Delivery systems and methods

Abstract

This invention provides a delivery system and method. The delivery system uses an unmanned mobile vehicle to deliver goods from a delivery source to a receiving unit, which is the delivery destination. The delivery system includes an action request transmission unit. The action request transmission unit sends action request commands to an actuator, the actuator being used to separate a first area and a second area of ​​the receiving unit. When the unmanned mobile vehicle places goods into the first area according to the delivery command of the delivery system, the delivery system sends an action request command to the actuator to separate the first area from the second area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a delivery system and method. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a vehicle that has a separate and isolated cargo compartment, such as a refrigerator, in the interior of the vehicle, which is separate from the passenger area. Furthermore, the use of unmanned mobile vehicles for cargo delivery has also been developed.

[0003] Previous technical documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-046893

[0005] Despite this structure, a mechanism is needed to improve convenience and further consider safety when delivering goods by vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention relates to a delivery system and method that provides corresponding safety measures during the delivery process to ensure that goods are delivered to their destination reliably and safely.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a delivery system is provided that uses an unmanned mobile vehicle to deliver goods from a delivery source to a receiving unit as a delivery destination. The delivery system includes: an action request transmission unit that sends action request instructions to an operation of a separation unit of the delivery system, the separation unit separating a first area and a second area comprised of the receiving unit. When the unmanned mobile vehicle places the goods into the first area according to the delivery instructions of the delivery system, the delivery system sends the action request instructions of the separation unit to separate the first area from the second area.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the delivery system further includes: a perimeter detection result acquisition unit, which acquires perimeter detection results from the storage unit or the perimeter detection unit of the unmanned mobile body, wherein the perimeter detection unit detects whether a person exists within a first predetermined range from the storage unit. When the perimeter detection result indicates the presence of a person, the delivery system transmits the operation request instruction of the separation unit to separate the first area and the second area.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the delivery system further includes a second area status acquisition unit for acquiring the status of the second area. When the status of the second area is a predetermined status, the delivery system transmits the operation request instruction of the separation unit to separate the first area and the second area.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the above-described delivery system further includes: an opening / closing signal transmitting unit for transmitting an opening signal or a closing signal to open or close a partition provided in the storage unit, wherein the partition separates the first area from the outside. When the goods are being arranged, the surrounding detection result is obtained, and after the partition is activated, the opening signal is transmitted to open the partition.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the above-described delivery system, a second predetermined range is set inside the first predetermined range including the storage section. When the perimeter detection result acquisition unit detects the presence of a person within the second predetermined range, it prohibits the placement of the goods in the storage section and stops the operation of the partition wall of the storage section.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the above-described delivery system, the receiving unit is a moving body. The delivery system further includes a drive stop signal transmission unit for stopping the movement of the moving body.

[0013] When the delivery system transmits the start signal to the adjacent space, it also transmits a drive stop signal to the moving body, causing the moving body to stop.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the above-described delivery system, the storage unit is a mobile body that passengers can ride in. The delivery system further includes a passenger detection information acquisition unit for acquiring passenger detection information from a passenger detection unit, wherein the passenger detection unit detects passengers within the mobile body. When the mobile body is activated, upon acquiring the passenger detection information, before transmitting the activation signal to the partition, the delivery system notifies the mobile body whether delivery is permitted.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a delivery method is provided, which uses an unmanned mobile vehicle to deliver goods from a delivery source to a receiving unit as a delivery destination, the receiving unit having a first area and a second area. The delivery method includes: sending a delivery instruction to the unmanned mobile vehicle via a delivery system to place the goods into the first area of ​​the receiving unit; and sending an action request instruction to a partition of the receiving unit via the delivery system to activate the partition to separate the first area from the second area.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the above delivery method further includes: obtaining a perimeter detection result from the storage unit or the unmanned mobile body, determining whether a person exists within a first predetermined range from the storage unit; and when the perimeter detection result indicates the presence of a person, the delivery system transmits the action request instruction of the separation unit to separate the first area and the second area.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the above delivery method further includes: obtaining the status of the second area from the delivery system; and when the second area is in a specified condition, transmitting the operation request instruction of the partition to separate the first area and the second area by the delivery system.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the above-described delivery method further includes: transmitting an open signal or a close signal by the delivery system to open or close the partition provided in the storage section, wherein the partition separates the first area from the outside; and obtaining the surrounding detection result when configuring the goods, and transmitting the open signal after the partition is activated to open the partition.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the above delivery method further includes: setting a second specified range, the second specified range being inside the first specified range including the storage unit; and when the surrounding detection result shows that a person is present within the second specified range, prohibiting the placement of the goods in the storage unit and stopping the driving of the partition of the storage unit.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the storage part is a mobile body, and the delivery method further includes: when the delivery system transmits the opening signal to the partition, it transmits a drive stop signal to the mobile body to stop the movement of the mobile body.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the storage unit is a mobile body that passengers can ride in, and the delivery method further includes: obtaining occupant detection information related to the occupants in the mobile body by the delivery system; and when the mobile body is started, upon obtaining the occupant detection information, before transmitting the activation signal to the partition, the delivery system notifies the mobile body whether delivery is permitted.

[0022] Based on the above description, according to embodiments of the present invention, safety and privacy are considered in the unmanned delivery process. When an outsider approaches a mobile object such as a vehicle or a storage unit such as a fixed storage box, safety measures will be taken or delivery will be stopped depending on the degree of proximity between the outsider and the storage unit. Safety measures can separate the destination of the goods (first area) from a second area unrelated to the delivery destination. Thus, during the goods delivery process, the safety and privacy of the second area (for vehicles, such as passengers or valuables; for storage boxes, such as other people's belongings) can be ensured. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a delivery system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a movable body structure as an example of a storage unit, shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a non-movable body structure as an example of a storage unit, shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating the range of delivery security levels according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 , Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same component reference numerals are used in the drawings and description to denote the same or similar parts.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a delivery system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The delivery system of this embodiment may consist of a server (service management server, service server) 100, a storage unit 200, and an unmanned mobile vehicle 300, but is not limited thereto. For example, the delivery system may refer to the server 100; the following description uses the server as an example of the delivery system 100. Furthermore, the description uses an autonomously flying mobile vehicle (drone) as an example, but is not limited thereto. The storage unit 200 may be, for example, a vehicle or a non-movable storage box placed in a location. Unless otherwise specified, the following examples use a vehicle (vehicle) 200 as the storage unit and an unmanned aerial vehicle as the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 for explanation.

[0030] The delivery system 100 includes, but is not limited to, an action request transmission unit 101, a perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102, a second area status acquisition unit 103, an opening / closing signal transmission unit 104, a drive / stop signal transmission unit 105, a occupant detection information acquisition unit 106, and a communication unit 108. Through these components, authorized control or information acquisition of the mobile body 200 can be performed to control the delivery process, such as controlling the mobile body 200 and the unmanned mobile body 300. These components will be described in further detail below.

[0031] The communication unit 108 can communicate with the communication unit 204 of the mobile vehicle 200 and the communication unit 303 of the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 via the network 10. The communication units 108, 204, and 303 of the delivery system 100, the mobile vehicle 200, and the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 can also connect to the network 10 via a relay station (not shown). This invention can utilize any existing or future implementable network architecture for communication between them.

[0032] The delivery system 100 is, for example, a server set up on network 10. The server may include components such as a processor 109 and a memory 110. The server's processor may be configured to perform the functions of various units, including the operation request transmission unit 101, the peripheral detection result acquisition unit 102, the second area status acquisition unit 103, the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104, the drive stop signal transmission unit 105, the occupant detection information acquisition unit 106, and the communication unit 108. The processor 109 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The memory 110 may include, for example, non-volatile memory or volatile memory. Volatile memory may be, for example, RAM, and non-volatile memory may be, for example, ROM or flash memory. The memory 110 can store programs, data, etc.

[0033] The storage device 110 may include, for example, an order database, an inventory database, a mobile database, a map database, and a delivery database, to provide the data required by the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to deliver goods to the mobile vehicle 200.

[0034] The order database stores order information (orders from users in the storage department), accumulated from order information. The inventory database accumulates information about product inventory, i.e., inventory information. The mobile unit database accumulates individual information about the unmanned mobile unit 300 used for delivering goods 312. This individual information includes, for example, the identification information (identification ID) of the unmanned mobile unit 300, the type of the unmanned mobile unit 300 (drone, etc.), the maximum load weight of the unmanned mobile unit 300, and the maximum load size of goods 312 that can be carried on the unmanned mobile unit 300. In addition, this individual information may also include the fuel consumption of the unmanned mobile unit 300, the maximum speed of the unmanned mobile unit 300, the number of years the unmanned mobile unit 300 has been in operation, the total distance traveled by the unmanned mobile unit 300, the number of goods 312 that can be carried on the unmanned mobile unit 300, and the current location of the unmanned mobile unit 300. The map database accumulates map information for delivery via unmanned mobile units 300. The delivery database accumulates information related to the delivery of goods 312, including ordered goods, i.e., delivery information. Delivery information may also include information about the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 delivering goods 312.

[0035] The mobile body 200 includes, but is not limited to, a perimeter detection unit 201, a occupant detection unit 202, a mobile body control unit 203, and a communication unit 204. Here, the mobile body 200 is an example of a storage unit (i.e., a delivery destination) as an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the mobile body 200 may be, for example, as... Figure 2 The vehicle shown is 210.

[0036] The surrounding detection unit 201 can be composed of, for example, a camera, sonar, or lidar, to detect the conditions around the moving object 200, such as whether there are people or other road users present. Here, different ranges can be defined with the vehicle 210 as the center, thereby determining what safety measures to take when a person or object approaches the vehicle 210.

[0037] The occupant detection unit 202 can, for example, use a camera, which is installed inside the vehicle. By capturing images of the vehicle's interior, the camera can detect whether anyone is inside. Furthermore, the images of the occupants captured by the camera can also be used to detect the occupants' status, their position inside the vehicle, and so on.

[0038] The mobile unit control unit 203 can be implemented by a processor, such as the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) of the vehicle 210. The ECU unit can be used to control various sensors and detectors of the vehicle 210. Thus, the mobile unit control unit 203 can receive data, perform various data processing operations, and thereby control various actuation components of the vehicle 210. Various in-vehicle system controls are performed by the ECU unit. For example, starting the vehicle 210, checking various parts after starting, controlling the vehicle displays, etc.

[0039] The communication unit 204 of the mobile vehicle 200 can communicate with the communication unit 108 of the delivery system 100. As a result, the delivery system 100 can obtain the perimeter detection results of the perimeter detection unit 201 and the occupant detection unit 202 of the mobile vehicle 200 after authorization from the user of the mobile vehicle 200, so as to take safety procedures for delivering goods.

[0040] The unmanned mobile unit 300 includes, but is not limited to, a perimeter detection unit 301, an unmanned mobile unit control unit 302, and a communication unit 303. The unmanned mobile unit 300 may be, for example, an aerial drone or a land-based drone. Furthermore, the unmanned mobile unit 300 may also include, but is not shown, a motion request transmission unit, a perimeter detection result acquisition unit, a second area status acquisition unit, an opening / closing signal transmission unit, a drive / stop signal transmission unit, a occupant detection information acquisition unit, and a storage unit. Based on a map database obtained from a server or preset in the storage unit, it flies autonomously and communicates with the receiving unit 200 to achieve delivery operations. The unmanned mobile unit 300 can deliver the goods 312 to the receiving unit (the delivery destination).

[0041] The surrounding detection unit 301 can be equipped with a camera, sonar, or light source to detect the conditions around the moving object 200, such as whether there are people or other road users present. Here, different ranges can be set around the delivery vehicle 210 to determine what safety measures to take when a person or object approaches the vehicle 210.

[0042] The unmanned mobile unit control unit 302 can control the overall operation of the unmanned mobile unit 300, such as flight control and control of various sensors of the unmanned mobile unit 300. The unmanned mobile unit control unit 302 can be implemented by a processor. The unmanned mobile unit control unit 302 can control various sensors and detectors of the unmanned mobile unit 300. Thus, the unmanned mobile unit 300 receives data, performs various processing on the data, and then controls various actuation components of the unmanned mobile unit control unit 302.

[0043] The communication unit 303 of the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 can communicate with the communication unit 108 of the delivery system 100. As a result, the server of the delivery system 100 can provide information such as the goods 312 to be delivered by the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to the mobile vehicle 200 and the delivery route (such as the flight path).

[0044] The unmanned mobile vehicle 300 may also include a holding mechanism 310 for holding the goods 312. Here, the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 delivers the goods 312 from a delivery source (shipping location) to a delivery destination based on delivery instructions (such as flight instructions) sent from the delivery system 100 to the unmanned mobile vehicle 300. The delivery source is, for example, a warehousing center (not shown), but is not limited to this. The delivery destination is, for example, a… Figure 2 The vehicle 210 shown (an example of the moving body 200) or as... Figure 3 The storage box shown is 250 (non-movable, set-top type), but is not limited to this.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a mobile body structure, illustrating an example of a storage unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. As an example of the mobile body 200, a vehicle 210 will be described below. Furthermore, the mobile body 200 may not be a vehicle for riding or driving, but rather serve only as a mobile delivery destination for goods 312. In this case, this type of mobile body 200 can still be provided. Figure 2 The architecture shown.

[0046] Vehicle 210 has a first area 214 and a second area 216. The first area is the storage area of ​​vehicle 210, such as a cargo compartment or trunk, where the delivery system 100 delivers goods to the vehicle 210 via unmanned mobile body 300. The second area 216 is the passenger area of ​​vehicle 210, but a portion of it can also be used as a cargo storage area. Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a partition 212 is provided between the first area 214 and the second area 216. This partition 212 is configured to be freely raised and lowered in the direction from the vehicle floor to the roof. When not delivering goods, the partition 212 can be controlled to lower (fixed end on the lower side) or raise (fixed end on the upper side). Also, when delivering goods, the partition 212 can be controlled to raise, thereby separating the first area 214 and the second area 216.

[0047] Furthermore, as an example, partition 212 can be a shutter or a colored acrylic panel. Alternatively, in cases where it is difficult for a person to reach but the second area can be seen through the first area, partition 212 can be a roller blind (e.g., fabric) that can be rolled up.

[0048] Vehicle 210 may also include a partition 220 to separate the area for storing cargo (e.g., the trunk of the vehicle) from the exterior of vehicle 210. In this example, partition 220 may be, for example, a door of various types, such as the trunk lid of a sedan or the rear door of a hatchback vehicle. By opening the door (i.e., partition 220), unmanned mobile body 300 can store cargo 312 into the first area 214 of vehicle 210.

[0049] Vehicle 210 may also include perimeter detection units 201a and 201b, both of which can be composed of cameras, sonar, or lidar, etc., to detect the conditions around vehicle 210, such as the presence of people, other road users, etc. Here, perimeter detection unit 201a can detect the surrounding conditions in front of vehicle 210, and perimeter detection unit 201b can detect the surrounding conditions behind vehicle 210. The number and location of perimeter detection units 201a and 201b are not limited to the front and rear of vehicle 210, and can be appropriately varied according to the needs of vehicle design.

[0050] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, if the display unit inside the vehicle is in an activated state (such as the accessory switch of vehicle 210 described later being in an on state), and the partition (door) 220 is opened for delivery, the partition 212 can be activated to prevent the display unit in the second area 216 from being seen through the first area 214. In this case, the partition (door) 220 may also be opened.

[0051] Alternatively, air conditioning management equipment can be installed in the first zone 214 to manage the first zone 214 at a temperature suitable for goods 312 (e.g., for refrigerated or frozen goods).

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a non-movable body structure as an example of a storage unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Here, the non-movable body structure is, for example, a storage box 250. (Compared to...) Figure 2 In the example shown, vehicle 210 itself can drive on the road, while Figure 3 The 250 storage box, a fixed type, is designed to be placed in a specific location. Of course, Figure 2 For example, using mobile vehicles like vehicle 210 as delivery destinations, the vehicle also serves as a storage unit. However, it is also possible to... Figure 3 One example is a mobile storage box designed to be mobile.

[0053] like Figure 3As shown, the storage box 250 includes a box body 251, which can be divided into several storage areas, such as a first storage area 254a and a second storage area 254b. The storage box 250 is provided with several partitions 252a and 252b. Here, two are used as an example, but it is not limited to this.

[0054] Furthermore, the range between the first storage area 254a and the second storage area 254b can also be set to be adjustable via the partitions 252a and 252b. Figure 3 For example, the storage box 250 can be divided into 6 areas by the shelves 253 and the dividers 252a and 252b. In addition, if it is necessary to store large items, the size of the first storage area 254a and the second storage area 254b can be adjusted by adjusting the dividers 252a and 252b (for example, by not using one of them).

[0055] The storage box 250 may also include a partition 270, such as a door of the storage box 250. The partition 270 may use a single door or multiple doors. When a partition 270 with a single door is opened, all storage areas (such as the first storage area 254a and the second storage area 254b) can be opened to the outside, while when a partition 270 with multiple doors is opened, only the doors of the areas that need to be opened need to be opened.

[0056] Also, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 In the example shown, the storage box 250 may also include peripheral detection units 260a and 260b, both of which can be composed of cameras, sonar, or photodiodes, etc., to detect the surrounding conditions of the storage box 250, such as whether anyone is present. Here, peripheral detection unit 260a can detect the surrounding conditions on one side of the storage box 250, and peripheral detection unit 260b can detect the surrounding conditions on the other side of the storage box 250. The number and position of peripheral detection units 260a and 260b are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately varied according to the design requirements of the storage box 250.

[0057] Next, the delivery method of the delivery system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The following description will refer to... Figures 1 to 3 .

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the delivery system 100 uses an unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to deliver goods 312 from a delivery source to a storage unit that serves as the delivery destination. Here, the storage unit is, for example, a... Figure 2 The first area 214 of the vehicle 210 shown. The distribution source could be, for example, a warehousing center for storing various goods needed or purchased by users. Also, the storage department could be, for example... Figure 3 The storage box 250 shown includes the first area 254a or the second area 254b, etc.

[0059] In the following embodiments, it will be used as Figure 2 The vehicle 210 shown is an example of a storage unit. Figure 3 Although the storage box 250 shown is not specifically described, the delivery method and safety measures for using the storage box 250 as the delivery destination are the same. Furthermore, the unmanned mobile body 300 will be described as an unmanned aerial vehicle, but any other type of unmanned mobile body may be used.

[0060] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the action request transmission unit 101 included in the delivery system 100 can send action request commands to activate the partition 212 of the vehicle 210. As previously described, the partition 212 is used to separate the first area 214 and the second area 216 of the vehicle (in the example of the storage unit) 210.

[0061] When the unmanned mobile unit 300 allocates the goods 312 to the first area 214 of the vehicle 210 according to the delivery instruction of the delivery system 100, the action request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 sends an action request instruction to the separation unit 212 to separate the first area 214 from the second area 216.

[0062] During delivery, the delivery system 100 sends information such as the goods to be delivered, the destination vehicle 210, and the flight route to the unmanned mobile unit 300. Upon receiving the delivery instruction from the delivery system 100, the unmanned mobile unit 300's control unit 302 controls the flight-related components to prepare for takeoff and proceeds to the location of the vehicle 210 to deliver the goods 312. Here, the vehicle 210 can be in motion or stationary.

[0063] Here, the action request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 also sends the action request instruction of the separating unit 212 to the vehicle 210. The vehicle 210's movement control unit 203 can then control the separating unit 212 to operate, separating the first area 214 from the second area 216. As an example, after receiving the action request instruction, the vehicle 210 can display on its screen whether it accepts the instruction. The separating unit 212 will then operate only after the user agrees.

[0064] Thus, when the unmanned mobile unit 300 places the cargo 312 into the first area 214 of the vehicle 210, since the first area 214 and the second area 216 are separated by the partition 212, the condition of the second area 216 cannot be seen from the first area 214. Therefore, people or the unmanned mobile unit 300 outside the vehicle 210 cannot see the condition of the second area 216. Thus, the safety of the second area 216 of the vehicle 210 can be improved.

[0065] In this implementation, without human intervention, the unmanned mobile unit 300 cannot respond as flexibly as a human, and from a security perspective, delivering goods 312 to the first area 214 may jeopardize the security and privacy of the second area 216. Therefore, by activating the separator 212 to separate the first area 214 from the second area 216, the security and privacy of the second area 216 can be improved. Furthermore, in the delivery system 100 that uses the unmanned mobile unit 300 to deliver goods, the security level of the delivery destination can be enhanced.

[0066] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating the setting range of delivery security levels according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided. As an example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, when vehicle 210 uses its surroundings detection units 201a and 201b to detect its surroundings, a first defined range R1 and a second defined range R2 can be set, with the second defined range R2 being the area closer to vehicle 210. The first defined range R1 can be set as the area where safety measures need to be implemented. When person P is within the first defined range, unmanned mobile unit 300 can implement safety measures and deliver goods 312. When person P enters the second defined range R2, since person P is already very close to vehicle 210, the delivery system 100 will stop the unmanned mobile unit 300 from delivering goods 312.

[0067] Also, such as Figure 1 As shown, the delivery system 100 also includes a perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102, which acquires the perimeter detection results from the perimeter detection units 201a and 201b of the vehicle 210. Alternatively, the delivery system 100 can also acquire the perimeter detection results from the perimeter detection unit 301 of the unmanned mobile body 300. The perimeter detection units 201a and 201b of the vehicle 210 will be used as examples in the following embodiments.

[0068] The peripheral detection units 201a and 201b are used to detect whether there are people within a first defined range R1 starting from vehicle 210. The peripheral detection result acquisition unit 102 of the delivery system 100 obtains the peripheral detection results from the peripheral detection units 201a and 201b of vehicle 210 via network 10.

[0069] After the perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102 of the delivery system 100 acquires the perimeter detection results and determines that a person P exists within the first predetermined range R, the action request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 then sends the action request instruction of the separation unit 212 to the vehicle 210. The vehicle 210's movement control unit 203 can then control the separation unit 212 to operate, separating the first area 214 from the second area 216. As an example, after receiving the action request instruction, the vehicle 210 can display on its display whether it accepts the instruction. The separation unit 212 will then operate only after the user agrees.

[0070] In this embodiment, during delivery, the presence of a person within a predetermined distance (first defined range R1) from the vehicle 210 is detected. When a person is detected, the partition 212 is activated to separate the first area 214 from the second area 216. Thus, when a person is near the vehicle 210, that person may be able to touch or see the second area 216 through the first area 214. Therefore, the partition 212 only activates under these circumstances to improve the safety of the delivery process. Conversely, if no person is detected within the first defined range R, the partition 212 does not activate, thereby reducing energy loss.

[0071] like Figure 1 As shown, the delivery system 100 may further include a second area status acquisition unit 103 for acquiring the status of the second area 216 of the vehicle 210. For example, the vehicle 210 may have a second area status detection unit such as a camera. The second area status detection unit can detect the status of the second area to obtain a status detection result. The delivery system 100 can obtain the status detection result of the second area 216 from the second area status detection unit through the second area status acquisition unit 103.

[0072] The delivery system 100 can transmit the operation requirement command of the partition 212 according to the condition detection result of the second area 216, so as to separate the first area 214 and the second area 216.

[0073] Here, the term "second area 216" refers to a situation where there are items in the second area 216 that are not related to the delivery goods in the first area 214 (such as personal belongings in the case of a vehicle), and where, in the case of a vehicle as the storage unit, the display unit located in the second area 216 is in an operational state (display state) and the displayed content can be seen by others outside the vehicle 210. In other words, there is a possibility that people and objects in the second area 216 can be seen by others. At this time, the partition 212 will operate to separate the first area 214 from the second area 216.

[0074] Therefore, if someone has personal belongings or items unrelated to the delivered items near the storage area or in the second area 216, there is a possibility that they could access or see the second area 216 through the first area 214. Therefore, the partition 212 should only be activated in such cases to improve security and privacy. However, if no one is present near the storage area 200, no security measures should be taken to minimize energy loss.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the delivery system 100 may also include an opening / closing signal transmission unit 104, which is used to transmit an opening signal or a closing signal to open or close the partition 220 of the storage unit (such as vehicle 210).

[0076] When goods 312 are being configured, the peripheral detection result acquisition unit 102 of the delivery system 100 obtains peripheral detection results from peripheral detection units 201 of the receiving unit 200 (such as peripheral detection units 201a, 201b of the vehicle 210). These peripheral detection results are displayed as follows: Figure 4 The system checks whether anyone is present within the first defined area R1. If someone is present, the delivery system 100 sends an action request command to the partition 212, which then operates to separate the first area 214 from the second area 216. Afterwards, the delivery system 100's open / close signal transmission unit 104 sends an open signal to open the partition 220. Thus, the first area 214 can be opened to the outside of the storage unit, allowing the unmanned mobile unit 300 to place the goods 312 into the first area 214.

[0077] Therefore, if someone is near the storage section 200, there is a possibility that they could access or see the second section 216 through the first section 214. Thus, the partition 212 is activated only in this situation to improve security and privacy. However, if no one is near the storage section 200, no security measures are taken to reduce energy loss.

[0078] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 4 As shown, a second defined range R2 is further defined inside the first defined range R1 containing the storage unit 200 (such as vehicle 210 or storage box 250). When the delivery system 100 determines that someone is present within the second defined range R2 based on the surrounding detection results obtained by the surrounding detection result acquisition unit 102, it prohibits the delivery of goods to the storage unit 200 and stops the operation (activation) of the partition 220 of the storage unit 200.

[0079] The second defined range R2 is closer to the storage unit 200 than the first defined range R1, for example, it can be set to about 3 meters. If other people are present in the second defined range R2, the risk is higher. Therefore, compared with the safety measures for goods delivery within the first defined range, if other people are present in the second defined range R2, the delivery system 100 will prohibit the unmanned mobile body 300 from carrying out delivery operations (to eliminate the risk of others coming into contact with the second area 216). When someone is in the second defined range R2, it may affect the drive of the adjacent 220 of the storage unit 200 when unmanned delivery is being carried out, so the drive of the adjacent 220 and the delivery of goods 312 will be stopped.

[0080] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the storage unit is a mobile body 200 such as a vehicle 210, the delivery system 100 may further include a drive stop signal transmission unit 105 for stopping the vehicle 210. During delivery, when the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104 of the delivery system 100 transmits an opening signal to the adjacent door 220, it is desirable for the vehicle 210 to be stationary for safety reasons.

[0081] At this time, the delivery system 100 may send a notification requesting the vehicle to stop to the vehicle 210. The notification requesting the vehicle to stop will be displayed on the display unit of the vehicle 210. If the occupants of the vehicle 210 agree, the drive stop signal transmission unit 105 of the delivery system 100 will send a drive stop signal to the vehicle 210, causing the vehicle 210 to stop moving. In this way, the opening of the adjacent (door) 220 and the delivery of goods 312 can be safely carried out while the vehicle 210 is stopped.

[0082] Therefore, when the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 approaches and the adjacent vehicle 220 moves, the vehicle 210 stops, thus ensuring a safe and reliable delivery operation. Alternatively, the vehicle's operation can be controlled to prevent or refuse driving instructions from the user until the adjacent vehicle 220 opens and the delivery operation ends, or until the adjacent vehicle 220 closes and the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 moves more than a specified distance away.

[0083] Also, such as Figure 1 As shown, the delivery system 100 also includes an occupant detection information acquisition unit 106, which is used to acquire the status of the second area 216 of the vehicle 210. As mentioned above, the second area 216 of the vehicle 210 is mainly the area where occupants sit. The occupant detection unit 202 of the vehicle 210 can detect whether there are occupants (users of the vehicle 210) in the second area 216 of the vehicle 210, for example, by using a position installed inside the vehicle 210 (for example, at the front of the vehicle where the entire interior can be detected).

[0084] The delivery system 100 can communicate with the vehicle 210 via the network 10, thereby enabling the occupant detection information acquisition unit 106 of the delivery system 100 to obtain occupant detection information from the occupant detection unit 202 of the vehicle 210. When the vehicle 210 is started, upon obtaining the occupant detection information, the delivery system 100 notifies the vehicle 210 whether delivery is permitted before transmitting an start signal to the adjacent space 220 of the vehicle 210.

[0085] In other words, when the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 delivers goods 312 to the vehicle 210, the delivery system 100 instructs the vehicle 210 to open the door serving as the adjacent area 220, allowing the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to deliver goods 312 to the first area 214 of the vehicle 210. However, to further enhance security, the delivery system 100 needs to first determine whether there are occupants in the second area 216 of the vehicle 210. If there are occupants, permission must be obtained from them before opening the door serving as the adjacent area 220. Therefore, before opening the door serving as the adjacent area 220, the delivery system 100 needs to obtain occupant detection information to determine whether there are occupants inside the vehicle.

[0086] In one example, if there are occupants in vehicle 210, they can receive a "delivery available" notification via a display unit inside vehicle 210 (e.g., a screen on the center console of vehicle 210). If the occupants agree to delivery, they can enter their consent on the display unit. Thus, delivery system 100 can send an opening signal to vehicle 210 to open the adjacent door 220, allowing unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to deliver goods 312.

[0087] Therefore, when occupants are in vehicle 210, from both a security and delivery notification perspective, by notifying occupants inside the vehicle of their "delivery permission," delivery can be carried out more reliably and securely. Thus, the delivery system 100 only sends an opening signal to vehicle 210 to open the adjacent door 220 when the occupants consent to delivery, thereby further enhancing security and privacy.

[0088] Furthermore, starting here does not mean that the vehicle 210 is driving, but rather that the ignition switch controlling the engine of the vehicle 210 is turned on or the accessory switch controlling the power supply to the vehicle's electrical equipment is turned on, so that the display device of the vehicle 210 is in the starting state.

[0089] The "Delivery Available?" notification is displayed on the display screen of vehicle 210. Authorization is granted by the occupant through input on the display screen, voice permission, or permission via a terminal device (e.g., a keyless entry device, a smartphone in sync with the vehicle). The delivery system 100 can then open the vehicle's side door 220 to begin delivery. If the occupant does not grant permission, or if a predetermined time has elapsed after the delivery system 100 sends the "Delivery Available?" notification to vehicle 210 without any action from the occupant, delivery is deemed not permitted. In this case, the vehicle's side door 220 is not opened. The delivery system 100 then instructs the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to stop delivering goods 312 and to return goods 312, such as to a delivery source in a warehouse. The predetermined time can be, for example, measured using a standard counter.

[0090] Furthermore, even if there are people in the first area 214, if the occupant determines and instructs the partition (door) 220 of the vehicle 210 to be opened, it is feasible to open the partition (door) 220 after the partition 212 is activated, following the selection of whether to activate the partition 212. In other words, the occupant can take safety measures.

[0091] Figure 5 , Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figures 1 to 5 As shown, after delivery begins, step S100 is executed to determine whether the unmanned mobile body (such as a drone) 300 has reached its destination (the location of the storage unit). If it is determined that the unmanned mobile body 300 has not yet reached its destination (i.e., no), the determination in step S100 continues until the unmanned mobile body 300 reaches its destination.

[0092] If step S100 determines that the unmanned mobile body has reached its destination (yes), then step S102 is executed to determine the type of the storage unit, that is, to determine whether the storage unit is a mobile body 200. If the storage unit is determined to be a mobile body, then step S104 is executed.

[0093] Step S104 detects whether there are occupants inside the mobile body 200 (using the occupant detection information acquisition unit 106 and the occupant detection unit 202). If no occupants are detected inside the mobile body 200 (No), then step S106 is executed.

[0094] In step S106, it is detected whether there is a person within the second defined range R2 (using the perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102 and the perimeter detection units 201 and 301). If a person is detected within the second defined range R2 in step S106 (yes), then step S124 is executed, and time counting begins (e.g., using a counter). Next, in step S126, it is determined whether the count time is greater than a predetermined time. If the count time is greater than the predetermined time, then step S132 is executed, and the delivery system 100 sends a delivery stop instruction to the unmanned mobile unit 300, causing the unmanned mobile unit 300 to stop the delivery operation. If step S126 determines that the count time is less than the predetermined time, then step S106 is returned to continue determining whether there is a person within the second defined range R2.

[0095] If no one is detected in the second defined range R2 in step S106 (no), then step S108 is executed. Step S108 detects whether there is anyone in the first defined range R1 (using the perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102 and the perimeter detection units 201 and 301). If someone is detected in the first defined range R1 in step S108, then step S140 is executed, and the operation request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 sends an operation request command (close) to the separation unit 212 of the moving body 200, causing the separation unit 212 to operate and separate the first area 214 and the second area 216. After that, the delivery operation of steps S142 to S154 (described later) continues to be executed.

[0096] If step S108 detects that there is no one within the first specified range R1, then step S110 is executed. Step S110 determines whether the second region 214 has the specified conditions.

[0097] If step S110 determines that the second region 216 has a specified condition (yes), then step S140 is executed. In step S140, the operation request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 sends an operation request command (close) to the separator 212 of the moving body 200, causing the separator 212 to operate and separate the first region 214 and the second region 216. After that, the delivery operation of steps S142 to S154 (described later) continues to be executed.

[0098] If step S110 determines that the second area 214 is not in a specified condition (no), then step S142 is executed. Here, the delivery system 100 sends a driving prohibition command to the mobile body 200, causing the mobile body 200 to stop moving. After the mobile body 200 stops moving, the delivery operation of steps S144 to S152 continues. Furthermore, after the mobile body 200 stops moving, it remains in a state of being prohibited from moving until the delivery operation is completed. Then, the delivery operation is performed. Here, as described above, a specified condition refers to a situation where there are items in the second area 216 that are not related to the delivery goods in the first area 214 (such as personal belongings in the case of a vehicle), or, in the case where the storage unit is a vehicle, the display unit set in the second area 216 is in an operational state, and the displayed content can be seen by others outside the vehicle.

[0099] In step S144, the delivery system 100 sends a delivery start instruction to the unmanned mobile body 300, causing the unmanned mobile body 300 to begin delivering goods 312 to the mobile body 200 (such as the first area 214 of the vehicle 210). The unmanned mobile body 300 can move towards the mobile body 200 according to the planned flight route.

[0100] In step S146, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to the mobile body 200 to open the partition 220 of the storage unit 200. After receiving the instruction, the mobile body 200 opens the partition (door) 220 based on the opening signal sent by the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104 of the delivery system 100.

[0101] In step S148, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to the unmanned mobile body 300 to configure goods in the first area, so that the unmanned mobile body 300 can deliver goods 312 to the first area 214 of the mobile body 200.

[0102] In step S150, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to the moving body 200 to open the partition. At this time, since the delivery of goods 312 has been completed, the safety measures can be released. Here, the partition 212 is opened based on the action request instruction (open) sent by the action request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 or by the operator confirming that the goods delivery has been completed.

[0103] In step S152, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to close the partition to the mobile body 200. Here, the partition (door) 220 is closed based on the closing command sent by the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104 of the delivery system 100 or automatically by the passenger upon confirmation that the goods have been delivered.

[0104] In step S154, the delivery operation has been safely and reliably completed. At this point, the delivery system 100 sends a return instruction to the unmanned mobile vehicle 300, causing the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to return to the delivery source, such as a warehousing center.

[0105] Furthermore, in step S104, if an occupant is detected inside the mobile body 200 (yes), then step S120 is executed. In step S120, the delivery system 100 sends a "delivery availability" notification to the mobile body 200.

[0106] Next, in step S122, it is determined whether the passenger allows this "delivery available" notification. If not, step S128 is executed, and time counting begins (e.g., using a counter). Then, in step S130, it is determined whether the counted time is greater than a predetermined time. If the counted time is greater than the predetermined time, step S132 is executed, and the delivery system 100 sends a delivery stop instruction to the unmanned mobile unit 300, causing the unmanned mobile unit 300 to stop the delivery operation. If step S130 determines that the counted time is less than a predetermined time, the process returns to step S120.

[0107] Furthermore, if step S122 determines that the occupant has granted permission for the "delivery permission" notification, then step 142 is executed. Here, the delivery system 100 sends a prohibition command to the mobile body 200, causing the mobile body 200 to stop moving. After the mobile body 200 stops moving, the delivery operation in steps S144 to S152 continues. Alternatively, the requirement to activate the partition can be made based on the occupant's operation before proceeding to step S142. Furthermore, it is also possible to control the system to maintain the prohibition state even if there are operations from the occupant after the prohibition command is given until the delivery operation ends.

[0108] like Figure 6 As shown, when the storage part in step S102 is not a movable body 200, for example... Figure 3 If the storage box 250 shown is used, then step S160 is executed.

[0109] In step S160, it is detected whether there is a person within the second defined range R2 (using the perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102 and the perimeter detection units 260a and 260b). If a person is detected within the second defined range R2 in step S160 (yes), then step S180 is executed, and time counting begins (e.g., using a counter). Next, in step S182, it is determined whether the count time is greater than a predetermined time. If the count time is greater than the predetermined time, then step S184 is executed, and the delivery system 100 sends a delivery stop instruction to the unmanned mobile unit 300, causing the unmanned mobile unit 300 to stop the delivery operation. If step S182 determines that the count time is less than the predetermined time, then step S160 is returned to continue determining whether there is a person within the second defined range R2.

[0110] If no one is detected in the second defined range R2 in step S160 (no), then step S162 is executed. Step S162 detects whether there is anyone in the first defined range R1 (using the perimeter detection result acquisition unit 102 and the perimeter detection units 260a and 260b). If someone is detected in the first defined range R1 in step S162, then step S166 is executed, and the operation request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 sends an operation request command (close) to the partitions 252a and 252b of the storage box 250, causing the partitions 252a and 252b to operate and separate the first area 254a and the second area 254b. After that, the delivery operation of steps S168 to S176 (described later) continues.

[0111] If step S162 detects that there is no one within the first specified range R1, then step S164 is executed. Step S164 determines whether the second region 254b has the specified condition.

[0112] If step S164 determines that the second area 215b has a specified condition (yes), then step S166 is executed. In step S166, the operation request transmission unit 101 of the delivery system 100 sends an operation request command (close) to the partitions 252a and 252b of the storage box 250, causing the partitions 252a and 252b to operate, thereby separating the first area 254a and the second area 254b. Afterwards, the delivery operation of steps S168 to S176 (described later) continues.

[0113] If step S164 determines that the second area 254b is not in the specified condition (no), then step S168 is executed. Here, the delivery system 100 sends a delivery start instruction to the unmanned mobile unit 300, causing the unmanned mobile unit 300 to begin delivering the goods 312 to the first area 254a of the storage box 250. The unmanned mobile unit 300 can move towards the storage box 250 according to the planned flight route.

[0114] In step S170, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to open the partition to the storage box 250. After receiving the instruction, the storage box 250 opens the partition (door) 270 based on the opening signal sent by the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104 of the delivery system 100.

[0115] In step S172, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to the unmanned mobile body 300 to configure goods in the first area, so that the unmanned mobile body 300 can deliver goods 312 to the first area 254a of the storage box 250.

[0116] In step S174, the delivery system 100 sends an instruction to close the partition to the storage box 250. Here, the partition (door) 270 is closed based on the closing command sent by the opening / closing signal transmission unit 104 of the delivery system 100 or automatically by the passenger upon confirmation that the goods have been delivered.

[0117] In step S176, the delivery operation has been safely and reliably completed. At this point, the delivery system 100 sends a return instruction to the unmanned mobile vehicle 300, causing the unmanned mobile vehicle 300 to return to the delivery source, such as a warehousing center.

[0118] Based on the above description, according to embodiments of the present invention, safety and privacy are considered in the unmanned delivery process. When an outsider approaches a mobile object such as a vehicle or a storage unit such as a fixed storage box, safety measures will be taken or delivery will be stopped depending on the degree of proximity between the outsider and the storage unit. Safety measures can separate the destination of the goods (first area) from a second area unrelated to the delivery destination. Thus, during the goods delivery process, the safety and privacy of the second area (for vehicles, such as passengers or valuables; for storage boxes, such as other people's belongings) can be ensured.

[0119] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A delivery system that uses unmanned mobile vehicles to deliver goods from a delivery source to a receiving unit that serves as the delivery destination, characterized in that, include: An action request transmission unit sends an action request command to activate the partition unit, which separates the first and second areas of the storage unit. When the unmanned mobile vehicle places the goods into the first area according to the delivery instructions of the delivery system, the delivery system sends the action request instruction of the separator to separate the first area from the second area. The delivery system further includes: The surrounding detection result acquisition unit acquires the surrounding detection results from the storage unit or the surrounding detection unit of the unmanned mobile body. The surrounding detection unit detects whether a person exists within a first predetermined range from the storage unit. When the presence of a person is detected as a result of the surrounding detection, the delivery system transmits the action request instruction of the separation section to separate the first area and the second area.

2. The delivery system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The second area status acquisition unit is used to acquire the status of the second area. When the condition of the second area is specified, the delivery system transmits the action requirement instruction of the separator to separate the first area and the second area.

3. The delivery system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An opening / closing signal transmitting unit is used to transmit an opening signal or a closing signal to open or close the partition provided in the housing section, wherein the partition separates the first area from the outside. When configuring the cargo, the surrounding detection results are obtained, and after the partition is activated, the opening signal is transmitted to open the partition.

4. The delivery system according to claim 3, characterized in that, A second defined range is defined inside the first defined range including the storage part. If the surrounding detection result acquisition unit detects the presence of a person within the second specified range, it prohibits the placement of the goods in the storage unit and stops the operation of the partition of the storage unit.

5. The delivery system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The storage section is a movable part. The delivery system also includes a drive stop signal transmitter for stopping the movement of the moving body. When the delivery system transmits the start signal to the adjacent space, it also transmits a drive stop signal to the moving body, causing the moving body to stop.

6. The delivery system according to claim 3, characterized in that... The storage section is a mobile unit that passengers can ride in. The delivery system further includes a passenger detection information acquisition unit for acquiring passenger detection information from the passenger detection unit, wherein the passenger detection unit detects the passengers within the moving body. When the mobile vehicle is activated, upon obtaining the occupant detection information, before transmitting the activation signal to the partition, the delivery system notifies the mobile vehicle whether delivery is permitted.

7. A delivery method comprising delivering goods from a delivery source to a receiving unit as a delivery destination using an unmanned mobile vehicle, the receiving unit having a first area and a second area, characterized in that, include: The delivery system sends a delivery instruction to the unmanned mobile body to place the goods into the first area of ​​the storage unit; and The delivery method further includes sending an action request command to the partition of the storage unit via the delivery system, causing the partition to activate and separate the first area from the second area. Obtain the surrounding detection results from the storage unit or the unmanned mobile body, and determine whether there is a person within a first predetermined range from the storage unit; and When the surrounding detection result indicates the presence of a person, the delivery system transmits the action requirement instruction of the separation section to separate the first area and the second area.

8. The delivery method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The status of the second area is obtained by the delivery system; and When the second area is in a specified condition, the delivery system transmits the operation requirement instruction of the separator to separate the first area and the second area.

9. The delivery method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The delivery system transmits an open or close signal to open or close the partition provided in the storage section, wherein the partition separates the first area from the outside. and When configuring the cargo, the surrounding detection results are obtained, and after the partition is activated, the opening signal is transmitted to open the partition.

10. The delivery method according to claim 9, characterized in that, A second defined range is defined, which is inside the first defined range including the storage portion; and When the surrounding detection results indicate the presence of a person within the second specified range, the placement of the goods in the storage unit is prohibited, and the operation of the partition of the storage unit is stopped.

11. The delivery method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The storage unit is a movable body, and the delivery method further includes: When the delivery system transmits the start signal to the adjacent space, it also transmits a drive stop signal to the moving body, causing the moving body to stop.

12. The delivery method according to claim 9, characterized in that... The storage unit is a mobile body that passengers can ride in, and the delivery method further includes: The delivery system obtains occupant detection information related to the occupants within the mobile body; and When the mobile vehicle is activated, upon obtaining the occupant detection information, the delivery system notifies the mobile vehicle whether delivery is permitted before transmitting the activation signal to the adjacent space.

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