Autonomous vehicle locker utilization system and method

Abstract

An autonomous vehicle locker includes a controller including a memory storing instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions. The instructions are configured to cause the controller to: associate the autonomous vehicle locker with a customer at a first location, receive an indication that a customer item is within the storage compartment, secure the storage compartment based on the indication, instruct the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to a second location, identify a customer from a plurality of customers at the second location, and transmit the identified customer to the autonomous vehicle locker. And instructing the autonomous vehicle locker to unlock the storage compartment in response to identifying the customer.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 358,722, filed on July 6, 2022, entitled “AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE LOCKERUTILIZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be related to the various aspects of the technology presented, which are described and / or claimed below. It is believed that this discussion is helpful in providing the reader with background information to promote a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements are to be read in this light, and not as an admission of prior art.

[0003] Amusement parks or similar recreational facilities often include one or more locker systems so that users (e.g., customers and employees) can store their belongings in lockers when they are in an amusement park. However, it may be time-consuming to find or register available lockers among a large number of lockers. Unlocking / locking lockers when taking care of other needs (e.g., carrying things, enjoying an amusement park) may also be a heavy burden. In addition, efficiently providing suitable lockers to a large number of users looking for lockers at the same time may be challenging. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide an efficient system and method for providing lockers to users in an amusement park. Summary of the invention

[0004] Certain embodiments commensurate in scope with the originally claimed subject matter are summarized below. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief overview of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the present disclosure may encompass a wide variety of forms that may be similar or different from the embodiments illustrated below.

[0005] In one embodiment, an autonomous vehicle locker includes a controller including a memory storing instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions. The instructions are configured to cause the controller to: associate the autonomous vehicle locker with a customer at a first location, receive an indication that an item of the customer is within a storage compartment, secure the storage compartment based on the indication, instruct the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to a second location, identify the customer from a plurality of customers at the second location, and instruct the autonomous vehicle locker to unlock the storage compartment in response to identifying the customer.

[0006] In one embodiment, an autonomous vehicle locker includes a controller including a memory storing instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions. The instructions are configured to cause the controller to: receive an indication of an association of the autonomous vehicle locker with a customer, cause the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to a waiting area after receiving a customer item, track a customer location, receive a request to receive the customer item from the autonomous vehicle locker, cause the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to the tracked customer location based on the request, and unlock a storage compartment in response to identifying the customer at the customer location.

[0007] In one embodiment, an autonomous vehicle locker method includes associating the autonomous vehicle locker with a customer, acquiring an image of the customer via a camera of the autonomous vehicle locker, receiving the customer's items in a storage compartment of the autonomous vehicle locker, receiving data from other autonomous vehicle lockers, locating the customer based on the data from the other autonomous vehicle lockers, instructing the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to the customer's location based on the location, acquiring an updated image at the location, identifying the customer in the updated image, and unlocking the storage compartment in response to identifying the customer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, and in which:

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an autonomous vehicle locker according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an autonomous vehicle locker implemented as a dinosaur according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2B is a perspective view of an autonomous carrier locker implemented as a beverage cart according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an autonomous vehicle locker with adaptive location-based theming according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 is a block diagram of certain components of an autonomous vehicle locker system according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a process for depositing customer items in an autonomous vehicle locker and delivering the customer items for retrieval in a new location according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 6is a flow chart of a process for emptying a customer's belongings from an autonomous vehicle locker according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a method of storing customer items in an autonomous vehicle locker and delivering the customer items to the customer's location for retrieval based on a photo of the customer in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 8 is an example user interface of an autonomous vehicle locker according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0018] Fig. 9 is an example user interface of an autonomous vehicle locker according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of the actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. In addition, it should be appreciated that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but will be nothing more than a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those of ordinary skill who benefit from the present disclosure. Further, with respect to certain terms used herein, such as parallel, perpendicular, and the like, it should be understood that these terms allow certain deviations from strict mathematical definitions, such as deviations associated with manufacturing defects and associated tolerances.

[0020] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, the articles "a, an" and "the, said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising, including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. One or more specific embodiments of the presented embodiments described herein will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of the actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be noted that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. In addition, it should be noted that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but will be no more than a routine task of design, fabrication, and manufacturing for those of ordinary skill who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0021] The present disclosure relates to a system and method for storing, transporting and delivering various articles in an amusement park environment using an autonomous vehicle locker. Specifically, an embodiment of the present disclosure presents a solution to provide users with convenient access to a locker for storing customer articles, convenient transportation of articles and / or delivery of purchased articles. For example, for some amusement attractions, customers are required to store bags and mobile phones in lockers. In some cases, customer lockers are located near the entrance of the amusement attractions, and customers must return to the locker room after the amusement attractions are over to retrieve their belongings. The locker room may be crowded, and the retrieval process may not be orderly. In other examples, customers may find that parking a stroller and / or a wheelchair and retrieving a stroller and / or a wheelchair from a designated location is inconvenient. In addition, during the time period in the amusement park, customers may obtain certain articles such as prizes, souvenirs, toys, food, etc., and customers may have to carry the obtained articles with them (throughout their visit to the amusement park). Carrying multiple acquired items and keeping track of them while at an amusement park may cause patrons to forget or lose acquired items.

[0022] Therefore, the present disclosure provides an autonomous vehicle locker that can autonomously travel to a customer's location. In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker can store and drop off customer items in any location that is convenient for the customer, thereby eliminating or reducing the need for the customer to go to a dedicated locker area (e.g., a dedicated locker room). In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker can accompany the customer throughout the customer's visit to the amusement park, thereby transporting the items acquired by the customer, eliminating the need for the customer to carry the acquired items and keep track of them. In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker can acquire and deliver food or retail items, and store these items until they are needed by the customer. The autonomous vehicle locker can transport strollers and wheelchairs to designated parking locations during the duration of the amusement ride, and bring them back to the customer after the ride. In an embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker can navigate to the customer or be locked and / or unlocked using customer biometrics, thereby eliminating the need for customer tracking using location information from the customer's mobile device, which may be stored in the locker compartment and inaccessible.

[0023] With the foregoing in mind, to demonstrate various aspects of the present disclosure, the presented embodiments are described with respect to an autonomous vehicle locker for storing, transporting, and / or delivering items to customers at an amusement park, entertainment facility, or any other suitable facility. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure present a solution to provide customers with a convenient way to store, transport, and / or receive personal customer items and / or purchased items. In embodiments, the autonomous vehicle locker can be navigated to the customer or locked and / or unlocked using customer biometrics, thereby eliminating the need for customer tracking using location information from a customer mobile device, which may be tucked away in a locker compartment and inaccessible.

[0024] For example, Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an amusement park environment 10. In the illustrated example, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, an entrance 12 to an amusement attraction 14 (e.g., an amusement ride, an immersive experience, a show experience) may be arranged so that patrons 16 may interact with autonomous vehicle lockers 18. In the illustrated example, patrons 16 are queued at the entrance 12 of the amusement attraction 14. In the depicted embodiment, autonomous vehicle lockers 18 (also referred to herein as "lockers") may be used by patrons 16 to store any personal patron items while patrons 16 are attending / riding the amusement attraction 14. For example, Figure 3 , prior to queuing to enter the amusement attraction 14, customer 16A is in the process of depositing a customer item 20 (e.g., a wallet) in an autonomous vehicle locker 18A. Autonomous vehicle locker 18A may have a storage compartment 22 (e.g., a cavity) that can be made secure, in which customer items 20 can be stowed. Customers 16B and 16C are in the process of retrieving customer items 20 (e.g., toys) from the storage compartment 22 of autonomous vehicle locker 18B. In addition to stowing customer items 20, autonomous vehicle lockers 18 may also manage personal transportation / mobility devices 30 (e.g., strollers, wheelchairs, carts, mobility scooters) of customers 106 for the duration of the amusement attraction 14. For example, locker 18C is transporting a personal transportation device 30 (e.g., a cart) to its temporary parking spot while the customer(s) 16 to whom the cart belongs are participating in / riding the amusement attraction 14.

[0025] In this embodiment, a customer pass 24 (e.g., a paper customer pass, an electronic customer pass) can be used to summon a locker 18 before and after the amusement attraction 14 to deposit and / or retrieve customer items 20. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a customer 16A summons a locker 18A by scanning a customer pass 24 (e.g., a physical or paper ticket, or a pass stored on a mobile device or another computer and displayed on a mobile device or another computer in an embodiment) via a pass scanner 26. The customer pass 24 may include a QR code or another readable code, and the pass scanner 26 may include an optical reader. However, other technologies are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the customer pass may provide identification information via an RFID tag, which is read by a pass scanner 26 (e.g., an RFID reader (e.g., an RFID tag reader)). Scanning the customer pass 24 via the pass scanner 26 may send a wireless signal to the locker 18A, thereby conveying the location of the customer 16A. After leaving the amusement attraction 14, the customer 16A can summon the locker 18A to retrieve the customer items 20 by scanning the customer pass 24 through another pass scanner 26 located at the exit of the amusement attraction. In one embodiment, the customer pass 24 can be an electronic pass that can be viewed via an application on a mobile device. In one embodiment, summoning the locker 18 before and / or after participating in the amusement attraction 14 to deposit and / or retrieve items can be a premium customer experience. In this case, the customer pass 24 used to summon the locker 18 can be a premium pass, and only customers 16 with premium customer passes 24 can use the autonomous customer locker 18.

[0026] In order to ensure the safety of the customer items 20 stored in the autonomous vehicle locker 18, when the customer 16 is using the locker 18 to store the customer items 20, the locker 18 may be associated with the customer 16 only (e.g., linked to, assigned to the customer 16) at least when the customer items 20 of the customer 16 are stored in the locker 18. Therefore, the customer 16 may have exclusive access to the locker 18 assigned to them. For example, the customer 16B-C cannot use the locker 18A because the locker 18A is assigned to the customer 16A. In one embodiment, the locker 18 may be assigned to the customer during the duration of the customer 16's visit to the amusement park. In this case, the customer 16 may call the locker 18 multiple times during the amusement park visit. In one embodiment, the locker 18 may be assigned to the group of the customer 16. In one embodiment, once assigned to a customer 16 and after receiving the customer's items, the locker 18 may autonomously travel to a waiting area or maintenance bay to remain out of general customer traffic until summoned or until receiving an indication that the customer experience (such as a ride) is complete.

[0027] The locker 18 assigned to the customer 16 can be unlocked by the customer 16 using various technologies. For example, the locker 18 may include a biometric sensor (e.g., a camera, a fingerprint scanner, a retinal scanner, an iris scanner) that can scan, record and / or capture one or more biometric characteristics (e.g., fingerprints, facial features, retinal patterns, iris patterns) of the customer 16. The biometric characteristics of the customer 16 assigned to the locker 18 can be used to verify the identity of the customer 16 and to unlock the locker 18. The assigned locker 18 can record the biometric characteristics of the customer 16 to be used as a reference during the locker assignment process. For example, the customer 16 can scan a fingerprint via a biometric sensor to lock and unlock the storage compartment 22 of the locker 18. Alternatively, the assigned locker 18 can obtain the customer's biometric characteristics from the customer profile (e.g., online profile, registration profile) of the customer 16. For example, the biometric characteristics of the customer 16 may be saved in a customer profile from a previous visit of the customer to the amusement park. In one embodiment, the biometric information may be provided via an application operating on the customer's mobile device that provides the customer interface, and the biometric sensor may be a sensor resident on the mobile device. For situations where the customer 16 surrenders all personal items to the locker 18 (e.g., during a roller coaster ride where loose items are prohibited), biometric identification may be advantageous. Therefore, the customer 16 may not retain the mobile device or paper ticket to resolve the customer identification through system mediation.

[0028] In one embodiment, the locker 18 can use RFID technology to verify the identity of the customer 16. For example, the customer 16 can wear an RFID wearable device (e.g., an armband, a bracelet, a watch, another wearable device) in the amusement park, which allows the customer 16 to pay for the purchased goods and / or enter the amusement attractions in the park. Such RFID devices can be used to lock and unlock the assigned locker 18 of the customer 16. In particular, the RFID armband can contain an RFID tag, and the locker 18 can contain an RFID sensor (e.g., an RFID reader, an RFID tag reader). The customer 16 can scan the RFID tag on the armband to unlock the locker 18. In one embodiment, the customer 16 can carry a key fob (e.g., an RFID-enabled key fob) for unlocking / locking the assigned locker 18, or the unlocking of the locker 18 can be mediated by wireless communication between the locker 18 and the customer's mobile device.

[0029] In general, a variety of techniques may be employed to arrange a meeting between a customer 16 and an assigned locker 18 (e.g., after the assigned locker 18 has been summoned by the customer 16, or when the customer 16 is otherwise associated with the locker 18). That is, the locker 18 may travel to or navigate to the customer 16 after the locker 18 is triggered by a locker assignment event of the system and / or by a customer request for the locker 18 or by completion of the attraction. In one embodiment, the locker assignment to the customer may be based on availability or proximity, for example, the customer 16 selects an available locker 18. In one example, the closest available locker 18 in the fleet may travel to the customer 16. In one example, an available locker 18 may activate an availability signal, such as an audio and / or visual signal. In one example, the locker 18 may have a displayed "name" or call sign, and the customer 16 may shout out the name to call the locker 18 to them. The customer audio may be sensed by the locker 18's onboard sensors and matched to the characteristic audio data associated with the name. The verified match causes the locker 18 to navigate to the associated customer 16. In one embodiment, any locker 18 that is in the area and stationary may be considered an available locker 18. In contrast, the assigned locker 18, after receiving the customer's items, may be directed to travel to a separate area that is not accessible by the customer until a customer request for their items is received.

[0030] Location tracking can be used to complete the navigation of the assigned locker 18 for providing secure content to the customer 16. In one embodiment, the locker 18 can use remote tracking of the customer 16 to reach the location of the customer 16 (e.g., after the customer 16 has participated in the amusement attraction 14). For example, the key fob that can be used by the customer 16 to open / unlock the locker 18 can be enhanced to include a tracking device that transmits the location of the customer 16 (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) location) to the locker 18. When the tracking device indicates that the customer 16 is at the exit of the amusement attraction 14, the locker 18 can approach the exit of the amusement attraction 14 to meet / reunite with the customer 16. It can be appreciated that tracking technology (e.g., technology for tracking the location of the customer 16 (e.g., GPS technology)) can be embedded in a wearable device such as an armband. In addition, the mobile device of the customer 16 can be used to provide the location of the customer 16 to the associated locker 18, respectively. That is, the location of the mobile device can be associated with GPS data and / or wireless communication data associated with a specific location.

[0031] In one embodiment, increasingly sensitive (e.g., more location-accurate) sensors may be used by lockers 18 to arrive at the precise location of an associated patron 16 in the amusement park. For example, global positioning system (GPS) information from a tracker (e.g., in an armband or keychain) may provide an approximate location of patron 16, while more precise location information may be estimated using facial recognition and data from a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor or image sensor within the amusement park. However, when approaching patron 16, locker 18 may not get closer to the exact location of patron 16 than a threshold distance to ensure that locker 18 does not get too close.

[0032] In one embodiment, the lockers 18 may track and locate patrons 16 in the amusement park using a mesh network of multiple lockers 18 that communicate directly or via a central controller 56 (see Figure 4 ) communicate with each other and use the network to acquire and transmit biometric data. For example, when a patron 16 stores patron items 20 in a locker 18 for the duration of an amusement attraction 14, the locker 18 may use a camera located on the locker 18 to take a photo of the patron 16. The facial capture of the patron by the camera may be mediated by a user interface of the locker 18, which can provide instructions to allow initial image capture of the assigned patron 16 by the onboard camera of the locker 18. The captured image and an indication of the associated locker 18 can be provided to the central controller to temporarily associate the patron 16 with the individual locker 18. The local camera, which may be at least partially onboard each locker 18 for the amusement attraction 14 (e.g., all lockers 18 dedicated to the amusement attraction 14), can capture images of all patrons 16 entering the amusement attraction 14 and provide the images to the central controller. Thus, the pool of images of potential patrons 16 captured from the crowd entering attraction 14 is relatively small, allowing for a fast and less computationally intensive facial recognition or matching process.

[0033] The assigned locker fleet can be directed to the exit of the amusement attraction 14 to wait for the departing customer 16. Movement to the exit can trigger an exit protocol, where the onboard camera is activated to capture an image of the customer 16 in the camera range that can be used to not only identify the customer 16 assigned to that locker 18, but also to send the image to a central controller, which can be used to map the location of potential customers 16 in the exit area and guide their assigned lockers 18 to them. The locker 18 can use a pool of images of potential customers 16 to find associated customers 16 through edge computing. For example, each locker 18 in the fleet can capture an image of the departing customer 16 in the locker camera field of view, and send the image to the central controller. If the customer 16 is associated with that particular locker 18, the locker 18 can initiate access to the items of the customer 16. If the patron 16 is not associated with a locker 18, the central controller is able to use the pool of images captured at the attraction entrance to identify whether the captured departing patron 16 is assigned to a different locker 18 and provide the captured departing patron's location to that patron's assigned locker 18 (e.g., relative to the locker 18 that captured the image).

[0034] If this is performed by all lockers 18 in the fleet (e.g., edge computing in a mesh network of lockers 18), the lockers 18 are able to efficiently find their associated customers 16 from a pool of potentially hundreds of customers 16 and avoid using complex facial recognition algorithms. When potential customer matches are eliminated, each locker 18 in the mesh network (via direct communication or mediated resolution by a central controller) can update all lockers 18 in the mesh network. For example, when a customer 16 is leaving an amusement attraction 14, a locker 18 can capture an image of the customer 16, determine that the customer 16 does not match the customer 16 associated with it, but send the image of the non-matching customer 16 and the customer location information to other lockers 18 in the mesh network. The matching lockers 18 in the fleet (e.g., the lockers 18 associated with the customer 16) can use the image to identify the customer 16 and use the sent location information to track the customer 16. In additional or alternative embodiments, the lockers 18 may use facial recognition algorithms (e.g., machine learning algorithms that perform facial recognition) to find their associated customers 16. For example, each locker 18 may use a facial recognition algorithm to identify a customer 16 approaching the locker 18 (e.g., based on an initially captured photo of the customer 16 or based on a photo associated with a customer profile) and share the identity of the identified customer 16 and the location of the identified customer 16 with other lockers 18 in the mesh network. Each locker 18 may then track the associated customer 16 using the location data and facial recognition data available on the mesh network.

[0035] Alternatively, the locker 18 may simply approach each patron 16 one by one and perform facial recognition on each patron 16 until the locker identifies the assigned patron 16. In this manner, navigation to the assigned locker 18 associated with the patron 16 and patron identification can be performed in a phone-free or device-free manner, which is beneficial in situations where the patron's mobile device is stowed in the locker 18. That is, rather than summoning or hailing the locker 18, the locker 18 travels to the patron 16 in a manner similar to how friends greet each other or, for certain narrative environments, in a manner similar to how a predator stalks its prey.

[0036] In one embodiment, customers 16 may be able to customize the appearance of their assigned lockers 18, thereby enabling customers 16 to identify their lockers 18 as being nearby. This may enable customers 16 to approach lockers 18 to deposit and / or retrieve their items without having to wait for the locker 18 to arrive at the customer's 16 location. This approach may be used in crowded locations or in other locations where lockers 18 may experience delays in reaching customers 16. In one embodiment, customers 16 may name lockers 18 and may call out the name to allow sensing of their assigned customer 16 who spoke the name by the locker's 18 onboard sensors. Lockers 18 may use acoustic sensors to travel toward the recognized sound or phrase.

[0037] In one embodiment, the locker 18 may be customized to display the preferred colors, sounds, and / or lights of the customer 16. In addition, the locker 18 may display gestures or perform certain actions when the customer 16 is near the locker 18. For example, the locker 18 may light up, emit sounds, and / or change the output of its display. An example of this is shown in FIG. Figure 1 , where locker 18B emits a sound 27 and emits a laser 28 from its eyes to attract the attention of customers 16B and 16C whose customer items 20 are in locker 18B.

[0038] In one embodiment, when a locker 18 is assigned to a customer 16, features of the locker 18 (e.g., audio features such as the emission of a sound 27 and / or the activation of a laser 28) may be selected and / or customized by the customer 16. For example, a mobile application may be used by the customer 16 to select and / or customize features (e.g., one or more features of the locker 18 (e.g., one or more outputs of the locker 18 (e.g., color, sound, light, motion, gesture)). Alternatively, the locker 18 may include a user interface that may be used by the customer 16 to select and / or customize features of the locker 18. In one embodiment, the selected and customized features of the locker 18 (e.g., customized features) may be added to and / or saved in the customer profile of the customer 16. In one embodiment, the assigned locker 18 may output (e.g., display or execute) the selected and / or customized feature configuration associated with the profile of the assigned customer 16. The customer profile may enable the assigned locker 18 to exhibit the selected and / or customized features selected by the customer 16 during a previous visit to the amusement park. Further, certain displayed visible and / or audible features may be used to indicate whether the locker 18 is occupied or available. In some embodiments, the lockers 18 may have one set of features associated with unidentified customers 16 and a different set of features when identifying their assigned customers 16. For example, when a customer 16 not associated with a locker 18 is captured by a locker camera, a glowing red eye may be activated, while a glowing green eye indicates identification of the assigned customer 16.

[0039] The customized features of lockers 18 can enable customers 16 to identify and find their assigned lockers 18 in the amusement park. In one embodiment, finding the lockers 18 assigned in the amusement park can be an interactive request for customers 16. For example, customers 16 may be provided with clues and / or maps that can be used by customers 16 to find lockers 18. In one embodiment, clues and / or maps may be provided to customers 16 by applications on mobile devices. When finding the assigned lockers 18, customers 16 may unlock lockers 18 to find the prizes inside. For successfully finding lockers 18, points and / or scores may be assigned to customers 16. Points and / or scores may be added to the customer profiles of customers 16. Points and / or scores may depend on the time spent by customers 16 to find lockers 18 and / or on the difficulty level of the clues provided. Additionally or alternatively, customers 16 may unlock the special features of lockers 18 by completing the request to find lockers 18. Special features may include unique customized features of the locker 18, special prizes, tickets, etc. For example, a customer 16 who finds their locker 18 in less than five minutes may customize their locker 18 to glow in the dark, a feature not available to other customers 16.

[0040] The autonomous vehicle lockers 18 may have different appearances and / or designs, depending on the theme of the park and the constraints placed on the lockers 18 by the functionality of the lockers 18. In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle lockers 18 may have an unexpected appearance in order to surprise and / or entertain the patrons 16. For example, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the lockers 18 may be configured to generally resemble Figure 2A In one embodiment, the storage cabinet 18 may be designed to maximize the capacity of its storage compartment 22. In this case, the storage cabinet 18 may look like Figure 2B The beverage cart shown in FIG. Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of an autonomous carrier locker 18D implemented as a beverage cart according to an aspect of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, one or more storage compartments 22 may be refrigerated compartments or heated compartments suitable for food storage.

[0041] The locker 18 may include one or more storage compartments 22, wherein the customer's items 20 of the customer 16 can be stored. For the purpose of motion, the locker 18 may include wheels 32 operated under motor and / or engine control. Alternatively, the locker 18 may include actuators and joints that allow the robot to actuate. The locker 18 may include various sensors (e.g., for authenticating the customer's identity, sensing obstacles, detecting the customer's items 20 in the storage compartment 22) and / or wireless communication circuit modules (e.g., for tracking the assigned customer 16). The locker 18 may include different color lights, lasers and LEDs for displaying customized features. In addition, the locker 18D may include one or more speakers and one or more displays 36 for displaying an image 38 corresponding to the customized features and / or thematic features. The locker 18 may include additional robot components that allow it to move in a realistic manner. For example, the locker 18 may have a soft robot tail and / or neck, thereby allowing it to move its tail and / or turn its head.

[0042] In addition to storage of customer items 20, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may also be used to transport and / or deliver purchased items and / or food and / or beverages. To enable such multiple uses, in one embodiment, the locker 18 may have multiple storage compartments 22. For example, Figure 2B The locker 18 shown in FIG. 1 has two large storage compartments 22. For example, one storage compartment 22 may be designated for storage of customer items 20, and the other storage compartment 22 may be designated for transporting and / or delivering purchased items and / or food and / or beverages. One or both storage compartments 22 may be temperature controlled. For example, the storage compartments 22 may be heated or refrigerated to maintain the appropriate temperature of the food and / or beverages being delivered.

[0043] In one embodiment, the storage compartment 22 of the locker 18 can be a double-sided storage compartment 22, so that one side of the storage compartment 22 is used to load items (e.g., by retail) and the other side is used to take out items (e.g., by customers 16). For example, the double-sided storage compartment 22 may have two doors, one on each side. One door that can be opened by retail employees for loading food or items purchased by customers 16, and another door that can be opened by customers 16 to retrieve the purchased food or items. This allows retail employees and customers 16 to access the storage compartment 22 using different methods (e.g., keys). For example, the retail side can be opened by a key, while the customer side can be unlocked by a biometric reading.

[0044] In one embodiment, the storage compartments 22 of the lockers 18 may include standardized (e.g., having a standard size and shape) modules that can be taken out of the lockers 18 and placed in or added to other lockers 18. Thus, standardized modules can be exchanged between different lockers 18 in a fleet of lockers 18. Standardized modules can reduce the level of human supervision required for loading lockers 18. For example, standardized modules can enable items purchased for delivery to be automatically loaded into lockers 18 via standardized modules. In addition, standardized modules make it feasible to store customer items 20 in storage areas (e.g., locker rooms, warehouses), thereby allowing lockers 18 to perform other tasks while waiting for items to be ready to be taken away by customers 16. For example, lockers 18 can take customer items 20 to a designated storage area instead of storing customer items 20 in their storage compartments 22 during the duration of the amusement attraction 14. After putting down the customer's item 20, the locker 18 can perform another task, like receiving the customer's item 20 of another customer 16 and taking them to the storage area. After the locker 18 receives the signal indicating that the customer 16 is leaving the amusement attraction 14, the locker 18 can retrieve the standardized module with the customer's item 20 from the storage area, and bring the customer's item 20 in the standardized module back to the customer 16. In fact, because the standardized module can be interchangeable, different lockers 18 can bring the customer's item 20 back to the customer 16. This can be advantageous because fewer lockers 18 will be needed to serve the amusement attraction 14. In addition, it may be safer to store the customer's item 20 in the storage area than to store the customer's item 20 in the locker 18. Similarly, the standardized module can be used to strengthen the delivery of food and / or beverages using the locker 18. For example, a retail employee can load the standardized module with food into the storage compartment 22 instead of unlocking the storage compartment 22 in the locker 18. In one embodiment, some lockers 18 of the locker fleet may act as a delivery broker, delivering a standardized module with items from a retail store to another locker 18 associated with a customer 16 .

[0045] Different areas of the amusement park may have different themes. Lockers 18, which may be involved in the delivery and transportation of items throughout the amusement park, may travel between areas of the amusement park with different themes. It may be desirable for lockers 18 to adapt to the various themes as they travel between different areas of the amusement park to enhance the coherence / consistency of the themes. To this end, lockers 18 may perform adaptive theming. Figure 3 An example of a locker 18 that adapts to various themes in a location-dependent manner is shown. In the illustrated example, when the autonomous vehicle locker 18 is in a farm-themed amusement park environment, the coordinated theming of the locker 18 (e.g., farm theming) can be activated. According to aspects of the present disclosure, the locker 18 can be transformed into appropriate theming as the locker 18 travels between other environments, such as an undersea-themed amusement park environment and / or a space-themed amusement park environment. It should be understood that the environments and adaptive theming shown are by way of example.

[0046] The locker 18 can utilize various technologies to adapt to various themes. In one embodiment, the locker 18 can use a display 36 positioned on the side of the locker 18 to display an image 38 (e.g., animation, picture, special effect) associated with the current theme. For example, in a farm theme amusement park environment, the locker 18 can show a tractor, in an underwater theme amusement park environment, the locker 18 can show a fish, and in a space theme amusement park environment, the locker 18 can show a flying saucer (as shown). In one embodiment, the image 38 may not be shown on the display 36. Alternatively, the locker 18 displays an electronic ink graphic on the surface (one or more) of the locker 18. In one embodiment, the locker 18 may include a soft robot that can adaptively transform the appearance of the locker 18 depending on the theme of the amusement park in the position of the locker 18. In one embodiment, the locker 18 can output audio associated with the current theme (e.g., through a speaker (e.g., a car speaker, an external speaker within a threshold distance of the locker)). For example, the audio may be music, speech (eg, speech from a particular character), and / or sound effects associated with the current theme.

[0047] Transitions between different adaptive themes may be based on the location of the locker 18 during its autonomous path. For example, if the locker 18 is summoned to travel from a first location having a first theme to a second location having a second, different theme, the system can track the location of the locker 18, for example, via GPS or wireless communications in the environment. Detection of crossing a predetermined boundary between the first location and the second location can trigger a display change or activation of a particular adaptive theme.

[0048] Figure 4is a block diagram of certain components of an autonomous vehicle locker system 40 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the illustrated components may have additional software or hardware elements. Further, the functionality of the various disclosed hardware or software elements may be replicated and / or interchanged among the illustrated components of the system 10. For example, certain components of the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may additionally be present in the system controller, the mobile device, the environmental sensor(s), and the accompanying descriptions of these components may apply.

[0049] The autonomous vehicle locker 18 may be configured to operate at least in part via instructions from a controller 41, which may include a memory 43 for storing instructions executable by a processor 42 to perform the methods and control actions described herein. The processor 42 may include one or more processing devices, and the memory 43 may include one or more tangible non-transient machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage devices, disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program codes in the form of machine executable instructions or data structures and can be accessed by the processor 42 or by a dedicated or programmed computer or other machine with a processor. In addition, the controller 41 may be configured to include a communication circuit module, such as a receiver 45 and a transmitter 46 or other communication devices, to communicate with other lockers 18 and customer devices (e.g., customer smart phones, smart watches, armbands) through wired and wireless communication paths.

[0050] The autonomous vehicle locker 18 may include a motor 47 and a power source 48 (e.g., a battery, a solar panel, a generator, a gas engine, a capacitor, or any combination thereof). In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may include a rechargeable battery. In one example, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may automatically return to a charging station to charge (e.g., via wireless charging) when not in use. In one embodiment, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may be operated using wireless power transmission. The operation of the motor 47 may be controlled by a controller 41, which includes a memory 43 and a processor 42 and is configured to operate any on-board logic to control the locker path or progress. For example, the controller 41 may control (e.g., instruct) the motor 47 to adjust its output power to accelerate the locker 18 (e.g., increase its speed (e.g., increase its speed), reduce its speed (e.g., slow it down)). The controller 41 may also control the brakes to decelerate the locker 18 (e.g., reduce its speed, slow it down) or stop it.

[0051] The controller 41 may include on-board navigation logic that at least partially controls autonomous navigation of the autonomous vehicle locker 18. In some cases, the system 40 may generate navigation instructions via the controller 56. The instructions may include destination instructions. However, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may use on-board navigation logic to receive navigation instructions and determine the best path to the destination based on information from (one or more) sensors 34. Therefore, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may generate on-board navigation instructions. The location information of the autonomous vehicle locker 18 used as input to generate navigation instructions can be tracked using one or more of GPS, wireless communication, on-board sensor data, or environmental sensor data.

[0052] The autonomous vehicle locker 18 may include sensors 34 (e.g., biometric sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, light and / or motion sensors, weight scales, cameras, laser scanners, and / or ultrasonic scanners). The biometric sensors, cameras, and / or RFID sensors may be used by the locker 18 to associate the identification of the customer 16 and the authentication of the identity of the customer 16. In addition, when the locker 18 is moving, sensors such as cameras, laser scanners, and / or ultrasonic scanners may be used for navigation and obstacle avoidance. For example, if the LIDAR or camera detects an obstacle in the path of the locker 18, the controller 41 will send a signal to the motor 47 and / or the brake to stop the movement of the locker 18. The light / motion sensor and / or weight scale may be used to determine whether any customer item 20 is left in the storage compartment 22 after the customer 16 takes out the customer item 20.

[0053] The autonomous vehicle locker 18 may also include a user input (e.g., a user input system, a user input assembly, a user input mechanism) 49. User inputs 49 such as a keypad, buttons, a microphone, a camera (e.g., for gesture detection) and / or a touch screen enable the customer 16 to interact with the locker 18. For example, the customer 16 may use a touch screen to select customized features for the assigned locker 18. In another example, the customer 16 may use a keypad to enter a password to unlock the locker 18. Additionally, the user input 49 may be used by the customer 16 to select a location and time to meet with the locker 18. As mentioned, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may also include one or more displays 36 and one or more speakers 50 for displaying various customized features such as customized colors, sounds, lights, gestures, etc.

[0054] The autonomous vehicle locker 18 may include a lock control 51 that receives instructions from the controller 41 and / or the controller 56 and operates a locking system 52 (e.g., a locking assembly, a locking mechanism, a locking device) to lock or unlock the individual storage compartments 22 based on the instructions. The instructions may be triggered by identification of the assigned customer 16 and / or by received communications from a mobile device 58 or a customer wearable device 66. For example, in one embodiment, the customer 16 may have a mobile device 58 that includes one or more processors 60 and a memory 62 as well as a display 63 and a communication circuit module 64. The mobile device 58 may communicate directly with the locker 18 to control (e.g., instruct) the locking and / or unlocking of the locking system 52. In another example, the customer 16 may interact with a software application operating on the mobile device 58 via the controller 56 to trigger (e.g., instruct) the locking and / or unlocking of the locking system.

[0055] In one embodiment, the customer 16 may have a wearable device 66 (e.g., a bracelet, a ribbon) or another device including a communication circuit module 67 capable of transmitting identification information of the customer 16 to the autonomous vehicle locker 18. When the identification information indicates the assigned customer 16, the lock control 51 may be operable (e.g., instruct) to unlock the locking system 52.

[0056] In one embodiment, unlocking is based on customer identification and proximity determination. For example, the identified customer may be determined to be within a predetermined distance of the locker 18. The proximity determination may be generated via data from the sensor(s) 34. In this way, unlocking is triggered when the customer 16 is within a sufficient distance to retrieve their items from the locker 18 upon unlocking.

[0057] System 40 can allow communication (e.g., wireless communication) between individual lockers 18 of a fleet and / or with a central controller 56, which can receive customer requests for lockers, store customer locker assignments, and / or track lockers and / or customer locations. Central processor 56 can include processor 53, memory 54, and communication circuit module 55, which can be implemented as generally discussed in the context of lockers 18. In one embodiment, controller 56 is operable to perform certain locker control functions as provided herein. System 40 can also receive input from customer devices and / or operator devices (such as, mobile devices 58). Further, system 40 can also include input from environmental sensors 57 (e.g., cameras, wireless beacons, RFID scanners), which can be used by system 40 to track customers 16 and / or lockers 18.

[0058] Figure 5is a flow chart of a process 70 of depositing customer items 20 in an autonomous vehicle locker 18 and delivering the customer items 20 for retrieval in a new location in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0059] The process 70 begins by associating (e.g., assigning) an autonomous vehicle locker 18 to a customer 16 at a first location (box 72). The first location may include a location where the customer 16 initiates initial contact with the locker 18 and the customer 16 loads the customer item 20 into the locker 18. The association with the customer 16 may involve the locker 18 collecting customer data by performing a biometric measurement (e.g., a biometric scan, a measurement of a fingerprint pattern, a retinal pattern, an iris pattern, a facial image), scanning of the customer's RFID key fob, wearable device (e.g., an armband), or customer pass 24, and / or taking a photo of the customer 16. This customer data may be used to identify the associated customer 16 (e.g., the customer 16 associated with the locker 18) and to lock and / or unlock the storage compartment 22 for the customer 16. For example, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may use facial recognition (e.g., a facial recognition machine learning algorithm) to identify the associated customer 16 based on a photo of the associated customer 16. In addition, association with a customer 16 may involve the locker 18 identifying and / or accessing a customer profile (e.g., using a customer photo, RFID signature, biometric data, pairing with a customer mobile device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) to determine the preferences of the customer 16, which may be saved in the customer profile. For example, by accessing the customer profile, the locker 18 may determine the customized features selected by the customer 16. Alternatively, association with a customer 16 may involve receiving customer input via user input 49. For example, the customer 16 may enter a barcode number and / or a password of a customer pass 24 to initiate association with the locker 18.

[0060] Once the locker 18 has been assigned to the customer 16, the locker 18 can receive the customer's items 20 at the first location and / or secure the storage compartment 22 (box 74). The received customer items 20 may include phones, wallets, purses, and any items purchased and / or obtained by the customer 16 in the amusement park, such as prizes, souvenirs, food, etc.

[0061] Once the customer item 20 has been stowed, the locker 18 is instructed to travel to a second location (block 76). The second location may include a location where the customer 16 will remove the customer item 20 from the locker 18. In one embodiment, instructions for traveling to the second location may be pre-set within the controller 41 of the locker 18. For example, a locker 18 storing items of customers 16 attending a particular amusement attraction 14 may contain preset instructions to travel to the exit (e.g., second location) of the amusement attraction 14 after removing the customer item 20 near the entrance (e.g., first location) of the amusement attraction 14. In one embodiment, the customer 16 may select the second location. For example, the customer 16 may use an application on a mobile device (e.g., a mobile device paired with the locker 18 via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) to select a GPS location of a second location within the amusement park. In addition, the customer 16 may use a user input 54 of the locker 18 to select the second location. For example, the locker 18 may use a touch screen display to display a map of the amusement park, which enables the customer 16 to select the second location on the map.

[0062] Once the locker 18 has traveled to the second location, the locker 18 identifies the customer 16 from the one or more customers 16 at the second location (block 78). Identifying the customer 16 may involve identifying the location of the customer 16 in an area with the one or more customers 16. In one embodiment, the customer 16 is identified from a plurality of customers 16. In one embodiment, the locker 18 may identify the location of the customer 16 based on location tracking of the customer's 16 armband / key fob. The lockers 18 may form a mesh network of lockers 18 to identify customer locations (e.g., images and location data sent from other lockers 18). Figure 7 24). In addition, the customer 16 may send his location (e.g., the customer location) to the locker 18 by scanning the customer pass 24 on the pass scanner 26. Second, after approaching the customer 16, the locker 18 may confirm the identity of the customer 16 using biometric measurement, facial recognition, RFID scanning of the customer's armband or key fob, etc. In response to identifying the customer 16 in this manner, the locker 18 may unlock the storage compartment 22 (block 79). In certain embodiments, the storage compartment may be mechanically opened (e.g., spring-opened) in response to unlocking. The customer 16 may then retrieve the customer item 20.

[0063] Figure 6 8 is a flow chart of a process 80 of emptying a patron's items 20 from an autonomous vehicle locker 18 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The process 80 begins by unlocking a storage compartment 22 (block 82) in response to identifying a patron 16. After the storage compartment 22 has been unlocked, the patron 16 may then retrieve the patron's items 20 (e.g., after stowing them in the locker 18 for the duration of the ride attraction).

[0064] Next, the locker 18 may determine (e.g., make a determination) whether the storage compartment 22 is emptied (frame 84) based on the sensor input. This determination may be initiated based on input from a light / motion sensor. For example, such a sensor may detect movement in the storage compartment 22, which indicates that the customer 16 has arrived in the storage compartment 22 to retrieve the customer's item 20. Based on the indication, a weight scale may determine whether there are any items left in the storage compartment 22 based on the weight of the storage compartment 22. Other types of sensors may also be used to determine whether the storage compartment 22 is emptied (e.g., no customer items (e.g., customer belongings), completely empty). For example, a camera may take a photo of the storage compartment 22 after the scale indicates that the storage compartment 22 is emptied. Then, an image recognition algorithm may be used to determine whether any light-weight items (such as a customer pass 24) are left in the storage compartment 22 based on the photo.

[0065] If the storage compartment 22 is emptied (frame 86), the locker 18 may be disassociated from the customer 16 (frame 88). If the storage compartment 22 is not emptied (frame 86), the locker 18 may generate a notification indicating that items are left in the storage compartment 22 (frame 90). For example, the locker 18 may issue a verbal reminder via the speaker 50 for the customer 16 to remove the customer items 20. The locker 18 may display the reminder in written form via the display 36. Additionally or alternatively, the storage compartment 22 and / or the locker 18 may flash a red light, or a notification may be sent to the mobile device of the customer 16, indicating that the storage compartment 22 has not been emptied. The notification may additionally or alternatively be transmitted to the controller 56 and / or to the operator's device.

[0066] Figure 7 1 is a flow chart of a process for storing customer items 20 in an autonomous vehicle locker 18 and delivering the customer items 20 to the location of the customer 16 for retrieval based on a photo of the customer 16 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The process 100 begins by associating the autonomous vehicle locker 18 with the customer 16 (block 102) (as in the case of a Figure 5 ). After the locker 18 has been associated with the patron 16, the locker 18 may take a photo of the patron 16 (block 104). In one embodiment, the photo may be a full-body photo of the patron 16 that captures the patron's general appearance. The photo may then be sent (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communication) to other lockers 18 in a mesh network of lockers. A mesh network of lockers is a group of lockers 18 that share data with each other. For example, a mesh network of lockers may include a fleet of lockers dedicated to patrons 16 riding a particular amusement attraction 14. In addition to taking a photo of the patron 16, after association with the patron 16, the autonomous vehicle locker 18 may receive the patron's items 20 and secure the storage compartment 22 (e.g., lock it) (block 706).

[0067] The locker 18 may receive data (box 108) from other lockers 18 (e.g., lockers 18 in a mesh network of lockers). The data may include photos of other customers 16, the corresponding locations of the other customers 16, and timestamps when the photos and / or locations were collected. In additional or alternative embodiments, the data may include facial recognition data (e.g., customer identity). The locker 18 may only receive data from other lockers 18 that are within a threshold distance from the locker 18. However, each locker 18 in the mesh network may share data aggregated from multiple other lockers 18. Therefore, even if the locker 18 may not be within the reach of the signals of some other lockers 18, it may receive data collected by all lockers 18 in the mesh network.

[0068] Based on the data received from the other lockers 18, the locker 18 may locate the patron 16 (e.g., the patron 16 with which the locker 18 is associated) (block 110). The locker 18, via the controller 41, may compare the photo of the patron 16 with the data from the other lockers 18 to identify data about the patron 16 associated with the locker 18 within the data from the other lockers 18. Based on the identified data, the locker 18 may track the patron 16 and identify the patron's current location within the amusement park.

[0069] After the current location of the patron 16 has been identified, the locker 18 may be instructed via the controller 41 to travel to the location of the patron 16 (block 112). The patron 16 may be moving (e.g., walking) within the amusement park. Therefore, in one embodiment, the locker 18 may continuously update the identified current location of the patron 16 based on data received from other lockers 18.

[0070] Once the locker 18 reaches the location of the customer 16, the locker 18 may unlock the storage compartment 22 in response to identifying the customer 16 based on the photo of the customer 16 (block 114). Once the locker 18 is within a threshold distance range of the customer 16, the locker 18 may take a photo of the customer 16 to confirm the customer's identity. For example, the newly taken photo may be compared to the initially taken photo to confirm that the features (e.g., appearance, clothing, hair color, height) of the customer 16 match. In another example, a facial recognition machine learning algorithm may determine whether the newly taken image of the customer 16 matches the initially taken image of the customer 16. In one embodiment, additional authentication methods such as biometric authentication may be used to confirm the identity of the customer 16 and for unlocking the storage compartment 22.

[0071] Figure 8-Figure 9 An example user interface of an autonomous vehicle locker 18 is shown. Figure 8In FIG. 1 , user interface screen 120 shows an example message for customer 16 including a provided lock icon 122 that, when touched, generates an instruction to lock system 52 to lock lock system 52. Fig. 9 , user interface screen 124 shows an example message for customer 16 including a provided unlock or open icon 126 that, when touched, generates an instruction provided to locking system 52 for unlocking locking system 52. Unlocking can be part of a two-step authentication, whereby system 40 first identifies the correct customer 16 (when the correct customer 16 is in the vicinity of locker 18) and once identified allows unlocking based on appropriate selection of received user input (e.g., unlock key 126).

[0072] Although only certain features of the present invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

[0073] The technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to specific examples and substantial objects that demonstrably improve the practical nature of the art, and is therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Further, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "a component for (performing) ... (function)" or "a step for (performing) ... (function)", it is intended that such elements are to be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements are not to be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. An autonomous vehicle locker, comprising: A controller comprising a memory storing instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions, the instructions being configured to cause the controller to: associating an autonomous vehicle locker with a customer at a first location; receiving indication from customer that items are in storage compartment; instructing to lock the storage compartment based on the instruction; instructing the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to a second position; identifying the customer at the second location; as well as The autonomous vehicle locker is instructed to unlock the storage compartment in response to identifying the customer.

2. The autonomous vehicle locker according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to associate the autonomous vehicle locker with the customer, including: taking a photograph of said customer; receiving biometric data of the customer; reading an RFID tag associated with the customer; receiving customer pass data for the customer from a pass scanner; or Its combination.

3. The autonomous vehicle locker according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to identify the customer from a plurality of customers at the second location, and the instructions include: taking a photograph of said customer; receiving biometric data of the customer; scanning an RFID tag associated with the customer; receiving customer pass data for the customer from a pass scanner; or Its combination.

4. The autonomous vehicle locker according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to identify the customer from a plurality of customers at the second location, and the instructions include tracking the customer via: Tracking devices; Sensors in amusement parks; Edge computing; or Its combination.

5. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 1, comprising a sensor configured to sense an obstacle in the path of the autonomous vehicle locker, wherein: The sensor comprises a LIDAR sensor.

6. The autonomous vehicle locker according to claim 1, wherein: The autonomous vehicle locker is configured to present customization features via a display, a speaker, or a combination thereof based on user input by the customer, wherein the customization features include: Customized colors; Light; sound; gesture; action; or Its combination.

7. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 1, wherein: The storage compartment includes a removable module configured to be utilized by more than one autonomous vehicle locker.

8. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 1, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to associate the autonomous vehicle locker with a customer, and the instructions include instructions for accessing a customer profile of the customer.

9. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 1, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to: A determination is made based on the sensor input whether the storage compartment is emptied of customer items or not emptied of customer items, and based on the determination at least: disassociating the autonomous vehicle locker from the customer; or A notification is generated indicating that an item is left in the autonomous vehicle locker.

10. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 8, wherein: The instructions are configured to cause the controller to: Points are added to the customer profile or a score associated with the customer profile is increased based on identifying the customer.

11. An autonomous vehicle locker system, comprising: a controller, the controller comprising a memory storing instructions; as well as a processor configured to execute the instructions, wherein the instructions cause the controller to: receiving an indication of an association of an autonomous vehicle locker with a customer; causing the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to a waiting area after receiving the customer's items; Tracking customer locations; receiving a request to receive the customer item from the autonomous vehicle locker; causing the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to the tracked customer location based on the request; A storage compartment is unlocked in response to identifying the customer at the customer location.

12. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 11, wherein: The request is received from a mobile device.

13. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 11, wherein: Said include: receiving camera images from different autonomous vehicle lockers in a fleet including the autonomous vehicle locker; identifying the customer in the camera image; and The autonomous vehicle locker is caused to travel to the location of the different autonomous vehicle locker based on the identified customer.

14. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 13, wherein: The instructions include: receiving a plurality of images of the customer from an autonomous vehicle locker of the fleet, an environmental sensor, or both; and The plurality of images are accessed to identify the customer.

15. The autonomous vehicle locker of claim 13, wherein: The instructions include identifying the customer using facial recognition.

16. An autonomous vehicle locker method, comprising: Associating autonomous vehicle lockers with customers; acquiring an image of the customer through a camera of the autonomous vehicle locker; receiving a customer item in a storage compartment of the autonomous vehicle locker; receiving data from one or more other autonomous vehicle lockers; locating the customer based on the data from the other autonomous vehicle lockers; instructing the autonomous vehicle locker to travel to the customer's location based on the positioning; acquiring an updated image at the location; identifying the customer in the updated image; as well as The storage compartment is unlocked in response to identifying the customer.

17. The method of claim 16, comprising receiving user input and activating one or more display features of the autonomous vehicle locker, one or more audio features of the autonomous vehicle locker, or a combination thereof based on the user input.

18. The method of claim 16, comprising activating one or more display features of the autonomous vehicle locker, one or more audio features of the autonomous vehicle locker, or a combination thereof in response to identifying the customer.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein: Associating the autonomous vehicle locker with the customer includes scanning a customer code using a scanner of the autonomous vehicle locker.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein: The data includes image data from one or more cameras of the one or more other autonomous vehicle lockers.

Images