Landing platform and procedures

Abstract

Landing platform, comprising: a base (302) having an opening (304) therethrough; a plurality of positioning arms (306) rotatably mounted on the base (302), each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) rotatable between an unlocked position and a locked position, and each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) configured to engage a positioning ring (206) on an unmanned aerial vehicle (102) and further configured to reposition the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) on the base (302); and a processor (604; 704) configured to: Reading an identification code on the unmanned aerial vehicle (102); and Determining a correct orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform, wherein determining the correct orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform includes determining the correct orientation based on the identification code.

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a landing platform and methods that manage the landing and positioning of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Loading an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into a specific location can be difficult. Precise landing sites are hampered by turbulence generated by the air displaced by the UAV's propellers and reflected from the landing surface. When the UAV lands on a moving surface, precise landings become more difficult. In many situations, a UAV must be precisely positioned to successfully load / unload a payload, successfully attach cargo systems, and the like. Therefore, it is necessary to position a UAV appropriately on a landing surface to support payload loading / unloading and other activities.

[0003] The document WO 2016 / 143 806 A1 describes a method for sending drones into a radioactive environment, such as the interior of a nuclear power plant, wherein a heliport for the drone is provided on an unnamed tracked vehicle and has a fastening mechanism for attaching the drone to the platform in order to prevent the drone from falling during transport over uneven terrain.

[0004] The document US 2011 / 0 068 224 A1 shows a drone with a spherical landing gear that can be positioned and secured on a landing platform with a dent-shaped recess.

[0005] Furthermore, the document US 2014 / 0 124 621 A1 shows a landing platform for a drone, which is designed for rough terrain and can be adjusted horizontally by means of hydraulic cylinders, with adjustable strips on the platform for variable delimitation of the landing field and positioning of the landing skids of the drone.

[0006] The documents US 2014 / 0319272 A1 and US 2017 / 0 050 749 A1 show further landing platforms for drones with sensory aids for positioning the drone on the platform. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise indicated. Fig. 1 is a block diagram depicting an environment in which an example embodiment may be implemented. Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of a landing platform capable of accommodating an unmanned aerial vehicle. Fig. Figure 4 illustrates an example of a positioning arm associated with the landing platform. Fig. Figure 5 illustrates an example of an unmanned aerial vehicle secured to a landing platform. Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a UAV management system. Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method for landing, securing, positioning, and aligning an unmanned aerial vehicle on a landing platform. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] The present invention is based on the object of creating an improved landing platform for drones and an improved method for positioning drones on a landing platform that avoids the disadvantages of the prior art and advantageously develops the latter. In particular, the aim is to enable precise positioning of the drone on the landing platform for unloading or loading, while achieving reliable fixation of the drone on the landing platform.

[0009] According to the invention, the stated object is achieved by a landing platform according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 12. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] In the following disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific implementations in which the disclosure may be practiced. It is understood that other implementations may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or feature, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, or feature. Furthermore, such phrases are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.It should also be understood that where a particular property, structure, or feature is described in connection with one embodiment, it is within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art to implement such property, structure, or feature in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0011] Implementations of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein may include or utilize a special-purpose or general-purpose computer that includes computer hardware, such as one or more processors and system memory, as discussed herein. Implementations within the scope of the present disclosure may also include physical and other computer-readable media for carrying or storing computer-executable instructions and / or data structures. Such computer-readable media may be any available media accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer system. Computer-readable media on which computer-executable instructions are stored are computer storage media (devices). Computer-readable media that carry computer-executable instructions are transmission media.Thus, by way of example and not limitation, implementations of the present disclosure may include at least two distinctly different types of computer-readable media: computer storage media (devices) and transmission media.

[0012] Computer storage media (devices) include: RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, solid state drives (“SSDs”) (e.g., based on RAM), flash memory, phase-change memory (“PCM”), other types of memory, other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0013] An implementation of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein 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. When information is transmitted or provided to a computer over a network or other communication connection (either hardwired, wireless, or any combination of hardwired and wireless), the computer correctly views the connection as a transmission medium. Transmission media may include a network and / or data connections that may be used to transport desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.Combinations of the foregoing should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0014] Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that, when executed on a processor, cause a special purpose computer or special purpose processing device to perform a particular function or set of functions. The computer-executable instructions may be, for example, binary files, instructions in an intermediate format such as assembly language, or source code. 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 herein. Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as exemplary implementations of the claims.

[0015] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure may be implemented in network computing environments having many types of computer system configurations, including PCs, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, cellular phones, PDAs, tablets, pagers, routers, switches, various storage devices, and the like. The disclosure may also be practiced in distributed systems environments in which both local computer systems and remote computer systems connected by the network (either through hardwired data links, wireless data links, or any combination of hardwired and wireless data links) perform tasks. In a distributed systems environment, program modules can reside in both local and remote storage devices.

[0016] Furthermore, the functions described in this document may be performed in one or more of the following: hardware, software, firmware, digital components, or analog components, as appropriate. For example, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) may be programmed to perform one or more of the systems and operations described herein. Certain terms are used throughout the specification and claims to refer to particular system components. Those skilled in the art will understand that components may be referred to by different names. This document is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not in function.

[0017] It should be noted that the sensor embodiments discussed herein may include computer hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof to perform at least some of their functions. For example, a sensor may include computer code configured to execute on one or more processors and may include hardware logic / electrical circuitry controlled by the computer code. These example devices are provided herein for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in other types of devices, as would be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0018] At least some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to computer program products comprising such logic (e.g., in the form of software) stored on any computer-usable medium. Such software, when implemented in one or more

[0019] Data processing devices are designed so that a device functions as described in this document.

[0020] Fig. 1 is a block diagram depicting an environment 100 in which an example embodiment may be implemented. An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 102 may land on and take off from a landing platform 104 mounted on a vehicle 106 (e.g., mounted on the roof of the vehicle 106). The vehicle 106 may be any type of vehicle, such as a car, truck, van, bus, train, and the like. In some embodiments, the vehicle 106 may be moving while the UAV 102 lands on the landing platform 104. In certain implementations, the vehicle 106 is a delivery vehicle that transports at least one item to be delivered by the UAV 102. In alternative embodiments, the landing platform 104 may be mounted on any type of device or structure, such as a building, loading dock, loading platform, and the like.The UAV 102 may be any type of unmanned aerial vehicle capable of maneuvering to land on and take off from any type of landing platform. In some embodiments, the UAV 102 is a multicopter having two or more rotors (e.g., motors) and associated propellers. In certain embodiments, In some implementations, the UAV 102 has a single rotor and an associated propeller. The UAV 102 may also be referred to as a drone or remotely piloted aircraft. As discussed in more detail herein, the landing platform 104 provides a temporary location for the UAV 102 to load and receive a payload, deliver a payload, recharge, ride piggyback on the vehicle 106, and the like.

[0021] As in Fig. 1, the vehicle 106 includes a UAV management system 108 capable of wirelessly communicating with the UAV 102. Any communication protocol may be used for communications between the UAV management system 108 and the UAV 102, such as 3G, 4G LTE, WLAN and the like. In some embodiments, the UAV management system 108 provides flight guidance to the UAV 102 when it is on the landing platform 104 or take off from it. Furthermore, the UAV management system 108 may provide instructions to the landing platform 104 to position and orient the UAV 102 on the landing platform 104, as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the UAV management system 108 communicates with a server 110 via a data communications network 112. For example, the UAV management system 108 may communicate data associated with the UAV 102, the vehicle 106, the payload, and the like to the server 110. Furthermore, the UAV management system 108 may receive data from the server 110 associated with the UAV 102, payload delivery instructions, and the like. Other types of data received by the UAV management system 108 may include: a calculated flight path for the UAV 102, temporary flight restrictions, airspace flight restrictions, and localized models of Obstacles near the delivery or in the flight path of the UAV 102. The data communication network 112 includes any type of network topology using any communication protocol. Furthermore, the data communication network 112 may include a combination of two or more communication networks. In some embodiments, the data communication network 112 includes a mobile communication network, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, or any other communication network.

[0022] It is understood that the embodiment of Fig. 1 is merely an example. Other embodiments may include fewer or additional components without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, the illustrated components may be combined or incorporated into other components without restriction.

[0023] Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the UAV 102. As in Fig. 2, the UAV 102 includes a fuselage section 202 containing a plurality of rotors (or motors) that drive a plurality of propellers 204. In this example, the fuselage section 202 includes four rotors that drive four propellers 204. A circular positioning ring 206 is attached to the fuselage section 202 and surrounds the fuselage section 202. As discussed herein, the positioning ring 206 is used to position and align the UAV 102 after landing on a landing platform, such as the landing platform 104. The positioning ring 206 is attached to the fuselage section 202 using a plurality of support pieces 208. In the example of Fig. 2, four support pieces 208 are used to fix the positioning ring 206 to the fuselage portion 202. In alternative embodiments, any number of support pieces 208 may be used in any configuration to attach the positioning ring 206 to the fuselage portion 202. In the example of Fig. 2, the positioning ring 206 is located on a side of the fuselage section 202 opposite the propellers 204 to avoid any contact between the positioning ring 206 and the propellers 204. In some embodiments, a ring similar to the positioning ring 206 is integrated into the fuselage section 202 (e.g., manufactured as part of the fuselage section 202) such that the ring extends from the fuselage or housing of the UAV 102. Although the positioning ring 206 is circular, in alternative embodiments, the positioning ring 206 may have other shapes, such as an elliptical shape.

[0024] Fig. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a landing platform 300 capable of accommodating a UAV. The landing platform 300 includes a base 302 having an opening (or cavity) 304 in the center of the base 302. In the example of Fig. 3, the base 302 is circular. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 302 may have any shape. Similarly, the base 302 shown in Fig. 3 is circular; however, alternative embodiments of the landing platform 300 may include a base having an opening of any shape and size. In some embodiments, the size of the opening 304 is suitable for loading and unloading payloads carried by a UAV that has landed on the landing platform 300.

[0025] The landing platform 300 also includes a plurality of positioning arms 306 attached to the base 302. Each positioning arm 306 can be rotated between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the example of Fig. 3, the positioning arms 306 are in the unlocked position. When the positioning arms 306 are in the unlocked position, vertical movement of the UAV is enabled, such as landing on the landing platform 300 or taking off from the landing platform 300. When the positioning arms 306 are in the locked position (e.g., as shown in Fig. 5), vertical movement of the UAV is prevented. Each positioning arm 306 rotates about a pivot point 308. In some embodiments, the positioning arm 306 is driven by a stepper motor (e.g., the one shown in Fig. 4). Additional details regarding the locking and unlocking of the positioning arms 306 are discussed herein. Although the example of Fig. 3 includes four positioning arms 306, alternative embodiments may include any number of positioning arms.

[0026] In some embodiments, the landing platform includes a camera 310 attached to the base 302. The camera 310 captures images of the UAV to assist in landing and / or taking off of the UAV. Furthermore, the camera 310 can read an identification code (e.g., a barcode or QR code) on the UAV that identifies, for example, a UAV type, settings associated with the UAV, positioning settings associated with the UAV, and orientation settings associated with the UAV. In some embodiments, NFC (near field communication) or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication systems are used to communicate an identification code from the UAV to the landing platform 300 or the UAV management system 108. Alternatively, one or more IR LEDs on the UAV can communicate with one or more IR receivers in the landing platform 300.In certain implementations, one or more magnetic switches are used to determine an orientation of the UAV on the landing platform 300.

[0027] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates an example of a positioning arm 306 associated with a landing platform. The positioning arm 306 includes a stepper motor 402 that causes the positioning arm 306 to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. Any type of motor or other mechanism can be used to pivot the positioning arm 306 between the locked and unlocked positions. The positioning arm 306 also includes a wheel 404 configured to engage a positioning ring 206 on the UAV 102. The wheel 404 is attached to the positioning arm 306 and can be rotated to cause movement of the positioning ring 206, which is in physical contact with the wheel 404. In some embodiments, the wheel 404 is rotated by a continuous rotation servo motor 408. Alternatively, any type of motor or other mechanism can be used to rotate the wheel 404.In some embodiments, the wheel 404 is manufactured using a material such as rubber or silicone such that there is significant friction between the wheel 404 and the positioning ring 206. This friction is necessary for the movement of the wheel 404 to move the positioning ring 206, causing rotation of the UAV 102. In further implementations, the wheel 404 is manufactured using any coarse and / or high-friction material, such as rough wood, rough metal, suede, and the like. The positioning arm 306 further includes an overhang portion 406 extending beyond the wheel 404. The. Overhang portion 406 provides a gap for positioning the ring 206. When the positioning arm 306 is in the locked position (e.g., as shown in Fig. 5), the positioning ring 206 is located between the landing platform and the overhang portion 406. Thus, the overhang portion 406 prevents the positioning ring 206 from moving away from the landing platform. Furthermore, the overhang portion 406 holds the positioning ring 206 in a location that contacts the wheel 404.

[0028] Fig. 5 illustrates an example of a UAV 102 secured to the landing platform 300. In the example of Fig. 5, the four positioning arms 306 are in the locked position, which secures the UAV 102 to the landing platform 300 and prevents vertical movement of the UAV 102. As in Fig. 5, the UAV 102 is approximately centered on the landing platform 300, allowing access to the floor of the UAV 102 from below the landing platform 300 (through the opening in the Landing platform 300). For example, the payload (not shown) can be loaded or unloaded through the opening, or a UAV charging connection system (not shown) can be established through the opening. Furthermore, maintenance or repair of the UAV can be performed through the opening or from above the landing platform 300.

[0029] In the example from Fig. 5, the overhang portion 406 of each positioning arm 306 secures the positioning ring 206 to the base 302 of the landing platform 300. Furthermore, each wheel 404 of each positioning arm 306 is in contact with the positioning ring 206. Thus, when the wheels 404 of the positioning arms 306 are rotated, they cause the UAV 102 to rotate on the base 302. This rotation (e.g., reorientation of the UAV 102) may be necessary to properly orient the UAV 102 to load / unload a payload, access a UAV cargo system, and the like.

[0030] When landing the UAV 102 on the landing platform 300, the positioning arms 306 are initially in the unlocked position (e.g., as shown in Fig. 3). After landing, the UAV 102 must not be centered over the opening in the base 302.

[0031] As the positioning arms 306 rotate from the unlocked position to the locked position, the wheels 404 contact the positioning ring 206, causing the UAV 102 to slide toward the center of the base 302 as the positioning arms continue to move toward the locked position. In some embodiments, the length of the positioning arms 306 and the placement of the wheels 404 are determined based on the size (e.g., diameter) of the positioning ring 206. After the UAV 102 is centered on the base 302, the wheels 404 are rotated, as needed, to reorient the UAV 102 to load / unload a payload, access a UAV cargo system, and the like.

[0032] In some embodiments, the landing platform 300 can accommodate UAVs 102 with different sizes (e.g., diameters) of positioning rings 206. To accommodate different sizes of positioning rings 206, each positioning arm 306 has a variable length (such as a spring-loaded portion) that can be adjusted to establish appropriate alignment with a particular positioning ring 206. In further embodiments, different sizes of positioning rings 206 are accommodated by rotating all positioning arms 306 at the same time and at the same rotational speed. When all positioning arms 306 have contacted the positioning ring 206 (e.g., have stopped moving), the UAV 102 can be rotated (if necessary) by rotating the wheels 404 of the positioning arms 306.

[0033] Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the UAV 102. As in Fig. 6, the UAV 102 includes a communication manager 602, a processor 604, and a memory 606.

[0034] The communications manager 602 enables the UAV 102 to communicate with other systems, such as the UAV management system 108, the server 110, the data communications network 112, and the like. The processor 604 executes various instructions to implement the functionality provided by the UAV 102, as discussed herein. These instructions, as well as other data used by the processor 604 and other modules and components included in the UAV 102, are stored on the memory 606.

[0035] The UAV 102 also includes a camera 608 that captures images of areas near the UAV 102. In some embodiments, an image processing module 610 analyzes images captured by the camera 608 to locate landing platforms, delivery areas, obstacles, and the like. Furthermore, the image processing module 610 can assist in landing the UAV 102 by identifying a landing platform location (or other delivery area location) and determining flight settings required to successfully land the UAV 102 on the landing platform. A trajectory module 612 generates and maintains information regarding a trajectory that the UAV 102 attempts to follow. In some embodiments, the trajectory information is received from the UAV management system 108 or the server 110. A rotor control module 614 controls the operation of a plurality of rotors 616 associated with the UAV 102.In some embodiments, the UAV 102 includes three or four rotors 616 that assist the UAV 102 in flying between multiple locations. For example, the rotor control module 614 may control the rotational speed of each rotor 616 to steer and maneuver the UAV 102 toward a destination, such as a landing platform or a delivery location. Thus, the rotor control module 614 may assist in maneuvering the UAV 102 along a particular flight path that avoids obstacles and the like. In certain embodiments, one or more of the functions performed by the rotor control module 614 are instead performed by the UAV management system 108 or the server 110, which sends appropriate rotor control instructions to the rotor control module 614 for implementation.

[0036] Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the UAV management system 108. As in Fig. 7, the UAV management system 108 includes a communications module 702, a processor 704, and a memory 706. The communications module 702 enables the UAV management system 108 to communicate with other systems and devices, such as the UAV 102, the server 110, the data communications network 112, and the like. The processor 704 executes various instructions to implement the functionality provided by the UAV management system 108, as discussed herein. These instructions, as well as other data used by the processor 704 and other modules and components included in the UAV management system 108, are stored on the memory 706.

[0037] The UAV management system 108 also includes an image processing module 708 that analyzes images captured, for example, by camera 608 (in the UAV 102) or camera 310 in the landing platform 300. The image processing module 708 can assist in landing the UAV 102 by identifying the location and trajectory of the UAV 102 relative to the landing platform 300 and determining flight settings necessary to successfully land the UAV 102 on the landing platform 300. A trajectory module 710 generates and maintains information regarding a trajectory that the UAV 102 is attempting to follow.

[0038] A platform control module 712 manages the operation of the landing platform 300, such as locking the UAV 102 to the landing platform 300 and unlocking the UAV 102 for takeoff from the landing platform 300. The platform control module 712 may also control the rotation of the positioning arms 306 and the rotation of the wheels 404 to reorient the UAV 102 as needed. In some embodiments, the platform control module 712 also determines an identifier associated with the UAV 102 and makes any necessary adjustments to the landing platform 300 based on the identifier.

[0039] A UAV position manager 714 is operable in combination with the platform control module 712 to reposition the UAV 102 so that it is centered on the landing platform 300. A UAV orientation manager 716 adjusts the orientation of the UAV 102, as appropriate, so that it is appropriately oriented to load / unload a payload, access a UAV loading system, and the like. A UAV load and unload manager 718 supports the loading and unloading of the payload carried by the UAV 102.

[0040] Fig.8 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method 800 for landing, securing, positioning, and aligning a UAV on a landing platform. Initially, a UAV 802 approaches a landing platform and maneuvers to land on the landing platform. After the UAV lands on the landing platform, a plurality of positioning arms 804 rotate from an unlocked position to a locked position, thereby securing the UAV to the landing platform and centering the UAV on the landing platform. The method 800 then determines 806 an appropriate orientation for the UAV on the landing platform. For example, the appropriate orientation may enable loading or unloading of a payload, accessing a UAV cargo system, and the like. Wheels on the plurality of positioning arms are rotated 808 to rotate (i.e., reorient) the UAV on the landing platform to maintain the appropriate orientation of the UAV.Once the UAV is properly aligned with the landing platform, one or more activities 810 are performed, such as loading / unloading a payload, charging the UAV, and the like. Once the activities are completed, the plurality of positioning arms 812 are rotated from the locked position to the unlocked position, and the UAV lifts off 814 from the landing platform.

[0041] While various embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein, it is to be understood that these are merely examples and not limitations. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the described example embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. The description is presented in this specification for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the disclosed teachings.It should further be noted that any or all of the alternative implementations discussed herein may be used in any desired combination to form additional hybrid implementations of the disclosure. REFERENCE NUMBER LIST Reference number Term 100 surroundings 102 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 104 Landing platform 106 vehicles 108 UAV management system 110 servers 112 Data communication network 202 fuselage section 204 propellers 206 Positioning ring 208 support pieces 300 landing platform 302 Base 304 Opening or cavity 306 Positioning arm 308 pivot point 310 Camera 402 stepper motor 404 Wheel 406 overhang section 408 Servomotor 602 Communications Management Facility 604 processor 606 memory 608 Camera 610 image processing module 612 trajectory module 614 Rotor control module 616 rotors 702 communication module 704 processor 706 memory 708 Image processing module 710 trajectory module 712 Platform control module 714 UAV Position Management Facility 716 UAV orientation management facility 718 Unloading management facility 800 procedures 802 UAV 804 positioning arms 806 Determination of orientation 808 Turning the wheels 810 activities 812 positioning arms 814 Take off

Claims

[1] Landing platform, comprising: a base (302) having an opening (304) therethrough; a plurality of positioning arms (306) rotatably mounted on the base (302), each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) rotatable between an unlocked position and a locked position, and each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) configured to engage a positioning ring (206) on an unmanned aerial vehicle (102) and further configured to reposition the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) on the base (302); and a processor (604; 704) configured to: Reading an identification code on the unmanned aerial vehicle (102); and Determining a correct orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform, wherein determining the correct orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform includes determining the correct orientation based on the identification code. [2] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the landing platform is configured to strengthen the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) on the base (302) such that the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) is properly oriented to load or unload a payload through the opening (304) or to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle (102). [3] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) includes a wheel (404) that engages the positioning ring (206) on the unmanned aerial vehicle (102). [4] The landing platform of claim 3, wherein rotation of the wheel (404) on at least one of the positioning arms (306) results in movement of the positioning ring (206), thereby reorienting the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) on the base (302). [5] The landing platform of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) includes a continuous rotation servo motor (408) configured to rotate the wheel (404). [6] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein vertical movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) is enabled when the plurality of positioning arms (306) are in the unlocked position, and vertical movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) is prevented when the plurality of positioning arms (306) are in the locked position. [7] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the landing platform is configured to position the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) so that it is centered over the opening (304). [8] The landing platform of claim 1, further comprising a camera (310) mounted on the base (302) and configured to read at least one identification code on the unmanned aircraft (102), the identification code identifying at least one of: an unmanned aircraft type, settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102), positioning settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102), and orientation settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102). [9] The landing platform of claim 8, wherein the plurality of positioning arms (306) reposition the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) based on the identification code on the base (302). [10] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein the landing platform is mounted on a delivery vehicle (106) that transports at least one item to be delivered by the unmanned aerial vehicle (102). [11] The landing platform of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) further includes a stepper motor (402) configured to rotate the positioning arm between the locked position and the unlocked position. [12] Method comprising: Receiving an unmanned aerial vehicle (102) on a landing platform; Rotating a plurality of positioning arms (306) from an unlocked position to a locked position, wherein the plurality of positioning arms (306) engage a positioning ring (206) on the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) in the locked position; Reading an identification code on the unmanned aircraft (102) Determining an appropriate orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform, wherein determining the appropriate orientation of the unmanned aircraft (102) on the landing platform includes determining the appropriate orientation based (302) on the identification code; and Rotating a wheel (404) on each of the plurality of positioning arms (306) to adjust the orientation of the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) to the appropriate orientation. [13] The method of claim 12, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) is secured to the landing platform when the plurality of positioning arms (306) are in the locked position. [14] The method of claim 12, further comprising: Loading or unloading the payload carried by the unmanned aerial vehicle (102); and Rotating the plurality of positioning arms (306) from the locked position to the unlocked position to release the unmanned aerial vehicle (102) from the landing platform. [15] The method of claim 12, wherein rotating the plurality of positioning arms (306) from the unlocked position to the locked position includes activating a stepper motor associated with each of the plurality of positioning arms (306). [16] The method of claim 12, wherein the identification code identifies at least one of the following: an unmanned aircraft type, settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102), positioning settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102), and orientation settings associated with the unmanned aircraft (102).

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