Information notification system and drone port operation method

Abstract

An information notification system (100) comprises a drone (14), a beacon device (20), a management PC (22), and a portable terminal (24). In a position estimation step (S1), when a user (M) enters a reception region of a beacon signal (B), the position of the user (M) is estimated from the intensity of the beacon signal (B). In a designated point notification step (S2), the management PC (22) notifies the portable terminal (24) of the user (M) regarding a designation point (12a) of the user (M) via the beacon device (20). In a conveyance preparation completion notification step (S3), when the user (M) arrives at the reception region of the beacon signal (B) for the designated point (12a) and conveyance preparation in a drone port (10) is complete, the notification "conveyance preparation complete" is sent to the portable terminal (24) of the user (M) via the beacon device (20).

Description

Information notification system and drone port operation method

[0001] The present invention relates to an information notification system and a drone port operation method for multiple drone ports.

[0002] A "drone" is a type of helicopter that flies autonomously or remotely. A "drone port" is a facility equipped with a landing and takeoff surface for drones. In addition to the landing and takeoff surface, a drone port should also have a parking area where drones can wait.

[0003] A package delivery system using a drone and a package receiving device for storing the delivered package have already been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, in recent years, an electrically powered manned aircraft that can take off and land vertically under automatic control and carry a person has been proposed as a manned aircraft used by individuals for daily transportation, and has attracted attention as a "flying car."

[0004] The "baggage receiving device" of Patent Document 1 has a luggage placement surface that is exposed or exposable to the outside so that an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) can place luggage thereon, and an internal space for storing the luggage. An opening that leads from the outside to the internal space is formed in the luggage receiving device. The luggage receiving device is equipped with a luggage moving device that moves luggage placed on the luggage placement surface along the luggage placement surface to the position of the opening. This luggage receiving device corresponds to a drone port.

[0005] JP 2024-40148 A

[0006] Conventional drone ports have a set baggage collection point and a landing point, where the drone lands at the landing point and the baggage is transported from the landing point to the baggage collection point. Also, when a person (user) collects the baggage directly at the drone port, the user collects the baggage at the baggage collection point. However, when there are multiple drone ports, the following problems arise.

[0007] (1) If there is a person in the area where the drone will land (near the landing point), there is a possibility that the drone may come into contact with the person. In this case, the safety of the drone-based package collection system (drone delivery service) will be compromised.

[0008] (2) If a user's pickup point overlaps with that of another user, or if a particular pickup point is crowded, the user will have to spend time searching for a pickup location, reducing the convenience of the service.

[0009] It is also anticipated that autonomous flying vehicles that can carry people will be used as flying taxis, meeting passengers who are scheduled to board.

[0010] Furthermore, in conventional drone port operations, pickup points are fixed, making it difficult to flexibly adapt to changes in the shape of the drone port, surrounding obstacles, and usage conditions. As a result, it is difficult for users to quickly find the appropriate pickup point, especially during busy times, which reduces the efficiency and convenience of the service, and further poses the issue of confusion due to incorrect guidance when multiple users use the facility at the same time.

[0011] The present invention was devised to solve these problems. That is, a first object of the present invention is to provide a means for users to reduce the time and effort required to search for a baggage collection point, even when there are multiple drone ports, and to quickly and reliably receive and deliver their baggage. A second object of the present invention is to provide a means for users to reduce the time and effort required to search for a point to board a drone, to quickly and reliably board a drone, and to increase the safety of people waiting in the aircraft.

[0012] According to the present invention, there is provided an information notification system for notifying mobile bodies of delivery information at a plurality of drone ports, wherein designated points and takeoff and landing points are set at each of the drone ports, and the system comprises: a drone capable of takeoff and landing at the drone port; a plurality of beacon transmitters and receivers capable of transmitting and receiving beacon signals in a part or all of each of the drone ports; a management control device capable of bidirectional communication with the beacon transmitters and receivers and the drones; and a mobile communication terminal carried by the mobile body, capable of transmitting and receiving the beacon signals and having an information display function, wherein the beacon transmitters and receivers, the management control device, and the mobile communication terminal have dedicated applications for providing the delivery information to the mobile body, wherein (A) when the mobile body enters a reception area of ​​any of the beacon signals, the beacon transmitters and receivers receive the beacon signal from the mobile communication terminal and estimate the position of the mobile body from the strength of the beacon signal; (B) the management control device notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body of the designated point of the mobile body via the beacon transmitters and receivers; (C) An information notification system is provided that, when the mobile body arrives within the beacon signal receiving area of ​​its designated point and preparations for transportation at the drone port are completed, notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitting / receiving device that preparations for transportation are complete.

[0013] Furthermore, according to the present invention, there is provided a drone port operation method using the above-mentioned information notification system, comprising: a position estimation step of receiving the beacon signal from the mobile communication terminal by the beacon transceiver when the mobile body enters a reception area of ​​one of the beacon signals and estimating the position of the mobile body from the strength of the beacon signal; a designated point notification step of notifying the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transceiver by the management control device of the designated point of the mobile body; and a transport preparation completion notification step of notifying the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transceiver when the mobile body arrives within the reception area of ​​the beacon signal of its own designated point and transport preparation at the drone port is complete.

[0014] According to the configuration of the present invention, when a mobile object (e.g., a user) enters the reception area of ​​a beacon signal, the beacon transmitting / receiving device receives the beacon signal from the mobile communication terminal and estimates the position of the mobile object from the strength of the beacon signal. This eliminates the need for the user to launch a dedicated application, eliminating the need for manual operation.

[0015] Next, the designated point (e.g., baggage collection point) of the mobile device is notified to the mobile device's mobile communication terminal, so the mobile device can confirm where to collect the baggage. This clarifies the designated point within the drone port, reducing the effort and time required for users to search for the designated point.

[0016] Furthermore, when the mobile object arrives at its designated point and preparations for transportation at the drone port are complete, the mobile object's mobile communication terminal (only) is notified of the completion of transportation preparations, allowing the user to quickly and reliably collect their luggage.

[0017] It is an overall configuration diagram of an information notification system according to the present invention.It is an overall plan view of the information notification system of Figure 1.It is a first flowchart showing an information notification method according to the present invention.It is a second flowchart showing an information notification method according to the present invention.

[0018] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, common parts in the drawings are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0019] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an information notification system 100 according to the present invention. The information notification system 100 according to the present invention is a system for notifying mobile objects M of delivery information at a plurality of delivery bases.

[0020] In this example, the transport base is the drone port 10. However, the transport base is not limited to the drone port 10, and may be a base for a transport means other than a drone (for example, a land transport robot).

[0021] The mobile object M is a person or a transport robot that receives and delivers the luggage 1 transported by the drone 14 at a designated point.

[0022] In this example, the designated point is a designated point 12a, which will be described later. Note that the designated point is not limited to the designated point 12a, and may be a dynamically set point or a virtual point.

[0023] Hereinafter, "delivery" of the package 1 means "receiving" the package 1 or "handing over" the package 1. The designated point 12a corresponds to the package receiving point in the case of "receiving." The transport robot may be a collection / delivery robot that is capable of automatic operation and can automatically collect and deliver packages.

[0024] Hereinafter, a case will be described in which the moving object M is a person (user M), the drone 14 transports the package 1, and the user M receives the package 1 at a designated point 12a. In this case, the designated point 12a is the package receiving point described above.

[0025] It is preferable that the multiple drone ports 10 are located within close proximity to each other so that they can be easily accessed by the moving body M (user M). Note that the number of drone ports 10 may be two or more.

[0026] 1, the drone ports 10 are shown as rectangular planes, but the drone ports 10 are not limited to being rectangular and may be any shape. Furthermore, the drone ports 10 are not limited to being flat and may be three-dimensional.

[0027] Each of the drone ports 10 has a designated point 12a (baggage collection point) and a takeoff and landing point 12b. The designated point 12a is, for example, a part of the drone port 10, and is set, for example, on the edge of the drone port 10 or on the side of a three-dimensional object, so that the user M can access the designated point 12a without getting close to the takeoff and landing point 12b. The takeoff and landing point 12b is, for example, the center of the top surface of the drone port 10, so that the drone 14 can easily land.

[0028] Note that it is not necessary to set the designated point 12a and the takeoff and landing point 12b, and one or both may be set at the top surface position of the drone port 10.

[0029] In FIG. 1 , the information notification system 100 includes a drone 14 , a plurality of signal transmission devices, an information management device, and a mobile communication terminal 24 .

[0030] In this example, the signal transmission device is a beacon transmission / reception device 20. Note that the signal transmission device is not limited to the beacon transmission / reception device 20, and may be a wide range of communication technologies including technologies other than beacons (for example, Wi-Fi, RFID, infrared communication, etc.).

[0031] In this example, the information management device is the management control device 22. Note that the information management device is not limited to the management control device 22, but covers devices with more comprehensive information processing functions. In other words, it may include a cloud-based management system or a system that utilizes AI (artificial intelligence).

[0032] The drone 14 is a helicopter capable of taking off and landing (capable of landing or taking off) at the drone port 10, and is an air vehicle that flies remotely or autonomously to transport the luggage 1, or an air vehicle that can carry a person and fly automatically. When the drone 14 is an air vehicle that transports the luggage 1, the drone 14 transports the luggage 1 to the drone port 10 or transports it from the drone port 10. The destination (destination or destination) of the luggage 1 is instructed to the drone 14 via the management control device 22. Furthermore, transportation at the drone port 10 is the handover of the luggage 1 transported by the drone 14, or a person boarding the drone 14.

[0033] Below, we will explain the case where the drone 14 is an aircraft that flies remotely or autonomously to transport luggage 1, and the transportation at the drone port 10 is the receipt of luggage 1 by a mobile body M (user M).

[0034] A beacon is a location identification technology that uses infrared rays, radio waves, and the ultra-low power short-range wireless communication standard Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), as well as a device equipped with this technology. A beacon transmits a signal wirelessly once every few seconds within a radius of several meters to several tens of meters, and when it detects a device within the transmitting range that can receive the beacon signal, it sends the location information to a server. Devices that can use beacons include Bluetooth-compatible devices, as well as smartphones that do not have a dedicated beacon app.

[0035] The multiple beacon transmitters and receivers 20 are installed at the multiple drone ports 10, respectively, and transmit and receive beacon signals (hereinafter, beacon signals B) to a portion or the entire area of ​​the corresponding drone port 10. The beacon transmitters and receivers 20 are preferably located outside the drone port 10 so as not to affect the takeoff and landing of the drones 14. For example, the beacon transmitters and receivers 20 may be installed on top of a pole installed outside the drone port 10.

[0036] The beacon transmitter / receiver 20 works in cooperation with the management control device 22 to dynamically adjust in real time one or more of the radio wave range, signal strength, transmission interval, and identification information of the beacon signal, thereby optimizing operation according to the usage status and environmental conditions of the drone port 10. Hereinafter, the beacon transmitter / receiver 20 will be referred to as the "beacon device 20" unless otherwise required.

[0037] (Adjusting the Radio Wave Range of Beacon Signal B) The radio wave range of beacon signal B is usually constant, but it can be adjusted to an appropriate range depending on the shape and size of the drone port 10. For example, if the drone port 10 is large or rectangular, the radio wave range of beacon signal B can be set wide to cover the entire point. This makes it easier for the user to confirm that they have accurately arrived at the specified point 12a. In addition, the coverage range of beacon signal B can be optimized by adjusting the installation position (height) of the beacon device 20. For example, installing the beacon device 20 in a higher position can widen the reach of the radio waves and cover a larger area.

[0038] (Use of Multiple Beacons) Multiple beacon devices 20 can be placed at one drone port 10. This allows the location of user M to be determined more accurately by receiving radio waves from each beacon device 20, even in drone ports 10 that cover a wide area or have a complex shape.

[0039] The management control device 22 is a PC (computer) that can communicate bidirectionally with the beacon device 20 and the drone 14, and receives and stores necessary information, including the transport destination of the luggage 1, from a higher-level integrated control device (not shown). Hereinafter, the management control device 22 will be referred to as the "management PC 22" unless otherwise necessary.

[0040] The mobile communication terminal 24 is carried by the user M, is capable of sending and receiving a beacon signal B, and has an information display function. The mobile communication terminal 24 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet. Hereinafter, the mobile communication terminal 24 will be referred to as a "portable terminal 24" unless otherwise necessary.

[0041] The beacon device 20, the management PC 22, and the mobile terminal 24 have programs for providing the user M with transportation information pre-installed.

[0042] In this example, the program is a dedicated application A. Note that the program is not limited to the dedicated application A, and may include software technology that does not depend on hardware (for example, a web-based application, a cloud-based service, or an OS-integrated function).

[0043] Dedicated application A has the following functions: 1. It automatically starts when user M is near the drone port 10 (function 1). 2. It displays information about the designated point 12a where user M should receive the package based on the package receiving instruction sent from the management PC 22 (function 2). 3. When user M arrives at the designated point 12a and preparations for package 1 at the transport base are complete, it displays on the mobile device 24 that transport preparations are complete (function 3).

[0044] In this example, the preparation at the transfer base is preparation for transfer. However, the preparation at the transfer base is not limited to preparation for transfer and may include not only the drone but also the operational status of the entire base (for example, preparation of a robot, maintenance of the base environment, etc.).

[0045] 4. Even if user M loses sight of designated point 12a or heads towards the wrong point, dedicated application A re-instructs user M to move away from designated point 12b based on the strength of the radio waves (function 4). 5. Dedicated application A also instructs user M to move away from takeoff and landing point 12b (function 5).

[0046] The beacon device 20 has the following functions using the beacon signal B: 1. If there is a device (portable terminal 24) that can receive the beacon signal B within the range of transmitting the beacon signal B, it detects it and transmits its location information to the management PC 22. 2. It understands the movement route of user M using information from dedicated application A on user M's portable terminal 24. 3. It transmits information at the timing when user M receives the beacon signal B. 4. It understands the location information from user M's portable terminal 24.

[0047] (Strengthening cooperation between the beacon device 20 and the dedicated application A) The dedicated application A can not only receive radio waves (beacon signal B) from the beacon device 20, but also transmit signals to the beacon device 20. For example, when the user M confirms that he has received the package 1, the dedicated application A transmits the information to the beacon device 20, and the beacon device 20 conveys the information to the management PC 22. This allows the management side (management PC 22) to confirm that the receipt of the package 1 has been completed successfully.

[0048] (Addition of user authentication function) A user authentication function can be added to dedicated application A. This allows user M's login information (e.g., user ID and password) to be requested when starting the application, making it possible to confirm that the user is the correct user. This prevents a situation in which a third party mistakenly receives package 1 belonging to user M.

[0049] (Display of Package Information) The dedicated application A can display detailed information (e.g., size, weight, shape, etc.) of the package 1 to be received. This allows the user M to know in advance what kind of package 1 to receive, reducing the hassle of receiving the package.

[0050] (Addition of a pickup time reservation function) A pickup time reservation function can be added to the dedicated application A. User M can specify the desired pickup time in advance and receive a notification when that time arrives. This allows user M to pick up package 1 at the specified time even when he or she is busy.

[0051] (Display of flight status of drone 14) A function for displaying information in real time, such as the current location of the drone 14 and when the package 1 will arrive, can also be added to the dedicated application A. This allows the user M to check when the package 1 will arrive and make appropriate preparations to receive it.

[0052] (Simultaneous control of multiple drones 14) When multiple drones 14 are simultaneously carrying the luggage 1, each drone 14 is controlled to deliver the luggage 1 to a different designated point 12a. This makes it possible to avoid confusion such as multiple drones 14 arriving at one designated point 12a at the same time.

[0053] Figure 2 is an overall plan view of the information notification system 100 of Figure 1. In this figure, the three drone ports 10 are referred to as drone ports 10A, 10B, and 10C, respectively. Furthermore, the three beacon devices 20 installed at each drone port 10 are referred to as beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C, respectively.

[0054] Beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C are installed at drone ports 10A, 10B, and 10C, respectively, and transmit and receive beacon signals B to part or all of the corresponding drone ports 10A, 10B, and 10C. In the figure, 2a, 2b, and 2c illustrate the transmission and reception ranges of the beacon signals B of the beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C.

[0055] The beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C each have a function to estimate the position of the user M from the strength of the beacon signal B from the mobile terminal 24. Therefore, when any one of the beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C receives the beacon signal B from the mobile terminal 24, the distance to the user M can be estimated from the strength of the beacon signal B. Also, when two or three of the beacon devices 20A, 20B, and 20C receive it, the distance from the two or three beacon devices to the user M can be estimated from the strength of the beacon signal B, and the position of the user M can be estimated more accurately. The same applies when there are four or more beacon devices 20.

[0056] (Triangulation) By comparing distances from multiple beacon devices 20, rather than just one beacon device 20, more accurate location information can be calculated. A location sharing system using triangulation shares location information of multiple users within a specific area in real time. This location sharing system can be used to identify the location of user M.

[0057] Based on the above-described configuration, the information notification system 100 of the present invention has the following functions. Function A: When user M enters the reception area of ​​any beacon signal B, the beacon device 20 receives the beacon signal B from the mobile device 24 and estimates the location of user M from the strength of the beacon signal B. Function B: The management PC notifies user M's mobile device 24 of user M via the beacon device 20. Function C: When user M arrives in the reception area of ​​the beacon signal B of his / her designated point 12a and preparations for transportation (preparation for handing over the luggage 1) at the drone port 10 are completed, the beacon device 20 notifies user M's mobile device 24 that "transport preparations are complete."

[0058] The information notification system 100 of the present invention further has the following functions: When the drone 14 is not yet ready for transport when the mobile unit M arrives at the designated point 12a, the management control device 22 outputs an instruction to the mobile unit M to wait until the transport preparation is complete. Next, when the transport preparation is complete, the management control device 22 notifies the mobile communication terminal 24 of the mobile unit M via the beacon transmitting / receiving device 20 that the transport preparation is complete.

[0059] With this configuration, if the transport robot M arrives earlier than the drone 14, the transport robot M is instructed to wait. This prevents the transport robot M from mistakenly collecting an unintended package 1 even when there is no package to be transported or when the package is being delivered by another drone 14 using the same drone port 10.

[0060] Note that if the drone 14 arrives earlier than the transport robot M, the drone 14 may be instructed to wait. This prevents the package to be transported from being lost due to the wind, or prevents the drone 14 from mistakenly retrieving an unintended package 1 despite it being delivered by another drone 14 using the same drone port 10.

[0061] Furthermore, a parking area for charging the batteries of the drones 14 may be provided, allowing the batteries to be replenished while the drones are on standby. This reduces energy consumption while the drones are on standby, and improves the operating efficiency of the drones 14.

[0062] 3 is a first flow chart showing a drone port operation method according to the present invention, which uses the above-described information notification system 100. In this figure, the drone port operation method includes a position estimation step S1, a designated point notification step S2, and a transport preparation completion notification step S3.

[0063] In a position estimation step S1, when user M enters the reception area of ​​any beacon signal B, the beacon device 20 receives the beacon signal B from the portable terminal 24 and estimates the position of user M from the strength of the beacon signal B. In a designated point notification step S2, the management PC 22 notifies user M's portable terminal 24 of user M via the beacon device 20. In a delivery preparation completion notification step S3, when user M arrives in the reception area of ​​the beacon signal B of his / her designated point 12a and preparation for delivery of the luggage 1 is completed, the beacon device 20 notifies user M's portable terminal 24 of "delivery preparation completion."

[0064] The above-described configuration of the present invention provides the following advantages. Function A and the position estimation step S1 automatically estimate the user M's location based on the strength of the beacon signal B in the reception area of ​​the beacon signal B. This eliminates the need for the user to launch the dedicated application A, eliminating the need for manual operation. Function B and the designated point notification step S2 notify the user M's mobile device 24 of the designated point 12a, allowing the user M to confirm where to receive the package 1. This clarifies the designated point 12a within the drone port, reducing the time and effort required for the user M to search for the designated point 12a. Function C and the delivery preparation completion notification step S3 notify the user M of the completion of delivery preparation only to the user M's mobile device 24 when the user M arrives at the designated point 12a and delivery preparation (preparation for delivery of the package 1) at the drone port 10 is completed. This allows the user M to quickly and reliably receive his or her package 1.

[0065] In addition, the following accompanying effects can be obtained: (1) The risk (mistake) of user M receiving the wrong package 1 (package 1 belonging to another user M) can be eliminated. (2) The confusion caused by multiple users M trying to receive package 1 at the same time can be prevented, and the efficiency of package reception can be improved. (3) After preparation for transport at the drone port 10 is completed, notification of the completion of transport preparation is made clear to user M, eliminating unnecessary waiting time.

[0066] The drone port operation method of the present invention is based on the above-mentioned configuration and further includes a re-notification step S4. The re-notification step S4 consists of a first re-notification step S4-1 and a second re-notification step S4-2.

[0067] In the first re-notification step S4-1, if the user M does not receive his / her package 1 after being notified that the transportation preparation is complete, the designated point 12a is re-notified to the mobile terminal 24 of the user M via the beacon device 20.

[0068] By this first re-notification step S4-1, even if the user M heads towards the wrong designated point 12a, the user M can be re-guided to the correct designated point 12a, thereby avoiding wasting time and effort.

[0069] In the second re-notification step S4-2, the designated point 12a of the user M is notified to the mobile terminal 24 of the user M, and then the position of the user M is estimated again. Next, if the estimated position of the user M is not heading towards the notified designated point 12a of the user M, the notified designated point 12a is re-notified to the mobile terminal 24 of the user M via the beacon device 20.

[0070] By this second re-notification step S4-2, even if the user M loses sight of the designated point 12a or is heading towards the wrong designated point 12a, the user M can be re-guided to the correct designated point 12a, thereby enabling the user M to collect his / her luggage 1 without getting lost.

[0071] The drone port operation method of the present invention, based on the above-described configuration, further includes a warning step S5. In the warning step S5, if the estimated location of user M is close to takeoff and landing point 12b, the management PC 22 temporarily suspends the delivery of the package by the drone 14. Also, the beacon device 20 instructs the mobile terminal 24 of user M to move away from takeoff and landing point 12b.

[0072] This warning step S5 makes it possible to avoid contact between the drone 14 and people even if the user M approaches the takeoff and landing point 12b of the drone 14, thereby reducing the impact on the operation of the drone 14 and ensuring the safety of the user M.

[0073] 1 and 2, the drone port 10 further includes a foreign object detection sensor 16. The foreign object detection sensor 16 is, for example, a camera and image processing device, and has the function of detecting a person or foreign object that does not have a mobile device 24 and is approaching the takeoff and landing point 12b. The foreign object detection sensor 16 is preferably installed around the outside of the drone port 10 so as not to affect the takeoff and landing of the drone 14, for example, on the top of the pole on which the beacon device 20 is installed.

[0074] In this case, the drone port operation method of the present invention further includes a foreign object detection step S6, in which the foreign object detection sensor 16 detects a person or foreign object not carrying a mobile terminal 24 and approaching the takeoff and landing point 12b, and the drone 14 temporarily suspends the landing, changes the flight route of the drone 14, or cancels the flight.

[0075] Also, if it is determined that landing is not possible for a certain period of time, the landing location is changed to another adjacent takeoff and landing point 12b and another landing attempt is made.

[0076] In addition, if the flight route is changed and the foreign object detection sensor 16 does not detect a foreign object for a certain period of time, the drone 14 has a re-landing step in which it attempts to land at the takeoff and landing point again.

[0077] The above-mentioned foreign object detection step S6 can prevent a collision between the drone 14 and a person even if a person who does not have a mobile terminal 24 with the dedicated application A installed accidentally approaches the takeoff and landing point 12b of the drone 14.

[0078] In the foreign object detection step S6, the system may be configured to automatically recognize foreign objects, or the camera image of the drone 14 may be remotely monitored and a remote operator of the drone 14 may check for the presence or absence of foreign objects.

[0079] 4 is a second flowchart showing the drone port operation method of the present invention, which includes steps T1 to T6.

[0080] In step T1, when user M arrives near the drone port 10, dedicated application A is automatically launched. In step T2, based on the package pickup instruction sent from the management PC 22, dedicated application A displays information about the designated point 12a where user M should pick up the package. In step T3, user M follows the displayed information and moves to the designated point 12a. In step T4, when user M arrives at the designated point 12a, the mobile device 24 receives a beacon signal B from that point. By receiving this radio wave, dedicated application A confirms that user M has arrived at the designated point 12a. In step T5, once arrival at the designated point is confirmed and preparation for delivery of package 1 is complete, dedicated application A displays a message on the mobile device 24 indicating that delivery preparation is complete. User M follows this message to receive package 1. In step T6, even if user M heads for the wrong designated point 12a, dedicated application A detects the change in the strength of the beacon's radio waves. Then, dedicated application A re-instructs user M to the correct designated point 12a.

[0081] After receiving the package 1, when the user M moves away from the designated point 12a, the beacon device 20 detects that the user M has moved a certain distance away from the designated point 12a and transmits this information to the management PC 22. Based on this information, the management PC 22 instructs the next user M to receive their package. Meanwhile, the user M confirms that they have completed receiving the package 1. This ends the dedicated application A.

[0082] The drone 14 is preferably capable of receiving the beacon signal B. In this case, the drone port operation method according to the present invention includes a re-landing step in which the drone 14 receives the beacon signal B on behalf of the moving body M, and if the location where the drone 14 is attempting to land is incorrect, or if the location where the drone 14 landed is incorrect, the drone 14 re-lands at the correct landing location.

[0083] With this configuration, the drone 14 receives the beacon signal B immediately before or after landing in the air. If the drone 14 then lands in the wrong place, it can land again at the correct location. This assumes that an incorrect landing may occur due to wind influences, GPS errors, etc., and this ensures that the baggage 1 is not placed in the wrong place and can be delivered reliably.

[0084] Although the above-described embodiment uses beacons, it is also possible to use the Global Positioning System (GPS), in which the mobile communication terminal receives signals directly from satellites and calculates its own position using those signals. However, in places where satellite signals are difficult to receive, such as between high-rise buildings or in mountainous areas, it is preferable to use short-range wireless communication technology such as beacons.

[0085] According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, when the drone 14 transports the luggage 1 and the user M receives the luggage 1 at the designated point 12a, the following occurs.

[0086] When user M enters the reception area of ​​any beacon signal B, beacon transmission / reception device 20 receives beacon signal B from portable terminal 24 and estimates the location of user M from the strength of beacon signal B. This eliminates the need for the user to launch dedicated application A, eliminating the need for additional operation.

[0087] Next, the user M's designated point 12a (e.g., a baggage pickup point) is notified to the user M's mobile device 24, so the user M can confirm where to pick up the baggage 1. This clarifies the designated point 12a within the drone port, reducing the effort and time required for the user M to search for the designated point 12a.

[0088] Furthermore, when user M arrives at his / her designated point 12a and preparations for transportation at the drone port 10 are completed, the completion of transportation preparations is notified to user M's mobile terminal 24 (only), so user M can quickly and reliably receive his / her luggage 1.

[0089] Furthermore, when user M delivers baggage 1 at designated point 12a and drone 14 transports baggage 1, user M also possesses (carries) mobile terminal 24. Therefore, similarly, user M can reduce the effort and time it takes to search for the designated point, and can deliver his / her baggage quickly and reliably.

[0090] Furthermore, in the case where the mobile object M is a transport robot, the drone 14 transports the luggage 1, and the transport robot delivers (receives or hands over) the luggage 1 at the designated point 12a, the transport robot is also equipped with a mobile communication terminal. Therefore, similarly, the effort and time required for the transport robot to search for the designated point can be reduced, and the transport robot can deliver its own luggage quickly and reliably.

[0091] Furthermore, if the moving object M is a person (user) and the drone 14 is an air vehicle that a person can board and that can fly automatically, it is possible to similarly reduce the time and effort required for the user to find a place to board the drone 14. It is also possible for the user to board the drone 14 quickly and reliably, and to increase the safety of the person in the waiting air vehicle.

[0092] The transmission and reception range of the beacon signal B by the beacon transmitter / receiver 20 preferably covers the entire drone port 10, but may cover only a portion of it. Furthermore, the beacon signal B from one drone port 10 does not have to reach other drone ports. For example, if the transmission and reception range of the beacon signal B covers only a portion of the drone port 10, a sensor device should be provided to indicate entry into the drone port 10. The sensor device is preferably an optical type that uses laser light, and is preferably positioned so that the laser light completely surrounds the entire drone port 10. Furthermore, the laser light from the sensor device preferably has two beams each so that the direction of movement can be determined.

[0093] By using the beacon transmitter / receiver 20 in conjunction with a sensor device (optical type using laser light), it is possible to determine that the mobile terminal 24 has entered the drone port 10 when it enters the radio wave range of the beacon transmitter / receiver 20 and the laser light from the sensor device is blocked. Even if the beacon signal B does not reach a part of the drone port 10 (for example, the back side), it is possible to determine that the mobile terminal 24 has once entered the drone port 10 (storing the intrusion information), and a notification that the handover location is different can be sent, allowing the drone to wait. Furthermore, it is preferable to block the laser light from the sensor device and delete the intrusion information when the mobile terminal 24 leaves the drone port.

[0094] Furthermore, an information notification system 100 may be provided that utilizes dynamic control of the beacon signal B at the drone port 10 to enable flexible operation according to usage and environmental conditions. This system may have a mechanism in which the beacon device 20 cooperates with the management control device 22 to adjust in real time any or all of the radio wave range, signal strength, transmission interval, and identification information of the beacon signal B. This significantly improves the efficiency, safety, and convenience of users when using the drone port 10.

[0095] The management control device 22 may also change the radio wave range of the beacon signal B in real time to guide users to less crowded baggage collection points. This allows each user to efficiently move to an appropriate baggage collection point. For example, the management control device 22 may monitor the congestion status of the drone port 10 and disperse users by adjusting the radio wave range of the beacon devices 20 so that they do not concentrate at a specific baggage collection point.

[0096] The beacon unit 20 may be able to adjust its radio wave range depending on the shape and structure of the drone port 10 and obstacles such as other cargo. Furthermore, if a wide area needs to be covered, the radio wave range may be expanded, and for drone ports 10 with complex shapes, multiple beacon units 20 may be linked together to achieve optimal signal coverage. This may also help users reach a designated point accurately.

[0097] On the other hand, during busy times, the signal range may be reduced or users may be guided to less crowded baggage claim points, enabling more efficient operation. Furthermore, when an obstacle is present, the signal strength may be strengthened to accurately estimate the user's location while minimizing interference. These adjustments may be made in real time by the management control device 22, dynamically changing the beacon signal B.

[0098] Furthermore, in the present invention, a mechanism for dynamically changing the beacon signal B is adopted, and the beacon device 20 adjusts in real time any one or more of the radio wave range, signal strength, transmission interval, and identification information in cooperation with the management control device 22. This provides the following effects.

[0099] (1) It enables the optimal operation of beacon signal B according to usage and environmental conditions, accurately estimating the user's location and notifying them of the designated baggage collection point. Furthermore, during busy times, the range of beacon signal B is reduced to guide the user to an unoccupied point, and signal strength is increased to improve the accuracy of estimating the user's location when obstacles such as other baggage are present. (2) When a user or foreign object is detected approaching the takeoff or landing point, beacon signal B is adjusted to issue a warning and drone operation is temporarily suspended, ensuring safety. (3) The adoption of a low-power mode, which transmits beacon signals only when necessary, reduces overall energy consumption, and the addition of a function to change identification information corresponding to specific users or baggage enables more flexible and efficient operation.

[0100] The present invention dynamically changes the beacon signal B, enabling flexible operation according to the usage status and environmental conditions of the drone port 10. This enables rapid user guidance, especially during crowded times, accurate location estimation when obstacles are present, ensuring safety at takeoff and landing points, and reducing energy consumption through efficient transmission of the beacon signal B, providing highly accurate location information even when multiple users are using the drone port simultaneously. This improves the efficiency, safety, and convenience of drone port operations, and provides an innovative information notification system 100 that overcomes issues that could not be resolved with conventional fixed beacon technology.

[0101] Furthermore, the beacon device 20 may change the transmission interval depending on the user's proximity, thereby improving the accuracy of real-time location information. For example, when the user enters the reception area of ​​the beacon signal B, the transmission interval is shortened and location information is acquired more frequently, thereby realizing accurate guidance.

[0102] On the other hand, when the user is not in the reception area of ​​beacon signal B, the transmission interval may be extended to reduce unnecessary signal transmission, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0103] Furthermore, the beacon device 20 may have a function to dynamically change identification information such as UUID and Major / Minor values, which may enable individual notifications to specific users or packages. For example, even if multiple users use the drone port 10 at the same time, confusion can be prevented by providing appropriate information to each user.

[0104] UUID and Major / Minor values ​​are identification information primarily used in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon technology. 1. UUID (Universally Unique Identifier) ​​A UUID is a 128-bit (16-byte) unique identifier designed to be unique worldwide. It is primarily used to identify devices and services. Example: 123e4567-e89b-12d3-a456-426614174000 In BLE beacons, beacons with the same UUID are considered to belong to the same group. For example, the same UUID can be set for all beacons in a retail store, and used to identify them as "this beacon belongs to this store."

[0105] 2. Major value and Minor value The Major value and Minor value are each 16-bit (2-byte) numbers used to make more detailed distinctions within the UUID. Major value: Used for broad classification within a group. Example: Used to distinguish between different stores in a shopping mall. Minor value: Used for more detailed classification within a group. Example: Used to distinguish between specific areas or product shelves within a store.

[0106] Relationship between UUID, Major, and Minor (Example) For example, if a shopping mall uses BLE beacons to provide navigation: UUID: Set a common UUID for the entire mall (Example: 123e4567-e89b-12d3-a456-426614174000). Major value: Assign a different Major value to each store (Example: 1 = supermarket, 2 = bookstore). Minor value: Assign a Minor value to a specific area within each store (Example: 1 = supermarket entrance, 2 = supermarket cash register area). In this way, by combining UUID, Major, and Minor, it is possible to identify the source of the beacon and provide appropriate information to users.

[0107] Furthermore, a dedicated application may send real-time notifications to the user's mobile device and guide them to the designated baggage pickup point. During busy times, a notification of a change in the baggage pickup point may be sent, allowing for re-guidance to an available point. This system allows users to navigate to the appropriate baggage pickup point without getting lost. Furthermore, the management control device 22 can dynamically prioritize baggage pickup based on the urgency of the package and the user's location information. For example, priority may be given to users arriving early or to urgent deliveries of medical equipment such as AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and medicines, while other users are instructed to wait. This may maximize the operational efficiency of the drone port 10.

[0108] Furthermore, to enhance safety at takeoff and landing points, a mechanism may be provided that uses beacon signal B to issue a warning when a user approaches the takeoff and landing point. In this case, the beacon device 20 detects the user's location and sends a warning to the user's mobile communication device via the management control device 22, while simultaneously temporarily suspending drone operation to prevent contact between the drone and people and ensure safety. Furthermore, by linking with a foreign object detection sensor, similar safety measures can be taken when a person without a mobile device or a foreign object is present near the takeoff and landing point.

[0109] Furthermore, the beacon device 20 has a low-power mode that reduces overall energy consumption by transmitting signals only when necessary. This low-power mode is automatically activated when there is no user within the reception range of beacon signal B or when the drone port 10 is unused. On the other hand, when a user enters the reception range of beacon signal B, the device switches to normal mode and begins providing real-time location information. In this way, dynamic management of the transmission status of beacon signal B maximizes energy efficiency.

[0110] Furthermore, the present invention provides users with information based on the dynamically changing beacon signal B through a dedicated application. When a user approaches the drone port 10, the application automatically launches and displays a notification of the designated baggage pickup point and completion of delivery preparation. Furthermore, if the user is heading to the wrong point, the application detects changes in the radio wave strength of the beacon signal B and sends a re-notification, enabling guidance to the correct point. This application is equipped with functions for user authentication and displaying baggage information, achieving both security and convenience.

[0111] The system may also be equipped with a pickup time reservation function, allowing users to specify their desired pickup time in advance through a dedicated application. This allows for efficient and flexible delivery of luggage by adjusting the timing of notification of beacon signal B and completion of transport preparation to match the specified time.

[0112] Furthermore, this technology can be applied not only to receiving packages but also to sending packages, and dynamic adjustments can be made by AI (artificial intelligence).

[0113] (Real-time management of congestion using AI) It is preferable for AI to analyze data from foreign object detection sensors and identify the type of human or obstacle. In this case, the AI ​​may determine whether the foreign object is a package placed by another drone, a human, or a bird or animal that may pose a threat to the drone, assess the level of danger, and determine whether the drone should land. The AI ​​may be cloud-based and connected to a network, or it may operate in an edge environment. Furthermore, it is preferable for the AI ​​to change the drone's landing location or pause the landing and recalculate a safe route based on the results of the determination. In this case, if a bird or animal is detected, measures can be taken to scare it away using sound waves or light. If the object is a package placed by another drone, the AI ​​may have the ability to recognize the package and re-set an appropriate landing point to avoid interference.

[0114] By utilizing these dynamic control functions, the information notification system 100 of the present invention significantly improves the operational efficiency, safety, and convenience of the drone port 10, while also resolving issues that could not be addressed with conventional fixed beacon technology. In this way, the embodiment of the present invention provides a technical foundation for realizing comfortable and safe use for users, centered on dynamic beacon signal control.

[0115] Relevance to the present invention: The following are possible uses of "identification information (UUID and Major / Minor values)." When a drone delivers a package, it uses the UUID and Major / Minor values ​​set at each package pickup point and on the user's device to identify who the package is addressed to and which pickup point is associated with which package. Dynamically changing the UUID and Major / Minor values ​​enables flexible operation according to the delivery destination and recipient's situation. In this way, the UUID and Major / Minor values ​​are important technical elements for identifying specific devices and areas.

[0116] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0117] A Dedicated application, B Beacon signal, M Moving object (person, user or transport robot), 1 Baggage, 2a, 2b, 2c Transmission and reception range, 10, 10A, 10B, 10C Drone port, 12a Designated point (baggage receipt point), 12b Takeoff and landing point, 14 Drone, 16 Foreign object detection sensor, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C Beacon transmission and reception device (beacon device), 22 Management control device (management PC), 24 Mobile communication terminal (mobile terminal), 100 Information notification system

Claims

1. An information notification system for notifying mobile objects of delivery information at multiple drone ports, wherein designated points and takeoff and landing points are set at each of the drone ports, the system comprising: drones capable of takeoff and landing at the drone ports; multiple beacon transmitters and receivers capable of transmitting and receiving beacon signals in part or all of each of the drone ports; a management control device capable of bidirectional communication with the beacon transmitters and receivers and the drones; and a mobile communication terminal carried by the mobile object, capable of transmitting and receiving the beacon signals and having an information display function; the beacon transmitters and receivers, the management control device, and the mobile communication terminal have dedicated applications for providing the delivery information to the mobile object, wherein: (A) when the mobile object enters a reception area of ​​any of the beacon signals, the beacon transmitters and receivers receive the beacon signal from the mobile communication terminal and estimate the position of the mobile object from the strength of the beacon signal; (B) the management control device notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile object of the designated point via the beacon transmitters and receivers; (C) An information notification system in which, when the mobile body arrives within the beacon signal receiving area of ​​its designated point and preparations for transportation at the drone port are completed, the mobile body's mobile communication terminal is notified of the completion of transportation preparations via the beacon transmitting / receiving device.

2. The information notification system described in claim 1, wherein the moving body is a person or a transport robot that receives or delivers the cargo transported by the drone at the designated point.

3. The information notification system according to claim 2, wherein the transport robot is a collection and delivery robot that is capable of automatic operation and can automatically collect and deliver packages.

4. The information notification system of claim 1, wherein the drone is an aerial vehicle that flies remotely or autonomously to transport cargo, or an aerial vehicle that can fly automatically with a person on board.

5. The information notification system described in claim 1, wherein the transportation at the drone port is the delivery of cargo transported by the drone or the boarding of a person on the drone.

6. The information notification system of claim 1, wherein, if the drone is not ready for transport when the mobile body arrives at the designated point, the management control device outputs an instruction to the mobile body to wait until the drone is ready for transport, and when the drone is ready for transport, notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitting / receiving device that the drone is ready for transport.

7. The information notification system of claim 1, wherein the drone port is provided with a parking area for charging the batteries of the drones while they are waiting.

8. The information notification system of claim 1, wherein the drone port is a transport base, the beacon transmitter / receiver is a signal transmitter, the dedicated application is a program, and the management control device is an information management device.

9. The information notification system of claim 1, wherein the beacon transmitting / receiving device cooperates with the management control device to dynamically adjust in real time one or more of the radio wave range, signal strength, transmission interval, and identification information of the beacon signal, thereby optimizing operation according to the usage status and environmental conditions of the drone port.

10. A drone port operation method using the information notification system described in claim 1, comprising: a position estimation step in which, when the mobile body enters the reception area of ​​one of the beacon signals, the beacon transmitter / receiver receives the beacon signal from the mobile communication terminal and estimates the position of the mobile body from the strength of the beacon signal; a designated point notification step in which the management control device notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitter / receiver of the designated point of the mobile body; and a transport preparation completion notification step in which, when the mobile body arrives within the reception area of ​​the beacon signal of its own designated point and transport preparation at the drone port is complete, notifies the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitter / receiver that transport preparation is complete.

11. A drone port operation method as described in claim 10, further comprising a re-notification step of re-notifying the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body of the designated point via the beacon transceiver device if the mobile body does not hand over the cargo or board the drone after the notification that the transportation preparation is complete.

12. A drone port operation method as described in claim 10, further comprising a re-notification step of re-estimating the position of the mobile body after notifying the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body of the designated point of the mobile body, and if the estimated position of the mobile body is not heading towards the notified designated point of the mobile body, re-notifying the notified designated point to the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitting / receiving device.

13. A drone port operation method as described in claim 12, further comprising a warning step in which, when the estimated position of the mobile body is close to the takeoff and landing point, the management control device temporarily suspends the landing of the drone and instructs the mobile communication terminal of the mobile body via the beacon transmitting / receiving device to move away from the takeoff and landing point.

14. The drone port operation method described in claim 10, wherein the drone or the drone port has a foreign object detection sensor that detects a person or foreign object near the takeoff and landing point, and includes a foreign object detection step that detects the person or foreign object not carrying the mobile communication terminal, temporarily suspends landing by the drone, changes the flight route of the drone, or cancels flight.

15. A drone port operation method as described in claim 13 or 14, wherein if it is determined that landing is not possible for a certain period of time, the landing location is changed to another adjacent takeoff and landing point and a landing is attempted again.

16. A drone port operation method as described in claim 14, further comprising a re-landing step in which, if the flight route is changed and no foreign object is detected by the foreign object detection sensor for a certain period of time, the drone attempts to land at the takeoff and landing point again.

17. The drone port operation method according to claim 10, wherein the drone is capable of receiving the beacon signal, and the method includes a re-landing step in which the drone receives the beacon signal on behalf of the moving body, and if the location where the drone is attempting to land is incorrect, or if the location where the drone landed is incorrect, the method re-lands at the correct landing location.

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