Cargo transport methods, systems and equipment

Abstract

This application provides a cargo transportation method, system, and equipment. The method belongs to the field of logistics technology. The method includes: acquiring first real-time information of a drone and second real-time information of an automated unloading rack; sending a takeoff command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the first and second real-time information; after receiving landing information from the drone, sending a dropping command to the drone to release cargo; after receiving takeoff status information from the drone, sending a horizontal pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack to allow cargo to enter the warehouse under the pushing force of the horizontal pusher; and after receiving cargo entry information from the automated unloading rack, dispatching an unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive the cargo according to the user's delivery time, and delivering the cargo to the user's delivery address at the delivery time. According to this application, labor costs are reduced, and delivery efficiency and user experience are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of logistics technology, specifically to a cargo transportation method, system, and equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of e-commerce, the express delivery and logistics industry is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Traditional short-distance express delivery mainly relies on manual operation, that is, couriers transport packages from warehouses to users.

[0003] However, this model has many shortcomings, including but not limited to: delivery delays caused by traffic congestion, high labor costs, and poor user experience due to inflexible pickup times. Therefore, it is necessary to propose a new method for goods delivery. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a cargo transportation method to solve problems such as delivery delays caused by traffic congestion, high labor costs, and poor user experience caused by inflexible pickup times in the prior art.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a cargo transportation method is provided, the method comprising: acquiring first real-time information of a drone and second real-time information of an automated unloading rack, wherein the first real-time information includes at least the real-time location information of the drone, and the second real-time information includes at least the location information of the automated unloading rack; sending a take-off command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information; after receiving landing information of the drone, sending a dropping command to the drone to cause the drone to release cargo; after receiving take-off status information of the drone, sending a horizontal pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack to cause the cargo to enter the cargo compartment under the pushing force of the horizontal pusher; and after receiving cargo entry information from the automated unloading rack, dispatching an unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive the cargo according to the user's delivery time, and delivering the cargo to the user's delivery address at the delivery time after receiving the cargo.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a cargo transportation method is provided, the method comprising: after loading cargo into a drone, sending first real-time information to a cloud server, the first real-time information including at least the real-time location information of the drone; receiving a take-off command sent by the cloud server based on the first real-time information; the take-off command including flight path information of the drone; the flight path information being determined by the cloud server based on the first real-time information and second real-time information of an automated unloading rack; flying to the automated unloading rack and landing on a horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack according to the take-off command; sending landing position information to the cloud server; receiving a dropping command sent by the cloud server based on the landing position information; releasing cargo according to the dropping command; and, after a preset time following the release of cargo, flying away from the horizontal receiving platform and sending departure status information to the cloud server.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of this application, a cargo transportation method is provided, the method comprising: sending second real-time information of an automated unloading rack to a cloud server; the second real-time information including at least the location information of the automated unloading rack; receiving a waiting instruction sent by the cloud server; waiting for the drone to land according to the waiting instruction; after receiving a horizontal pusher movement instruction sent by the cloud server, controlling the horizontal pusher to push cargo into a warehouse; sending cargo entry information to the cloud server; after receiving a vertical baffle movement instruction from the cloud server, controlling the vertical baffle to move to a designated position according to the vertical baffle movement instruction, and sending vertical baffle movement to position information to the cloud server; receiving a warehouse pusher movement instruction sent by the cloud server; pushing the cargo into the unmanned vehicle warehouse according to the warehouse pusher movement instruction, and sending confirmation information to the cloud server, so that the cloud server sends a closing warehouse door and departure instruction to the unmanned vehicle according to the confirmation information.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a cargo transportation method is provided, the method comprising: receiving cargo entry information sent by a cloud server; sending the real-time location of an unmanned vehicle to the cloud server based on the cargo entry information; enabling the cloud server to plan a driving route for the unmanned vehicle from its real-time location to the automated unloading rack based on the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle and the location information of the automated unloading rack, and estimating the driving time of the unmanned vehicle; receiving a scheduling command sent by the cloud server based on the driving time; driving to the automated unloading rack according to the driving route in the scheduling command, opening the warehouse door of the unmanned vehicle and sending parking arrival information to the cloud server; and after receiving a closing warehouse door and departure instruction sent by the cloud server, transporting the cargo to a delivery address according to the cargo transportation route.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a cargo transportation system is provided, the system including a cloud server, a drone, an automated unloading rack, and an unmanned vehicle; wherein, the drone is used to send first real-time information to the cloud server; the automated unloading rack is used to send second real-time information to the cloud server; the cloud server is used to send a take-off command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information; the drone is used to fly to the automated unloading rack according to the take-off command and land on the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack; and send landing information to the cloud server; the cloud server is used to send a landing information to the drone based on the landing information. The system includes: a human-machine interface (HMI) sending a throwing command; the drone releasing goods according to the throwing command, flying away from the horizontal receiving platform after a preset time after releasing the goods, and sending flight status information to the cloud server; the cloud server sending a horizontal pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack according to the flight status information; the automated unloading rack controlling the horizontal pusher to push the goods into the warehouse after receiving the horizontal pusher movement command from the cloud server, and sending goods entry information to the cloud server; the cloud server dispatching the unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive the goods; and the unmanned vehicle delivering the goods to the user's delivery address at the specified delivery time after receiving the goods.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the embodiments of this application, an electronic device is provided, including a memory and a processor; the memory is connected to the processor and is used to store a program; the processor is used to implement a cargo transportation method as described in any one of the first to fifth aspects of the embodiments of this application by running the program in the memory.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer program product is provided, including computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a cargo transportation method as described in any one of the first to fifth aspects of the embodiments of this application.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a chip is provided, including a processor and a data interface, wherein the processor reads and runs a program stored in a memory through the data interface to execute a cargo transportation method as described in any one of the first to fifth aspects of the embodiments of this application.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the embodiments of this application, a storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored, and when the computer program is run by a processor, it implements a cargo transportation method as described in any one of the first to fifth aspects of the embodiments of this application.

[0014] According to the technical solution of this application embodiment, the system acquires first real-time information of the drone and second real-time information of the automated unloading rack; based on the first and second real-time information, it sends a take-off command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack; after receiving the drone's landing information, it sends a dropping command to the drone to release the goods; after receiving the drone's take-off status information, it sends a horizontal pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack to allow the goods to enter the warehouse under the thrust of the horizontal pusher; after receiving the goods entering the warehouse information from the automated unloading rack, it dispatches an unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive the goods according to the user's delivery time, and delivers the goods to the user's delivery address at the delivery time. This application combines the advantages of drone flight, improving the speed and efficiency of goods transportation, achieving full automation, greatly reducing labor costs, and improving delivery efficiency and user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 A logic block diagram of the cargo transportation entity provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0017] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cargo transportation system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the automatic unloading rack in the cargo transportation system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0019] Figure 4 A schematic flowchart illustrating a cargo transportation method provided in this application embodiment;

[0020] Figure 5 A schematic flowchart illustrating another cargo transportation method provided in this application embodiment;

[0021] Figures 6a to 6h A schematic diagram illustrating a cargo transportation method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cargo transportation system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0025] Exemplary application scenarios

[0026] With the rapid development of e-commerce, the express delivery and logistics industry is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Currently, short-distance express delivery mainly consists of two parts: firstly, the storage location of goods, consisting of Cainiao Stations, Fengchao lockers, or express delivery collection points; and secondly, the deliveryman transporting the goods from the storage location to the end user. However, this model has many shortcomings, including but not limited to: delivery delays caused by traffic congestion, high labor costs, and poor user experience due to inflexible pickup times.

[0027] Specifically, in cities, traffic congestion is unavoidable due to the large number of vehicles, especially during peak hours. This not only increases the workload of delivery personnel but also prolongs delivery time and reduces overall logistics efficiency. The rapid development of the express delivery industry has led to a surge in demand for delivery personnel, meaning companies must bear higher labor costs. Furthermore, traditional express delivery services typically require recipients to pick up their packages within a specific time frame, which is very inconvenient for busy users or those who are not at home. Even with smart parcel lockers, issues such as users forgetting to pick up their packages and incurring late fees still exist, impacting the user experience.

[0028] In recent years, significant advancements in autonomous driving and drone delivery technologies have provided new ideas and technical means to address these issues. Drones offer advantages such as rapid response and freedom from ground traffic constraints, effectively shortening "last-mile" delivery times; while unmanned vehicles can efficiently and safely transport goods along relatively fixed routes, reducing reliance on human resources. Combining these two technologies can build a more intelligent and automated logistics and distribution system, thereby significantly improving cargo transportation efficiency and service quality.

[0029] In other words, to address these challenges, this application proposes a novel cargo transportation method that combines drones and unmanned vehicles to optimize the last two delivery stages: from the warehouse to the express delivery point, and from the express delivery point to the user, achieving a seamless connection from the warehouse directly to the user.

[0030] like Figure 1As shown in the embodiments of this application, the new cargo transportation method includes five elements: a warehouse network equipped with a drone take-off and landing site, a drone, an automatic unloading transfer rack that replaces Cainiao Station or express cabinet, an unmanned vehicle, and a user.

[0031] In this embodiment of the application, the cargo transportation logic is to transport the goods from the warehousing network to the automated unloading transfer rack via drone, and then deliver the goods in the automated unloading transfer rack directly to the user via unmanned vehicle.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the cargo transportation system provided in this application embodiment includes four parts: drone, cargo, automated unloading rack, and unmanned vehicle. The drone is used to transport cargo boxes to the automated unloading rack, and the automated unloading rack is used to receive cargo, store cargo, and push cargo to the cargo compartment of the unmanned vehicle according to instructions.

[0033] Among them, such as Figure 3 As shown, the automated unloading rack mainly includes a horizontal receiving platform, a horizontal push plate, a vertical baffle, a warehouse ramp, and a warehouse pusher plate. The horizontal receiving platform is used to park the drone, the horizontal push plate is used to push the goods dropped by the drone into the warehouse, the vertical baffle is used to prevent the goods in the warehouse from falling out of the automated unloading rack, and the warehouse pusher plate is used to push the goods in the warehouse along the warehouse ramp into the warehouse of the unmanned vehicle.

[0034] The cargo transportation solution of this application combines the advantages of drones flying in the air, which improves the speed and efficiency of cargo transportation, is fully unmanned, greatly reduces labor costs, and improves delivery efficiency and user experience.

[0035] Exemplary methods

[0036] The cargo transportation method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a cargo transportation method provided in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 In an exemplary embodiment, the provided cargo transportation method may include the following steps:

[0038] 401. After loading the cargo into the drone, the drone sends first real-time information to the cloud server. The first real-time information includes at least the real-time location information of the drone.

[0039] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the first real-time information. In practical applications, the first real-time information may also include the drone's real-time status information, such as whether it is ready to take off or not.

[0040] After the drone loads the goods into the warehouse, it sends the first real-time information to the cloud server to prepare for takeoff and wait for instructions from the cloud server.

[0041] 402. The automatic unloading rack sends second real-time information about the automatic unloading rack to the cloud server; the second real-time information includes at least the location information of the automatic unloading rack.

[0042] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the second real-time information sent by the automated unloading rack.

[0043] The second real-time information can be sent periodically to the cloud server by the automated unloading rack at a set period, or it can be obtained by the cloud service from the automated unloading rack after receiving the first real-time information.

[0044] 403. The cloud server sends a take-off command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information.

[0045] Correspondingly, the drone receives takeoff instructions from the cloud server, and the automated unloading rack receives waiting instructions from the cloud server.

[0046] In this step, the cloud server plans the flight path and flight time of the drone based on the real-time location information of the drone and the location information of the automated unloading rack; it sends the take-off command to the drone based on the flight path and the waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the flight time.

[0047] 404. The drone flies to the automated unloading rack according to the take-off command and lands on the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack.

[0048] Specifically, the drones rely on GPS positioning to fly to the location of the automated unloading racks according to the planned route.

[0049] 405. The drone reports its location information in real time as it flies toward the automated unloading rack.

[0050] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the location information reported in real time by the drone as it flies toward the automated unloading shelf.

[0051] 406. The drone sends landing information to the cloud server.

[0052] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the landing location information sent by the drone.

[0053] Specifically, after reaching the location of the automated unloading rack, the drone uses real-time kinematic (RTK) technology to accurately identify the rack and lands on its horizontal receiving platform. Figure 6a As shown in the image. After a successful landing, the drone sends landing information to the cloud server.

[0054] 407. The cloud server sends a drop command to the drone based on the landing position information.

[0055] Correspondingly, the drone receives the dropping command.

[0056] 408. The drone releases the cargo according to the drop command, and after a preset time after the cargo is released, it flies away from the horizontal cargo receiving platform and sends the flight status information to the cloud server.

[0057] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the flight departure status information, which is used to notify the cloud server that the drone has flown away from the automated unloading rack.

[0058] like Figure 6b As shown, after the drone lands on the horizontal receiving platform, the throwing mechanism unlocks, releasing the goods onto the platform. In practical applications, the preset time after releasing the goods can be set according to actual needs. For example, in this embodiment, the preset time is set to 20 seconds. That is, the drone flies away from the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack 20 seconds after releasing the goods.

[0059] 409. Based on the fly-off status information, the cloud server sends a horizontal pusher movement command to the automatic unloading rack.

[0060] Correspondingly, the automatic unloading rack receives horizontal pusher movement instructions sent by the cloud server.

[0061] The cloud server can send a horizontal pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack 30 seconds after receiving the fly-away status information. This command instructs the horizontal pusher of the automated unloading rack to move, pushing goods into the rack's storage compartment. Figure 6c As shown.

[0062] 410. After receiving the horizontal pusher movement command sent by the cloud server, the automatic unloading rack controls the horizontal pusher to push the goods into the warehouse and sends the goods entry information to the cloud server.

[0063] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives information about goods entering the warehouse.

[0064] Specifically, the horizontal pusher stops after moving to the sensor on the horizontal receiving platform, such as... Figure 6d As shown, the automatic unloading mechanism sends goods entry information to the cloud server, such as... Figure 6e As shown. Furthermore, after sending the goods entry information, the horizontal push plate of the automatic unloading rack is reset.

[0065] 411. The cloud server dispatches the unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive goods.

[0066] Specifically, after receiving the goods entry information from the automated unloading racks, the cloud server dispatches unmanned vehicles to the automated unloading racks to receive the goods based on the user's delivery time.

[0067] 412. The unmanned vehicle is used to deliver the goods to the user's delivery address at the delivery time after receiving the goods.

[0068] The delivery time refers to the time when the user can receive the goods, which is predetermined by the cloud server and the user. After receiving the goods from the automated unloading rack, the unmanned vehicle will deliver the goods to the user's delivery address according to the delivery route planned by the cloud server.

[0069] Based on the cargo transportation method provided in the embodiments of this application, the method acquires first real-time information of the drone and second real-time information of the automated unloading rack; according to the first and second real-time information, a take-off command is sent to the drone, and a waiting command is sent to the automated unloading rack; after receiving the drone's landing information, a dropping command is sent to the drone to release the cargo; after receiving the drone's take-off status information, a horizontal pusher movement command is sent to the automated unloading rack to allow the cargo to enter the warehouse under the thrust of the horizontal pusher; after receiving the cargo entry information from the automated unloading rack, an unmanned vehicle is dispatched to the automated unloading rack to receive the cargo according to the user's delivery time, and the cargo is delivered to the user's delivery address at the delivery time. According to this application, by combining the advantages of drone flight, the speed and efficiency of cargo transportation are improved, the entire process is unmanned, greatly reducing labor costs and improving delivery efficiency and user experience.

[0070] In one feasible implementation, in order to schedule unmanned vehicles and ensure that the unmanned vehicles deliver goods to the user's delivery address at a time convenient for the user, the cloud server needs to first confirm the delivery time with the user and then decide how to schedule the unmanned vehicles.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the specific implementation steps of steps 411 and 412 provided above may include:

[0072] 501. The cloud server sends a delivery time inquiry to the user.

[0073] The delivery time inquiry information is used to ask users what delivery time is convenient for them.

[0074] 502. The cloud server plans the goods transportation route of the unmanned vehicle from the automatic unloading shelf to the delivery address based on the delivery time returned by the user and the user's delivery address.

[0075] Specifically, the cloud server not only plans the best delivery route for the unmanned vehicle from the automated unloading shelf to the delivery address based on the user's delivery address, but also obtains the real-time location reported by the unmanned vehicle continuously, so as to select the most suitable unmanned vehicle to deliver goods to this user from the unmanned vehicles waiting to be dispatched.

[0076] 503. The cloud server sends the goods entry information to the unmanned vehicle.

[0077] Correspondingly, the unmanned vehicle receives the goods entry information sent by the cloud service.

[0078] 504. The unmanned vehicle reports its real-time location to the cloud server.

[0079] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the real-time location reported by the unmanned vehicle.

[0080] 505. The cloud server plans the driving route of the unmanned vehicle from its real-time location to the automated unloading rack based on the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle and the location information of the automated unloading rack, and estimates the driving time of the unmanned vehicle.

[0081] 506. The cloud server sends a dispatch command to the unmanned vehicle based on the vehicle's travel time.

[0082] The dispatch command may include the goods delivery route, the user's delivery address, and the user's contact information. This embodiment does not specifically limit the content of the dispatch command.

[0083] 507. The unmanned vehicle travels along the route to the automated unloading rack to receive goods according to the dispatch command; after arriving at the automated unloading rack, it sends parking information to the cloud server.

[0084] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives parking information.

[0085] In practical applications, the unmanned vehicle can rely on LiDAR for precise positioning and eventually stop at the front of the automated unloading rack, automatically opening the cargo door. After completing these actions, the unmanned vehicle sends its parking position information to the cloud server. Figure 6f As shown.

[0086] 508. Based on the parking position information, the cloud server sends a vertical baffle movement command to the automated unloading rack.

[0087] Correspondingly, the automated unloading rack receives vertical baffle movement instructions sent by the cloud server.

[0088] In practical applications, the cloud server can send a vertical baffle movement command to the automated unloading rack one minute after receiving the parking position information. This vertical baffle movement command is used to instruct the vertical baffle of the automated unloading rack to move until it stops after triggering the vertical sensor.

[0089] 509. After the automatic unloading rack moves the vertical baffle into place, it sends the vertical baffle movement information to the cloud server.

[0090] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives the vertical baffle movement positioning information sent by the automatic unloading rack.

[0091] Specifically, after the vertical baffle triggers the vertical sensor, it sends vertical baffle movement positioning information to the cloud server, such as... Figure 6g As shown.

[0092] 510. The cloud server sends a warehouse pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack.

[0093] Correspondingly, the automatic unloading rack receives instructions to move the warehouse pusher pallets.

[0094] Optionally, the cloud server can send a warehouse pusher movement command to the automated unloading rack 10 seconds after receiving the information that the vertical baffle has moved into place, so that the warehouse pusher of the automated unloading rack moves in accordance with the warehouse pusher movement command until it stops after triggering the warehouse sensor. Once the sensor is triggered, it can be determined that the goods have been pushed into the unmanned vehicle warehouse.

[0095] 511. The automatic unloading rack sends a confirmation message to the cloud server.

[0096] Correspondingly, the cloud server receives confirmation information sent by the automated unloading rack.

[0097] This confirmation message is used to allow the cloud server to determine that the goods have been pushed into the unmanned vehicle's cargo warehouse.

[0098] 512. The cloud server sends a command to the unmanned vehicle to close the cabin door and drive away.

[0099] Upon receiving the command to close the warehouse door and depart, the unmanned vehicle closes its warehouse door and departs from the automated unloading rack. Figure 6h As shown.

[0100] It should be noted that the unmanned vehicle will report its location to the cloud server in real time as it drives away from the automated unloading rack. When the unmanned vehicle is 5 meters away from the automated unloading rack, the cloud server sends a vertical baffle reset command and a warehouse pusher reset command to the automated unloading rack.

[0101] 513. The unmanned vehicle transports the goods to the delivery address according to the goods transportation route.

[0102] During the delivery of goods, the unmanned vehicle will travel to the user's delivery address according to the delivery route. Ten minutes before the unmanned vehicle arrives at the user's delivery address, the cloud server will send a pre-arrival information back to the user and call the user after arrival to remind the user to complete the delivery.

[0103] It should be noted that after the user receives the goods, if the unmanned vehicle has other goods delivery tasks, it will go to the next task location. If the unmanned vehicle does not have other goods delivery tasks, it will go to the nearest unmanned vehicle parking area with automated unloading shelves to wait.

[0104] The above describes the cargo transportation method provided by the embodiments of this application. The cargo transportation system of the embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0105] Exemplary System

[0106] Accordingly, embodiments of this application also provide a system, such as Figure 7 As shown, the cargo transportation system 700 provided in this embodiment may include: a cloud server 710, a drone 720, an automatic unloading rack 730, and an unmanned vehicle 740.

[0107] The drone 720 is used to send first real-time information to the cloud server 710;

[0108] The automatic unloading shelf 730 is used to send second real-time information to the cloud server 710;

[0109] The cloud server 710 is used to send a take-off command to the drone 720 and a waiting command to the automatic unloading rack 730 based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information.

[0110] The drone 720 is used to fly to the automated unloading rack 730 according to the take-off command and land on the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack 730; and send landing information to the cloud server 710.

[0111] The cloud server 710 is used to send a drop command to the drone 720 based on the landing position information;

[0112] The drone 720 is used to release cargo according to the throwing command, and after a preset time after releasing the cargo, it flies away from the horizontal cargo receiving platform and sends the flight status information to the cloud server 710.

[0113] The cloud server 710 is used to send a horizontal pusher movement command to the automatic unloading rack 730 based on the fly-off status information;

[0114] The automatic unloading rack 730 is used to control the horizontal pusher to push the goods into the warehouse after receiving the horizontal pusher movement command sent by the cloud server 710, and to send the goods entering the warehouse information to the cloud server 710.

[0115] The cloud server 710 is used to schedule the unmanned vehicle 740 to go to the automatic unloading rack 730 to receive goods;

[0116] The unmanned vehicle 740 is used to deliver the goods to the user's delivery address at the delivery time after receiving the goods.

[0117] The cargo transportation system provided in this embodiment belongs to the same concept as the cargo transportation method provided in the above embodiments of this application. It can execute the cargo transportation method provided in any of the above embodiments of this application and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects for executing the cargo transportation method. Technical details not described in detail in this embodiment can be found in the specific processing content of the cargo transportation method provided in the above embodiments of this application, and will not be repeated here.

[0118] It should be understood that the equipment in the above-described freight transport system can be implemented in the form of a processor calling software. For example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to realize the functions of each unit in the freight transport system. The processor can be a general-purpose processor, such as a CPU or microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. By designing the hardware circuits, some or all of the unit functions can be realized. The hardware circuit can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an ASIC, and the functions of some or all of the above units are realized by designing the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a PLD, such as an FPGA, which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through a configuration file, thereby realizing the functions of some or all of the above units. All units in the above-described freight transport system can be implemented entirely in the form of a processor calling software, entirely in the form of hardware circuits, or partially in the form of a processor calling software with the remaining parts implemented in the form of hardware circuits.

[0119] In this application embodiment, a processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction reading and execution capabilities, such as a CPU, microprocessor, GPU, or DSP. In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. These logical relationships are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor may be a hardware circuit implemented as an ASIC or PLD, such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as an NPU, TPU, or DPU.

[0120] As can be seen, each unit in the above cargo transportation system can be one or more processors (or processing circuits) configured to implement the above methods, such as: CPU, GPU, NPU, TPU, DPU, microprocessor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or a combination of at least two of these processor types.

[0121] Furthermore, the units in the above-mentioned cargo transportation system can be integrated in whole or in part, or they can be implemented independently. In one implementation, these units are integrated together and implemented in the form of a System-on-Chip (SoC). The SoC may include at least one processor for implementing any of the above methods or implementing the functions of the units in the cargo transportation system. The at least one processor can be of different types, such as CPU and FPGA, CPU and artificial intelligence processor, CPU and GPU, etc.

[0122] Exemplary electronic devices

[0123] This application provides an electronic device, see [link to relevant documentation] Figure 8 As shown, the electronic device includes a memory 80 and a processor 81 connected to the memory 80.

[0124] The memory 80 is used to store programs.

[0125] Processor 81 is configured to perform any of the cargo transportation methods described in any of the above embodiments.

[0126] For details on the specific processing procedure of the processor 81, please refer to the description of the above method embodiments. For details on the specific implementation of the processor 71, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0127] Specifically, the aforementioned electronic device may also include: a bus, a communication interface 82, an input device 83, and an output device 84.

[0128] The processor 81, memory 80, communication interface 82, input device 83, and output device 84 are interconnected via a bus. Among them:

[0129] A bus can include a pathway for transmitting information between various components of a computer system.

[0130] The processor 81 can be a general-purpose processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, etc., or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of the program of the present invention. It can also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an off-the-shelf programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.

[0131] The processor 81 may include a main processor, as well as a baseband chip, modem, etc.

[0132] The memory 80 stores a program that executes the technical solution of this invention, and may also store an operating system and other key business functions. Specifically, the program may include program code, which includes computer operation instructions. More specifically, the memory 80 may include read-only memory (ROM), other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM), other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions, disk storage, flash memory, etc.

[0133] Input device 83 may include a device for receiving user input data and information, such as an error microphone, keyboard, mouse, camera, scanner, light pen, voice input device, touch screen, pedometer, or gravity sensor.

[0134] Output device 84 may include devices that allow information to be output to a user, such as a speaker, display screen, printer, etc.

[0135] The communication interface 82 may include a device that uses any transceiver to communicate with other devices or communication networks, such as Ethernet, Radio Access Network (RAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), etc.

[0136] The processor 81 executes the program stored in the memory 80 and calls other devices, which can be used to implement any of the steps of the cargo transportation method provided in the above embodiments of this application.

[0137] This application also proposes a chip, which includes a processor and a data interface. The processor reads and runs a program stored in the memory through the data interface to execute the cargo transportation method described in any of the above embodiments. For details of the processing and its beneficial effects, please refer to the above-described embodiments of the cargo transportation method.

[0138] Exemplary computer program products and storage media

[0139] In addition to the methods and apparatus described above, embodiments of this application may also be computer program products, which include computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the steps in the cargo transportation methods according to various embodiments of this application as described in any of the foregoing embodiments of this specification.

[0140] Computer program products can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages ​​to perform the operations of the embodiments of this application. The programming languages ​​include object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java and C++, as well as conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server.

[0141] Furthermore, embodiments of this application may also be storage media storing a computer program, which is executed by a processor to perform the steps of the cargo transportation method according to various embodiments of this application as described in any of the above embodiments of this specification.

[0142] For the foregoing method embodiments, in order to simplify the description, they are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that this application is not limited to the described order of actions, because according to this application, some steps can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are all preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to this application.

[0143] It should be noted that the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. For apparatus embodiments, since they are basically similar to method embodiments, the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the method embodiments.

[0144] The steps in the methods of the various embodiments of this application can be adjusted, merged, or deleted in order according to actual needs, and the technical features described in each embodiment can be replaced or combined.

[0145] The modules and sub-modules in the various embodiments of the present application's devices and terminals can be merged, divided, and deleted according to actual needs.

[0146] It should be understood that the disclosed terminals, devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways, given the several embodiments provided in this application. For example, the terminal embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules or sub-modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple sub-modules or modules may be combined or integrated into another module, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, devices, or modules, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0147] The modules or submodules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components that constitute a module or submodule may or may not be physical modules or submodules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules or submodules. Some or all of the modules or submodules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment's solution, depending on actual needs.

[0148] Furthermore, the functional modules or sub-modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module or sub-module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules or sub-modules can be integrated into one module. The integrated modules or sub-modules described above can be implemented in hardware or in the form of software functional modules or sub-modules.

[0149] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the various examples have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0150] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented directly by hardware, a software unit executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software unit can be located in random access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0151] Finally, it should be noted that in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0152] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for transporting goods, characterized in that, The method includes: Acquire first real-time information about the drone and second real-time information about the automatic unloading rack, wherein the first real-time information includes at least the real-time location information of the drone and the second real-time information includes at least the location information of the automatic unloading rack; Based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information, a take-off command is sent to the drone, and a waiting command is sent to the automated unloading rack. After receiving the landing information of the drone, a dropping command is sent to the drone to cause the drone to release the cargo; After receiving the drone's takeoff status information, a horizontal pusher movement command is sent to the automated unloading rack so that the goods enter the warehouse under the pushing force of the horizontal pusher. After receiving the goods entry information from the automated unloading rack, the unmanned vehicle is dispatched to the automated unloading rack to receive the goods according to the user's delivery time, and then the goods are delivered to the user's delivery address at the delivery time.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of sending a takeoff command to the drone and a waiting command to the automated unloading rack based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information includes: Based on the real-time location information of the drone and the location information of the automatic unloading rack, the flight path and flight time of the drone are planned. The takeoff command is sent to the drone according to the flight route, and the waiting command is sent to the automated unloading rack according to the flight time.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before receiving the landing location information of the drone, the method further includes: Receive the location information reported in real time by the drone as it flies toward the automated unloading rack.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of dispatching unmanned vehicles to the automated unloading rack to receive goods based on the user's delivery time includes: Send delivery time inquiry information to users; Based on the delivery time returned by the user and the user's delivery address, the unmanned vehicle plans the goods transportation route from the automatic unloading shelf to the delivery address; Send the cargo entry information to the unmanned vehicle so that the unmanned vehicle can report its real-time location; Based on the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle and the location information of the automated unloading rack, the driving route of the unmanned vehicle from its real-time location to the automated unloading rack is planned, and the driving time of the unmanned vehicle is estimated. Based on the driving time of the unmanned vehicle, a dispatch command is sent to the unmanned vehicle so that the unmanned vehicle can travel to the automated unloading rack to receive goods according to the driving route.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, After the unmanned vehicle sends the dispatch command, the method further includes: After receiving the parking position information sent by the unmanned vehicle, a vertical baffle movement command is sent to the automated unloading rack; After receiving the vertical baffle movement positioning information sent by the automatic unloading rack, a warehouse pusher movement command is sent to the automatic unloading rack; After receiving the confirmation message from the automated unloading rack, a command to close the warehouse door and drive away is sent to the unmanned vehicle, so that the unmanned vehicle can transport the goods to the delivery address according to the goods transportation route.

6. A method for transporting goods, characterized in that, The method includes: After loading the goods into the drone, the drone sends first real-time information to the cloud server. The first real-time information includes at least the real-time location information of the drone. The system receives a takeoff command sent by the cloud server based on the first real-time information; the takeoff command includes the flight path information of the UAV; the flight path information is determined by the cloud server based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information of the automatic unloading rack. According to the takeoff command, fly to the automated unloading rack and land on the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack; Send landing location information to the cloud server; Receive the throwing command sent by the cloud server based on the landing position information; Release the cargo according to the throwing command; After a preset time following the release of the goods, the aircraft flies away from the horizontal receiving platform and sends departure status information to the cloud server.

7. A method for transporting goods, characterized in that, The method includes: Send a second real-time information about the automatic unloading shelf to the cloud server; the second real-time information includes at least the location information of the automatic unloading shelf. Receive the waiting instruction sent by the cloud server; and wait for the drone to land according to the waiting instruction; After receiving the horizontal pusher movement command sent by the cloud server, control the horizontal pusher to push the goods into the warehouse; Send the goods entry information to the cloud server; After receiving the vertical baffle movement command from the cloud server, the vertical baffle is controlled to move to the designated position according to the vertical baffle movement command, and vertical baffle movement to position information is sent to the cloud server. Receive the warehouse pusher movement command sent by the cloud server; The goods are pushed into the unmanned vehicle's cargo compartment according to the cargo pusher movement command, and a confirmation message is sent to the cloud server, so that the cloud server sends a command to the unmanned vehicle to close the compartment door and drive away based on the confirmation message.

8. A method for transporting goods, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive goods entry information sent by the cloud server; Based on the goods entering the warehouse, the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle is sent to the cloud server; so that the cloud server can plan the driving route of the unmanned vehicle from the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle to the automatic unloading shelf based on the real-time location of the unmanned vehicle and the location information of the automatic unloading shelf, and estimate the driving time of the unmanned vehicle. Receive the scheduling command sent by the cloud server based on the travel time; According to the driving route in the scheduling command, the vehicle travels to the automated unloading rack, opens the warehouse door of the unmanned vehicle, and sends parking arrival information to the cloud server; After receiving the instruction from the cloud server to close the warehouse door and depart, the goods are transported to the delivery address according to the cargo transportation route.

9. A cargo transportation system, characterized in that, The system includes cloud servers, drones, automated unloading racks, and unmanned vehicles; The drone is used to send first real-time information to the cloud server. The automatic unloading rack is used to send second real-time information to the cloud server; The cloud server is used to send take-off instructions to the drone and waiting instructions to the automated unloading rack based on the first real-time information and the second real-time information. The drone is used to fly to the automated unloading rack and land on the horizontal receiving platform of the automated unloading rack according to the take-off command; and to send landing information to the cloud server. The cloud server is used to send a drop command to the drone based on the landing position information; The drone is used to release cargo according to the throwing command, and after a preset time after releasing the cargo, it flies away from the horizontal cargo receiving platform and sends the flight status information to the cloud server. The cloud server is used to send a horizontal pusher movement command to the automatic unloading rack based on the fly-off status information; The automatic unloading rack is used to control the horizontal pusher to push the goods into the warehouse after receiving the horizontal pusher movement command sent by the cloud server, and to send the goods entering the warehouse information to the cloud server. The cloud server is used to dispatch the unmanned vehicle to the automated unloading rack to receive goods. The unmanned vehicle is used to deliver the goods to the user's delivery address at the delivery time after receiving the goods.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, Including memory and processor; The memory is connected to the processor and is used to store programs; The processor is used to implement the cargo transportation method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 by running a program in the memory.

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