DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH MODULAR CONTAINER

Abstract

This document describes a delivery system and procedure using a modular container. A modular container system can be implemented to facilitate the autonomous delivery of parcels to customers. A modular container, as described in more detail below, can be attached to a battery-operated electric vehicle (BEV) and the chassis of an autonomous driving platform. The container system itself includes a parcel sorting mechanism configured to move parcels within the vehicle, organize them in a separate section of the vehicle, and retrieve parcels for delivery when required.

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to modular container delivery systems and methods. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Delivering packages is a complex process that presents a number of challenges. Shipping and transportation costs can be high, including expenses for gasoline or electricity, personnel (e.g., truck drivers and / or storage facility workers), and more. Logistics is another challenge, as coordinating the movement of packages through various stages of the delivery process can be difficult, especially when large volumes are involved. Additionally, the possibility of disease transmission has become a significant concern in recent years, as the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the potential for disease spread through person-to-person contact that can occur during package handling and / or delivery. SUMMARY

[0003] According to at least one embodiment, a modular container system may be implemented to facilitate the autonomous delivery of packages to customers. A modular container, as described in more detail below, may be attached to a battery-operated electric vehicle (BEV) and a chassis of an autonomous driving platform. The container system itself includes a package sorting mechanism configured to move packages within the vehicle, organize them in a separate section of the vehicle where customers do not have access to the remaining packages, and retrieve packages when delivery is necessary. In this way, customers can have a fully automated delivery experience that does not require additional personnel to deliver the packages.

[0004] Modular containers offer many advantages over existing solutions. For example, modular containers can be quickly swapped in a storage facility to send the vehicle on another delivery run, and in the meantime, the emptied modular container can be quickly processed for maintenance, battery charging, or reloading with new packages.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, a modular container delivery system includes a modular container attachable to a vehicle via a dedicated connection interface that provides mechanical engagement and module communication. The vehicle and modular container can be attached to facilitate the delivery of packages stored in the modular container. The modular container can be loaded with a plurality of box units and includes a magnetic arm with an attachment mechanism for attachment to the box units. Box units can have one or more magnetic receptacles to which the magnetic arm can be attached.

[0006] In various embodiments, a process for contactless parcel delivery using a modular container delivery system includes determining at least a first parcel ready for delivery in a first box unit based on a delivery route; confirming delivery of the first parcel to a customer; using the magnetic arm to position the first box unit for pickup; reading a QR code to verify the first parcel; performing parcel-to-customer verification; determining successful verification of the customer; determining that the customer has arrived at a delivery location; determining that the customer has retrieved the first parcel from the first box unit; and updating a status of the first parcel of the first parcel to be delivered.

[0007] In various embodiments, the process further comprises determining an incorrect customer as part of the package customer verification; moving the first package to a delayed delivery section of the modular container; and updating the status of the first package to request attention.

[0008] In various embodiments, the process further comprises determining that the customer cannot receive the first package as part of the package-customer verification; updating the status of the first package for a redelivery attempt; and rescheduling delivery of the first package.

[0009] In various embodiments, the process further comprises using the magnetic arm to move the first box unit from a storage portion of the modular container to a delivery portion of the modular container.

[0010] In various embodiments, the first box unit comprises: a first notification LED reflecting the status of the first package; a first magnetic receptacle for attachment to the magnetic arm; and a first electronic communication device. In various embodiments, the first box unit further comprises a second magnetic receptacle for attachment to another box unit, located at a bottom of the first box unit.

[0011] In various embodiments, the modular container comprises a verification unit for reading the QR code and a delivery interface for providing access to the first package for the customer.

[0012] In various embodiments, a modular container delivery system refers to a system for performing contactless delivery of packages to customers. The modular container delivery system may refer to a modular container attached to a vehicle via a dedicated connection interface for mechanical engagement and module communication. The modular container may comprise: a frame; a sliding member attached to the frame, the sliding member further comprising a crossbar; and a crane attached to the sliding members, the crane further comprising an attachment mechanism for engaging box units. The modular container may store a plurality of box units, each box unit comprising: a notification LED; a magnetic receptacle; and an electronic communication device.

[0013] In various embodiments, the modular container comprises a storage section and a delivery section.

[0014] In various embodiments, the modular container further comprises a verification unit configured to: perform customer package verification based on information provided by a customer; provide the customer with access to a package within a box unit of the plurality of box units; determine that the customer has retrieved the package; and update the status of the package as delivered. The information may be a QR code, a PIN, a passcode, etc.

[0015] In various embodiments, the plurality of box units each communicates their respective package status to the modular container using the electronic communication device. In various embodiments, a first box unit located above a second box unit forwards package status information to the modular container via the second box unit.

[0016] In various embodiments, the plurality of boxes are organized by the crane approximately according to a delivery route.

[0017] In various embodiments, a method for preparing a modular container delivery system for shipment from a storage facility includes: determining that a delivery order has been created; determining that a plurality of packages have been retrieved; determining that the plurality of packages are aligned with a corresponding plurality of box units; loading each of the plurality of packages into a respective one of the plurality of box units; loading the plurality of box units into a modular container; determining a delivery route; loading the delivery route into the modular container; attaching the modular container to a vehicle; and determining that the vehicle is ready to follow the delivery route.

[0018] In various embodiments, the plurality of box units are loaded into the modular container approximately according to the delivery route.

[0019] In various embodiments, the method further comprises uploading the delivery route to a cloud service.

[0020] In various embodiments, the modular container is a power source for the vehicle.

[0021] In various embodiments, the plurality of boxes are loaded into a storage portion of the modular container that is separate from a delivery portion of the modular container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] A detailed description is presented with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical elements. Different elements and / or components than those illustrated in the drawings may be used for different embodiments, and some elements and / or components may not be present in different embodiments. The elements and / or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout the disclosure, the singular and plural terms may be used interchangeably, depending on the context. Fig. 1 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of a vehicle with modular containers according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of a modular container according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of the interior of a modular container according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of delivery aspects of a modular container according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 5 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of a variety of box units according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram of a box unit-crane interaction in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 shows an illustrative example of a process for preparing a modular container for delivery in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 shows an illustrative example of a process for performing contactless delivery using a modular container delivery system according to one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Fig. 1 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 100 of a vehicle 102 having modular containers according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] The Fig. The vehicle 102 depicted in Figure 1 may be any suitable type of vehicle for making deliveries. Packages may be loaded into box units 106, and the box units 106 may be loaded into a modular container 104. The modular container 104 may include a crane 108 that may be used to load and unload the box units, for example, via a magnetic attachment feature. The modular container 104 may include a storage section 110 and a delivery section 112. The storage section 110 may be used to store packages in an area generally inaccessible to customers. For example, a wall or other physical barrier may be present that prevents access to box units located within the storage section 110.The delivery section 112 may include a parcel delivery interface that can be used by customers to access packages. In various embodiments, the modular container 104 may be attached to or detached from a platform chassis 114 of the vehicle 102.

[0025] As one example, autonomous delivery can facilitate contactless package deliveries. The benefits of such a delivery system can include cleanliness. Given the growing concerns about highly contagious diseases such as COVID-19, the ability to deliver packages contactlessly helps mitigate or eliminate potential transmission between a delivery worker and a package recipient.

[0026] It is understood that the vehicle configuration described in this document is merely exemplary and not intended to be limiting. Other electric or hybrid vehicle configurations should be considered as disclosed in this document. Other vehicle configurations may include, but are not limited to, series hybrid vehicles, parallel hybrid vehicles, series-parallel hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), fuel cell hybrid vehicles, battery electric vehicles (BEVs), or any other vehicle configuration known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0027] In various embodiments, the modular container and the driving platform have a dedicated connection interface for both mechanical intervention and module communication. The modular container provides additional information to the vehicle platform, such as from additional cameras and sensors. In various embodiments, the modular containers can charge the driving platform, allowing the platform to have less downtime during charging and more usable hours.

[0028] In various embodiments, a modular container system is attached to a vehicle, and the vehicle is assigned a delivery route based on the contents of the modular container system. For example, the modular container may be loaded with box units organized based on a delivery route. The delivery route may be an approximate delivery route that may be modified based on last-minute deliveries. Box units loaded into a modular container may include electrical circuitry that stores information regarding the contents of the box, such as package information, delivery location information, etc. In various embodiments, a cloud service determines a delivery route and provides the delivery route to the vehicle. In various embodiments, the vehicle may be dispatched to perform a delivery route.Once the vehicle is on its delivery route, any obstacles along the route, detours, or route changes can be handled by the vehicle's on-board control units and geolocation systems. For example, the vehicle's system can be notified of a route change, and the vehicle's system can confirm the change and update its guidance to follow the new route.

[0029] A route change can be processed by the vehicle's control unit to improve delivery times. If the vehicle changes the route to improve delivery times, box units that would be delayed are placed in a pending status, according to at least one embodiment. In various embodiments, if the vehicle cannot deliver on time in a portion of the route, the box units can simply be identified in the storage facility and placed for a future delivery trip.

[0030] In various embodiments, customers can assign another person as their delivery reserve. When this is done, the vehicle can make the necessary adjustments during operation to deliver the package to the reserve if the reserve is also on the vehicle's planned delivery route.

[0031] The status of crate units can be reflected by a visual indicator. For example, the crate unit can include a notification LED that emits a specific color to reflect the status. For example, the notification LED can be off or blank when a package has been successfully delivered, blue when the package is pending, red when there is an error, green when it is ready for transport, and yellow when the crate unit requires maintenance. These should be considered non-limiting examples of how a status can be communicated to people in the delivery workflow.

[0032] In various embodiments, if a package has not been delivered, such a status can be reflected by a blue LED, and the system can arrange a new delivery appointment with the customer. If this also fails, the delivery can be canceled or placed in a local delivery locker, allowing the customer to go to a physical location to collect their package.

[0033] For loading parcels onto the vehicle after delivery orders have been issued, they are sorted depending on the location of the delivery location, according to a predetermined route, or any other suitable method for determining the delivery route. Parcels may be sorted approximately according to their intended route. Approximate delivery routes may differ from the actual delivery route ultimately taken for delivery. This may be due to changes in delivery caused by the processing of last-minute parcels. For example, the majority of parcels may be sorted and loaded during the day or at some time before the delivery vehicle is scheduled to be dispatched onto the delivery route. However, at some point after parcels have been loaded and before dispatch, additional parcels may arrive at the facility and have been loaded into the modular container.This can lead to a situation where the last-minute package would have been placed in a different location within the modular container if it had been received earlier.

[0034] After all boxes for a route have been loaded into a storage bin, the box unit can communicate its delivery location to the bin via the box unit's communication systems, allowing the system to identify the location of each parcel in each stack of parcels and reorder the parcel boxes based on their delivery proximity to the customer.

[0035] Fig. 2 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 200 of a modular container 202 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] In various embodiments, a simplified representation of a modular container 202 is shown in Fig. 2. The modular container 202 may include a frame 204 used to house box units 206. The box units 206 may have various sizes and shapes, although for simplicity Fig. 2 depicts a single, uniform cube-shaped box unit. In various embodiments, the box units include magnetic attachment elements that can be used by a crane 208 for attachment and removal.

[0037] The frame 204 may include a sliding member 210 that includes a crossbar that supports the crane 208. For example, the sliding member 210 may move along a horizontal axis, and the crossbar may move along a vertical axis. The crane 208 may be configurable to raise or lower. Accordingly, it is understood that the crane 208 may be configured to access any of the Fig. 2. For example, the crane 208 can move along the sliding member 210 and / or the crossbar to load box units into a modular container. In various embodiments, the box units have different shapes (e.g., different heights, widths, and / or lengths).

[0038] Although in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in order not to obscure the interior elements of the modular container, walls may be located along the sides of the modular container 202. In various embodiments, the modular container includes an attachment mechanism or connection interface for mechanical engagement and module communication. The modular container provides additional information to the vehicle platform, such as from additional cameras and sensors. In various embodiments, the modular containers can charge the driving platform, allowing the platform to have less downtime for charging and more usable hours.

[0039] Fig. 3 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 300 of the interior of a modular container 302 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, the modular container 302 is made of Fig. 3 shown in the left part in a top view and in the right part in a side view.

[0040] In various embodiments, the modular container 302 includes a sliding member 304 that may be capable of sliding along a rail of the modular container 302 to move toward the front and rear of the modular container. The crossbar 306 may be used to position the crane 308 toward the left or right side of the modular container. Accordingly, it is understood that the crane 308 may be controlled for placement over box units that may be stored throughout the modular container. In various embodiments, the Fig. 3 box units shown will be kept in a storage section during transport and then moved to a delivery section to allow authorized customers to receive their packages.

[0041] With reference to the right part of Fig. 3, the crane 308 may receive electrical commands to retrieve a box unit (e.g., box unit 314) from the storage portion of the modular container 302. The crane 308 may be positioned by moving along the slide member 304 and / or the crossbar 306 so that it is directly over the desired box unit. The crane 308 may include an arm 310 that is extendable and retractable. The arm may be extended to contact the desired box unit, and an attachment mechanism 312 located at or near the end of the arm 310 contacts and / or engages the desired box unit. Box units may include a magnetic attachment element that can be used by the crane 308 for secure attachment.The box unit 314 can be retrieved and then moved to a delivery portion of the modular container 302, and then the attachment mechanism can be disengaged once it has been placed in the delivery portion of the modular container. This facilitates the delivery of the contents of the box unit 314 (e.g., a package) to a client or customer.

[0042] Fig. 4 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 400 of delivery aspects of a modular container 402 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] The left part of Fig. 4 depicts an isometric view of a modular container 402 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, the modular container 402 is organized into at least a storage section 404 and a delivery section 406. The storage section 404 may be used to store packages in an area generally inaccessible to customers. For example, a wall or other physical barrier may be present that prevents access to box units located in the storage section 404. The delivery section 406 may include a package delivery interface that can be used by customers to access packages in box units (e.g., a box unit 408) via a delivery zone 410. In various embodiments, the modular container 402 includes a delayed delivery section (in Fig. 4 not shown), which in conjunction with the Fig. 8 described processes. With further reference to Fig. 4, when a package is to be delivered, a crane may determine the box unit containing the package to be delivered and retrieve the box unit from the storage section 404 of the modular container 402. The retrieved box unit 408 may be moved from the storage section 404 to the output section 406. The box unit 408 may be placed in the delivery section 406, but not in the delivery zone 410, until the customer uses a verification unit 412 to perform a verification step, such as correctly entering a QR code, PIN, or passcode. In various embodiments, the delivery interface 414 includes a door, hatch, or other movable member that exposes the box unit 408 to the customer.For example, if the customer enters a QR code for the box unit 408, the box unit can be moved into the delivery zone 410 and a door of the box unit 408 can be unlocked (e.g., via an electronic command sent to the box unit 408). The delivery interface 414 can be smaller than the frame of the box unit 408, so that the door of the box unit can be opened, but the box unit itself cannot be removed via the delivery interface 414.

[0044] Fig. 5 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 500 of a variety of box units according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Various box units, such as a box unit 502 are in Fig. 5 illustrates.

[0046] A box unit may include various components, such as an LED 504 or other visual indicator, an electronic communication device 506, and a magnetic receptacle 508. In various embodiments, the LED 504 is a visual indicator located on top of the box unit and provides workers with an easily recognizable and understandable visual indication of the status of the box unit 502. The LED 504 emits a specific color to reflect the condition of the box unit. For example, the notification LED may be off or blank when a package has been successfully delivered, the LED may be blue when the package is in a pending status, red when there is an error, green when it is ready for transport, and yellow when the box unit requires service.These should be considered as non-limiting examples of how a status can be communicated to people in the delivery workflow.

[0047] In various embodiments, the electronic communication device 506 refers to a modular communication mechanism that can be used to relay information to other components within the delivery ecosystem. For example, the electronic communication device 506 can be attached to a receiving element at the bottom of a modular container. The box unit 502 can communicate its contents, delivery location, delivery time, and other information that can be used as part of the delivery workflow. In various embodiments, the box unit relays delivery information from other box units. For example, a first box unit located below a second box unit can be used to communicate delivery information of the second box unit to the modular container in a relay mechanism. Information regarding the location of the box units (e.g.,how many units the height is) can be provided to the modular container, providing the modular container with a 3-dimensional view of the location of all box units within the modular container.

[0048] In various embodiments, the magnetic receptacle 508 can be used to attach and / or disengage box units to each other and / or a modular container. For example, the magnetic receptacle 508 located at the bottom of a box unit 502 can be attached to a receiving member located at the bottom of the modular container. As a second example, the lower magnetic receptacle of a first box unit can be attached to the upper magnetic receptacle of a second box unit, thereby securely stacking the first box unit on top of the second box unit.

[0049] In various embodiments, the box unit 502 includes a door 510 that can be locked or unlocked. The door can be locked after a package has been placed within the box unit 502 to prevent theft or tampering. When a customer enters validation information, the door 510 can be unlocked to provide the customer access to the package to be delivered.

[0050] In various embodiments, the box unit 502 includes a battery or other energy storage mechanism. The electronic communication device or other components can be used to provide battery power from the box units to each other or to the modular container. The modular container can provide power to the vehicle via a dedicated interface. The modular container can provide power to a battery or a hybrid vehicle, either as a primary or supplemental power source.

[0051] Fig. 6 depicts an illustrative, non-limiting example diagram 600 of a box unit-crane interaction in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] In various embodiments, the crane 602 includes a magnetic element that can be attached to the box unit 604 via the magnetic receptacle 606 located on the top of the box unit 604. In various embodiments, the magnetic receptacle 606 and the electronic communication device 608 protrude upward from the top of the box unit 604, and the bottom of the box unit 604 includes corresponding recesses that allow the boxes to be stacked on top of one another. In various embodiments, the corners on the bottom of a box unit include box loading / box communication devices 610 that can be used for mechanical engagement, loading, module communication, or various combinations thereof. The top of the box unit can include corresponding holes for receiving the box loading / box communication device.

[0053] Fig. 7 depicts an illustrative example of a process 700 for preparing a modular container for delivery in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the process 700 (or any other processes described herein, or variations and / or combinations thereof) is performed in part or in whole under the control of one or more computer systems storing computer-executable instructions, and may be implemented as code (e.g., computer-executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or more applications) executing collectively on one or more processors, by hardware, software, or combinations thereof.The code, in at least one embodiment, is stored on a computer-readable storage medium in the form of a computer program storing a plurality of computer-readable instructions executable by one or more processors. The computer-readable storage medium, in at least one embodiment, is a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In at least one embodiment, at least some of the computer-readable instructions usable to perform process 700 are not stored exclusively using transient signals (e.g., a propagating transient electrical or electromagnetic transmission). A non-transitory computer-readable medium does not necessarily include non-transitory data storage circuitry (e.g., buffers, latches, and queues) within transient signal transceivers.The process 700 may be implemented in the context of various systems and methods described elsewhere in this disclosure, such as those described in connection with . Fig. 1-6 discussed.

[0054] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 702 of determining that a delivery order has been created. The delivery order may be provided to the system performing process 700 through a cloud service. In some embodiments, the system may be considered to include the modular container, the box units, the vehicle, the packaging equipment, the cloud service, or any combination thereof.

[0055] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 704 of determining that packages are being retrieved from the storage facility. In some embodiments, the packages may be retrieved from the storage facility by an employee or worker at the facility. The system performing process 700 may, in some cases, determine that the package has been retrieved when a worker scans a label, barcode, or other identifier on the package during retrieval. In some embodiments, the package is retrieved by autonomous robots at a storage facility.

[0056] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 706 for determining that the packages are aligned with their corresponding boxes. In various embodiments, packages are assigned to corresponding box units. In various embodiments, some or all box units include an integrated display that may be configured to display information related to the package to be loaded into the box unit. In some embodiments, packages are configured to emit RF signals that can be detected by the box unit and used to identify when a package is properly aligned with its corresponding box unit. RF signals may include identification information, may be used to determine an absolute or relative location of the package, etc.

[0057] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 708 of loading the package into the box unit. In various embodiments, package information is loaded into circuitry of the box unit, for example, shipping information related to the package, such as the intended recipient, delivery location, and the like. In various embodiments, an LED on the box unit emits a green signal or other indication of the status of the box unit. This step can be performed for each of the packages retrieved in step 704.

[0058] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 710 of loading the packages into a tray approximately according to a delivery route. The delivery route may be determined based on various factors, such as the available space within the platform chassis, the delivery location for other packages to be loaded and delivered along a route, and more.

[0059] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 712 of loading the charging cradle into the modular container. The charging cradle may be arranged as described above.

[0060] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 714 of determining a delivery route. In various embodiments, the delivery route is determined based on an optimization for delivering the most packages in the shortest time or other factors, such as customer convenience. In some embodiments, delivery locations may be determined to facilitate multiple deliveries to the same location. For example, if multiple customers are in close physical proximity (e.g., in a densely populated urban environment), the delivery location may be determined at a location convenient for the multiple customers, for example, by calculating a line centroid, an incircle center, or an orthocenter based on the customers' locations, such that a shared delivery location does not cause undue inconvenience to any customer.

[0061] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 716 of uploading the delivery route to the cloud. In various embodiments, delivery vehicles are connected via the cloud, and a cloud service is capable of coordinating deliveries between a fleet of delivery vans. In various embodiments, different delivery vans may be loaded with modular containers. Delivery vans may have different vehicle characteristics, such as power, range, etc., which the cloud service may use to determine an optimal fleet allocation. In various embodiments, the route is uploaded to the cloud and then prepared to be loaded into a delivery vehicle.

[0062] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 718 for loading the route into the modular container system. In various embodiments, the route is loaded into the vehicle through a cloud service. In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 720 for preparing a modular container for loading into the delivery vehicle.

[0063] In various embodiments, process 700 includes a step 722 for determining that the modular container is ready to leave the storage facility. The status of the modular container may be communicated to the cloud service, for example, to indicate that the modular container has been attached to a specific vehicle and that the vehicle has been assigned the appropriate route for delivering the packages in the attached modular container.

[0064] Fig. 8 shows an illustrative example of a process 800 for performing contactless delivery using a modular container delivery system according to one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the process 800 (or any other processes described herein, or variations and / or combinations thereof) is performed in part or in whole under the control of one or more computer systems storing computer-executable instructions, and may be implemented as code (e.g., computer-executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or more applications) executing collectively on one or more processors, by hardware, software, or combinations thereof.The code, in at least one embodiment, is stored on a computer-readable storage medium in the form of a computer program storing a plurality of computer-readable instructions executable by one or more processors. The computer-readable storage medium, in at least one embodiment, is a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In at least one embodiment, at least some of the computer-readable instructions usable to perform process 800 are not stored exclusively using transient signals (e.g., a propagating transient electrical or electromagnetic transmission). A non-transitory computer-readable medium does not necessarily include non-transitory data storage circuitry (e.g., buffers, latches, and queues) within transient signal transceivers.The process 800 may be implemented in the context of various systems and methods described elsewhere in this disclosure, such as those described in connection with . Fig. 1-6 discussed.

[0065] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 802 of determining that the modular container has been brought into proximity with a vehicle. In various embodiments, the container is loaded with modular box units ordered according to an approximate delivery route.

[0066] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 804 of attaching the modular container to the vehicle. In various embodiments, the vehicle includes a chassis platform. In various embodiments, the modular container and the chassis platform include a dedicated connection interface for both mechanical engagement and module communication.

[0067] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 806 of engaging the electrical connection between the modular container and the vehicle. The electrical connection can be used by the modular container to provide additional information to the vehicle platform, such as from additional cameras and sensors. In various embodiments, the modular containers can charge the driving platform, allowing the platform to have less downtime while charging and more usable hours.

[0068] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 808 for determining package information. In various embodiments, when the vehicle is en route, the package sorter (integrated system) is used to determine package information and forward such information to the vehicle.

[0069] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 810 for determining whether the packet information indicates an error. If the packet information is correct, process 800 may proceed to step 812. Otherwise, if the packet returns an error, process 800 may proceed to step 826.

[0070] With further reference to Fig. 8, in various embodiments, the process 800 includes a step 812 for determining which packages are to be delivered soon. In various embodiments, this step includes determining a location of the vehicle, route information for the vehicle, delivery locations for packages loaded in the modular container, and estimating when various packages are expected to be delivered based on such conditions.

[0071] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 814 of notifying the customer that the delivery vehicle is nearby to confirm delivery. In various embodiments, the vehicle is in communication with a cloud service provider and provides updates of its location (e.g., GPS coordinates) to the cloud service provider, and the cloud provider may send a notification to the client or customer, for example, via an electronic message such as an email or text message, or a mobile app notification. The notification may indicate that the package is en route and provide an estimated delivery time and / or location.

[0072] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 816 of arranging the box unit of the package to position it so that it is easily accessible for the delivery process. In various embodiments, the box units in the modular container are organized roughly according to a route. For example, a last-minute package for delivery can be placed on top of other box units so that it is out of line. In various embodiments, the modular container includes a crane with a magnetic element that can be attached to and detached from the box units.The modular container's magnetic arm can be used to organize the box units within the modular unit so that they sit on top of other boxes, meaning that retrieval of such box units can be done quickly as other box units do not need to be moved when the customer requests the package.

[0073] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 818 of reading the QR code to verify the correct package. This may be performed before the vehicle arrives at the delivery destination to ensure that the correct packages have been picked up.

[0074] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 820 of moving the package to the delivery section. In various embodiments, a vehicle's package sorter moves the package to be delivered from a storage section to a delivery section. This may be performed simultaneously with notifying the customer that the package is ready for pickup.

[0075] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 822 of notifying the customer that the package is ready for pickup. Various notification mechanisms, such as those discussed above, may be used to notify the customer, including email or text messages, mobile app notifications, etc. This may be performed concurrently with the package sorter moving the package from the storage section to the delivery section.

[0076] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 824 for performing package customer verification. In various embodiments, the verification includes the customer scanning a QR code with a scanner of the vehicle located near a hatch, door, or other barrier element that can be controlled by the vehicle.

[0077] In various embodiments, the process 800 may proceed to step 826 if the package customer verification fails or incorrect customer information is presented. If the delivery verification is validated and OK, the process 800 may proceed to step 830. If the customer is unable to receive the package, the process 800 may proceed to step 846. In various embodiments, the customer is provided with a time window during which delivery can occur. If the customer is unable to reach the vehicle before the time window or the vehicle departs, the status of the package may be updated so that a subsequent delivery attempt can be made.

[0078] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 826 of moving the package to a separate section of the vehicle. In various embodiments, the modular container has a dedicated section (e.g., separate from the storage and delivery section) into which packages to be inspected can be moved, or into a delayed delivery section.

[0079] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 828 for causing the box unit's LED to indicate that attention is requested. In various embodiments, the box unit may be configured to emit a red LED visual indicator in response to a package return error or incorrect customer, alerting workers that further attention is required when the box unit is returned to the storage facility. In various embodiments, process 800 proceeds to attempt delivery of the next package on the delivery route (e.g., returns to step 808).

[0080] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 830 of determining that the customer has arrived at the delivery vehicle. In various embodiments, the delivery vehicle is fully automated so that contactless delivery may be facilitated, thereby reducing the likelihood of transmission of contagious diseases that would otherwise be possible if a human driver were involved in the delivery. The customer's location may be determined based on radio signals emitted by a device of the customer, such as a mobile phone, which may be used to determine an absolute or relative position of the customer. In various embodiments, the customer scans a QR code with a QR code reader of the vehicle.In various embodiments, cameras or other sensors are used to determine when the customer is ready to receive the contents of the delivered box unit. In various embodiments, the delivery section includes a flap that programmatically opens when the customer scans a QR code, enters a PIN, or provides other information as part of a package-customer validation process. In some embodiments, the customer's biometrics can be used to validate that the correct recipient is present. In some embodiments, photo or video data is captured, which can be used to prevent theft or provide information for lost package investigations.

[0081] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 832 of determining that the customer has removed from the delivery section. In various embodiments, a door or other physical barrier is opened, exposing a box unit whose contents include the package to be delivered to the customer. In some embodiments, a door or hatch of the box unit is unlocked as part of the delivery process to allow the customer to access the contents of the box unit.

[0082] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 834 for updating the status of the package as delivered. In various embodiments, this step includes instructing the box unit to turn off its LED. The status of the package may be transmitted to a cloud service according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, this document describes the workflow for facilitating the delivery of a package using a modular container and box units.

[0083] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 836 for determining whether the delivery plan is complete. If not, process 800 may return to step 808 and perform a delivery for a second, third, fourth, etc., packet until all packets on the route are successfully delivered.

[0084] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 838 of returning to the storage facility when the delivery plan is completed. Completion of a route may involve attempting to deliver some or all of the packages within the modular container. For example, in some cases, unexpected traffic may occur that causes a portion of a delivery route to be skipped, and those packages may be delivered at a different time.

[0085] In various embodiments, the process 800 includes a step 840 of detaching the modular container from the vehicle. In various embodiments, the vehicle includes a chassis platform. In various embodiments, the modular container and the platform chassis include a special connection interface for mechanical disengagement. In various embodiments, the process 800 includes a step 842 of determining if more deliveries are required. If more deliveries are required, a second modular container may be attached to the vehicle. In various embodiments, the second modular container may be loaded while the vehicle is on the delivery route. In various embodiments, the modular containers may load the driving platform, so that the platform has less downtime during loading and more usable hours.This can enable continuous operation of the vehicle. For example, a conventional BEV may have a limited battery life, limiting the delivery vehicle's range to the point where the vehicle must be recharged at a charging station once the battery is depleted. In various embodiments, the modular container acts as a primary or secondary power source for the vehicle, allowing the vehicle to operate continuously, as swapped-in modular containers can provide the vehicle with additional range.

[0086] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 844 of transitioning to a maintenance mode when no more deliveries are required. The maintenance mode may allow servicing of the vehicle, modular containers, box units, or any other component. For example, undelivered packages may be unloaded and then serviced by workers at the facility.

[0087] Referring again to step 826, if package client verification is performed and the customer is unable to receive the package, process 800 proceeds to step 846 to update the box unit's status for a retry. In various embodiments, a blue LED signal is emitted to indicate that a retry delivery attempt should be made.

[0088] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 848 for rescheduling another delivery attempt for the package. In various embodiments, the status of the package is transmitted to a cloud service that coordinates the delivery of packages across an entire distribution network. In various embodiments, as part of rescheduling the package, process 800 includes a step 850 for receiving customer input regarding a new delivery date and / or time to attempt another delivery.

[0089] In various embodiments, process 800 includes a step 852 of returning the package for reprocessing. In various embodiments, the package is returned to the storage facility and may be unloaded from the modular container, reprocessed, and placed in another modular container for another delivery attempt. In various embodiments, process 800 proceeds to deliver the next package on the vehicle's delivery route. Process 800 may include a step 854 of determining whether the package was delivered. In some embodiments, the status of a package is set to a failed status at step 856 if multiple attempted deliveries are unsuccessful. This may occur after the second, third, fourth, etc., delivery attempt.Once the delivery is considered a failed attempt, the package status can change to failed, and the order can be canceled or rerouted to the storage facility for on-site delivery. If the package was successfully delivered, process 800 is complete with respect to the delivered package.

[0090] The acts and processes described and illustrated above may, in various implementations, be executed or performed in any suitable order, as desired. Additionally, in certain implementations, at least some of the acts may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, in certain implementations, fewer or more acts than those described may be performed.

[0091] As used herein, the word "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." An embodiment described as "exemplary" in this specification should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.The terms "computing device," "user device," "communications station," "station," "handheld device," "mobile device," "wireless device," and "user equipment" (UE), as used in this document, refer to a wireless communications device, such as a cable box, a smart wearable device, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a netbook, a wireless terminal, a laptop computer, a femtocell, a high data rate (HDR) subscriber station, an access point, a printer, a point-of-sale device, an access terminal, or other personal communications system (PCS) device. The device may be either mobile or stationary.

[0092] As used herein, the term "communicate" is intended to include transmitting or receiving, or both transmitting and receiving. This can be particularly useful in patent claims when describing the organization of data transmitted by one device and received by another, but only the functionality of one of those devices is required to infringe the claim. Similarly, the bidirectional exchange of data between two devices (both devices transmitting and receiving during the exchange) can be described as "communicating" when only the functionality of one of those devices is claimed. The term "communicate" as used herein with reference to a wireless communication signal includes transmitting the wireless communication signal and / or receiving the wireless communication signal.For example, a wireless communication unit capable of communicating a wireless communication signal may include a wireless transmitter for transmitting the wireless communication signal to at least one other wireless communication unit and / or a wireless communication receiver for receiving the wireless communication signal from at least one other wireless communication unit.

[0093] As used in this paper, the use of the ordinal adjectives "first," "second," "third," etc., to describe a common object, unless otherwise noted, merely indicates that reference is made to different instances of similar objects and is not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in any given sequence, whether temporally, spatially, in order of precedence, or in any other way.

[0094] Some embodiments may be used in connection with various devices and systems, for example, a smart wearable device, a personal computer (PC), a desktop computer, a mobile computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a tablet computer, a server computer, a handheld computer, a handheld device, a personal digital assistant (PDA) device, a handheld PDA device, an in-vehicle device, an out-of-vehicle device, a hybrid device, a vehicle device, a non-vehicle device, a mobile or portable device, a consumer device, a non-mobile or non-portable device, a wireless communication station, a wireless communication device, a wireless access point (AP), a wired or wireless router, a wired or wireless modem, a video device,an audio device, an audio-video (A / V) device, a wired or wireless network, a wireless area network, a wireless video area network (WVAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), a personal area network (PAN), a wireless PAN (WPAN), and the like.

[0095] Some embodiments may be used in connection with one-way and / or two-way radio communication systems, cellular radiotelephone communication systems, a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a wireless phone, a personal communication system (PCS) device, a PDA device including a wireless communication device, a mobile or portable global positioning system (GPS) device, a device including a GPS receiver or GPS transceiver or GPS chip, a device including an RFID element or chip, a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) transceiver or device, a single input multiple input (SIMO) transceiver or device, a multiple input single output (MISO) transceiver or device, a device,which has one or more internal antennas and / or external antennas, digital video broadcast (DVB) devices or systems, multi-standard radio devices or systems, a wired or wireless handheld device, e.g., a smartphone, a wireless application protocol (WAP) device, or the like.

[0096] Some embodiments may be used in connection with one or more types of wireless communication signals and / or systems following one or more wireless communication protocols, for example, DOCSIS, radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), orthogonal FDM (OFDM), time-division multiplexing (TDM), time-division multiple access (TDMA), enhanced TDMA (E-TDMA), general packet radio service (GPRS), enhanced GPRS, code-division multiple access (CDMA), wideband CDMA (WCDMA), CDMA 2000, single-carrier CDMA, multi-carrier CDMA, multi-carrier modulation (MDM), discrete multi-tone (DMT), Bluetooth®, the global positioning system (GPS), Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, ZigBee, Ultra Wideband (UWB),the global system for mobile communications (GSM), 2G, 2.5G, 3G, 3.5G, 4G, fifth generation (5G) cellular networks, 3GPP, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced, enhanced data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), or the like.® Other embodiments may be used in various other devices, systems, and / or networks.

[0097] Embodiments according to the disclosure are particularly disclosed in the appended claims, which are directed to a method, a storage medium, an apparatus, and a computer program product, wherein any feature mentioned in one claim category, e.g., method, may also be claimed in another claim category, e.g., system. The dependencies or backreferences in the appended claims are chosen merely for formal reasons. However, any subject-matter resulting from a deliberate backreference to any previous claims (in particular, multiple dependencies) may also be claimed, so that any combination of claims and their features is disclosed and may be claimed, regardless of the dependencies chosen in the appended claims.The subject matter that may be claimed includes not only the combinations of features as set forth in the appended claims, but also any other combination of features in the claims, wherein any feature recited in the claims may be combined with any other feature or combination of other features in the claims. Furthermore, any of the embodiments and features described or illustrated in this specification may be claimed in a separate claim and / or in any combination with any embodiment or feature described or illustrated in this specification or with any of the features of the appended claims.

[0098] The above description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired through practice of various embodiments.

[0099] Certain aspects of the disclosure are described above with reference to block and flow diagrams of systems, methods, apparatus, and / or computer program products according to various implementations. It should be understood that one or more blocks of the block diagrams and flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flow diagrams, may be implemented by computer-executable program instructions. Likewise, some blocks of the block diagrams and flow diagrams need not be performed in the order presented, or need not be performed at all, according to some implementations.

[0100] These computer-executable program instructions may be loaded into a special purpose computer or other special purpose machine, processor, or other programmable data processing device to create a special purpose machine such that the instructions, when executed in the computer, processor, or other programmable data processing device, create means for implementing one or more functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or a memory that can instruct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that implement one or more functions specified in the block or blocks of flowchart diagrams. As an example, certain implementations may provide a computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code or computer-readable program instructions embodied therein, the computer-readable program code configured to be executed to implement one or more functions specified in the block or blocks of flowchart diagrams.The computer program instructions may also be loaded into a computer or other programmable data processing device to cause a series of operational elements or steps to be performed in the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions executing in the computer or other programmable device provide elements or steps for implementing the functions specified in the block or blocks of the flowchart diagrams.

[0101] Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowcharts support combinations of means for performing the specific functions, combinations of elements or steps for performing the specific functions, and program instruction means for performing the specific functions. It is further understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowcharts, may be implemented by dedicated hardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions, elements, or steps, or combinations of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0102] Implementations of the systems, devices, apparatus, and methods disclosed in this document may include or utilize a special-purpose or general-purpose computer that includes computer hardware, such as one or more of the processors and system memories discussed in this document. Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that, when executed on a processor, cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing device to perform a particular function or set of functions. An implementation of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed in this document may communicate over a computer network. A "network" is defined as one or more data connections that enable the transport of electronic data between computer systems and / or modules and / or other electronic devices.

[0103] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the features or acts described above. Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms for carrying out the claims.

[0104] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it is to be understood that these have been presented merely by way of example and not by way of limitation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure are not to be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but are to be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.It should also be noted that any or all of the foregoing alternative implementations may be used in any desired combination to form additional hybrid implementations of the present disclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with reference to a particular device or component may be performed by a different device or component. Language expressing conditional relationships, such as, but not limited to, "may," "could," "may," or "may possibly," is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include certain features, elements, and / or steps, whereas other embodiments may not include them, unless specifically stated otherwise or clear from the particular context used.Thus, such language expressing conditional relationships is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

[0105] In one aspect of the invention, the plurality of box units are loaded into the modular container approximately according to the delivery route.

[0106] In one aspect of the invention, at least some of the plurality of box units have different sizes and shapes.

[0107] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes uploading the delivery route to a cloud service.

[0108] In one aspect of the invention, the modular container is a power source for the vehicle.

[0109] In one aspect of the invention, the plurality of boxes are loaded into a storage section of the modular container that is separate from a delivery section of the modular container.

Claims

[1] Method comprising: Attaching a modular container to a vehicle using a connection interface providing mechanical engagement and module communication, the modular container loaded with a plurality of box units and comprising a magnetic arm with an attachment mechanism for attachment to a magnetic receptacle of a box unit; Determining at least a first package ready for delivery in a first box unit based on a delivery route; Confirming delivery of the first package to a customer; Using the magnetic arm to position the first box unit for pickup; Reading a QR code to verify the first package; Conducting a package customer verification; Determining successful customer verification; Determine that the customer has arrived at a delivery location; Determining that the customer has removed the first package from the first box unit; and Updating a status of the first package of the first package to be delivered. [2] The method of claim 1, further comprising Identifying a false customer as part of package customer verification; Moving the first package to a delayed delivery section of the modular container; and Updating the status of the first package to request attention. [3] The method of claim 1, further comprising: Determining that the customer cannot receive the first package as part of package customer verification; Updating the status of the first package for a redelivery attempt; and rescheduling the delivery of the first package. [4] The method of claim 1, further comprising using the magnetic arm to move the first box unit from a storage portion of the modular container to a delivery portion of the modular container. [5] The method of claim 1, wherein the first box unit comprises: a first notification LED reflecting the status of the first packet; a first magnetic receptacle for attachment to the magnetic arm; and a first electronic communication device. [6] The method of claim 5, wherein the first box unit further comprises a second magnetic receptacle for attachment to another box unit, located at a bottom of the first box unit. [7] The method of claim 1, wherein the modular container comprises a verification unit for reading the QR code and a delivery interface for providing access to the first package to the customer. [8] Delivery system with modular container, comprising: a battery-powered electric vehicle comprising a chassis having a connection interface for mechanical engagement and module communication with a modular container; the modular container, comprising: a frame; a sliding member mounted on the frame, the sliding member further comprising a crossbar; and a crane mounted on the sliding elements, the crane further comprising an attachment mechanism for engaging box units; and a plurality of box units, each box unit comprising: a notification LED; a magnetic recording; and an electronic communication device. [9] The modular container delivery system of claim 8, wherein the modular container comprises a storage section and a delivery section. [10] The modular container delivery system of claim 8, wherein the modular container further comprises a verification unit configured to: Performing customer package verification based on information provided by a customer; Providing the customer with access to a package within a box unit of the plurality of box units; Determine that the customer has removed the package; and Update the package status as delivered. [11] The modular container delivery system of claim 10, wherein the information comprises a QR code. [12] The modular container delivery system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of box units each communicate their respective package status to the modular container using the electronic communication device. [13] The modular container delivery system of claim 12, wherein a first box unit located above a second box unit relays package status information to the modular container via the second box unit. [14] The modular container delivery system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of boxes are organized by the crane approximately according to a delivery route. [15] Method comprising: Determine that a delivery order has been created; Determining that a plurality of packets have been retrieved; determining that the plurality of packages are aligned with a plurality of box units; loading each of the plurality of packages into a respective box unit of the plurality of box units; Loading the plurality of box units into a modular container; Determining a delivery route; Loading the delivery route into the modular container; Attaching the modular container to a vehicle; and determining that the vehicle is ready to follow the delivery route.

Images