Cargo container system and method of use thereof

Abstract

A cargo container system comprising: a vehicle having a cargo compartment; a cargo container configured to fit within the cargo compartment; and a weight balance adjustment mechanism comprising at least one of a load sensor and a position sensor, the weight balance adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a position of the cargo container within the cargo compartment using data received from the at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 578,305, filed August 23, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 535,616, filed September 1, 2023, pursuant to section 8 of the PCT, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] In some embodiments of the invention, the invention relates to transportation, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to cargo transportation systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a cargo container system is provided, comprising: a vehicle having a cargo compartment; a cargo container configured to be fitted within the cargo compartment; and a weight balance adjustment mechanism including at least one of a load sensor and a position sensor, the weight balance adjustment mechanism being configured to adjust the position of the cargo container within the cargo compartment using data received from at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor.

[0005] In one embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle is an aircraft.

[0006] In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo container is a box with an internal space having at least one door for accessing the internal space.

[0007] In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo container is a pallet.

[0008] In one embodiment of the invention, the weight balance adjustment mechanism includes a controller for processing data and / or at least partially automatically controlling the weight balance adjustment mechanism.

[0009] In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo container further includes a user interface configured to provide the user with information about the system and to control the system.

[0010] In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo container includes a plurality of wheels located on the bottom side of the cargo container.

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, the wheels are attached to the cargo container via foldable and / or retractable and extendable struts.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, the wheels are motorized.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, a foldable and / or retractable / extendable support is actuated.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the weight balance adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the cargo container based on data when the vehicle is stationary or in motion.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor is disposed on the vehicle, the cargo container, or both.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the system further includes an integrated power supply.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo container is at least partially automatically loaded into the cargo compartment.

[0018] In one embodiment of the invention, the weight balance adjustment system includes a screw-based moving mechanism.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the system further includes an electromechanical interface located between the cargo container and the vehicle.

[0020] According to one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a method of using a cargo container system is also provided, comprising: placing cargo into a cargo container; inserting the cargo container into a cargo compartment of a vehicle; and using a weight balance adjustment mechanism to adjust the weight balance of the cargo container within the cargo compartment, the weight balance adjustment mechanism including at least one of a load sensor and a position sensor, the weight balance adjustment mechanism being configured to adjust the position of the cargo container within the cargo compartment using data received from at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the method further includes calculating the weight balance of the cargo container prior to insertion.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of insertion and adjustment is performed automatically, at least in part.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, regulation is performed using data derived from at least one of the cargo container and the vehicle.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. While similar or equivalent methods and materials to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, this specification (including definitions) shall prevail. Furthermore, materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0025] The implementation of the methods and / or systems of embodiments of the present invention may involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or in combination thereof. Furthermore, the actual instruments and devices according to embodiments of the methods and / or systems of the present invention may use an operating system to implement several selected tasks via hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0026] For example, according to embodiments of the invention, the hardware for performing the selected task can be implemented as a chip or circuit. As software, the selected task according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented as multiple software instructions executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In exemplary embodiments of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of the methods and / or systems described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing multiple instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or non-volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data, such as a magnetic hard disk and / or removable media. Optionally, a network connection is also provided. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are also optionally provided. Attached Figure Description

[0027] This document describes some embodiments of the invention by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings and images. Reference will now be made specifically to the drawings, and it is emphasized that the details shown are by way of example, not necessarily to scale, and are for the purpose of an illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken in conjunction with the drawings will make it clear to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention can be practiced.

[0028] In the attached diagram:

[0029] Figure 1 A is a perspective view of an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figures 1B to 1C Components of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown;

[0031] Figures 2A to 2E These are, respectively, a top view, a perspective view, a side view, a front view, and a top view (with dimensions) of an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figures 3A to 3C Exemplary specifications, dimensions, and performance characteristics of an aircraft with a cargo container system according to some embodiments of the present invention are shown;

[0033] Figures 4A to 4B This is a flight performance diagram of an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a partial dimensional diagram of an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a rear-view perspective view of an aircraft with its cargo container system open, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 Exemplary specifications and usage scenarios of an aircraft with a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating exemplary specifications of a smart box for a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figures 9A to 9D These are, respectively, a top view, a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of a smart box of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a smart box of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a smart box of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figures 12A to 12E A process for placing a smart box into a loading configuration for insertion into a cargo container system in an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is illustrated.

[0042] Figures 13 to 18 This illustrates a process for loading a smart box into an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figures 19A to 19D The process of loading a smart box into an aircraft's cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown relative to... Figures 13 to 18 Supplementary and / or alternative details;

[0044] Figures 20A to 20B Supplemental and / or alternative details of the process for loading a smart box into an aircraft carrying a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0045] Figure 21A This is a schematic diagram of load balancing in a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 21B A weight balance adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figures 22A to 22D Top view, perspective view, side view and rear view of the balancing / equilibrium point of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0048] Figures 23A to 23B These are, respectively, a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of an intelligent pallet of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 24 This is an exemplary loading scenario of loading a smart pallet into a cargo container system in an aircraft according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figures 25A to 25E Exemplary cargo container system configurations and related performance characteristics according to various embodiments of the present invention are shown; and

[0051] Figure 26 illustrates a tail configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0052] In some embodiments of the invention, the invention relates to transportation, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to cargo transportation systems.

[0053] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The invention can have other embodiments or can be practiced or performed in various ways.

[0054] In general, this document describes a “smart” cargo container, such as a box (or a pallet as described below), that works in conjunction with a vehicle, such as an aircraft (manned or unmanned) or a cargo land vehicle, to form a system that allows the position of the cargo box within the vehicle to be automatically moved using a weight balance adjustment mechanism, both when stationary and / or at any time during transit, to achieve the desired weight balance of the aircraft during flight in some embodiments. This system is primarily intended for the transport of general cargo or air express cargo. As examples, potential users of such a system include Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and USPS.

[0055] It should be understood that the cargo containers described herein can be multiple containers of known and / or standard sizes. Additionally, alternatively, and / or optionally, the cargo containers / pallets can be used with different types of vehicles in the system, i.e., non-aircraft vehicles, such as land-based vehicles or ships.

[0056] • Possible variations

[0057] •• Use the same architecture to achieve scaling up / down

[0058] ••Smart Pallets

[0059] ••Integrated Human-Machine Interface (HMI)

[0060] •• Remote touchscreen (streams data to multiple devices)

[0061] • The system reduces reliance on skilled / contact labor.

[0062] •• Reduce costs

[0063] ••Faster loading / unloading

[0064] ••High repeatability

[0065] • The smart container can be automated, supporting fully autonomous operations (moving to the aircraft, loading, unloading, moving to the unloading dock, etc.).

[0066] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 A is a perspective view of an aircraft 100 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen from this view, in some embodiments, the aircraft is in a blended wing-body configuration. A blended wing-body configuration is advantageous for accommodating cargo containers (not shown) while maintaining desired flight / performance characteristics. An optional cockpit is not shown in the case of a manned aircraft (which could also be unmanned). Although two engines are shown, one or more engines may be used. In some embodiments of the invention, the engines may be propeller engines and / or jet engines.

[0067] Figures 1B to 1C Components of a cargo container system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown. The exemplary embodiment includes conventional loading (i.e., at least partially manual loading), with or without the use of a smart container 106 (details of which will be incorporated herein by reference). Figures 9A to 12E (further description) or Smart Pallet 108 (its related details will be combined with...) Figures 23A to 24 Further description) and self-loading or automatic loading (as described elsewhere herein). In one embodiment of the invention, the aircraft 100 is provided with a cargo compartment 104 configured for loading, storing and / or transporting cargo. In some embodiments of the invention, via an upwardly rotating cargo door tail 102 (the relevant details of which will be combined) Figure 6 (Further description) Enter cargo compartment 104.

[0068] Figures 2A to 2EThese are top, perspective, side, front, and top views (with dimensions) of an aircraft 100, a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments of the invention, the length 202 of the aircraft 100 is approximately 32 feet (10.64 m), the height is approximately 11.4 feet (3.48 m) (with landing gear deployed), and the wingspan 206 of the aircraft 100 is approximately 38 feet (11.58 m). The dimensions are provided as examples only, and it should be understood that the dimensions of the aircraft can vary depending on mission parameters, including desired range, cargo capacity, and whether the aircraft 100 is manned or unmanned.

[0069] Figures 3A to 3C Exemplary specifications, dimensions, and performance characteristics of different aircraft embodiments 300, 310, and 320 of an aircraft 100 carrying a cargo container system according to some embodiments of the present invention are shown. It should be understood that these specifications, dimensions, and performance characteristics are merely examples. For example, there may be fewer or more than two crew members. Also, the stall speed may be higher or lower than 94 knots, 105 knots, or 107 knots. Furthermore, the size may be larger or smaller in one, some, or all of the dimensions. The number, type, and / or horsepower of the engines may also be different. Figures 3A to 3C The differences shown are, for example, in some embodiments of the invention, where two engines can produce 1500 hp or more. In some embodiments of the invention, the aircraft uses a hybrid or electric power system.

[0070] Figures 4A to 4B This is a flight performance diagram of an aircraft 100 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention compared with other exemplary cargo aircraft in the same industrial field.

[0071] Figure 5 This is a partial dimensional illustration of an aircraft 100 with a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the approximate location of the balanced cargo load 500.

[0072] Figure 6This is a rear perspective view of an aircraft 100 with a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the tail section 102 of the cargo door is in an open configuration, wherein the tail section (or its cargo door) is configured to open (e.g., by pivoting or hinged movement) to allow access to the cargo compartment 104 or a cabin within the aircraft body. For example, it is hinged 602 to open / rotate 604 upwards. In some embodiments, the front of the aircraft is configured similarly as an alternative and / or supplement to the tail, allowing access to the cargo compartment 104 from the front. In one embodiment of the invention, the cargo compartment has a volume of approximately 300 cubic feet. This volume may be more or less, depending on the size of the cabin 104 and / or the size of the aircraft 100. In some embodiments of the invention, the cargo compartment 104 is typically rectangular in shape. It should be understood that the shape may be other than rectangular, such as a cube, parallelepiped, or trapezoidal prism. The cargo compartment 104 may have at least one curved surface. In some embodiments of the present invention, when loading goods, the cargo compartment 104 may not use the smart box 106 or the smart pallet 108, or may use at least one smaller size (relative to the smart box 106 or smart pallet 108). Figure 8 The smart box (exemplary full-size box shown).

[0073] Figure 7 Exemplary specifications and usage scenarios of an aircraft 100 with a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown. It should be understood that these values ​​are merely examples. For instance, the cruising altitude may be higher or lower, depending on the usage scenario and / or system configuration (e.g., for a manned aircraft 100, a lower cruising altitude may be used to avoid pressurizing the crew cabin). Similarly, range, maximum speed, cruising speed, and / or payload may also differ.

[0074] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating exemplary specifications of an abstract smart box 800 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that these values ​​are for illustrative purposes only. In some use cases, it is desirable to be able to carry up to 2000 pounds (907.18 kg) of cargo, with a cargo volume of up to 182 cubic feet and a range of up to 1500 miles (2414 km).

[0075] Figures 9A to 9D These are, respectively, a top view, a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of a smart container 106 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that any specifications, dimensions, and performance characteristics shown are for illustrative purposes only. Figure 9AThe top of the smart box 106 is shown, including at least one door 902 for accessing the interior of the smart box 106. Although at least one door 902 is shown on the top of the smart box 106, it should be understood that, as a supplement, alternative and / or optional solution, at least one door may be located on any side and / or bottom.

[0076] This will be described in more detail below. Figure 9B and Figure 9D The retraction / folding features 1202, 1204 of a leg assembly 906 according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown. The leg assembly 906 includes a wheel 1006 and / or retractable wheel supports 1002, 1004 and / or a foldable actuator 1012 (in conjunction with...) Figure 10 and Figures 12A to 12E (Description in more detail). In some embodiments of the invention, the wheel and / or wheel strut retraction / folding / extension is mechanized. Optionally, each strut / wheel is provided with two or more actuators. Additionally, alternatively, and / or optionally, the wheel strut retraction / folding / extension is manual, for example, using an auxiliary gearbox to drive a lead screw. In some embodiments of the invention, one or more wheels 1006 are motorized. In some embodiments of the invention, for safety and / or stability, the outrigger assembly 906 uses some kind of pin connection system. In one embodiment of the invention, the outrigger assembly 906 retracts / folds 1202, 1204 into a niche 908, the niche 908 being sized and / or shaped to fully accommodate the strut 906, including the wheel 1006, such that the strut 906 is fully accommodated within the contour of the smart box 106, as... Figure 9D As shown.

[0077] In some embodiments of the invention, at least one wheel 1006 of the outrigger assembly 906 uses a linkage mechanism that limits reverse drive due to external forces. In some embodiments of the invention, the strut has a vertical actuation degree of freedom to control the pitch, roll, and yaw of the container (using actuation of one or more struts). That is, the strut can independently extend and / or retract 1202, thereby lengthening and / or shortening. Optionally, the strut is a telescopic 1202 and / or a foldable 1204. In one embodiment of the invention, an actuator capable of lifting the fully loaded container from the ground to the highest position of the smart container is used. The actuator may optionally be an electromechanical actuator (EMA), and depending on the load / force on the mechanism, it may be an electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA). The smart container 106 can stop at any intermediate position on this vertical axis.

[0078] Figure 9CA front view of a user interface / touchscreen / panel 904 located in front of the smart box is shown in one exemplary embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments of the invention, the user interface 904 allows the user to control aspects of the smart box 106’s movement, loading, weight balancing, opening / closing, and / or other related operational characteristics, and optionally, to control how the smart box 106 docks with and / or interacts with the aircraft 100. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the user interface 904 can be used to initiate loading the smart box into the aircraft. Other examples of controls achievable using the user interface may include deploying / retracting / extending wheels and / or struts, inserting / removing the box from the aircraft, raising / lowering the box relative to the ground (e.g., using the retractable features of the wheels and struts to extend / retract in length), and / or integrating data and / or operations from the smart box with the aircraft. In some embodiments of the invention, the user uses a joystick 1008 to drive the smart box 106 and / or load / unload the smart box into / from the aircraft 100.

[0079] User interface 904 allows the user to access information about the system, such as the weight of box 106 and / or its weight balance (in one or more dimensions). In some embodiments of the invention, smart box 106 is powered by an internal battery. Alternatively, and / or optionally, it is powered by an external power source, such as the aircraft 100 when smart box 106 is inserted into the aircraft 100, and / or by a ground power unit (GPU) or a ground transportation vehicle (such as a tractor). In some embodiments, the electrical interface between the smart box and the aircraft is combined with mechanical means (such as the lead screw / clamp shown in FIG. 21) for adjusting its position within the cargo compartment.

[0080] Although not shown, the container has integrated hooks, handles, and / or rings and / or attachment points to make the handling of the container easier and / or safer and / or more efficient, for example, to attach the container to each other and / or attach a tractor to pull the smart container 106. In some embodiments, the attachment points are standard ground support equipment (GSE) attachment mechanisms.

[0081] In some embodiments of the invention, the "smart box" portion of the system comprises multiple smart boxes. The multiple boxes may optionally have one or more known and / or standard sizes. Optionally, these boxes are configured to have an attachment system, wherein they can be reversibly secured to each other during transport. Optionally, the multiple boxes, when attached to each other, present the same shape and size as the prototype smart box, for example, as... Figure 8 As shown. In some embodiments of the present invention, the smart box 106 includes one, some, or all of the following features:

[0082] • The robot system uses an onboard computer to automatically calculate the payload weight and center of gravity (CG) position.

[0083] • Sensor and actuator network integrated into the system

[0084] • The user interface panel provides information to ground staff during the loading process.

[0085] • Aircraft interface

[0086] ••Automatic loading

[0087] ••Automatic uninstallation

[0088] ••Transmit the payload's CG to the autopilot / pilot

[0089] • Includes onboard computer, battery, and sensor network

[0090] • The system calculates CG based on feedback from the weighing sensors on each outrigger.

[0091] • The system uses an onboard inertial measurement unit (IMU) to monitor the position of each actuator / the tilt of the cargo box.

[0092] • The length of the support column can be changed to control the rotation of the control box relative to the ground / aircraft (three-degree-of-freedom control).

[0093] • The aircraft / ground transport mounting point at the front of the container is attached to 2108.

[0094] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a smart box 106 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the invention, the smart box is provided with a controller, such as a user interface 904, optionally including a touch screen 1010, a joystick 1008 and / or a remote data input device 1505 (such as a tablet computer), for guiding the operation of the smart box 106 (e.g., movement of the box in a configuration where the wheels are motorized).

[0095] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a smart container 106 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Although two hinged doors 902 are shown, any configuration capable of opening and closing the smart container can be employed. In some embodiments of the invention, the opening / closing of the doors is automatic / mechanical. In some embodiments of the invention, a movable panel is provided on at least one side of the smart container to facilitate cargo loading and / or unloading. In some embodiments of the invention, the movable panel and the use of supports 906 to lower the container facilitate cargo loading and / or unloading.

[0096] In some embodiments of the invention, at least one divider is disposed inside the smart box. This is conceivable to facilitate cargo organization, reduce cargo shifting during transport, minimize damage to cargo during transport, facilitate cargo loading / unloading (e.g., at intermediate stops), and / or ensure CG stability.

[0097] Figures 12A to 12E A process for placing a smart box 106 into a loading configuration for insertion into an aircraft 100 of a cargo container system, according to an embodiment of the invention, is illustrated. While in some embodiments of the invention, the smart box is automatically loaded into and / or unloaded from the aircraft in a first mode, for example, the extension / retraction 1202 and folding / unfolding 1204 of wheels and / or wheel struts are automatic, in some embodiments, the same operations can be performed manually in a second operating mode, for example, using a manual crank to unfold / retract / extend / fold / unfold the wheels / struts. Similarly, in the first mode (automatic), the box operates in coordination with and / or communicates with the aircraft to load itself (and its cargo) into / unload from the cargo compartment, while in the more conventional second mode (manual), loading / unloading is performed by hand and / or by manually operated mechanical devices.

[0098] Figures 13 to 18 The process of loading a smart box 106 into an aircraft 100 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0099] Figures 19A to 19D The process of loading a smart box 106 into a cargo container system in an aircraft 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown relative to... Figures 13 to 18 Supplementary and / or alternative details. In embodiments of the invention, the process includes:

[0100] • The smart container 106 is located near the rear of the aircraft 100. The user interface 904 and / or the remote mobile device 1505 inform the operator when the container is correctly positioned for the loading process.

[0101] • The aircraft 100 is attached to mounting point 2108 on the container. The user interface notifies the operator that the container has been attached to the loading mechanism.

[0102] • The front strut retracts / folds back, providing a flat exterior for the front side of the box 106 with the retracted wheels / struts. The operator selects the next step in the loading process on the user interface.

[0103] • Container 106 is pulled halfway into cargo compartment 104. The status is displayed on the user interface, and the operator selects Next.

[0104] • The rear strut retracts / folds back, providing a flat exterior for the rear side of the box 106 with the retracted wheels / struts. The status is displayed on the user interface, and the operator selects the next step.

[0105] • The intelligent container 106 is fully installed in the aircraft. It transmits payload weight and CG data to the pilot / autopilot / aircraft 100.

[0106] • The aircraft 100 compares the data from the smart box with its own load sensors to ensure data accuracy and flight safety. It should be understood that in some embodiments of the invention, the data is real-time.

[0107] In some embodiments of the invention, the smart container senses its proximity and / or orientation relative to the aircraft and / or cargo compartment and automatically maneuvers itself into an appropriate loading arrangement relative to the aircraft / cargo compartment. In some embodiments of the invention, the container automatically deploys itself from the aircraft (unloads itself). Optionally, this operation is performed according to a user command.

[0108] It should also be understood from the above process (which can be fully automated without any user intervention) that the aircraft 100 may optionally be equipped with a processor / controller for performing tasks such as communicating with the smart box 106, interacting with the user, storing data, processing data, determining load balancing, tracking the loading / unloading status of the smart box, and other related tasks as described herein. In some embodiments of the invention, the aircraft's processor / controller and sensors perform load balancing without input from the smart box 106 or cargo in the compartment 104.

[0109] Figures 20A to 20B Supplemental and / or alternative details of the process of loading a smart box into an aircraft of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown, such as smart box 106 loading itself into aircraft 100.

[0110] Figure 21A This is a schematic diagram of load balancing in a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As described elsewhere herein, the cargo container system is adapted to have a weight balance adjustment mechanism to determine and / or adjust the CG of the entire system 2100, 2102 by adjusting the positioning of the smart container within the aircraft; this adjustment may optionally be performed in real time. Figure 21B As shown, in some embodiments:

[0111] • Attach the smart box 106 to the aircraft using an axis and locking system; and / or

[0112] • The smart box 106 slides on a rolling guide 2104 on the floor 2106 of the cargo compartment 104; and / or

[0113] • The intelligent box 106 can shift forward 2100 and backward 2102 for weight and balance before, during, and / or after takeoff, cruise, and / or landing; and / or

[0114] • The smart box 106 can move forward 2100 and backward 2102 during flight to help trim the aircraft and reduce trim drag (increasing fuel efficiency).

[0115] In some embodiments of the invention, the position adjustment of the smart box 106 within the aircraft can be performed using a screw assembly 2110 or a worm gear and a motorized clamp 2112 to drive forward and backward movement while attached to the mounting point 2108 of the smart box 106.

[0116] In some embodiments of the invention, adjustments to the weight balance can be determined by measuring the flight characteristics of the aircraft (e.g., using elevator position). One method of adjusting pitch trim in flight is by knowing the position of the aircraft's elevator in real time. When the elevator is in a neutral position, the aircraft has minimal pitch trim drag. At various altitudes, attitudes, and configurations (flaps down, landing gear down, etc.), the pitch trim of the aircraft must be adjusted by moving the elevator to maintain the desired coordinated flight attitude. A system (e.g., the controller + sensors of aircraft 100) can monitor the pitch angle of the elevator and use the weight balance adjustment mechanism to adjust the fore-and-aft position of the smart box 106 to minimize the deflection of the elevator from the neutral position, which reduces the drag caused by the aircraft's trim.

[0117] Additionally, alternatively, and / or optionally, load sensors are integrated into the aircraft, such as into the aircraft wheels / landing gear, to determine the aircraft's weight balance before and / or during loading the smart box. In some embodiments, the load sensors in the aircraft are used in conjunction with the smart box's load sensing / weight balance calculation to position the smart box 106 at a desired location within the cargo compartment 104 of the aircraft. In some embodiments, wheel load sensors serve as a backup for the smart box sensors and weight balance calculation. In some embodiments of the invention, wheel load sensors are used alone, for example, when the smart box is not used or in the event of a smart box sensor failure.

[0118] Figures 22A to 22DTop view, perspective view, side view, and rear view of exemplary trim / balance points considered / processed by a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively. In one embodiment, these points are used to determine and / or adjust weight balance in the system. In some embodiments of the invention, the fuel-based CG is considered in conjunction with the payload CG and the CG of the aircraft itself to determine the overall aircraft center of gravity. Cargo CG 2202 is shown. Figure 22A The image shows fuel CG 2204, the front part of the aircraft CG 2206, and the rear part of the aircraft CG 2208.

[0119] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 22D This demonstrates that CG is calculated not only on the x and y axes, but also on the z axis.

[0120] Regarding this figure and other figures, it is only to focus the accompanying figures on... Figures 22A to 22D Regarding load balancing, while the aircraft 100 is shown in dashed lines, it should be understood that in some embodiments of the invention, the shape, size and / or configuration of the aircraft 100 are considered to form part of the invention described herein, working in conjunction with the smart box 106 and together forming a cargo container system.

[0121] Figures 23A to 23B These are, respectively, a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of an intelligent pallet 108 of a cargo container system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23A As can be seen, the smart pallet 108 is provided with a user interface 2300, similar to user interface 904. In some embodiments of the present invention, the smart pallet 108 is provided with a recess 2302 for use with forklifts, etc.

[0122] In some embodiments of the invention, the deck 2304 of the smart pallet 108 is equipped with sensors, such as load and / or position sensors, for determining various information, such as the mass and / or position of the cargo loaded onto the deck 2304.

[0123] Figure 24 This is an exemplary loading scenario of an intelligent cargo container system using an intelligent pallet 108 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] Figures 25A to 25E Exemplary cargo container system configurations and associated performance / measurable characteristics are illustrated according to several embodiments of the present invention. Figure 25A The exemplary configurations shown include a manned cargo container system 2500 and an unmanned system 100.

[0125] Figure 25BA schematic top view of a manned version 2500 is shown, which includes at least one pilot 2502, at least one fuel tank 2504, at least one generator and / or engine 2506 and / or at least one electric motor 2508.

[0126] Figure 25C The CG calculations 2510, 2512 of an aircraft 2500 according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown, wherein the neutral point is located after CG 2514, and the aircraft 100 maintains inherent stability.

[0127] Figure 25D and Figure 25E Exemplary characteristics of the manned 2500 and unmanned 100 using the high-intelligence box 2550 are shown compared to those of a conventional industrial vehicle (Example 2, Grand Caravan), such as cargo volume, useful load, maximum cargo payload, and maximum cargo capacity when traveling 500 nautical miles (nm).

[0128] In some embodiments, the cargo space is fitted within the structural ribs of the aircraft.

[0129] In some embodiments of the invention, the tail section (or its cargo door) is hinged to align with the trailing edge of the aircraft's wing.

[0130] In some embodiments of the invention, the fuel tank is designed with the CG centered to eliminate CG offset due to fuel considerations.

[0131] Figure 26 illustrates an exemplary tail 2600 configuration for aircraft 100, 2500 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] It is anticipated that many related cargo containers and aircraft will be developed during the patent term that expires in this application, and the scope of these terms is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0133] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having”, and their variations mean “including but not limited to”.

[0134] The term "composed of" means "including and limited to".

[0135] The term "consistently made up of" means that a composition, method, or structure may include additional ingredients, steps, and / or portions, provided that the additional ingredients, steps, and / or portions do not substantially alter the essential and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method, or structure.

[0136] The term "multiple" means "two or more".

[0137] As used herein, the singular forms “an,” “a,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. For example, the terms “a compound” or “at least one compound” can include multiple compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0138] Throughout this application, various embodiments of the invention may be presented in the form of ranges. It should be understood that the range descriptions are for convenience and brevity only and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation of the scope of the invention. Therefore, the range descriptions should be considered to have specifically disclosed all possible subranges and individual numerical values ​​within those ranges. For example, a range such as 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, 2 to 6, 3 to 6, etc., and individual numbers within those ranges, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the width of the range.

[0139] Whenever a range of numbers is indicated in this document, it means any referenced number (fraction or integer) included within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between the first indicated number and the second indicated number” and “ranging / ranges from the first indicated number to the second indicated number” are used interchangeably in this document and mean including the first indicated number and the second indicated number, as well as all fractions and integers in between.

[0140] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain features of the invention described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features of the invention described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided individually or in any suitable sub-combination, or are suitable to be provided in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not considered essential features of those embodiments unless the embodiment does not function without those elements.

[0141] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be readily apparent. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and variations falling within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0142] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, to the extent that each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, any reference or designation of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that such reference is prior art to the invention. The use of section headings should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

1. A cargo container system, comprising: A vehicle with cargo compartments; A cargo container configured to be fitted within the cargo compartment; as well as A weight balance adjustment mechanism, comprising at least one of a load sensor and a position sensor, the weight balance adjustment mechanism being configured to adjust the position of the cargo container within the cargo compartment using data received from at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle is an aircraft.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the cargo container is a box having an internal space, the internal space having at least one door for accessing the internal space.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the cargo container is a pallet.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight balance adjustment mechanism includes a controller for processing the data and / or at least partially automatically controlling the weight balance adjustment mechanism.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the cargo container further comprises a user interface configured to provide a user with information about the system and to control the system.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the cargo container includes a plurality of wheels located on the bottom side of the cargo container.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the wheels are attached to the cargo container by foldable and / or retractable and extendable struts.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the wheel is motorized.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the foldable and / or retractable / extendable support is actuated.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight balance adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the cargo container based on the data when the vehicle is stationary or in motion.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor is disposed on the vehicle, the cargo container, or both.

13. The system according to claim 1 further includes an integrated power supply.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the cargo container is at least partially automatically loaded into the cargo compartment.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight balance adjustment system comprises a screw-based moving mechanism.

16. The system of claim 1 further includes an electromechanical interface located between the cargo container and the vehicle.

17. A method of using a cargo container system, comprising: Place the goods into the cargo container; Insert the cargo container into the cargo compartment of the vehicle; as well as A weight balance adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the weight balance of the cargo container within the cargo compartment. The weight balance adjustment mechanism includes at least one of a load sensor and a position sensor, and is configured to adjust the position of the cargo container within the cargo compartment using data received from at least one of the load sensor and the position sensor.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising calculating the weight balance of the cargo container prior to insertion.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein at least one of the insertion and adjustment is performed automatically in part.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the adjustment is performed using data derived from at least one of the cargo container and the vehicle.

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