Vehicle-based drones

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vehicle carrying a mascot via a drone, and a drone with a mascot configured to be fixed to a vehicle and to carry the mascot. The present invention also relates to a method of using a drone to provide one or more images along a navigation path, and a method of using a drone to determine the location of a vehicle.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle equipped with a mascot mounted via a drone, a drone equipped with a mascot, and a method for operating a drone. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicles with mascots are known in the art.

[0003] Mascots typically include decorative features that protrude from the surface of the vehicle.

[0004] A mascot may include a statue, emblem, figure, character, letter, or logo that serves as a distinctive feature of the vehicle and projects outward from the surface of the vehicle.

[0005] Similarly, methods for attaching mascots to vehicles are known in the art. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Typically, in the case of new cars, given modern regulations regarding decorative items protruding from vehicles, these methods allow the mascot to be retractable using a track such as that described in EP3980297, or other similar retractable mechanism.

[0007] However, this method of securing the mascot to the vehicle does not allow the mascot to provide additional functionality or driver assistance.

[0008] Similarly, it is known in the art to incorporate drones into vehicles, as described in US2020216196 and US10152059. However, drones often look out of place and are unsightly when attached to a vehicle.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle with a mascot that has better functionality.

[0010] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle equipped with a drone with an improved appearance.

[0011] It is also an object of the present invention to provide an improved method for locating a vehicle using a drone.

[0012] It is also an object of the present invention to provide an improved method for providing one or more images along a road using a drone.

[0013] It is also an object of embodiments of the present invention to overcome or mitigate at least one problem in the prior art, whether or not expressly described herein. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle equipped with a mascot. The mascot is attached to the vehicle via a drone. Such a vehicle can enhance the functionality of the mascot and provide features that can "surprise and delight" customers.

[0015] The term "drone" means an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

[0016] The drone may include a body having an upper surface and a lower surface.

[0017] A mascot may be placed on the top surface of the drone body.

[0018] The mascot may include ornaments.

[0019] The ornament may be a statue, emblem, figure, character, letter, logo, or other ornament.

[0020] In one embodiment, the mascot may have a base portion for securing to the top surface of the drone body and a top portion.

[0021] The base may be a plinth. The plinth may have a generally polygonal shape, such as a square, rectangle, rhombus, trapezoid, or hexagonal, such as a coffin shape. The shape may have curved corners and may be elongated.

[0022] The base may be secured to the drone using any conventional fastening means known in the art, including, but not limited to, one or more screws, adhesive, welding, or other fastening means.

[0023] The top portion may include ornamentation.

[0024] Decorations include statues, coats of arms, statuettes, characters, letters, logos, and other decorative items.

[0025] In some embodiments, the mascot may include a connecting portion suitable for connecting the top portion to the base portion.

[0026] In such embodiments, the connecting portion may comprise a stem, pole, or other support structure suitable for connecting the top portion to the base portion.

[0027] For example, in one embodiment, the mascot comprises a base portion, a connecting portion, and a top portion, the base portion comprising a pedestal, the connecting portion comprising a stem, and the top portion comprising a logo or lettering.

[0028] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mascot may include one or more lights.

[0029] In such an embodiment, the base portion, the connecting portion, and / or the top portion may include the above lights.

[0030] In one embodiment, the mascot may be formed at least in part from a translucent material.

[0031] Preferably, the top portion of the mascot may be at least partially formed from a translucent material.

[0032] In such an embodiment, one or more lights may be configured to illuminate at least a portion of the top of the mascot.

[0033] The underside of the drone body may include one or more attachment points configured to secure the drone to a vehicle.

[0034] The underside of the drone body may include one or more mechanical connection points configured to connect to a vehicle.

[0035] The one or more mechanical connections may be any suitable mechanical connections known in the art, including, but not limited to, cables, wires, latches, screws, pins, tethers, and other suitable mechanical connections.

[0036] The underside of the drone's body may include one or more magnetic attachment points configured to connect to a vehicle.

[0037] The magnetic connection points may include ferromagnetic material. Preferably, one magnetic connection point is one magnet.

[0038] A vehicle may have one or more landing points.

[0039] In such an embodiment, the landing point is suitable for connecting to a drone. The landing point may be located on the exterior of the vehicle.

[0040] In such an embodiment, the landing point may be located at the front or rear of the vehicle.

[0041] Preferably, the landing point is located in front of the vehicle.

[0042] More preferably, the landing point is located in the front center of the vehicle.

[0043] Most preferably, the landing point is located forward of the vehicle bonnet or hood, preferably at the front center of the vehicle bonnet or hood.

[0044] The landing point can be configured to mechanically connect to the drone.

[0045] In such an embodiment, the landing point may have one or more mechanical connection points configured to connect to the drone.

[0046] The one or more mechanical connections may be any suitable mechanical connections known in the art, including, but not limited to, cables, wires, latches, screws, pins, tethers, and other suitable mechanical connections.

[0047] In such an embodiment, the drone has one or more mechanical connection points located on its underside, the one or more mechanical connection points being suitable for mechanically connecting with a plurality of mechanical connection points on the vehicle's landing site.

[0048] The landing point may be configured to magnetically connect to the drone.

[0049] In such an embodiment, the landing site may include one or more magnetic attachment points configured to connect to the drone.

[0050] One or more of the magnetic connection points may be magnets. Preferably, the magnets are electromagnets. Most preferably, the magnets are electromagnets connected to the vehicle's battery.

[0051] In such an embodiment, the drone may have one or more magnetic connection points disposed on its underside, as described above, configured to magnetically connect with one or more magnetic connection points on the landing site, as described above.

[0052] In further embodiments of the present invention, the landing point may be configured to mechanically and magnetically couple to the drone.

[0053] In such an embodiment, the landing site may comprise one or more magnetic connection points and one or more mechanical connection points configured to connect to the drone.

[0054] The magnetic and mechanical connection points are as described above.

[0055] The landing site may be equipped with one or more sensors that can detect whether a drone occupies the landing site.

[0056] One or more sensors can confirm the landing status of the drone.

[0057] Preferably, the sensor is a pressure sensor.

[0058] The one or more sensors may be integrated into the surface of the landing site or may be affixed in some way to the landing site.

[0059] The landing site may be configured to communicate with and / or provide power to the drone via one or more power and / or communication connections.

[0060] The power and / or communication connections may use multiple cables. In such an embodiment, the sensors may be electrical sensors.

[0061] In one embodiment, the landing site may be configured to communicate with the drone via a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may be disposed on a surface of the landing site. Preferably, the two-dimensional code is a Quick Response (QR) code.

[0062] The QR code can be used by the drone to recognize the vehicle and / or by the vehicle to confirm the drone's landing status.

[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, the landing point may be located within an opening in the exterior surface of the vehicle.

[0064] In such an embodiment, the opening may be located at the front or rear of the vehicle. Preferably, the opening is located at the front of the vehicle.

[0065] More preferably, the opening is located in the front center of the vehicle.

[0066] Most preferably, the opening is located forward of the hood or bonnet of the vehicle, preferably at the front center of the hood or bonnet of the vehicle.

[0067] The opening may include a pocket in which the landing point is located. The pocket may be located behind the opening.

[0068] Pockets may be illuminated.

[0069] In such an embodiment, the pocket may include one or more lamps to illuminate the area behind the opening, eg, the pocket.

[0070] The vehicle may include one or more cover plates having an outer surface positioned to block the opening.

[0071] The cover plate may be positioned to block the opening in the first closed position such that an outer surface of the cover plate is flush with the periphery of the base of the mascot.

[0072] In such an embodiment, when the cover plate is in the first closed position, the outer surface of the cover plate conceals the body of the drone when the drone is connected to the landing site, which has the advantage that only the mascot is visible when the drone is connected to the vehicle.

[0073] Preferably, the cover plate is configured to be in the first closed position when the landing site is occupied.

[0074] In such an embodiment, the vehicle may recognize a connection between the drone and the landing site and, in response, transmit a first close signal to the cover plate to enter a first closed position.

[0075] The cover plate may be positioned to completely close the opening in the second closed position. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of the cover plate may be positioned to completely cover the opening and be flush with the exterior surface of the vehicle in the second closed position.

[0076] Preferably, the cover plate is configured to fully close the opening and enter a second closed position when the landing site is vacant.

[0077] In such an embodiment, the vehicle may recognize that the landing site is clear and, in response, transmit a second close signal to the cover plate to enter the second closed position.

[0078] The cover plate may be configured to open the opening and enter an open position.

[0079] The cover plate may be configured to open the opening and enter an open position when a first open signal is provided.

[0080] The open signal may be provided by pressing a button to deploy the drone on a key, vehicle infotainment system, smartphone, or other electronic device.

[0081] The open signal may be provided by the drone approaching and being in close proximity to the cover plate.

[0082] In such an embodiment, the drone can communicate with the vehicle to send an open signal.

[0083] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the landing plate may be lowered so that the cover plate enters the second closed position and the drone body and mascot are hidden beneath the cover plate.

[0084] In such an embodiment, the vehicle can transmit a third close signal to the cover plate and landing pad, moving the cover plate to the second closed position and lowering the landing pad. The third close signal can be provided by pressing a lock button on a key, such as a remote ignition key, or by pressing a lock button on a smart device, such as a smartphone or other electronic device. Various other inputs can also transmit the third close signal, such as pressing a retract button on an infotainment system.

[0085] Beneficially, this secures the entire drone inside the vehicle, preventing theft and damage.

[0086] In such an embodiment, the vehicle can send a second open signal to the cover plate and landing site, causing the cover plate to open to the first closed position and the landing site to rise so that the outer surface of the cover plate covers the drone body and the mascot penetrates the cover plate.

[0087] The second open signal can be provided by pressing the unlock button on a key such as a remote ignition key, automatic detection using keyless entry, operating a door handle, pressing the ignition button, turning the ignition key, etc. A second open signal can also be sent by various other inputs, such as pressing the unlock button on a smartphone or other electronic device.

[0088] The various closed positions may be provided by the same cover plate, or the various closed positions may be provided by different cover plates.

[0089] For example, in one embodiment, a first cover plate may be in a first closed position and a second cover plate may be in a second closed position.

[0090] Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle may include one or more sensors within the opening, including a light curtain sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, a laser sensor (e.g., lidar), a radar, or a combination thereof.

[0091] In such an embodiment, the open signal may be provided by the drone activating one or more sensors positioned within the opening.

[0092] The second close signal may be provided automatically when the drone is positioned away from the vehicle. In such an embodiment, the vehicle may recognize an open landing site and transmit a close signal to move the cover plate from the open position to the second closed position.

[0093] The cover plate may be connected to a drive mechanism that facilitates opening and closing the cover plate in response to an open or close signal.

[0094] The drive mechanism may be electronic or mechanical.

[0095] The landing point may be connected to a drive mechanism that facilitates raising and lowering the landing point as described above.

[0096] The drive mechanism may be electronic or mechanical.

[0097] The landing point may be in communication with the vehicle.

[0098] Preferably, the landing point is in electrical communication with the vehicle's electronic system, preferably the vehicle's infotainment system.

[0099] Preferably, the landing point is in electrical communication with the vehicle via one or more cables.

[0100] The drone may have one or more propellers. The drone may have one, two, three, four, or five propellers. The drone may have multiple propellers.

[0101] Preferably, the plurality of propellers are connected to the drone body.

[0102] The drone may include one or more processors.

[0103] Preferably, the drone may communicate with the vehicle via the processor.

[0104] The processor may also be in communication with additional devices.

[0105] Further devices may include computers, smartphones, laptops, and / or tablets.

[0106] Preferably, the drone is configured to communicate with the vehicle's electronic systems, more preferably the vehicle's infotainment system.

[0107] The drone may be configured to communicate with vehicles and / or other devices via radio frequency, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared, cellular communication networks such as 3G, 4G, or 5G networks, and / or satellite communication networks.

[0108] Drones may be equipped with navigation systems that allow them to fly to a specific location and hover there.

[0109] The drone may be equipped with a global positioning system (GPS), which may be used to determine the drone's position relative to the vehicle (which may also be equipped with a GPS), and which may be used to trigger an open signal to open the aperture.

[0110] The drone may further include a memory, one or more displays, one or more image sensors, one or more motion sensors, one or more positioning sensors, one or more power sources, and / or a communication unit.

[0111] Preferably, the power source is a battery, such as a lithium ion battery. The power source may be powered by a charging device, such as a car battery.

[0112] The communication unit may transmit information such as image information, navigation information, location information, movement information, etc. to the vehicle and / or other devices.

[0113] The communication unit may receive information such as image information, navigation information, location information, movement information, etc. from the vehicle and / or other devices.

[0114] The position information may be information about the drone's position, such as roll, pitch, yaw, distance, and / or orientation.

[0115] The movement information may be information about the movement of the drone, such as speed and / or acceleration.

[0116] The image sensor may be positioned to capture one or more images, which may be digital images or video.

[0117] Preferably, the image sensor is one or more cameras.

[0118] In one embodiment, the image sensor may be configured to identify the vehicle, for example, by identifying a QR code on a surface of the vehicle.

[0119] The motion sensor may be arranged to obtain one or more pieces of movement information. Preferably, the motion sensor includes an accelerometer.

[0120] The positioning sensor may be positioned to determine the position of the drone.

[0121] The memory may store instructions and / or data.

[0122] A processor may access memory by reading from and / or writing to memory.

[0123] The memory may store instructions and / or data relating to image information, navigation information, location information, and / or movement information.

[0124] The weight of the drone including the mascot can be 250g, 240g, 230g, 225g, 220g, 210g, or 200g or less.

[0125] Beneficially, drones of this size can operate in many regions without requiring additional flight certifications or permits, and a drone of this weight does not add unnecessary weight to a vehicle.

[0126] Preferably, the vehicle is a motor vehicle such as a passenger car.

[0127] In a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a drone equipped with a mascot, the drone configured to be secured to a vehicle for carrying the mascot.

[0128] The drone is as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0129] The drone may be fixed to the vehicle as described in the first aspect of the invention.

[0130] In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing one or more images along a navigation route, comprising flying a drone to one or more points along the navigation route between a starting location and a user-inputted final destination, taking one or more images at the one or more points, transmitting the images to a vehicle, and displaying the images via a display in the vehicle.

[0131] Beneficially, this method allows the driver to understand the road conditions ahead, which can help with understanding traffic conditions along the route and / or enable the vehicle user to identify the cause of traffic congestion and determine a new, more appropriate route.

[0132] The drone may comprise one or more propellers, one or more processors, memory, one or more displays, one or more image sensors, one or more motion sensors, one or more positioning sensors, one or more power sources, and / or a communication unit as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0133] To deploy the drone, the vehicle outputs an open signal to the actuator, and in response to the open signal, the actuator can open an opening in the vehicle, including, but not limited to, a door, trunk, or cover plate as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0134] Once detached from the vehicle, the vehicle can send commands to the drone instructing it to fly to one or more points along a navigation route between a starting point and a final destination entered by the user.

[0135] Preferably, the vehicle and the drone are equipped with communication units capable of exchanging data via a communication network.

[0136] The communication network may be a radio frequency, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communication network, and / or satellite communication network. Suitable cellular communication networks include, but are not limited to, 3G, 4G, or 5G networks.

[0137] In one embodiment of the present invention, commands can be provided to the drone from the vehicle via a remote server.

[0138] In such an embodiment, the vehicle may communicate wirelessly with a remote server over the communications network, and the remote server may communicate wirelessly with the drone over the communications network.

[0139] Alternatively, commands may be provided directly from the vehicle to the drone.

[0140] In such an embodiment, the vehicle can be in wireless communication with the drone, preferably directly over a communications network.

[0141] Preferably, the drone is equipped with a drone navigation system.

[0142] Preferably, the vehicle is equipped with a vehicle navigation system.

[0143] The drone navigation system can communicate with the vehicle's navigation system via a communications network.

[0144] The drone navigation system is operable to receive the locations of one or more points from the vehicle and generate a route from the vehicle to those points.

[0145] Preferably, the drone navigation system is operable to receive the locations of one or more points from the vehicle's navigation system and generate a route from the vehicle to those points.

[0146] At those multiple locations, the drone can be programmed to take one or more images of the road.

[0147] In such an embodiment, the drone is equipped with an image sensor, which is preferably a camera.

[0148] Images can be transmitted from the drone to a remote server.

[0149] In such an embodiment, the drone may communicate wirelessly with the remote server over a communications network.

[0150] The remote server may transmit the images to the vehicle.

[0151] The remote server may transmit the images to a mobile device, computer, and / or tablet.

[0152] The images can be transmitted wirelessly from a remote server over a communications network to a vehicle, mobile device, computer, and / or tablet.

[0153] Alternatively, images can be sent directly from the drone to the vehicle without going through a remote server.

[0154] In such an embodiment, the drone can communicate wirelessly directly with the vehicle over the communications network.

[0155] The image is displayed on a display within the vehicle, preferably the display being associated with the vehicle's infotainment system.

[0156] In one embodiment, the drone according to the third aspect may be the drone according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0157] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for locating a vehicle, the method including transmitting a deployment signal to the vehicle, deploying a drone from the vehicle in response to receiving the deployment signal, configuring the drone to hover above the vehicle, and configuring the drone to provide one or more alerts.

[0158] Advantageously, this allows the user to locate the vehicle even in congested parking spaces or when the vehicle's location is unknown.

[0159] The drone may comprise one or more propellers, one or more processors, memory, one or more displays, one or more image sensors, one or more motion sensors, one or more positioning sensors, one or more power sources, and / or a communication unit as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0160] In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle. In such embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle at a distance of at least 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, or at least 3.0 meters directly overhead from the vehicle. The drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle at a distance of no more than 3.0, 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, or 0.1 meters directly overhead from the vehicle. The drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle at a distance of 0.1 to 3.0 meters, 0.1 to 2.5 meters, 0.1 to 2.0 meters, 0.1 to 1.5 meters, or 0.1 to 1 meter directly overhead from the vehicle.

[0161] In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and in front of the vehicle. In such embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and in front of the vehicle at a distance of at least 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, or at least 3.0 meters from the vehicle. The drone may be configured to hover above and in front of the vehicle at a distance of no more than 3.0, 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, or 0.1 meters from the vehicle. In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and in front of the vehicle at a distance of 0.1 to 3.0 meters, 0.1 to 2.5 meters, 0.1 to 2.0 meters, 0.1 to 1.5 meters, or 0.1 to 1 meter from the vehicle.

[0162] In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle and to the left or right side. In such embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle and to the left or right side at a distance of at least 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, or at least 3.0 meters from the vehicle. The drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle and to the left or right side at a distance of no more than 3.0, 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, or 0.1 meters from the vehicle. In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above the vehicle and to the left or right side at a distance of 0.1 to 3.0 meters, 0.1 to 2.5 meters, 0.1 to 2.0 meters, 0.1 to 1.5 meters, or 0.1 to 1 meter from the vehicle.

[0163] In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and behind the vehicle.

[0164] In such embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and behind the vehicle at a distance of at least 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, or at least 3.0 meters from the vehicle. The drone may be configured to hover above and behind the vehicle at a distance of no more than 3.0, 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, or 0.1 meters from the vehicle. In some embodiments, the drone may be configured to hover above and behind the vehicle at a distance of 0.1 to 3.0 meters, 0.1 to 2.5 meters, 0.1 to 2.0 meters, 0.1 to 1.5 meters, or 0.1 to 1 meter from the vehicle.

[0165] Preferably, the vehicle and the drone are equipped with communication units operable to exchange data over a communication network.

[0166] The communication network may be a radio frequency, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communication network, and / or satellite communication network. Suitable cellular communication networks include, but are not limited to, 3G, 4G, or 5G networks.

[0167] In one embodiment, the deployment signal is provided by a remote server.

[0168] The remote server can initiate a deployment signal in response to a user input.

[0169] In such an embodiment, the drone can communicate wirelessly with a remote server over a communications network.

[0170] User input may be provided by a user via a mobile device, buttons on a remote ignition key, a computer, and / or a tablet.

[0171] User input may be transmitted to a remote server over a communications network.

[0172] The remote server may communicate the user input to the vehicle over a communications network.

[0173] In such an embodiment, the vehicle may be in wireless communication with a remote server over a communications network.

[0174] Alternatively, the deployment signal may be provided directly from the vehicle.

[0175] In such an embodiment, the vehicle can communicate directly and wirelessly with the drone over the communications network.

[0176] In one embodiment, the deployment signal may be provided by pressing a button on the vehicle infotainment system.

[0177] The ability to send a deployment signal through the vehicle infotainment system makes it easier to locate vehicle occupants, for example, if emergency assistance is required or if a passenger is approaching.

[0178] In another embodiment, the deployment signal may be provided by pressing a button on a remote ignition key or a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0179] In such an embodiment, the remote ignition key or smart device may comprise a communications unit operable to exchange data over a communications network as described above.

[0180] The remote ignition key or smart device can communicate wirelessly with a remote server over a communication network.

[0181] Alternatively, the remote ignition key or smart device can wirelessly communicate directly with the drone over a communications network.

[0182] To deploy the drone, the vehicle outputs an open signal to the actuator, which in response to the open signal can open an opening in the vehicle.

[0183] The opening may be a door, trunk, or cover, as described in the first aspect of the vehicle invention.

[0184] After the drone is deployed, the vehicle can send a command for the drone to exit the vehicle and hover above it.

[0185] Commands may be sent from the vehicle to the drone via a remote server, as described above.

[0186] Alternatively, commands may be sent directly to the drone via the vehicle, as previously described.

[0187] Once over the vehicle, the vehicle can send a command to the drone to activate one or more alerts.

[0188] The one or more alerts may be one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0189] In embodiments where the drone is a drone according to the first aspect of the invention, the mascot may comprise one or more lights.

[0190] In another embodiment of the invention, after the drone is deployed, the vehicle can send a command for the drone to exit the vehicle and locate the user.

[0191] In such an embodiment, after the drone is deployed, the vehicle can send a command for the drone to exit the vehicle and fly over the communications network to the user's location.

[0192] In such an embodiment, the remote ignition key or smart device may include a navigation system operable to transmit the user's location to the vehicle and / or drone over a communications network.

[0193] After receiving the command, the method may include the drone flying to the user's location.

[0194] The step of flying the drone to the user's location may also include activating one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0195] Once at the user's location, the vehicle can send a command to the drone to return to the vehicle.

[0196] In such an embodiment, the vehicle's navigation system may transmit the vehicle's location to the drone over a communications network.

[0197] After the drone receives a command to return to the vehicle, the method of the present invention may further include the step of the drone returning to the vehicle.

[0198] The step of the drone returning to the vehicle may include the drone activating one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0199] Beneficially, this allows the drone to guide the user to the vehicle's location.

[0200] The drone according to the fourth aspect of the present invention may be the drone according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0201] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for locating a vehicle, the method including transmitting a deployment signal to the vehicle, deploying a drone from the vehicle in response to receiving the deployment signal, transmitting a command for the drone to exit the vehicle and locate a user, configuring the drone to fly to the user's location after receiving the command for the drone to exit the vehicle and locate the user, transmitting a command for the drone to return to the vehicle, and configuring the drone to return to the vehicle after receiving the command for the drone to return to the vehicle.

[0202] Advantageously, this method allows the drone to guide the user to the vehicle's location.

[0203] The drone may comprise one or more propellers, one or more processors, memory, one or more displays, one or more image sensors, one or more motion sensors, one or more positioning sensors, one or more power sources, and / or a communication unit as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0204] Preferably, the vehicle and the drone are equipped with communication units operable to exchange data over a communication network.

[0205] The communication network may be a radio frequency, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communication network, and / or satellite communication network. Suitable cellular communication networks include, but are not limited to, 3G, 4G, or 5G networks.

[0206] In one embodiment, the deployment signal may be provided by a remote server.

[0207] The remote server can send the deployment signal in response to user input.

[0208] In such an embodiment, the drone can communicate wirelessly with a remote server over a communications network.

[0209] User input is provided by a user via a mobile device, a remote ignition key, a computer, and / or a tablet.

[0210] User input may be transmitted to a remote server over a communications network.

[0211] The remote server can communicate the user input to the vehicle over a communications network.

[0212] In such an embodiment, the vehicle may be in wireless communication with a remote server over a communications network.

[0213] Alternatively, the deployment signal may be provided directly from the vehicle.

[0214] In such an embodiment, the vehicle can communicate directly and wirelessly with the drone over the communications network.

[0215] In one embodiment, the deployment signal may be provided by pressing a button on the vehicle infotainment system.

[0216] The ability to transmit deployment signals via the vehicle infotainment system has the advantage of allowing vehicle occupants to be more easily located, for example, if emergency assistance is required or if a passenger is approaching.

[0217] In another embodiment, the deployment signal may be provided by pressing a button on a remote ignition key or a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0218] In such an embodiment, the remote ignition key or smart device may comprise a communications unit operable to exchange data over a communications network as described above.

[0219] The remote ignition key or smart device can communicate wirelessly with a remote server over a communication network.

[0220] Alternatively, the remote ignition key or smart device can wirelessly communicate directly with the drone over a communications network.

[0221] In one embodiment, the command to exit the vehicle and locate the user may be provided by the vehicle.

[0222] In one embodiment, the command to return the drone to the vehicle may be provided by the vehicle.

[0223] To deploy the drone, the vehicle may output an open signal to the actuator.

[0224] In response to the open signal, the actuator can open an opening in the vehicle.

[0225] The opening may be a door, trunk or cover of a vehicle as described in the first aspect of the invention.

[0226] The drone may be equipped with one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0227] In embodiments where the drone is a drone according to the first aspect of the invention, the mascot may comprise one or more lights.

[0228] The step of flying the drone to the user's location may also include activating one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0229] The vehicle's navigation system may transmit the vehicle's position to the drone over a communications network.

[0230] The step of the drone returning to the vehicle may also include the drone activating one or more lights and / or alarms.

[0231] Beneficially, this allows the drone to guide the user to the vehicle's location.

[0232] The drone according to the fifth aspect of the invention may be a drone according to the first aspect of the invention. Further aspects of the invention may incorporate, as appropriate or optional, features of any of the other aspects of the invention described herein.

[0233] Detailed Description of the Invention In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0234] [Figure 1] 1 shows a car equipped with a mascot according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 shows a drone equipped with a mascot according to the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a mascot according to the present invention when installed on a vehicle with the cover plate in an open position. [Figure 4] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a mascot according to the present invention mounted on a vehicle with the cover plate in a first closed position. [Figure 5] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a mascot according to the present invention attached to a vehicle with the cover plate in a second closed position and the mascot and drone fully housed within the opening. [Figure 6] 1 shows a front view of the mascot according to the present invention when removed from the vehicle. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic diagram of drone-vehicle interaction according to the present invention; [Figure 8] 10 shows a schematic diagram of a method for operating a drone according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a method of operating a drone according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10]1 shows a schematic diagram of a method of operating a drone according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0235] Since proper operation of drones, drone functionality, and drone-to-vehicle communication is known in the art from at least US2020216196 and US10152059, this specification will focus on vehicles with mascots secured via drones and integration of the drones and mascots with the vehicle, and will only briefly discuss drone operation.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 1, a car 100 is provided with a mascot 200 secured to the car 100 via a drone attached to a landing point 300 located at the front of the car 100, specifically at the front center of the hood.

[0237] 2, the drone comprises a body 210 having an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the drone comprises a mascot 220 attached by adhesive or a releasable nylon fastener such as that sold in compliance with EC Directive 74 / 483 by Louis Lejeune Ltd. of Ely, Cambridgeshire, UK.

[0238] Mascot 220 comprises a base portion 230 for securing to the top surface of a drone and an upper portion 240 containing a stylized, forward-facing capital letter "B." Upper portion 240 has two feathered wings extending from the rear, creating Bentley's iconic "Flying B." The wings are at least partially formed from a translucent material. A light (e.g., an LED) is positioned behind the letter B to illuminate the wings.

[0239] Base portion 230 comprises a base that extends downward and rearward from the rear of the lower portion of the letter B. The base thickens away from the letter B and extends toward the base. Base portion 230 has a generally trapezoidal outline with rounded corners and a flat underside.

[0240] The drone has four propellers 250 extending from the body 210, a camera 260 and a motion sensor 280 located on the front of the body 210, and a processor located within the body 210.

[0241] As shown in FIG. 3, the underside of the drone is provided with a magnet 270 for connecting to the landing point 300 of the automobile 100.

[0242] As shown in FIG. 3, landing point 300 is located in a pocket 310 in an opening 320 located in the front of vehicle 100, forward of the hood of vehicle 100.

[0243] When connected to the landing point 300, the main body 210 of the drone 200 is placed within the pocket 310 of the opening 320, with only the mascot 230 protruding from the opening 320 in the radiator shell. The landing point 300 is in communication with the infotainment system of the automobile 100 via multiple electronic cables (not shown). The landing point has a pressure sensor 340 connected to detect the presence of the drone 200.

[0244] As best shown in FIG. 4, when the drone 200 is connected to the landing site 300, the opening 310 is closed by a cover plate 410, which is positioned to close flush around the base portion 230 of the mascot 220 in a first closed position, leaving only the top portion 240 of the mascot visible and the drone body 210 hidden beneath the cover plate 410.

[0245] The cover plate 410 is closed to a first closed position in response to a first close signal provided by the vehicle 100 when the drone 200 connects to the landing site 300 .

[0246] When a user presses a button to deploy the drone (e.g., a button on an infotainment screen), the automobile 100 provides an open signal to the actuator, which retracts the first cover plate 410 to open the opening 310, providing the open state shown in FIG. 3.

[0247] The automobile 100 then communicates with the drone 200, causing the drone 200 to be launched from the automobile 100 through the opening.

[0248] A user of the automobile 100 can use the automobile 100's infotainment system or other electronic devices, such as a smartphone, to control the takeoff and landing of the drone 200 from the automobile 100, send navigation instructions to the drone (e.g., up / down, left / right, forward, reverse), control the drone camera 260 (e.g., pan / yaw, tilt, zoom, record, switch between multi-color, infrared, night vision, etc. cameras), and have the drone 200 follow the automobile 100 or move to any coordinate location. The drone 200 can also control itself autonomously. For example, the drone's onboard computer system can take off and land the drone 200 without user input.

[0249] When drone 200 is deployed from automobile 100, automobile 100 transmits a second close signal, actuating cover plate 410 to fully close opening 310 and transition to a second fully closed state. Because cover plate 310 fits flush with the exterior surface of automobile 100, opening 320 is hidden in the second closed state. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5 , the aesthetic appearance of automobile 100 is maintained even when drone 200 is deployed away from automobile 100.

[0250] If landing of drone 200 is required, automobile 100 determines landing instructions for landing drone 200 at landing point 300 located within opening 310. The landing instructions may include position, time, speed, and other relevant information indicating when and where drone 200 will land.

[0251] When the drone 200 arrives near the opening of the automobile 100, the automobile 100 transmits an opening signal, causing the cover plate 410 to retract, as shown in FIG. 3, to expose the landing point 300 located within the opening 310.

[0252] The drone 200 is then free to land, magnetically connecting to a landing point 300 that secures the drone 200 in place.

[0253] Once connected to the landing site 300, the vehicle sends a close signal to the cover plate 410, causing it to close into a first closed configuration, fitting snugly around the mascot's base 230. This hides the drone's main body 210 beneath the cover plate 410, leaving only the top portion 240 visible.

[0254] As shown in Figure 5, when the driver leaves the vehicle, he or she presses the lock button on the remote ignition key, which issues a third close signal. When the third close signal is issued, the landing point 300 is lowered by an electronic drive mechanism (not shown), and the drone body 210 and the upper part 240 and base part 230 of the mascot 220 are positioned below the exterior surface of the vehicle 100. The cover plate 410 is then closed to the second closed position. This secures the entire drone 200 within the vehicle 100, preventing theft and damage.

[0255] Returning to the automobile 100, a second open signal is sent by pressing the unlock button on the remote ignition key. When the second open signal is sent, the cover plate 410 is actuated to the first closed position, and the landing point 300 is raised to the first closed state, so that the cover plate 410 is flush around the mascot's base 230, with only the top 240 visible, and the main body 210 of the drone 200 hidden beneath the cover plate 410.

[0256] 7, drone 200 includes a processor 211 connected to a camera 260, a motion sensor 280, a light 290, a lithium-ion battery power source 213, and a navigation system 214 (e.g., a GPS navigation system). Processor 211 is also coupled to memory 215 and a communication unit 212 for communicating with a communication network 710, such as a 3G, 4G, or 5G network.

[0257] The automobile comprises a processor 101 connected to a user interface 102, a navigation system 103 and a display screen 104. The processor 101 is also connected to a memory 105 and a communication unit 106 for communicating with a communication network 710.

[0258] In addition to communicating with the drone 200 via the automobile 100, the user can also communicate with the drone 200 via a remote ignition key 720 or a smartphone 730.

[0259] The smartphone may comprise a processor 731 connected to a user interface 732 , a navigation system 734 and a communication unit 733 for communicating with the communication network 710 .

[0260] The remote ignition key 720 may comprise a processor 722 connected to input buttons 723 and a communication unit 724 for communicating with the communication network 710 .

[0261] As shown schematically in Figure 8, a drone 200 can be used to provide images of the roads along a navigation route, allowing the driver to see the road conditions ahead and identify, for example, the cause of a traffic jam ahead.

[0262] In a first step 810, a user presses a button on a user interface 102 of the automobile 100 to deploy the drone 200. The user interface may be the infotainment system of the automobile 100.

[0263] In a second step 820, the motor vehicle 100 outputs an open signal to an actuator, which responds to the open signal by opening an opening such as a door, trunk, or cover plate 410.

[0264] In a third step 830, once the opening is opened, the drone 200 is deployed from the vehicle 100.

[0265] Once deployed, in a fourth step 840 the user inputs a reference point via the user interface 102 of the vehicle 100 along the current navigation route programmed into the vehicle 100 .

[0266] In another embodiment, in a fourth step 840, the user indicates that more information about traffic conditions is needed by pressing a button on the user interface 102 of the automobile 100 or the user interface 732 of the smartphone 730, or the drone 200 determines a reference point based on the traffic data (e.g., to find the next congested section on the planned route). Congested sections may be indicated on the navigation system 103 of the vehicle, drone 200, or smartphone 734 by red or black sections on the planned route.

[0267] In a fifth step 850, the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100 transmits the navigation details of the reference point to the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 via the communication network 710.

[0268] In a sixth step 860, the reference point details are transmitted from the communication unit 212 to the navigation system 214 of the drone 200.

[0269] In a seventh step 870, the drone 200 is programmed to fly to a reference point where it is programmed to take multiple images of the road using the camera 260.

[0270] In an eighth step 880, the plurality of images are wirelessly transmitted from the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 to the communication network 710 and transmitted via the communication network 710 to the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100.

[0271] In a ninth step 890, the multiple images are displayed on a display screen 104 of the automobile 100, such as an infotainment system. A user can decide what action to take based on the results of the multiple images. For example, if the multiple images indicate a temporary traffic light delay, the driver can wait and continue the same route, but if the multiple images indicate a serious collision, the driver can change their route.

[0272] As shown schematically in Figure 9, the drone 200 can also assist in locating the vehicle 100, allowing a user to locate the vehicle 100 in a crowded parking space or allowing a passenger to locate the vehicle 100.

[0273] In a first step 910, a user presses a button to deploy the drone 200 on a user interface 732, such as a touchscreen on a smartphone 730.

[0274] In the second embodiment, in a first step 910, a user presses a button 723 on a remote ignition key 720 to deploy the drone 200.

[0275] In a second step 920, the communication unit 724 of the remote ignition key 720 or the communication unit 733 of the smartphone 730 issues a deployment signal to the communication unit 106 of the motor vehicle 100 via a communication network 710, such as a 4G or 5G cellular communication network.

[0276] In a third step 930, the vehicle 100 outputs an open signal to the actuator.

[0277] In a fourth step 940, in response to the open signal, the actuator opens an opening, such as a door, trunk, or cover plate 410, and deploys the drone 200.

[0278] In a fifth step 950, once the drone 200 is deployed, the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100 sends a command via the communication network 710 to the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 to cause the drone 200 to hover above the automobile 100.

[0279] In a sixth step 960, once the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 receives the command, the drone 200 is programmed to hover directly above the roof of the car 100 at a distance of approximately 1 meter.

[0280] In a seventh step 970, the drone 200 is programmed to turn on the flashing lights 290 when hovering over the automobile 100.

[0281] In one embodiment of the drone according to the first aspect of the present invention, the flashing light 290 is located on top of the mascot.

[0282] This makes it easier for the user to find the car 100.

[0283] In the third embodiment, as shown in detail in FIG. 10, in a first step 1010, a user deploys the drone 200 by pressing a button on a user interface 732, such as a touchscreen of a smartphone 730.

[0284] In a second step 1020, the communication unit 733 of the smartphone 730 issues a deployment signal to the communication unit 106 of the motor vehicle via a communication network 710, such as a 4G or 5G cellular communication network.

[0285] At the same time, the navigation system 734 of the smartphone 730 transmits the user's location to the communication unit 733 of the smartphone 730 and also to the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100 via the communication network 710 .

[0286] In a third step 1030, the vehicle 100 outputs an open signal to an actuator of the vehicle opening.

[0287] In a fourth step 1040, the actuator responds to the open signal by opening an opening such as a door, trunk, or cover plate 410 and deploying the drone 200.

[0288] In a fifth step 1050, once the drone 200 is deployed, the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100 sends a command to the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 via the communication network 710 to move the drone 200 to the user's location.

[0289] In a sixth step 1060, once the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 receives the command, the drone moves to the user's location.

[0290] In a seventh step 1070, when the drone 200 reaches the user's location, the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 replies to the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100 via the communication network 710 that the user's location has been reached.

[0291] In an eighth step 1080, the navigation system 103 of the automobile 100 transmits details of the automobile's location to the communication unit 106 of the automobile 100, which then transmits them via the communication network 710 to the communication unit of the drone 212, as well as a command for the drone 200 to return to the automobile 100.

[0292] In a ninth step 1090, once the communication unit 212 of the drone 200 receives the command, the drone 200 returns to the vehicle 100.

[0293] This allows the user to track the drone and follow the guidance back to the car 100.

[0294] The one or more embodiments described above have been described by way of example only, and many variations are possible without departing from the scope protected by the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle equipped with a mascot, the mascot being mounted on the vehicle via a drone.

2. The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the drone comprises a body and the mascot comprises a base and an upper portion.

3. The vehicle of claim 2 , wherein the base of the mascot is fixed to the top surface of the body of the drone, and the top of the mascot is provided with decoration.

4. 4. The vehicle of claim 2 or 3, wherein the underside of the body of the drone comprises one or more connection points configured to secure the drone to the vehicle.

5. 5. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the vehicle is provided with a landing point for connecting to the drone, preferably the landing point being located on an exterior surface of the vehicle, preferably at the front and centre of the vehicle.

6. The vehicle of claim 5 , wherein the landing point is configured to be magnetically coupled to the drone.

7. A vehicle according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the landing point is provided with one or more sensors, preferably one pressure sensor.

8. 8. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the landing point is located within an opening on the exterior surface of the vehicle.

9. 10. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the opening comprises one or more cover plates having an outer surface positioned to block the opening.

10. 10. The vehicle of claim 9, wherein the outer surface of the cover plate is positioned flush with the periphery of the base portion of the mascot in a first closed position.

11. 11. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the cover plate is configured to enter the first closed position when a first close signal is given, preferably the first close signal being provided when the landing point is occupied.

12. 9. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the outer surface of the cover plate is positioned to completely close the opening in the second closed position.

13. 13. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein the cover plate is configured to enter the second closed position when a second close signal is given, preferably the second close signal being provided when the landing point is clear.

14. 14. The vehicle of claim 9, wherein the cover plate is configured to open the opening into an open position when a first open signal is given, preferably the first open signal being provided by pressing a button to deploy the drone on a key, vehicle infotainment system, smartphone, or other electronic device.

15. 15. The vehicle of any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the cover plate is configured to enter a second closed position when a third close signal is given, the outer surface of the cover plate being positioned to completely close the opening and the landing point being lowered so that the drone and the mascot are hidden beneath the cover plate, preferably the third close signal being provided by pressing a lock button on a key or by pressing a lock button on a smart device, smartphone or other electronic device.

16. 16. The vehicle of any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the cover plate is configured to enter the first closed position, the outer surface of the cover plate being positioned flush with the periphery of the base of the mascot and the landing point being configured to rise, and when a second open signal is given, the outer surface of the cover plate is configured to conceal the main body of the drone and the mascot is configured to penetrate the cover plate.

17. 17. The vehicle of claim 16, wherein the second open signal is provided by pressing an unlock button on a key, automatic detection using keyless entry, operating a door handle, pressing an ignition button, turning an ignition key, or pressing an unlock button on a smartphone or other electronic device.

18. A drone comprising a mascot, the drone configured to be secured to a vehicle for carrying the mascot.

19. 10. The drone of any preceding claim, comprising one or more components selected from the group including a processor, a navigation system, a memory, a display, an image sensor, a motion sensor, a positioning sensor, a power source, a communication unit, and combinations thereof.

20. A method for providing one or more images along a navigation route, the method comprising: flying a drone to one or more points along the navigation route between a starting location and a final destination input by a user; capturing one or more images at the one or more points; transmitting a plurality of the images to a vehicle; and displaying the plurality of images via a display within the vehicle.

21. 1. A method for locating a vehicle, comprising: transmitting a deployment signal to a vehicle; deploying a drone from the vehicle in response to receiving the deployment signal; configuring the drone to hover above the vehicle; and configuring the drone to issue one or more alerts.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the drone is configured to hover above the vehicle at a distance of no more than 2.0 mm in a vertically upward direction from the vehicle.

23. 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the deployment signal is provided by pressing a button on a remote ignition key or by pressing a button on a vehicle infotainment system.

24. 24. The method of any one of claims 21 to 23, comprising the steps of: after the drone is deployed, sending a command to the drone to exit the vehicle and locate a user; configuring the drone to fly to the user's location in response to receiving the command to exit the vehicle and locate the user; sending a command for the drone to return to the vehicle; and configuring the drone to return to the vehicle in response to receiving the command for the drone to return to the vehicle.

25. 1. A method for locating a vehicle, comprising: transmitting a deployment signal to a vehicle; deploying a drone from the vehicle in response to receiving the deployment signal; transmitting a command for the drone to exit the vehicle and locate a user; configuring the drone to fly to the user's location after receiving the command for the drone to exit the vehicle and locate the user; transmitting a command for the drone to return to the vehicle; and configuring the drone to return to the vehicle after receiving the command for the drone to return to the vehicle.

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