relevant technologies, this application still relies on human participation, resulting in high costs and low efficiency, and the success of cargo delivery is also limited to a certain extent by the quality of the operators.

[0005] In view of this, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a distribution site and a distribution method to reduce the dependence on manual labor.

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a distribution station, comprising:

[0007] a building with storage space for cargo and a drone landing pad for docking drones;

[0008] a cargo receiving device, at least partially disposed within the building, for receiving cargo unloaded by a drone from the drone landing pad; and

[0009] A cargo sorting device is arranged in the building and is used for sorting received cargo into the storage space.

[0010] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0011] The first adjustment mechanism is arranged on the drone helipad, and is used to adjust the position of the drone that has landed on the drone helipad, or to adjust the cargo unloaded from the drone to the receiving position of the cargo receiving device.

[0012] In some embodiments, the drone landing pad is located on the top of the building, and the receiving position of the cargo receiving device includes a cargo port disposed on the top of the building for docking with the cargo receiving device.

[0013] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0014] A shelter canopy is movably arranged on the top of the building, and is used to at least shield the top of the drone landing pad, or leave the shielding position to expose the drone landing pad.

[0015] In some embodiments, the receiving position of the cargo receiving device includes a cargo opening disposed on the top of the building and docking with the cargo receiving device, and the shielding shed is further used to shield the cargo opening, or to leave the shielding position to expose the cargo opening.

[0016] In some embodiments, a sliding guide rail is provided between the shelter and the top of the building to guide the movement of the shelter on the top of the building.

[0017] In some embodiments, the cargo receiving device comprises:

[0018] at least one cargo platform having a cargo loading area; and

[0019] The cargo transport mechanism has a cargo carrying area and moves between each cargo platform in the at least one cargo platform and a receiving position for unloading cargo from the drone, and is used to receive the cargo unloaded by the drone from the drone landing pad and transport it to the at least one cargo platform.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one cargo platform is disposed below a receiving position where the drone unloads cargo, and the cargo delivery mechanism comprises:

[0021] A lift having a lifting platform capable of carrying goods, used to carry the goods and adjust the height position of the goods; and

[0022] The cargo moving device is arranged on the elevator, the cargo platform or in the building, and is used to move cargo between the lifting platform and the cargo platform at the height of the lifting platform.

[0023] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0024] The cargo loading device is at least partially arranged in the building, and is used to load the cargo in the building onto the drone so that the drone can transport the cargo to a preset target location.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cargo in the building to be loaded onto the drone includes empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo, or cargo to be delivered.

[0026] In some embodiments, a cargo loading device is further included, and the cargo loading device shares the at least one cargo platform and the cargo conveying mechanism with the cargo receiving device.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device comprises:

[0028] a track disposed in the building and between the storage space and the cargo receiving device;

[0029] a mobile platform movably running along the track; and

[0030] The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm is arranged on the mobile platform and is used for grabbing the goods and moving them to the target position for release.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device further comprises:

[0032] A cargo temporary storage platform, having a cargo carrying area and arranged on the mobile platform;

[0033] The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm is configured to temporarily store the goods received from the cargo receiving device on the cargo temporary storage platform when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the cargo receiving device, and to sort the goods on the cargo temporary storage platform to corresponding positions in the storage space when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the storage space; or to temporarily store the delivery vehicle on the cargo temporary storage platform when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the delivery interface area, and to store the goods on the cargo temporary storage platform into the storage space when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the storage space.

[0034] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0035] A delivery interface area is used to provide a parking area for delivery vehicles that can perform cargo delivery;

[0036] The cargo sorting device is further configured to load the cargo in the storage space into the delivery vehicle.

[0037] In some embodiments, the delivery vehicle is an unmanned ground delivery vehicle, the delivery interface area is located within the building, and the building is provided with a passage / door communicating with the delivery interface area from the outside.

[0038] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0039] The second adjustment mechanism is disposed in the delivery interface area and is used to adjust the position of the delivery vehicle entering the delivery interface area.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second adjustment mechanism comprises:

[0041] The rotating platform is used to rotate a preset angle around an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane so as to adjust the angle of the upper delivery vehicle relative to the cargo sorting device by rotation.

[0042] In some embodiments, further comprising a delivery interface area configured to provide a delivery vehicle for performing delivery of goods;

[0043] The track is also located between the storage space and the delivery interface area.

[0044] In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device further comprises:

[0045] A cargo temporary storage platform, having a cargo carrying area and arranged on the mobile platform;

[0046] The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm is configured to temporarily store the goods to be delivered in the storage space on the goods temporary storage platform when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the storage space, and to load the goods on the goods temporary storage platform onto the delivery vehicle when the mobile platform moves to a position close to the delivery interface area.

[0047] In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device further comprises:

[0048] The cargo lifting mechanism has a lifting platform capable of carrying cargo and is arranged on the mobile platform, and is used to lift the cargo on the cargo temporary storage platform to the height of the corresponding cargo entrance of the delivery vehicle so that the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm can push the cargo horizontally into the cargo entrance.

[0049] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0050] A user self-pickup mechanism, which has an operation interface and a self-pickup port, and is arranged outside the building;

[0051] The cargo sorting device is also configured to sort the corresponding cargo in the storage space to the self-pickup port according to the pickup instruction input by the user on the operation interface.

[0052] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0053] An automatic vending device, having an operation interface and a commodity outlet, and arranged outside the building;

[0054] The goods sorting device is also configured to sort the corresponding goods in the storage space as commodities to the commodity outlet according to the purchase instruction input by the user on the operation interface.

[0055] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0056] A user delivery mechanism, which has an operation interface and a cargo placement port and is arranged outside the building;

[0057] The cargo sorting device is further configured to sort the cargo received by the cargo placement port to corresponding positions in the storage space according to a shipping instruction input by a user on the operation interface.

[0058] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0059] The first visual device is arranged in the building and is used to identify the goods received by the goods receiving device so that the goods sorting device can sort the goods.

[0060] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0061] The second visual device is arranged in the building and is used to identify the position of the delivery vehicle entering the delivery interface area so that the second adjustment mechanism can adjust the position of the delivery vehicle according to the identification result of the second visual device.

[0062] In some embodiments, an information display area is provided on the outer wall of the building.

[0063] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a delivery method based on the aforementioned delivery site is provided, comprising:

[0064] When the drone carrying the cargo docks at the drone landing pad, the cargo unloaded from the drone from the drone landing pad is received by the cargo receiving device;

[0065] The cargo received by the cargo receiving device is sorted into a storage space of a building by a cargo sorting device.

[0066] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0067] Empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo or cargo to be delivered in the building are loaded onto the drone so that the drone can deliver the cargo to a preset target location.

[0068] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0069] dispatching a delivery vehicle to the delivery site;

[0070] When the delivery vehicle enters the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the cargo sorting device takes out the cargo to be delivered from the storage space according to the delivery task and loads it into the delivery vehicle so that the delivery vehicle can go to a preset target location to perform the delivery task.

[0071] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0072] When the delivery vehicle carrying goods stops at the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the goods sorting device takes out the goods carried by the delivery vehicle and stores them in the storage space.

[0073] Therefore, according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, goods are transported to the distribution site by drones, and the goods unloaded from the drone apron are received by the cargo receiving device in the distribution site, and then the received goods are sorted into the storage space by the cargo sorting device. This reduces the manual dependence on transportation to the distribution site and loading and unloading of goods at the distribution site on the one hand, and on the other hand, the flexibility of the logistics distribution process is improved through drones. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] The accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0075] The present disclosure may be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of some embodiments of the delivery station according to the present disclosure;

[0077] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of some embodiments of the delivery station according to the present disclosure;

[0078] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of the circled part;

[0079] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a cargo sorting device loading cargo onto a delivery vehicle according to some embodiments of a delivery site disclosed herein;

[0080] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of the cargo sorting device in some embodiments of the distribution site disclosed in the present invention.

[0081] It should be understood that the size of each part shown in the accompanying drawings is not drawn according to the actual proportional relationship. In addition, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description of the exemplary embodiments is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure and its application or use. The present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided to make the present disclosure thorough and complete and to fully express the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of the components and steps, the composition of the materials, the numerical expressions and the numerical values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as being merely exemplary and not as limiting.

[0083] The words "first", "second" and similar words used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are only used to distinguish different parts. The words "include" or "comprise" and similar words mean that the elements before the word include the elements listed after the word, and do not exclude the possibility of including other elements. "Up", "down", "left", "right" and the like are only used to indicate relative positional relationships. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0084] In the present disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, there may or may not be an intermediate device between the specific device and the first device or the second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to other devices, the specific device may be directly connected to the other device without an intermediate device, or may not be directly connected to the other device but have an intermediate device.

[0085] All terms (including technical terms or scientific terms) used in the present disclosure have the same meanings as those understood by ordinary technicians in the field to which the present disclosure belongs, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in general dictionaries, such as general dictionaries, should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or extremely formal sense, unless explicitly defined herein.

[0086] Technologies, methods, and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the technologies, methods, and equipment should be considered as part of the specification.

[0087] like Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of some embodiments of the distribution station according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 and Figure 2-Figure 4The distribution station of this embodiment includes: a building 1, a cargo receiving device 4 and a cargo sorting device 5. The building 1 has a storage space 6 for storing cargo and a drone landing pad 12 for docking the drone 2. The building 1 can be a fixed and immovable building structure built on the ground, a movable mobile building structure, or a combination of an immovable building structure and a mobile building structure.

[0088] The cargo receiving device 4 is at least partially disposed in the building 1, and is used to receive the cargo unloaded by the drone 2 from the drone landing pad 12. The drone 2 can be docked on the drone landing pad 12, and can unload cargo to the distribution site or load cargo from the distribution site. Compared with the method of dropping cargo by the drone, this unloading method can unload cargo more safely and reliably, and is convenient for the drone 2 to load cargo.

[0089] The cargo sorting device 5 is arranged in the building 1, and is used to sort the received cargo into the storage space 6. After the cargo receiving device 4 receives the cargo from the drone 2, the cargo sorting device 5 can sort the cargo into the corresponding position of the storage space in the building 1. The cargo here can be packaged cargo or a cargo box containing at least one cargo, or an empty cargo box, etc.

[0090] In this embodiment, the drone is used to transport goods to the distribution site, and the goods unloaded on the drone landing apron are received by the goods receiving device in the distribution site, and then the received goods are sorted into the storage space by the goods sorting device. This reduces the manual dependence on transporting goods to the distribution site and loading and unloading goods at the distribution site, and also improves the flexibility of the logistics distribution process through drones.

[0091] Considering that the position of the drone 2 when landing on the drone helipad 12 may not be very accurate, in some embodiments, a first adjustment mechanism may be provided on the drone helipad 12 to adjust the position of the drone 2 landing on the drone helipad 12. The first adjustment mechanism may also adjust the cargo unloaded by the drone 2 to the receiving position of the cargo receiving device 4.

[0092] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the drone landing pad 12 may be located at the top of the building 1. The receiving position of the cargo receiving device 4 may include a cargo opening 16 disposed at the top of the building 1 and docked with the cargo receiving device 4. The cargo opening 16 may be located at one side of the landing pad 12 so that the first adjustment mechanism adjusts the cargo unloaded by the drone 2 to the cargo opening 16.

[0093] refer to Figure 1A canopy 11 is provided on the top side of the distribution site so that pedestrians can take shelter under the canopy 11. A shelter 13 can also be provided on the top of the distribution site. The shelter 13 can move on the top of the building 1 and can shield the drone landing pad 12 to prevent the components of the distribution site from being corroded and damaged by bad weather such as rain, snow, and dust. In addition to shielding the drone landing pad 12, the shelter 13 can also be used to shield the cargo port 16. In order to use the drone landing pad 12 normally, the shelter 13 can be moved out of the shielding position to expose the drone landing pad 12. The shelter 13 can also expose the cargo port 16 by leaving the shielding position.

[0094] A sliding guide rail 13a may be provided between the shelter 13 and the top of the building 1. The sliding guide rail 13a may guide the movement of the shelter 13 on the top of the building 1. As required, a driving mechanism may be provided on the shelter 13 to automatically drive the shelter 13 to slide between the shielding position and the non-shielding position. In addition, the shelter 13 may also be used as a backup drone landing pad. When the shelter 13 cannot be opened due to a malfunction or when multiple drones are delivering goods at the same time, some of the drones may be temporarily docked at the shelter 13.

[0095] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the cargo receiving device 4 includes: at least one cargo platform and a cargo conveying mechanism. Figure 3 4 and 42 at different heights are shown. Different cargo platforms can be used for different purposes, for example, a higher cargo platform can be used as a sorting station, and one or more lower cargo platforms can be used as temporary storage locations for cargo, empty cargo boxes or abnormal cargo. Abnormal cargo here refers to cargo that does not match the order, for example, the cargo does not match the order, including the cargo is inconsistent with the goods recorded in the order, or is inconsistent with the quality / quantity promised or defaulted on the order, etc.

[0096] Each cargo platform and the cargo delivery mechanism have an area for carrying cargo. The cargo delivery mechanism moves between each cargo platform in the at least one cargo platform and a receiving position for unloading cargo by the drone 2. The cargo delivery mechanism can receive cargo unloaded by the drone 2 from the drone landing pad 12 and deliver it to the at least one cargo platform.

[0097] The transport path of the cargo transport mechanism may be a vertical linear path to reduce the horizontal space occupation, or may be a spiral, zigzag, etc. For a vertical linear path, at least one cargo platform may be arranged below the receiving position where the drone 2 unloads the cargo. If multiple cargo platforms are included, for example Figure 3 The cargo platforms 42 and 43 can be fixed at different heights below the cargo opening 16 by means of pillars 41 .

[0098] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, the cargo transport mechanism may include: an elevator 44 and a cargo moving device. The elevator 44 has a lifting platform capable of carrying cargo, which is used to carry cargo and adjust the height of the cargo. The lifting platform of the elevator 44 may be mounted on a vertically arranged guide rod 43, and may rise or fall under the drive of a driving mechanism.

[0099] The cargo moving device may be arranged on the lift 44, and is used to move cargo between the lift platform and a cargo platform at the height of the lift platform. For example, when the lift platform carries cargo and moves to the height of a cargo platform, the cargo can be moved to the cargo platform by a cargo moving device on the lift, such as a belt or a push rod. When an empty lift platform moves to a cargo platform carrying cargo, the cargo can be moved to the lift platform by a cargo moving device on the lift, such as a belt or a pull rod. In other embodiments, the cargo moving device may also be arranged on the cargo platform, or in the building 1, and is independent of the lift platform or the cargo platform.

[0100] In addition to receiving goods unloaded by drones, the distribution site can also transport goods outward through drones, for example, by using drones to transport empty cargo boxes, abnormal goods, or goods to be delivered to a preset target location. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the distribution site may also include a cargo loading device, which is at least partially disposed in the building 1, and is used to load the goods in the building 1 onto the drone 2 so that the drone 2 can transport the goods to the preset target location. This also includes the drone transferring the goods to be delivered in the distribution site to another distribution site or the user's receiving area.

[0101] For empty cargo boxes or abnormal cargo, the drone 2 can transport them back to the shipping warehouse for reloading or inspection. The cargo loading device and the cargo receiving device 4 can share the at least one cargo platform and cargo delivery mechanism. In other embodiments, the cargo loading device can also be independent of the cargo receiving device.

[0102] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device 5 may include: a track 51, a mobile platform 53 and a multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52. The track 51 may be arranged on the floor or side wall of the building 1. In order to facilitate the movement of the mobile platform 53 between the storage space 6 and the cargo receiving device 4, the track 51 may be arranged between the storage space 6 and the cargo receiving device 4. The mobile platform 53 can move along the track 51. The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 is arranged on the mobile platform 53, and is used to grab the cargo and move it to the target position for release. The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 may include a plurality of arm sections, and the end arm section may be provided with an end picker 59.

[0103] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment, the track 51 may include a track base, a linear guide rail 58 and a rack 57. The track base may be fixed to the floor surface of the building, and may also be fixed to the side wall, ceiling or internal facilities of the building as required. The linear guide rail 58 is fixed to the track base and cooperates with the bottom surface of the mobile platform 53. The rack 57 is fixed to the track base and can mesh with the gear in the gear drive mechanism provided on the mobile platform 53. In this way, the mobile platform 53 can be moved in a straight line on the track 51 under the drive of the gear drive mechanism.

[0104] refer to Figure 5 In some embodiments, the cargo sorting device 5 further includes a cargo temporary storage platform 54. The cargo temporary storage platform 54 has an area for carrying cargo and is disposed on the mobile platform 53. The multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 may be configured to temporarily store the cargo received from the cargo receiving device 4 on the cargo temporary storage platform 54 when the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the cargo receiving device 4. When the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the storage space 6, the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 sorts the cargo on the cargo temporary storage platform 54 to a corresponding position of the storage space 6.

[0105] In order to enable the multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm 52 to accurately grasp the goods, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 A first visual device 91 may be provided inside the building 1 , and the first visual device 91 is used to identify the goods received by the goods receiving device 4 so that the goods sorting device 5 can sort the goods.

[0106] refer to Figure 1-2 and Figure 4In some embodiments, the delivery site may further include a delivery interface area, which is used to provide a parking area for a delivery vehicle 3 that can perform cargo delivery. The cargo sorting device 5 may load the cargo in the storage space 6 into the delivery vehicle 3, or sort the cargo in the delivery vehicle 3 into the storage space 6 when the delivery vehicle 3 is parked in the delivery interface area. The delivery vehicle 3 here is preferably an unmanned ground delivery vehicle (such as an unmanned vehicle or a remote-controlled car, etc.).

[0107] The delivery interface area may be located in the building 1, and the building 1 is provided with a passage / door 14 that is connected to the delivery interface area from the outside. The door 14 may be automatically opened when the delivery vehicle 3 enters or leaves the delivery station, and closed at other times. A second adjustment mechanism 7 may be included in the delivery station. The second adjustment mechanism 7 may be provided in the delivery interface area, and is used to adjust the position of the delivery vehicle 3 entering the delivery interface area.

[0108] In order to make the loading process of the delivery vehicle 3 smoother, refer to Figure 2 The distribution station may further include: a second visual device 92, which is disposed in the building 1 and is used to identify the position of the distribution vehicle 3 entering the distribution interface area, so that the second adjustment mechanism 7 can accurately adjust the position of the distribution vehicle 3 according to the recognition result of the second visual device 92. In addition, the cargo sorting device 5 can also load the cargo onto the distribution vehicle 3 more accurately.

[0109] refer to Figure 2 , the second adjustment mechanism 7 may include a rotating platform arranged on the floor of the distribution interface area. After the distribution vehicle 3 moves onto the rotating platform, the rotating platform can rotate around an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane, so as to adjust the angle of the upper distribution vehicle 3 relative to the cargo sorting device 5 by rotation, so as to facilitate cargo loading. For example, if the direction of movement of the wheels of the distribution vehicle 3 is different from the direction of the cargo entrance 31 arranged on the distribution vehicle 3, the distribution vehicle 3 needs to be rotated to a specific angle through the rotating platform so that the cargo entrance 31 faces the interior of the building 1, so as to facilitate the cargo sorting device 5 to load cargo to the cargo entrance 31. When the cargo is loaded, the rotating platform can rotate the distribution vehicle 3 to a direction that is convenient for the wheels to drive out of the distribution site. In addition, for a distribution vehicle 3 having multiple sides for carrying cargo, the different sides to be loaded with cargo can also be rotated to the corresponding directions in sequence through the rotating platform, so as to make the loading process more convenient and automated.

[0110] refer to Figure 4, the track 51 may also be arranged between the storage space 6 and the delivery interface area. This facilitates the movement of the mobile platform 53 between the storage space 6 and the delivery interface area. For the process of the delivery vehicle 3 loading goods from the delivery site and delivering them outward, the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 may be configured to temporarily store the goods to be delivered in the storage space 6 on the goods temporary storage platform 54 when the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the storage space 6. When the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the delivery interface area, the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 may load the goods on the goods temporary storage platform 54 onto the delivery vehicle 3.

[0111] For the process of loading the delivery vehicle 3 with goods and transporting them to the delivery site, the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 can be configured to temporarily store the delivery vehicle 3 on the goods temporary storage platform 54 when the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the delivery interface area, and to store the goods on the goods temporary storage platform 54 into the storage space 6 when the mobile platform 53 moves to a position close to the storage space 6.

[0112] In order to make it easier to load the goods into the delivery vehicle 3, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The cargo sorting device 5 may further include a cargo lifting mechanism 56. The cargo lifting mechanism 56 has a lifting platform 55 that can carry cargo and is disposed on the mobile platform 53. The lifting platform 55 can lift the cargo on the cargo temporary storage platform 54 to the height of the corresponding cargo entrance 31 of the delivery vehicle 3, so that the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 pushes the cargo horizontally into the cargo entrance 31, thereby simplifying the cargo loading process. The cargo lifting mechanism 56 can also be used for the multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm 52 to push the cargo horizontally into the cargo grid of the storage space.

[0113] In addition to being delivered to the target location or target user by the delivery vehicle 3, the goods stored at the delivery site and received from the drone 2 can also be picked up by the user, that is, the user directly obtains the goods from the delivery site. Figure 1 In some embodiments, the distribution site may further include: a user self-pickup mechanism 82. The user self-pickup mechanism 82 has an operation interface and a self-pickup port 16, and is arranged on the outside of the building 1. The user can go to the designated distribution site according to the notification received by SMS, WeChat or other means, and input the pickup instruction into the operation interface according to the notification. The cargo sorting device 5 can sort the corresponding cargo in the storage space 6 to the self-pickup port 16 according to the pickup instruction input by the user in the operation interface. Compared with the existing self-pickup cargo cabinet, it only needs a single or a small number of self-pickup ports 16 to realize the self-pickup function of multiple cargoes stored in the distribution site, saving the area occupied by the user self-pickup mechanism 82 on the outer wall of the building.

[0114] In addition to picking up goods, users can also purchase goods through the delivery station. Figure 1 The distribution site may further include: an automatic vending device 83. The automatic vending device 83 has an operation interface and a commodity outlet, and is arranged outside the building 1. When a user inputs a purchase instruction for a specific commodity on the operation interface, the commodity sorting device 5 may sort the corresponding commodity in the storage space 6 as a commodity to the commodity outlet according to the purchase instruction input by the user on the operation interface.

[0115] In addition, users can also ship goods through the distribution site. In some embodiments, the distribution site may also include a user shipping mechanism, which has an operation interface and a cargo placement port, and is arranged on the outside of the building 1. When the user enters a shipping instruction for self-carried goods in the operation interface, the cargo sorting device 5 can sort the goods received by the cargo placement port to the corresponding position in the storage space 6 according to the shipping instruction entered by the user in the operation interface. In this way, the cargo loading device can then load the goods onto the drone 2 and transport them to the preset target location, or the cargo sorting device can load the goods onto the delivery vehicle and transport them to the preset target location.

[0116] In order to make full use of the external space of the distribution site, an information display area 81 may be provided on the outer wall of the building 1 for displaying static or dynamic advertisements, notices, programs, and the like.

[0117] Based on the above-mentioned various embodiments of the distribution site of the present disclosure, the present disclosure also provides a corresponding distribution method. For example, in some embodiments, the distribution method includes: when the drone 2 carrying goods docks at the drone landing pad 12, the goods unloaded from the drone landing pad 12 by the drone 2 are received by the cargo receiving device 4; and the goods received by the cargo receiving device 4 are sorted into the storage space 6 of the building 1 by the cargo sorting device 5.

[0118] refer to Figure 1 , UAV 2 can deliver the goods to be delivered to the designated delivery site by air according to the system's dispatching instructions. The system can communicate with the delivery site to obtain the storage status in the delivery site so as to arrange UAV 2 to dispatch goods in a timely manner. When UAV 2 goes to the delivery site, it can also communicate with the delivery site to confirm whether the delivery site currently has the conditions for docking. When the delivery site cannot receive the goods normally (for example, the cargo receiving device is damaged or the apron cannot dock, etc.), UAV 2 can wait in the air or return.

[0119] When the drone 2 delivers the cargo to the drone landing pad 12 and releases the cargo, the drone 2 can dock on the drone landing pad 12 or take off again and go to another destination. When the cargo is unloaded on the drone landing pad 12, the cargo port 16 can be opened for receiving. Figure 1 The lift 44 of the cargo transport mechanism can be raised to the height of the cargo opening 16. In order to move the cargo into the building, the first adjustment mechanism can be used to adjust the cargo to the lifting platform of the lift 44. Figure 3 , the elevator 44 then lowers the lifting platform to the height of a cargo platform 43, and then uses the cargo moving device to move the cargo A2 to the cargo platform.

[0120] If there are empty containers or abnormal goods in the building 1 that need to be sent to a corresponding processing place, in other embodiments, the delivery method may also include: loading the empty containers, abnormal goods or goods to be delivered in the building 1 onto the drone 2, so that the drone 2 can transport the goods to a preset target location.

[0121] Before loading empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo, or cargo to be delivered onto the drone 2, the cargo sorting device 5 can be used to sort the empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo, or cargo to be delivered (e.g. Figure 3 The cargo A1 in the cargo bag is sorted to one or more cargo platforms 42. The lift 44 can adjust the lift platform to the height of the cargo platform 42, and then move the cargo A1 to the lift platform through the cargo moving device. The lift 44 then lifts the lift platform to the cargo port 16, and can adjust the cargo A1 to a position where the drone 2 can load it through the first adjustment mechanism, so as to complete the above cargo loading process.

[0122] For a single piece of cargo or a cargo box containing multiple pieces of cargo, the first visual device 91 provided in the building 1 can be used to identify the cargo to obtain information such as the shape, size and position of the cargo. After the information is provided to the cargo sorting device 5, the multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm 52 in the cargo sorting device 5 can flexibly and accurately grasp the corresponding cargo according to the obtained information, and directly sort it to the corresponding position of the storage space, or temporarily place it on the cargo temporary storage platform 54.

[0123] By using the cargo temporary storage platform 54, the cargo sorting device 5 can reduce or avoid frequent movement of the mobile platform 53, thereby increasing the service life of its motion mechanism. The multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm 52 can grab one or more cargoes on the cargo temporary storage platform 54 and place them into the cargo compartment of the storage space 6 one by one.

[0124] In other embodiments, the delivery method may also include: dispatching the delivery vehicle 3 to the delivery site; when the delivery vehicle 3 enters the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the cargo sorting device 5 takes out the cargo to be delivered from the storage space 6 according to the delivery task, and loads it into the delivery vehicle 3, so that the delivery vehicle 3 goes to a preset target location to perform the delivery task.

[0125] For example, when a delivery vehicle 3 (e.g., an unmanned ground delivery vehicle) receives a delivery task assigned by the system, it can go to the corresponding delivery station in a timely manner. When it arrives at the delivery station, it can communicate with the delivery station to enable the delivery station to open the passage / door 14 so that the delivery vehicle 3 can enter the delivery interface area inside the building 1. The delivery station can also automatically detect or authenticate the incoming delivery vehicle 3 to determine whether it is qualified to enter, and open the passage / door 14 after it meets the qualifications.

[0126] After the delivery station 3 stops at the delivery interface area, the passage / door 14 can be closed in time to prevent unauthorized personnel from taking the opportunity to enter. For a delivery station with a second visual device 92, the second visual device 92 can identify the position of the delivery vehicle 3 entering the delivery interface area. Based on the position information obtained by identification, the second adjustment mechanism can adjust the position of the delivery vehicle 3 so that the cargo entrance for loading is in a convenient loading position. If the delivery vehicle 3 has multiple loading sides, the second adjustment mechanism can adjust the position of the delivery vehicle 3 multiple times.

[0127] The multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm 52 of the cargo sorting device 5 can grab the cargo from the storage space and directly load it into the delivery vehicle 3, or can grab and load a batch of multiple cargoes with the help of the cargo temporary storage platform 54. A cargo lifting mechanism 56 can also be set on the cargo sorting device, and the lifting platform of the cargo lifting mechanism 56 can be used to lift the cargo to be loaded to the height corresponding to the cargo inlet 31 of the delivery vehicle 3, so that the multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm 52 can relatively easily push the cargo horizontally into the cargo inlet 31 to achieve cargo loading.

[0128] When the delivery vehicle 3 has been completely loaded, the second adjustment mechanism can adjust the position of the delivery vehicle 3 so that it is in a position that is convenient for driving out of the delivery site.

[0129] The delivery vehicle 3 (e.g., an unmanned ground delivery vehicle) may also be used to perform the process of replenishing goods to the delivery site. That is, in other embodiments, the delivery method may further include: when the delivery vehicle 3 carrying goods stops at the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the goods sorting device 5 takes out the goods carried by the delivery vehicle 3 and stores them in the storage space 6.

[0130] When users go to the distribution site to pick up goods, ship goods, or purchase goods, the goods or commodities can be delivered by using the goods sorting device 5 according to the relevant instructions (such as pick-up instructions, shipping instructions, or purchase instructions) input by the user in the operation interface. The self-pickup goods port, the goods placement port, and the commodity outlet here can be shared or independently set. Each operation panel can be independently set or can be used for the user self-pickup mechanism, the user shipping mechanism, and the automatic vending device. The goods sorting device can use a multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm 52 and a goods temporary storage platform 54 to realize the transmission of one or more goods or commodities between the storage space and the self-pickup goods port, the goods placement port, or the commodity outlet.

[0131] In this specification, multiple embodiments are described in a progressive manner, and the focus of each embodiment is different, and the same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other. For the method embodiment, since its overall and the steps involved correspond to the contents in the device embodiment, the description is relatively simple, and the relevant parts can be referred to the partial description of the device embodiment.

[0132] So far, various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail. In order to avoid obscuring the concept of the present disclosure, some details known in the art are not described. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solution disclosed here.

[0133] Although some specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail by way of examples, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above examples are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above embodiments may be modified or some technical features may be replaced by equivalents without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A distribution site, comprising: a building (1) having a storage space (6) for storing cargo and a drone landing pad (12) for docking the drone (2); A cargo receiving device (4), at least partially disposed in the building (1), for receiving cargo unloaded by the drone (2) from the drone landing pad (12); A delivery interface area, located in the building (1), for providing a parking area for a delivery vehicle (3) capable of performing cargo delivery, wherein the delivery vehicle (3) is an unmanned ground delivery vehicle; A second adjustment mechanism (7), arranged in the delivery interface area, for adjusting the position of a delivery vehicle (3) entering the delivery interface area; a cargo sorting device (5), arranged in the building (1), for sorting received cargo into the storage space (6), and configured to load the cargo in the storage space (6) into the delivery vehicle (3), or to sort the cargo in the delivery vehicle (3) into the storage space (6); and A second visual device (92) is disposed in the building (1) and is used to identify the position of a delivery vehicle (3) entering the delivery interface area, so that the second adjustment mechanism (7) can adjust the position of the delivery vehicle (3) according to the recognition result of the second visual device (92).

2. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: A first adjustment mechanism is arranged on the drone landing pad (12) and is used to adjust the position of a drone (2) that has landed on the drone landing pad (12), or to adjust cargo unloaded from the drone (2) to a receiving position of the cargo receiving device (4).

3. The delivery station according to claim 2, wherein: The drone landing pad (12) is located on the top of the building (1), and the receiving position of the cargo receiving device (4) includes a cargo opening (16) arranged on the top of the building (1) and docking with the cargo receiving device (4).

4. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: A shielding shed (13) is movably arranged on the top of the building (1) and is used to at least shield the top of the drone landing pad (12), or to leave the shielding position to expose the drone landing pad (12).

5. The delivery station according to claim 4, wherein: The receiving position of the cargo receiving device (4) includes a cargo opening (16) arranged on the top of the building (1) and docking with the cargo receiving device (4), and the shielding shed (13) is also used to shield the cargo opening (16) or leave the shielding position to expose the cargo opening (16).

6. The delivery station according to claim 4, wherein: A sliding guide rail (13a) is provided between the shelter shed (13) and the top of the building (1) for guiding the movement of the shelter shed (13) on the top of the building (1).

7. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: The cargo receiving device (4) comprises: at least one cargo platform (42, 43) having an area for carrying cargo; and The cargo transport mechanism has an area for carrying cargo and moves between each cargo platform (42, 43) in the at least one cargo platform (42, 43) and a receiving position for unloading cargo by the drone (2), and is used to receive cargo unloaded by the drone (2) from the drone landing pad (12) and transport it to the at least one cargo platform (42, 43).

8. The delivery station according to claim 7, wherein: The at least one cargo platform (42, 43) is arranged below a receiving position where the drone (2) unloads cargo, and the cargo transport mechanism comprises: A lift (44) having a lifting platform capable of carrying goods, used for carrying the goods and adjusting the height position of the goods; and A cargo moving device is arranged on the lift (44), the cargo platform (42, 43) or in the building (1), and is used to move cargo between the lift platform and a cargo platform (42, 43) at the height of the lift platform.

9. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: A cargo loading device is at least partially arranged in the building (1) and is used to load the cargo in the building (1) onto the drone (2), so that the drone (2) can transport the cargo to a preset target location.

10. The delivery station according to claim 9, wherein: The cargo in the building (1) to be loaded onto the drone (2) includes empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo, or cargo to be delivered.

11. The delivery station according to claim 7, wherein: It also includes a cargo loading device, which shares the at least one cargo platform (42, 43) and the cargo conveying mechanism with the cargo receiving device (4).

12. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: The cargo sorting device (5) comprises: A track (51) arranged in the building (1) and located between the storage space (6) and the cargo receiving device (4); a mobile platform (53) that can move along the track (51); and The multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm (52) is arranged on the mobile platform (53) and is used to grab the goods and move them to a target position for release.

13. The delivery station according to claim 12, wherein: The cargo sorting device (5) further comprises: A cargo temporary storage platform (54), having an area for carrying cargo, and arranged on the mobile platform (53); The multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm (52) is configured to temporarily store the goods received from the goods receiving device (4) on the goods temporary storage platform (54) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the goods receiving device (4), and to sort the goods on the goods temporary storage platform (54) to corresponding positions in the storage space (6) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the storage space (6).

14. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: The building (1) is provided with a passage / door (14) communicating with the outside of the delivery interface area.

15. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: The second adjustment mechanism (7) comprises: The rotating platform is used to rotate around an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane so as to adjust the angle of the upper delivery vehicle (3) relative to the cargo sorting device (5) by rotation.

16. The delivery station according to claim 12, further comprising a delivery interface area configured to provide a delivery vehicle (3) for performing delivery of goods; The track (51) is also located between the storage space (6) and the delivery interface area.

17. The delivery station according to claim 16, wherein: The cargo sorting device (5) further comprises: A cargo temporary storage platform (54) having a cargo carrying area and arranged on the mobile platform (53); The multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm (52) is configured to temporarily store the goods to be delivered in the storage space (6) on the goods temporary storage platform (54) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the storage space (6), and to load the goods on the goods temporary storage platform (54) onto the delivery vehicle (3) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the delivery interface area; or to temporarily store the delivery vehicle (3) on the goods temporary storage platform (54) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the delivery interface area, and to store the goods on the goods temporary storage platform (54) into the storage space (6) when the mobile platform (53) moves to a position close to the storage space (6).

18. The delivery station according to claim 17, wherein: The cargo sorting device (5) further comprises: The cargo lifting mechanism (56) has a lifting platform (55) capable of carrying cargo and is arranged on the mobile platform (53) and is used to lift the cargo on the cargo temporary storage platform (54) to the height of the corresponding cargo entrance (31) of the delivery vehicle (3) so that the multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical arm (52) can push the cargo horizontally into the cargo entrance (31).

19. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: A user self-pickup mechanism (82) having an operation interface and a self-pickup port (16), and arranged outside the building (1); The goods sorting device (5) is also configured to sort the corresponding goods in the storage space (6) to the self-pickup port (16) according to the pick-up instruction input by the user on the operation interface.

20. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: An automatic vending device (83) having an operation interface and a commodity outlet, and arranged outside the building (1); The goods sorting device (5) is also configured to sort the corresponding goods in the storage space (6) as commodities to the commodity outlet according to the purchase instruction input by the user in the operation interface.

21. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: A user delivery mechanism, having an operation interface and a cargo placement opening, and arranged outside the building (1); The cargo sorting device (5) is also configured to sort the cargo received by the cargo placement port to corresponding positions in the storage space (6) according to a shipping instruction input by a user in the operation interface.

22. The delivery station according to claim 1, further comprising: The first visual device (91) is arranged in the building (1) and is used to identify the goods received by the goods receiving device (4) so ​​that the goods sorting device (5) can sort the goods.

23. The delivery station according to claim 1, wherein: An information display area (81) is provided on the outer wall of the building (1).

24. A distribution method based on the distribution site according to any one of claims 1 to 23, comprising: When the drone (2) carrying cargo docks at the drone landing pad (12), the cargo unloaded from the drone (2) from the drone landing pad (12) is received by the cargo receiving device (4); The goods received by the goods receiving device (4) are sorted into a storage space (6) of the building (1) by a goods sorting device (5).

25. The delivery method according to claim 24, further comprising: Empty cargo boxes, abnormal cargo or cargo to be delivered in the building (1) are loaded onto the drone (2) so that the drone (2) can deliver the cargo to a preset target location.

26. The delivery method according to claim 24, further comprising: Dispatching a delivery vehicle (3) to the delivery site; When the delivery vehicle (3) enters the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the cargo sorting device (5) takes out the cargo to be delivered from the storage space (6) according to the delivery task and loads it into the delivery vehicle (3), so that the delivery vehicle (3) can go to a preset target location to perform the delivery task.

27. The delivery method according to claim 24, further comprising: When the delivery vehicle (3) carrying goods stops at the delivery interface area of ​​the delivery site, the goods sorting device (5) takes out the goods carried by the delivery vehicle (3) and stores them in the storage space (6).

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