Accessories used for package delivery by drone

The outdoor accessory device on buildings, with cargo receiving information units, addresses the challenge of precise drone package delivery by identifying recipients and navigating obstacles, ensuring safe and accurate package placement.

JP2026061472APending Publication Date: 2026-04-09SORAHUKU CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-09-30
Publication Date
2026-04-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional drone delivery technologies focus on flight control rather than package delivery control, lacking accurate and safe methods to identify recipients and deliver packages to individual balconies or locations in buildings.

Method used

An outdoor accessory device installed on building components, equipped with a cargo receiving information notification unit that displays or transmits information to drones, including identification images, short-range wireless communication, and contactless communication, enabling precise delivery to individual recipients.

Benefits of technology

Enables accurate and safe delivery of packages to individual recipients by identifying the recipient, determining delivery methods, and navigating around obstacles, ensuring secure placement on balconies or suitable locations.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

We provide an outdoor attachment that displays information about the shipment being transported by the drone, tailored to the recipient. [Solution] An accessory device fixed to a door or window installed outdoors for each individual unit of a building, which can be installed on a door or window that is the target position for a drone carrying cargo, and has a cargo receiving information notification unit that displays or transmits cargo receiving information to the drone. The door or window is a handrail door or window erected outdoors for each individual unit, and has a top plate fixed to the top surface of the handrail door or window, and a front plate on the outdoor side and / or a rear plate on the indoor side of the handrail door or window. It also has a box-shaped box that is connected to the indoor side of the top plate or rear plate and into which cargo can be inserted. Furthermore, it has a locking receiver that temporarily stops the drone in a hovering state and temporarily locks it in place when the tip of the cargo transfer mechanism extending from the drone comes into contact with it.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for delivering parcels using a drone (small unmanned aircraft).

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the improvement of drone functions, the practical application of a parcel delivery system has been promoted. Generally, as a delivery location for parcels by drones, a yard of a detached house or a rooftop of an apartment building such as a condominium is assumed. The recipient can receive the parcel immediately after leaving their home, saving the trouble of redelivery. Conventionally, even in buildings such as apartment buildings, there is a technology for installing a drone port on a veranda or balcony to directly deliver parcels to each household (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this technology, a protruding floor portion that protrudes outward from the outer wall of the balcony of the building is provided as a drone port. Also, a door that partitions the boundary between the drone port and the other balcony parts is provided, allowing the recipient to enter and exit. A drone can be connected to the Internet via, for example, a mobile phone network and can identify the location (coordinates and altitude) of each household of the delivery destination of the parcel by communicating with a cloud server. As a result, the drone can approach even the balconies of each household in an apartment building.

[0003] As another prior art, there is also a technology for a system that manages landing site information of a plurality of landing sites for a plurality of unmanned aircraft (see, for example, Patent Document 2). According to this technology, the landing site information includes the type, location, size, and allowable weight of the unmanned aircraft of the landing site. As a result, the drone can also be safely landed at the landing site.

[0004] Another conventional technique involves acquiring images at the drone's landing site and calculating drone flight control information based on those images and information linked to the altitude of that location (see, for example, Patent Document 3). According to this technique, the images captured by the drone are input into a predetermined algorithm to extract flight control information. The captured images may include information such as the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or file path name where the content is located. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6850133 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-054866 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-047737 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the aforementioned conventional technology is based on drone flight control, not on package delivery control. In general, package delivery requires confirmation of the package itself, the recipient, and their address. Furthermore, the method of receiving the package varies depending on the recipient. Even with drone delivery, it's necessary to correctly identify the recipient and accurately and safely place the package on individual balconies or other suitable locations.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an outdoor attachment that enables drone-loaded cargo to be delivered accurately and safely to individual recipients in a building. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to the present invention, in an accessory device fixed to a door or window installed outdoors for each individual unit of a building, It can be installed on building components that serve as the target location for a drone carrying cargo. It has a cargo receiving information notification unit that displays or transmits cargo receiving information to the drone. It is characterized by the following:

[0009] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The receiving information notification unit is an identification image that can be captured from a camera mounted on the drone, or a short-range wireless communication device or contactless communication device that can transmit to the drone. That is also desirable.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The receiving information notification unit will provide the receiving information as follows: Consignee identifier, The business identifier that the consignee has contracted, Box Type Identifier Cargo transfer information based on boxes or ramps Location information of obstacles that may hinder the receiving of goods. The width and height of the door or window where the accessory will be installed, Drone hovering or landing position correction information Includes any one or a combination thereof, Receipt information is displayed as an identification image, or transmitted from a short-range wireless communication device or a contactless communication device. That is also desirable.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, It further includes a target image display unit that displays a target image representing the target position for the drone, The drone is controlled to recognize the target image on the target image display unit and approach the attached device, and then the receiving information on the receiving information notification unit is made to recognize or receive the receiving information on the receiving information unit. That is also desirable.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, When the load receiving information notification unit is an identification image, the plate surface on which the identification image is displayed is based on a low-reflection material for sunlight and / or a functional material that reflects received light. This is also preferable.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, The building fitting is a handrail building fitting erected outdoors for each door, and has an upper panel fixed to the upper surface of the handrail building fitting. This is also preferable.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, The upper panel integrally has a front panel on the outdoor side and / or a rear panel on the indoor side of the handrail building fitting. This is also preferable.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, It further has a box-shaped box coupled to the indoor side of the upper panel and into which luggage can be inserted. This is also preferable.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, The box is arranged on the outdoor floor surface for each door of the building, and further has a slope for sliding the luggage between the upper panel or the rear panel and the box. This is also preferable.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, The upper panel or the rear panel further has a slope for sliding the luggage toward the outdoor or indoor floor surface for each door of the building. This is also preferable.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the accessory of the present invention, The upper panel further has a flat drone port on the indoor side of the handrail building fitting. This is also preferable.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The floorboards of the box are made of a perforated mesh. That is also desirable.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The box is transparent, allowing you to see if it contains any luggage. That is also desirable.

[0021] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The box has a holder on which a mobile device can be temporarily placed. That is also desirable.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The system further includes a locking receiver that temporarily holds the drone in a hovering state, by contacting the tip of the cargo transfer mechanism extending from the drone. That is also desirable.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The locking receiver is equipped with a magnet at the part that contacts the drone's transport mechanism, guiding the transport mechanism to automatically align with the position of the locking receiver. That is also desirable.

[0024] According to another embodiment of the accessory device of the present invention, The locking receiver is a notch into which the arm at the tip of the transport mechanism extending from the drone is locked. The notches in the locking receiver are provided in the front and rear panels of the handrail fitting, and the tip of the arm is equipped with a gripper facing downwards, with the front claw of the gripper engaging with the notch in the rear panel, and the rear claw of the gripper engaging with the notch in the front panel, or The notches in the locking receiver are located at both ends of the top plate, and are angled such that they are longer on the sides of the top plate and become shorter as they approach the center. The tip of the arm is mounted with a hook facing downwards, and the hook is naturally drawn towards the center and locked in place by the angle of the top plate. That is also desirable. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the accessory device of the present invention, it is possible to place it outdoors and deliver packages loaded by a drone accurately and safely to individual recipients in a building. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] This is an external view of the basic auxiliary equipment in the present invention as seen from the outside of the building. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the attached fixtures as viewed from the side of the building. [Figure 3] This is a first explanatory diagram of the receiving information displayed or transmitted by the accessory device of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a second explanatory diagram of the receiving information displayed or transmitted by the accessory device of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an external view of the box-equipped accessory in the present invention, as seen from the indoor side. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the attached fixtures as viewed from the side of the building. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing the extension of the transport mechanism that moves cargo mounted on a drone. [Figure 8] This is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone to the accessory shown in Figure 6. [Figure 9] This is an external view of the accessory device with a ramp and box, as seen from the indoor side. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the attached equipment. [Figure 11] This is an external view of the auxiliary device with a ramp, as seen from the indoor side. [Figure 12]Figure 11 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the attached equipment. [Figure 13] Figure 9 is an external view of the attached device with a drone port on the indoor side. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the attached equipment. [Figure 15] This is an external view showing the locking receiver that uses a magnet to secure the tip of the drone's transport mechanism. [Figure 16] This is an external view showing the locking receiver that secures the arm at the tip of the drone's transport mechanism using a notch. [Figure 17] This is an external view showing the locking receiver, which uses a notch to secure the hook at the tip of the drone's transport mechanism. [Figure 18] Figure 5 is an external view illustrating the additional functions of the accessory device. [Figure 19] This is an explanatory diagram showing that the accessory device in the present invention further includes a target image display unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is an external view of the basic accessory in the present invention as seen from the outside of the building. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the accessory shown in Figure 1 as viewed from the side of the building.

[0029] The accessory device 1 of the present invention is fixed to a "joinery" installed outdoors on each individual unit of a building. The joinery may be, for example, a railing on a veranda or balcony of an apartment building. Of course, it is not limited to this, and may also be a structure attached to the building, such as a support column.

[0030] According to Figures 1 and 2, for each individual unit in the building, the attached fixture 1 is permanently installed on the "handrail fixture 2" erected outdoors. The handrail fixture 2 is erected, for example, along the exterior wall of a building, from the floor surface of a balcony or similar area. It is designed to be at a height above a person's waist to prevent people from falling from balconies or similar areas. Generally, there are types that consist of an aluminum frame arranged in a grid pattern, or that are integrated with the exterior wall. The handrail fixture 2 has at least an upper surface 21, an outdoor surface 22, and an indoor surface 23. The upper surface 21 will be the handrail surface that people will touch. The exterior surface 22 faces outwards from the building, running along (or protruding from) the exterior wall of the apartment building. The indoor surface 23 is located outside each individual unit and faces inward (towards the interior) of the balcony where people move.

[0031] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the drone 3 carries cargo according to the recipient. Then, using an autonomously moving multicopter, it approaches each individual house's balcony, etc., from the air. To this end, the drone 3 basically has the following functions. • Wide-area wireless communication function • Positioning function ·camera • Short-range wireless communication device (central side) / Contactless communication device (reader side)

[0032] The wide-area wireless communication function may connect to 4G (4th Generation) or 5G (5th Generation) mobile phone networks, or it may connect to satellite phones or other wide-area wireless communication networks such as WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access).

[0033] The positioning function is a global positioning satellite system such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) based on GPS (Global Positioning System), which can determine coordinate position and altitude, and detect direction and speed over time. According to the present invention, it is preferable to use RTK (Real-Time Kinematics) positioning. For example, the mobile station of the positioning function of drone 3 can perform real-time and highly accurate positioning by relative positioning, correcting each other via a network with a fixed point "reference station". This makes it possible to obtain centimeter-level positioning accuracy.

[0034] Cameras acquire images of their surroundings. From these images, distance and direction can be detected. For example, using Structure from Motion (SfM), feature points can be tracked from multiple images taken while moving, and relative distance and direction can be measured using the principle of triangulation. Furthermore, using machine learning, for example, relative distance and direction can be detected directly from the captured images in real time.

[0035] The short-range wireless communication device (central side) may be, for example, Bluetooth®. For example, with Bluetooth 5.1 or higher, in addition to the distance (with accuracy in centimeters) between the connected device and the device, the direction can also be detected. Specifically, there are two methods: the Angle of Arrival method and the Angle of Departure method. In the Angle of Arrival method, the receiving side is equipped with multiple antennas and analyzes the phase difference of the signal received from the transmitting side to determine the direction of the transmitter. In the Angle of Departure method, the transmitter is equipped with multiple antennas and controls the phase of the signal to radiate a signal in a specific direction, and the receiving side can detect the direction even with a single antenna. Both methods utilize the Constant Tone Extension (CTE) included in the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) signal. This contains a certain signal pattern necessary for measuring the phase difference.

[0036] Furthermore, the contactless communication device (reader side) may be, for example, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). This allows for contactless reading and writing of data on an RF tag (mounted on accessory device 1 of the present invention) using radio waves. For example, by using radio waves in the UHF band of 860 to 960 MHz, communication is possible even at a distance of up to 20 meters.

[0037] <Included accessories 1> The fixture 2 to which the attachment device 1 is fixed becomes the target position for the drone 3 loaded with cargo. The drone 3 is controlled to fly toward the target position managed by the cloud server, and can recognize or receive cargo receipt information corresponding to the cargo it is delivering in the vicinity of each recipient's home.

[0038] According to Figures 1 and 2, for example, the top plate 12 of the accessory device 1 is fixedly installed on the top surface 21 of the handrail fitting 2 using fasteners such as bolts and nuts. Furthermore, it has an outdoor front panel 11 and an indoor rear panel 13 of the handrail fixture, which are integrally formed with the upper panel 12 of the attached fixture 1. Of course, it may also consist of only the front panel 11 or only the rear panel 13. The front panel 11 of the attached fixture 1 is installed so as to follow the exterior surface of the handrail fitting 2. In other words, the outer surface of the front panel 11 follows the exterior surface of the building and is not visible from balconies or individual residents. The rear panel 13 of the accessory device 1 is installed so as to follow the exterior surface of the handrail fitting 2.

[0039] The accessory device 1 of the present invention is characterized by having a "package receipt information notification unit 10" that displays or transmits "package receipt information" to the drone 3. When Drone 3 delivers a package to a balcony of an apartment building, multiple individual balconies appear close together from the perspective of Drone 3. In the future, it is possible that multiple Drone 3s from different delivery companies may deliver to each balcony. In that case, Drone 3 needs to determine whether the recipient of the package on the individual balcony is a person who has contracted with the delivery company, or the person who requested the delivery of the package. Furthermore, Drone 3 also needs to determine the delivery method of the package (for example, the box type described later) depending on the individual balcony. In other words, the present invention enables Drone 3 to accurately and safely deliver packages to recipients by determining the recipient information of individual balconies when autonomously delivering packages.

[0040] The receiving information notification unit 10 has, for example, the following two embodiments. • "Identification images" that can be captured from the camera 31 mounted on the drone 3. • A "short-range wireless communication device or contactless communication device" capable of transmitting to Drone 3.

[0041] [Identification Image 101] The identification image 101 of the accessory device 1 is preferably displayed on the outer surface of the front panel 11, as shown in Figure 1. The identification image 101 can be captured by the camera 31 of the drone 3 carrying the cargo. The camera 31 may be, for example, an RGB camera or an infrared camera. The identification image 101 may be pre-printed on the surface of the attached device 1. For example, it may be a QR code (registered trademark), a barcode, a rectangular image, or any predetermined image. Of course, it is not limited to printed images; the image may also be displayed on an electronic display.

[0042] In another embodiment, it is preferable that the outer surface of the panel (e.g., the front panel 11) on which the identification image 101 of the accessory device 1 is displayed is made of a low-reflection material for sunlight. For example, it may be covered with an anti-reflection film that reduces the reflectivity of light. This is generally a film used on displays such as televisions and personal computers to prevent glare and difficulty in viewing.

[0043] In another embodiment, it is also preferable that the outer surface of the panel (e.g., the front panel 11) on which the identification image 101 of the accessory device 1 is displayed is made of a functional material that reflects received light. For example, it may be equipped with a corner cube reflector. An algorithm can also be used to detect the reflected light pattern unique to the corner cube reflector from the image captured by the camera 31 of the drone 3. If the camera 31 of the drone 3 is equipped with LiDAR (laser-based distance measurement), the position can be determined with high accuracy by detecting the reflected light from the corner cube reflector.

[0044] [Short-range wireless communication device 102 (peripheral side)] The short-range wireless communication device 102 (peripheral side) of accessory device 1 is capable of communicating with the short-range wireless communication device (central side) of drone 3. As mentioned above, this may be BLE based on, for example, Bluetooth®. The short-range wireless communication device 102 of accessory device 1, which is the peripheral side, periodically emits advertisements, and drone 3, which is the central side, discovers accessory device 1 by scanning. The central can detect the distance from the received power of the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) between it and the peripheral.

[0045] [Contactless communication device 102 (RF tag side)] The contactless communication device 102 (RF tag side) of accessory device 1 is capable of communicating with the contactless communication device (reader side) of drone 3. As mentioned above, it may be, for example, an RFID. The central drone 3 discovers the contactless communication device 102 of accessory device 1 by scanning. At this time, the distance can also be detected from the received RSSI power between it and the RF tag.

[0046] In this way, the drone 3, which has flown toward the target location, recognizes the delivery information displayed or transmitted from the attached device 1. Based on this delivery information, the drone 3 can then control its behavior according to the individual recipient's household.

[0047] Figure 3 is a first explanatory diagram of the receiving information displayed or transmitted by the accessory device of the present invention. Figure 4 is a second explanatory diagram of the receiving information displayed or transmitted by the accessory device of the present invention.

[0048] The receiving information notification unit 10 displays or transmits "receiving information" which includes, for example, any or a combination thereof of the following information: • Consignee identifier (Figure 3) • The business identifier of the consignee (Figure 3) • Box type identifier (Figure 3) • Cargo transfer information based on boxes or ramps (Figure 3) • Location information of obstacles that may hinder the receiving of goods (Figure 3) • Width and height of the door / window where the attached fixtures will be placed (Figure 3) • Drone hovering or landing position correction information (Figure 4)

[0049] The consignee identifier is an identifier associated with the user who will receive the package. The carrier identifier is an identifier associated with the delivery company of the package. The box type identifier is an identifier associated with the box model, and it allows for the determination of the type of package that can be received based on the box model. The cargo transfer information indicates whether attachment 1 is a box or a ramp. It may also include the type of locking receiver (described later) that engages with attachment 1 when the arm of the drone 3 comes into contact with it. Obstacle location information helps to restrict the direction in which drone 3 approaches an obstacle, for example, "There is an obstacle to the right and behind attachment 1." The width and height of the door and window are designed to control the distance and height at which drone 3 approaches in the direction of travel. The position correction information for Drone 3's hovering or landing indicates the approximate distance (in centimeters) from the target location coordinates set on the cloud server, and in which direction the drone should be positioned to reach that location. For example, if there is an obstacle at the target location coordinates, the drone will be corrected to hover 1 meter away in the opposite direction from the target location to avoid the obstacle.

[0050] Figure 5 is an external view of the boxed accessory according to the present invention, as seen from the indoor side. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the accessory shown in Figure 5 from the side.

[0051] According to Figures 5 and 6, the accessory device 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 further includes a "box 14" that is connected to the indoor side of the top panel 12 or the rear panel 13. The box 14 is a box-shaped object into which the package loaded on the drone can be inserted. For example, the top panel 12 and the top edge of the box 14 may be configured in a planar, horizontal state. In this case, the rear panel 13 is configured as one side of the box 14. As a result, the package delivered by the drone 3 is accurately and safely delivered into the box 14 of the accessory device 1 installed on the handrail fittings 2 of the veranda or other veranda of individual units in the building. The recipient of the package can then go out onto the balcony or elsewhere and retrieve the package from box 14.

[0052] Here, box 14 may be sized to accommodate, for example, a standard 35cm square cardboard box. This is larger than a grocery store shopping basket but smaller than a temperature-controlled delivery box used for food delivery. The material of box 14 should be lightweight and highly durable, such as reinforced plastic or aluminum. In particular, a material that is resistant to wind and rain and does not deteriorate in sunlight is preferred. It is also preferable that the inside of box 14 be covered with an insulating material that has a high cooling effect.

[0053] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the extension of the transport mechanism that transports cargo mounted on the drone.

[0054] Drone 3 is carrying a load, and a transport mechanism 32 is mounted beneath the load to move the load horizontally forward. Here, the transport mechanism 32 can be extended horizontally forward even when Drone 3 is hovering, allowing the load to be moved in that direction. The transfer mechanism 32 transfers the cargo by, for example, the following mechanism. (1) A conveyor belt placed beneath the load moves the load by rotating its shaft, which advances the belt. (2) A robotic arm positioned behind the direction of cargo transport extends to push the cargo out of the rail. (3) A rack and pinion positioned beneath the load pushes the flat load out. This consists of a small-diameter circular gear and a flat rod with teeth cut into it. By rotating the circular gear, the flat rod moves horizontally, pushing out the load.

[0055] Figure 8 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the accessory shown in Figure 6.

[0056] When the drone 3 is hovering, it extends the tip of the arm of the transport mechanism 32 along the top plate 12 of the attachment 1. In the hovering state, the drone 3 can be hooked onto the attachment 1 and locked in place, even without a drone port, and can remain stationary. In this state, the transport mechanism 32 is driven to transport the load horizontally forward on the arm. As shown in Figure 8, the attachment 1 has a box 14 at the front of the top plate 12, so the load is inserted into the box 14. In this way, Drone 3 can deliver packages to the inside of balconies, etc., even if there are obstacles such as railing fixtures 2 or inside the railing. In addition, individual recipients can safely receive packages delivered by Drone 3 on their balconies, etc., without having to lean out from railing fixtures 2.

[0057] Figure 9 is an external view of the accessory device with a ramp and box, as seen from the indoor side. Figure 10 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the accessory shown in Figure 9.

[0058] According to Figures 9 and 10, the box 14 is located on the outdoor floor surface of each individual unit in the building. Specifically, it is located on the floor surface of a balcony or similar area, moving inward from the handrail fixture 2 towards the interior. Furthermore, the box 14 has a "slope 15" between the top panel 12 or rear panel 13 and the box 14 for sliding the transported goods. The goods transported from the drone 3 slide down the slope 15 and are inserted into the box 14. With this structure, the goods can be moved closer to the indoor side within the veranda, preventing them from being exposed to rain and wind. This allows individual recipients to receive their goods without having to go out onto the veranda. Furthermore, it is preferable to provide a guard on the edge of the ramp 15 to prevent sliding loads from falling.

[0059] Figure 11 is an external view of the accessory device with a ramp, as seen from the indoor side. Figure 12 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the accessory shown in Figure 11.

[0060] According to Figures 11 and 12, the drone 3 further includes a sliding ramp 15 that slides the load from the top plate 12 or rear plate 13 toward the outdoor or indoor floor surface of individual units in the building. Here, only the ramp 15 is provided, without the box 14 as shown in Figures 9 and 10. According to Figure 12, the cargo transported from the drone 3 slides down the ramp 15 and is placed on the floor. If the ramp 15 can be constructed as part of the building structure and extends into the interior, the cargo can ultimately be slid into the building.

[0061] Figure 13 is an external view of the accessory shown in Figure 9, with a drone port on the indoor side. Figure 14 is a side view illustrating the transfer of cargo from the drone using the accessory shown in Figure 13.

[0062] As shown in Figure 13, the top panel 12 further has a planar drone port 16 on the indoor side of the handrail fixture 2. By installing the drone port 16 using the handrail fixture 2 of a balcony or the like, there is no need to secure new space. The receiving information displayed or transmitted by the attached device 1 includes information indicating the existence of the drone port 16. It is also preferable that the drone port 16 has a display image clearly indicating the landing location. Drone 3 can land at drone port 16, and the cargo can be reliably transferred to ramp 15.

[0063] Figure 15 is an external view showing the locking receiver that uses a magnet to secure the tip of the drone's transport mechanism.

[0064] As shown in Figure 15, when the drone 3 is transporting cargo while hovering, the arm of the transport mechanism 32 extends horizontally forward. In contrast, the upper plate 12 of the accessory device 1 further has a "locking receiving portion 17" that temporarily locks the tip of the arm of the transport mechanism 32 of the drone 3 when it comes into contact with it. As shown in Figure 15, the locking receiver 17 is equipped with a magnet at the point where it contacts the transport mechanism 32 of the drone 3. For example, by equipping the tip of the arm of the transport mechanism 32 with a south pole magnet and the locking receiver 17 of the top plate 12 with a north pole magnet, the arm of the transport mechanism 32 is guided to naturally align with the position of the locking receiver 17. This allows the drone 3 to be temporarily stationary in a hovering state, preventing the drone 3's posture from wavering during cargo transport.

[0065] Figure 16 is an external view showing a locking receiver that secures the arm at the tip of the drone's transport mechanism by a notch.

[0066] According to Figure 16, the locking receiver 17 is a "notch" into which the tip of the arm of the transport mechanism 32 extending from the drone 3 locks. The notch of the locking receiver 17 is provided in the front panel 11 and the rear panel 13 of the handrail fixture 2, as shown in Figure 16. In contrast, the tip of the arm of the transport mechanism 32 of the drone 3 is capable of gripping and releasing. The tip of the arm is equipped with a gripper that has a front claw and a rear claw, mounted facing downwards. The front claw of the gripper engages with a notch in the rear plate 13, and the rear claw of the gripper engages with a notch in the front plate 11.

[0067] Figure 17 is an external view showing the locking receiver that secures the hook at the tip of the drone's transport mechanism by a notch.

[0068] According to Figure 17, the notches of the locking receiver 17 are formed at both ends of the top plate 12, and are provided with a "slope" such that the length of the top plate 12 is longer on the sides and becomes shorter as it approaches the center of the top plate 12. In contrast, the tip of the drone 3's arm is equipped with a hook facing downwards. The hook of the drone 3 is then automatically drawn towards the center and locked in place by the inclination of the top plate 12 of the attached device 1. As a result, the drone 3 is positioned towards the center of the box 14.

[0069] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the multi-rotor of the drone 3 can also be stopped when the tip of the transport mechanism 32 of the drone 3 hooks onto the locking receiver 17 of the attachment 1. The strength of the transport mechanism 32 supports the gravity of the drone 3 and its cargo, using the locking receiver 17 of the attachment 1 as a fulcrum, and maintains balance. In this way, the transport mechanism 32 itself supports the drone 3 as a landing port.

[0070] Figure 18 is an external view illustrating the additional functions of the accessory shown in Figure 5.

[0071] According to Figure 18, if the box 14 is made of a material such as reinforced plastic, it may be transparent, allowing the presence or absence of a package to be visually confirmed. The recipient can immediately see the presence of the package. Furthermore, the floorboard of box 14 may be a perforated mesh. This allows for a structure that does not resist wind and rain, and prevents fine debris from accumulating in box 14. Furthermore, it is preferable that the box 14 has a holder 18 (smartphone holder) on the top plate portion for temporarily placing a mobile device. The holder 18 needs to be positioned so as not to obstruct the drone 3 when it is transporting the cargo. The recipient can place their smartphone in the holder 18 and take pictures of the outdoor scenery using its rear camera. These images are sent to the cloud server of the delivery company operating the drone 3. The cloud server analyzes the images and can determine if there are any buildings or other obstacles around the attachment 1 that would obstruct the drone 3's flight. If there are any obstructing buildings or other obstacles, the cloud server can also correct the drone 3's flight path. By positioning the smartphone holder in a fixed location on the attachment 1, the delivery company can analyze the external view from the attachment 1.

[0072] Figure 19 is an explanatory diagram showing that the accessory device in the present invention further includes a target image display unit.

[0073] According to Figure 19, the accessory device 1 further includes a target image display unit 19 in addition to the delivery information notification unit 10 (identification image 101, short-range wireless communication device / contactless communication device 102). [Target image display unit 19] The target image display unit 19 displays a target image representing the target location to the drone 3. The target image is captured by the drone 3's camera 31 from a relatively distant location, such as 50m, and is displayed at a size that allows for image recognition. For example, it could be a mark (emblem or trademark) identifying the delivery company, or something like a QR code (registered trademark). This allows the drone 3 to recognize the target image on the target image display unit 19 and be controlled to approach the attached device 1. According to Figure 19, when the delivery company's logo on drone 3 is a "peach," a target image representing that logo is displayed relatively large on the attachment 1. By recognizing the target image of a "peach," drone 3 can accurately approach the attachment 1 displaying the target image, even from a relatively long distance.

[0074] After approaching the attached device 1, the drone 3 receives the receiving information from the aforementioned receiving information notification unit 10 by image recognition using an identification image, or by receiving it from a short-range wireless communication device or a contactless communication device 102. The drone 3 can recognize or receive the receiving information by image recognition at a relatively close distance, for example, about 10m.

[0075] As described in detail above, the accessory device of the present invention is positioned outdoors and enables accurate and safe delivery of packages loaded by a drone to individual recipients in a building.

[0076] Various changes, modifications, and omissions to the scope of the technical concept and viewpoint of the present invention can be readily made by those skilled in the art with respect to the various embodiments of the present invention described above. The above description is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. The present invention is limited only to what is limited by the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0077] 1. Accessories 10. Receipt Information Notification Department 101 Identification Image 102 Short-range wireless communication devices, contactless communication devices 11 Front plate 12 Top plate 13 Rear plate 14 boxes 15 slopes 16 Drone Port 17 Locking receiver 18 holder 19 Target image display unit 2 Handrails and fittings 21 Top side 22 Outdoor surface 23 Indoor surfaces 3 Drones 31 Camera 32 Transfer mechanism section

Claims

1. In an accessory device fixed to a door or window installed on the exterior of each individual unit in a building, It can be installed on building components that serve as the target location for a drone carrying cargo. It has a cargo receiving information notification unit that displays or transmits cargo receiving information to the drone. An accessory characterized by the following features.

2. The aforementioned receiving information notification unit is an identification image that can be captured from a camera mounted on the drone, or a short-range wireless communication device or contactless communication device that can transmit to the drone. The accessory device according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned receiving information notification unit shall, as the receiving information, Consignee identifier, The business identifier that the consignee has contracted, Box type identifier, Information on cargo transfer based on boxes or ramps. Location information of obstacles that may hinder the receiving of goods. The width and height of the door or window where the accessory will be placed, Drone hovering or landing position correction information, Includes any one or a combination thereof, The aforementioned receiving information is displayed as an identification image, or transmitted from a short-range wireless communication device or a contactless communication device. The accessory device according to feature 2.

4. It further includes a target image display unit that displays a target image representing the target position for the drone, The drone is controlled to recognize the target image on the target image display unit and approach the attached device, and then the receiving information on the receiving information notification unit is made to recognize or receive the receiving information on the receiving information unit. The accessory device according to feature 1.

5. If the receiving information notification unit is an identification image, the panel on which the identification image is displayed is made of a low-reflectivity material to sunlight and / or a functional material that reflects received light. The accessory device according to feature 2.

6. The aforementioned fixtures are handrail fixtures erected outdoors for each individual house. The handrail fixture has an upper plate that is fixed to the upper surface. The accessory device according to feature 1.

7. The upper panel has an integrated front panel on the outdoor side and / or rear panel on the indoor side of the handrail fitting. The accessory device according to feature 6.

8. The upper panel is connected to the indoor side and further comprises a box-shaped compartment into which the luggage can be inserted. The accessory device according to feature 1.

9. The aforementioned box is placed on the outdoor floor surface of each individual unit in the building. The box further includes a ramp between the top or rear panel and the box for sliding the cargo. The accessory device according to feature 8.

10. The vehicle further includes a ramp extending from the top or rear panel toward the outdoor or indoor floor surface of each individual unit in the building, for sliding the luggage. The accessory device according to feature 1.

11. The aforementioned top panel further has a planar drone port on the indoor side of the handrail fitting. The accessory according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. The floorboard of the aforementioned box is a perforated mesh. The accessory device according to feature 8.

13. The box is transparent, allowing the presence or absence of the contents to be visually determined. The accessory device according to feature 8.

14. The box has a holder on which a mobile device can be temporarily placed. The accessory device according to feature 8.

15. The system further includes a locking receiver that temporarily holds the drone in a hovering state, and which contacts the tip of the cargo transfer mechanism extending from the drone to temporarily lock it in place. The accessory device according to feature 1.

16. The locking receiver is equipped with a magnet at the portion of the drone that contacts the transport mechanism, thereby guiding the transport mechanism to automatically align with the position of the locking receiver. The accessory device according to feature 15.

17. The locking receiver is a notch into which the arm at the tip of the transport mechanism extending from the drone locks, The notches in the locking receiver are provided in the front and rear panels of the handrail fitting, and the tip of the arm is mounted downwards with a gripper having a front claw and a rear claw, the front claw of the gripper engages with the notch in the rear panel, and the rear claw of the gripper engages with the notch in the front panel, or The notches in the locking receiver are provided at both ends of the top plate with an inclination such that the length is longer on the sides of the top plate and becomes shorter as it approaches the center of the top plate, and the tip of the arm is mounted with a hook facing downwards, so that the hook is automatically drawn towards the center and locked in place by the inclination of the top plate. The accessory device according to feature 15.

Citation Information

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