A method for the control of a transportation system

Abstract

A method (400) for the control of a transportation system (700) comprising one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c). The self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks and one or more second tasks. The method (400) comprises: controlling (401) the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) for one or more first tasks; and controlling (403) the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks. Further, a self-driving vehicle (500a-c) reconfigurable or one or more first tasks and one or more second tasks. The first and second tasks are configured for performance during different time periods.

Description

[0001] A METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF A TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

[0002] Technical field

[0003] Aspects of the present invention relate to a method for the control of one or more transportation systems comprising one or more self-driving vehicles. Further, aspects of the present invention relate to a self-driving vehicle and to a transportation system comprising two or more self-driving vehicles.

[0004] Background

[0005] Self-driving vehicles, or autonomous vehicles, for example self-driving cars, have been developed over the last years. In general, a self-driving vehicle is a vehicle capable of operating with reduced or no user or operator input.

[0006] Summary

[0007] The inventor of the present invention has found drawbacks in conventional solutions for self-driving vehicles or for transportation systems including self-driving vehicles. For example, some conventional solutions for self-driving vehicles are not efficient enough and can be further improved.

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves the drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

[0009] The above and further objects are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with a method for the control of one or more transportation systems comprising one or more self-driving vehicles,

[0011] wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle comprises equipment for propulsion, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, andwherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks,

[0012] wherein the method comprises:

[0013] controlling the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles for one or more first tasks; and

[0014] controlling the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

[0015] By way of the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles, an advantage of the method according to the first aspect is an improved transportation of passengers and / or goods. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect is a more efficient transportation of passengers and / or goods. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect is that the number of first tasks can be maximized while the number of self-driving vehicles performing said tasks can be minimized, thereby providing a more efficient transportation of passengers and / or goods. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect is an efficient coordination of the transportations of passengers and / or goods, thereby providing a more efficient transportation of passengers and / or goods. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect is that the transportation of passengers and / or goods can be made automatic or autonomous in an efficient manner, and in more efficient manner in relation to conventional solutions. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect is an improved control and coordination of the transportation of passengers and / or goods, thereby providing a more efficient transportation of passengers and / or goods, for example, preventing traffic jams and traffic congestion.

[0016] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0017] reconfiguring one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles or one or more first tasks.An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0018] According to another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, wherein the self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks, and

[0019] wherein the method further comprises:

[0020] rearranging the layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks.

[0021] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0022] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the transportation system comprises one or more first regions of a human settlement,

[0023] wherein the one or more first regions is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles,

[0024] wherein the transportation system comprises one or more second regions of the human settlement,

[0025] wherein the one or more second regions is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles, and wherein the method further comprises:

[0026] controlling access to the first and second regions for the one or more selfdriving vehicles.

[0027] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0029] controlling a storage system for storing modules associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle,wherein the modules comprise one or more first modules associated with one or more first tasks, and wherein the modules comprise one or more second modules associated with one or more second tasks.

[0030] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle,

[0032] wherein the transportation system comprises charging stations for charging the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle, and

[0033] wherein the method further comprises:

[0034] in connection with the charging of the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle, controlling the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicle for one or more first tasks.

[0035] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0036] According to another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0037] coordinating the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicles for one or more first tasks so as to maximize the number of first tasks performed by a minimized number of self-driving vehicles.

[0038] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0039] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, wherein one or more of the first and second tasks comprises / comprise one or more of the group of:

[0040] • transporting people;

[0041] • transporting animals;

[0042] • transporting food and beverage;• transporting goods; and

[0043] • cleaning streets and / or pavements.

[0044] • An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0045] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0046] in one or more data storage devices, storing data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0048] performing the method automatically or autonomously.

[0049] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0050] According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with a computer program or a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when the program or the instructions is / are executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below. Advantages of the computer program or the computer-readable medium according to the second aspect correspond to advantages of the method according to the first aspect and its embodiments mentioned above or below.

[0051] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the above-mentioned computer program or the computer-readable medium is configured to implement the method and its embodiments described herein.According to a third aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with a control arrangement for the control of one or more transportation systems comprising one or more self-driving vehicles,

[0052] wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle comprises equipment for propulsion, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, and

[0053] wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks,

[0054] wherein the control arrangement is configured to:

[0055] control the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles for one or more first tasks; and

[0056] and

[0057] control the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more selfdriving vehicles to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

[0058] It is to be appreciated that all the embodiments described for the method aspects of the disclosure are applicable also to the control arrangement aspects of the disclosure. Thus, all embodiments described for the method aspects of the disclosure may be performed by the control arrangement, which may include one or more control units, or one or more control devices. The embodiments of the control arrangement have advantages corresponding to advantages mentioned above for the method and its embodiments.

[0059] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with a self-driving vehicle comprising equipment for propulsion, wherein the self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks,

[0060] wherein the self-driving vehicle is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks, wherein a layout of the self-driving vehicle is rearrangeable to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks,wherein the layout of the self-driving vehicle is rearrangeable to a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks,

[0061] wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and

[0062] wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

[0063] Advantages of the vehicle according to the fourth aspect and its embodiments correspond to advantages of the method according to the first aspect and its embodiments mentioned above or below.

[0064] The self-driving vehicle may be a wheeled vehicle, i.e., a vehicle having equipment for propulsion comprising wheels. The self-driving vehicle may for example be a car, a truck, a lorry, a bus, a tractor vehicle, or a heavy vehicle. The truck may be configured to pull a trailer. However, other types of self-driving vehicles are possible. The selfdriving vehicle may be referred to as a motor vehicle. The self-driving vehicle may be an electric vehicle, EV, for example a hybrid vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle, HEV (a HEV is a vehicle that couples a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) with one or more electric machines / engines into a combined propulsion system), or a battery electric vehicle, BEV. Thus, a hybrid electric vehicle, HEV, and a battery electric vehicle, BEV, are versions, or examples, of an electric vehicle, EV. The electric vehicle, EV, may comprise one or more electric motors or electrical machines. The self-driving vehicle may comprise a combustion engine. For some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle may include only a combustion engine for the propulsion of the vehicle. The self-driving vehicle may comprise a powertrain. The powertrain may be configured in accordance with any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below. The powertrain of the self-driving vehicle may comprise one or more of the group of: a combustion engine; an electric battery unit; an electric battery cell unit; an electric battery arrangement; an electric machine; an electric engine; and an electric battery pack. For some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle may be configured for propulsion by hydrogen gas, or any other gas or gas mixture.According to an advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0065] According to another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises a control arrangement according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below. However, it is to be understood that the control arrangement may be located elsewhere, or partly elsewhere.

[0066] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle is configured to receive and detachably hold one or more modules associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle, wherein the modules comprise one or more first modules associated with one or more first tasks, and wherein the modules comprise one or more second modules associated with one or more second tasks. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0067] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises one or more attachment members or devices for the detachable attachment of the module to the self-driving vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0068] According to an advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the attachment member or device comprises one or more guides, for example one or more rails, for guiding the one or more modules in relation to the selfdriving vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0069] According to another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the one or more attachment members or devicescomprises / comprise one or more static attachment members or devices. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0070] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises one or more locking devices for locking the one or more modules to the self-driving vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0071] According to another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle is configured to perform one or more tasks of the group of:

[0072] • transporting people;

[0073] • transporting animals;

[0074] • transporting food and beverage;

[0075] • transporting goods; and

[0076] • cleaning streets and / or pavements.

[0077] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0078] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises one or more of the group of: a monitoring device; a detector; and a scanner, for monitoring the exterior and / or interior of the self-driving vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0079] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objects are achieved with a transportation system comprising two or more self-driving vehicles and a control arrangement according to any one of the embodiments disclose above or below.

[0080] Advantages of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect and its embodiments correspond to advantages of the method according to the first aspectand advantages of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect and their embodiments mentioned above or below.

[0081] According to an advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the transportation system comprises one or more self-driving vehicles according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below.

[0082] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system comprises one or more first regions of a human settlement,

[0083] wherein the one or more first regions is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles,

[0084] wherein the transportation system comprises one or more second regions of the human settlement, and

[0085] wherein the one or more second regions is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles.

[0086] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0087] According to another advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system comprises a storage system for storing modules associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle,

[0088] wherein the modules comprise one or more first modules associated with one or more first tasks, and

[0089] wherein the modules comprise one or more second modules associated with one or more second tasks.

[0090] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0091] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the self-driving vehicle comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle,wherein the transportation system comprises charging stations for charging the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle, and

[0092] wherein the transportation system is configured to reconfigure the self-driving vehicle for one or more first tasks in connection with the charging of the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle.

[0093] An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0094] According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system comprises one or more data storage devices for storing data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0095] According to an advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system is an automatic or autonomous system.

[0096] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system comprises one or more first self-driving vehicles having a first configuration and one or more second self-driving vehicles having a second configuration different from the first configuration. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0097] According to another advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, the transportation system comprises one or more interfaces for wireless communication with one or more users. An advantage of this embodiment is a further improved transportation of passengers and / or goods.

[0098] According to still another advantageous embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect, one or more of the self-driving vehicle, first or second module, delivery destination / station, and storage system comprises / comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements for network and / or internetconnectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT). Thus, the self-driving vehicle, the first module, the second module, delivery destination / station and / or the storage system may comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements.

[0099] The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the method, the computer program or the computer-readable medium, the control arrangement, the self-driving vehicle and the transportation system, respectively, may be combined in various possible ways providing further advantageous embodiments.

[0100] Further advantageous embodiments of the method, the computer program or the computer-readable medium, the control arrangement, the self-driving vehicle and the transportation system according to the present invention and further advantages with the embodiments of the present invention emerge from the detailed description of embodiments.

[0101] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0102] Embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated, for exemplary purposes, in more detail by way of embodiments and with reference to the enclosed drawings, where similar references are used for similar parts, in which:

[0103] Figures 1 A-D are schematic partially sectional side views of a first embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0104] Figure 2 is a schematic partially sectional side view of a second embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0105] Figure 3 is a schematic partially sectional side view of a third embodiment of the self-driving vehicle according to the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0106] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating aspects of an embodiment of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect of the invention;

[0107] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating further aspects of embodiments of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect of the invention;

[0108] Figure 6 is a schematic partially sectional side view of an embodiment of the selfdriving vehicle schematically illustrating further aspects of embodiments of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect of the invention;Figure 7 is a schematic partially sectional side view of an embodiment of the selfdriving vehicle schematically illustrating further aspects of embodiments of the transportation system according to the fifth aspect of the invention; Figure 8 is a schematic flow chart illustrating embodiments of the method according to the first aspect of the invention;

[0109] Figure 9 is another schematic flow chart illustrating further aspects of embodiments of the method according to the first aspect of the invention;

[0110] Figure 10 is another schematic flow chart illustrating further aspects of embodiments of the method according to the first aspect of the invention; and Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the control arrangement according to the third aspect of the disclosure, in which a method according to any one of the embodiments described herein may be implemented.

[0111] Detailed Description

[0112] With reference to figures 1A to 3, aspects of embodiments of the self-driving vehicle 500a; 500b; 500c according to the fourth aspect of the invention are schematically illustrated, wherein the self-driving vehicle 500a; 500b; 500c comprises equipment for propulsion 502a; 502b; 502c, for example wheels 504a; 504b; 504c. For other embodiments, the equipment for propulsion may include continuous tracks, or any other means for propulsion. Embodiments of the method 400, of the control arrangement 300 and of the transportation system 700 may be utilized in combination with the self-driving vehicles 500a; 500b; 500c disclosed above and below, but also in combination with any other kind of self-driving vehicle. However, for the sake of simplicity, the disclosure of the embodiments of the method 400, of the control arrangement 300 and of the transportation system 700 is exemplified hereinbelow with reference to the self-driving vehicles 500a; 500b; 500c illustrated in figures 1 A to 3. For some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a; 500b; 500c may be referred to as an autonomous vehicle. For some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a; 500b; 500c may be a remote-controlled vehicle.

[0113] With reference to figures 1 A to 3, embodiments of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c are reconfigurable for one or more first tasks. Embodiments of the self-driving vehicle500a-c are reconfigurable for one or more second tasks. The one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during, or for, one or more first time periods. The one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during, or for, one or more second time periods. It is to be understood that the second time period is different from the first time period. A layout of the self-driving vehicle 500a is rearrangeable to a first layout (see figures 1 A and 1 B) configured for the one or more first tasks. The layout of the self-driving vehicle 500a is rearrangeable to a second layout (see figure 1C) configured for the one or more second tasks. It is to be understood that the second layout is different from the first layout.

[0114] With reference to figures 1 A to 1 D, a first embodiment of the self-driving vehicle 500a is schematically illustrated. The self-driving vehicle 500a may comprise or may be configured to carry one or more electric battery units 506 for the propulsion of the selfdriving vehicle 500a. For some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a may comprise a control arrangement 300 according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below.

[0115] With reference to figures 1 A to 1 D, the self-driving vehicle 500a may be configured to receive and detachably hold one or more modules 508, 510 associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle 500a. The modules 508, 510 comprise one or more first modules 508 associated with one or more first tasks. The modules 508, 510 comprise one or more second modules 510 associated with one or more second tasks. For some embodiments, one 508 of the modules 508, 510, such as the first module 508, may comprise one or more seats 511 for one or more passenger, users, or people. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, may comprise one or more containers 513 or compartments for holding goods, such as food and beverage. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, may comprise one or more freezer containers or compartments for holding goods, such as food. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, may comprise one or more refrigerator containers or compartments for holding goods, such as food and beverage. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, may comprise one or more containers 513 or compartments for holding goodswithout any cooling. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, may comprise one or more containers 513 with heating for holding hot or heated food, and keep the food warm or heated. For some embodiments, one 510 of the modules 508, 510, such as the second module 510, and / or the selfdriving vehicle 500a, may be configured to carry any other items, such as, but not limited to, grocery bags, general consumer products, or packages, for example containing one or more consumer products, which may be supplied by suppliers, such as grocery stores, clothing stores, or department stores, etc.

[0116] With reference to figure 1 A , for some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a may comprise one or more attachment members or devices 512 for the detachable attachment of the module 508, 510 to the self-driving vehicle 500a.

[0117] For some embodiments, the one or more attachment members or devices 512 may comprise one or more static attachment members or devices, for example, one or more static attachment mechanisms. The one or more static attachment members or devices may, for example, comprise complementary or meshing attachment members, such female and male members. For example, the one or more static attachment members or devices may be provided in or on the floor of the self-driving vehicle, or one or more of the inner walls of the vehicle. The one or more static attachment members or devices may, for example, comprise conical holes, clamps, for example, fixed in or on the floor or inner wall of the vehicle and / or correspondingly on one or more modules 508, 510 carried by the vehicle. The one or more static attachment members or devices may, for example, comprise pins insertable in holes, or members meshing with clamps. For some embodiments, the one or more static attachment members or devices may include one or more clamping or fixation members configured to clamp or fixate modules 508, 510 by way of , for example, mechanics, magnets etc., which may be configured to release when reconfiguring. There may be robots that position modules 508, 510 in a precise position for fixation or clamping in the vehicle 500 and retrieve modules 508, 510 from the same position, the fixation or clamping is released, and the vehicle is reconfigured either with new modules 508, 510 or no module at all.For some embodiments, the one or more attachment members or devices 512 may comprise one or more guides 514, for example one or more rails 516, for guiding the one or more modules 508, 510 in relation to the self-driving vehicle 500a. For some embodiments, it may be defined that one or more of the one or more guides 514 is / are mounted or attached to the self-driving vehicle 500a. For some embodiments, it may be defined that one or more of the one or more guides 514 is / are mounted or attached to the module 508, 510. For some embodiments, the guide 514 may include a first member 516 and a second member 518 for engagement with one another. For some embodiments, it may be defined that first and second members 516, 518 are complementary to one another. For some embodiments, it may be defined that first and second members 516, 518 are configured to mate or mesh with one another.

[0118] With reference to figure 1A, for some embodiments, it may be defined that the selfdriving vehicle 500a comprises, or forms, a first compartment 519 for receiving and holding the one or more modules 508, 510 and / or goods. For some embodiments, the one or more attachment members or devices 512 may be located in the first compartment 519. For some embodiments, the first compartment 519 may be divided into two or more sub-compartments, for example, by way of one or more partitions, such as a roller shutter. The self-driving vehicle 500a may include one or more openings with one or more doors for receiving the one or more modules 508, 510 and / or goods.

[0119] With reference to figure 1 A, for some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a may comprise one or more locking devices 520 for locking, such as detachably locking, the one or more modules 508, 510 to the self-driving vehicle 500a. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the locking device 520 is further configured to unlock the one or more modules 508, 510 from the self-driving vehicle 500a. For some embodiments, the locking device 520 may include a clamp, a latch, or any other kind of locking device. For other embodiments, the attachment member or device 512 may comprise one or more magnets, one or more clamps, or one or more latches, or any other attachment member or device.With reference to figures 1A to 1D, for some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a may be configured to perform one or more tasks of the group of:

[0120] • transporting passengers;

[0121] • transporting people;

[0122] • transporting animals;

[0123] • transporting food and beverage;

[0124] • transporting goods; and

[0125] • cleaning streets and / or pavements.

[0126] With reference to figures 1A to 1D, for some embodiments, the self-driving vehicle 500a may comprise one or more of the group of: a monitoring device 522; a detector; and a scanner, for monitoring the exterior and / or interior of the self-driving vehicle 500a.

[0127] With reference to figure 2, a second embodiment of the self-driving vehicle 500b is schematically illustrated. Several items of the embodiment of figure 2 correspond, or may correspond, to items of the embodiment of figures 1A-1D disclosed above in connection with figures 1A-1D and are thus not repeated here. The self-driving vehicle 500b of figure 2 differs from the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1 A-1 D in that the longitudinal extension 524b of the self-driving vehicle 500b of figure 2 is shorter than the longitudinal extension 524a of the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D. Otherwise, the self-driving vehicle 500b of figure 2 may include features corresponding to features of the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D.

[0128] With reference to figure 3, a third embodiment of the self-driving vehicle 500c is schematically illustrated. Several items of the embodiment of figure 3 correspond, or may correspond, to items of the embodiment of figures 1A-1D disclosed above in connection with figures 1A-1D and are thus not repeated here. The self-driving vehicle 500c of figure 3 differs from the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D in that the height 526c of the self-driving vehicle 500c of figure 3 is greater than the height 526a of the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D. Thus, the self-driving vehicle 500c of figure 3 may receive and hold one or more modules 508, 510 of greater height, and / ortwo or more modules 510 on top of one another, in relation to the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D. Otherwise, the self-driving vehicle 500c of figure 3 may include features corresponding to features of the self-driving vehicle 500a of figures 1A-1D.

[0129] With reference to figures 1A to 3, it is to be understood that the self-driving vehicle 500a-c may include further units, components, such as electrical and / or mechanical components, a combustion engine and other devices required for a self-driving vehicle 500a-c, such as for an EV, HEV or BEV. It is to be understood that additional embodiments of the self-driving vehicle are possible. For some embodiments, the selfdriving vehicle 500a-c may be configured for propulsion by hydrogen gas, or any other gas or gas mixture.

[0130] With reference to figures 4 to 7, aspects of embodiments of the transportation system 700 according to the fifth aspect of the invention are schematically illustrated. With reference to figure 4, the transportation system 700 comprises two or more self-driving vehicles and a control arrangement 300 according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below.

[0131] With reference to figures 4 and 5, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may comprise one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above or below.

[0132] With reference to figure 5, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may comprise one or more first regions 702 of a human settlement, and the transportation system 700 may comprise one or more second regions 704 of the human settlement. The human settlement may comprise one or more populated places, cities, town and / or villages, or any other human settlement. The one or more first regions 702 is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c. The one or more second regions 704 is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c. It is to be understood that the second region 704 is different from the first region 702. It is to be understood that the second access requirement is different from the first access requirement. In the embodiment of figure 5, the transportation system 700 includesone first region 702, which is centrally located, and four second regions 704, which are located around the first region 702. However, fewer or more regions 702, 704 are possible, and the first and second regions 702, 704 may be differently located.

[0133] With reference to figure 5, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may be supplemented with, or may include, one or more, such as two or more, non-self-driving vehicles, i.e. , regular vehicles driven by users or drivers present in the vehicle. For some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may be supplemented with, or include, the following features with regard to the one or more non-self-driving vehicles:

[0134] • Entry into a region 702, 702, such as a city, with a non-self-driving vehicle requires access requirement and / or access payment;

[0135] • Exit from a region 702, 702, such as a city, with a non-self-driving vehicle requires access requirement and / or access payment; and

[0136] • Parking a non-self-driving vehicle within a region 702, 702, such as a city requires access requirement and / or access payment.

[0137] With reference to figure 5, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may be supplemented with, or may comprise, one or more, such as two or more, non-reconfigurable self-driving vehicles without any rearrangeable layout, i.e., self-driving vehicles with a static layout. It is to be understood that each one of the non-self-driving vehicle and non-reconfigurable self-driving vehicle comprises equipment for propulsion.

[0138] With reference to figures 5 and 6, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may comprise a storage system 706 for storing modules 508, 510, which are associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The modules 508, 510 may comprise one or more first modules 508 associated with one or more first tasks. The modules 508, 510 may comprise one or more second modules 510 associated with one or more second tasks. It is to be understood that the second module 510 is different from the first module 508, or that the configuration of the second module 510 is different fromthe configuration of the first module 508. It is to be understood that the second task is different from the first task.

[0139] With reference to figures 5 and 6, for some embodiments of the transportation system 700, the self-driving vehicle 500a-c may comprise or may be configured to carry one or more electric battery units 506 for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The transportation system 700 may comprise charging stations 708 for charging the electric battery unit 506 of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The transportation system 700 may be configured to reconfigure the self-driving vehicle 500a-c for one or more first tasks in connection with the charging (for example, during charging) of the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c.

[0140] With reference to figure 5, for some embodiments, the transportation system 700 comprises one or more data storage devices 710 for storing data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c. For some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may be, or may be described as, or may be referred to as, an automatic or autonomous system. For some embodiments, it may be defined that the transportation system 700 comprises one or more first self-driving vehicles 500a having a first configuration and one or more second self-driving vehicles 500b, 500c having a second configuration different from the first configuration. For some embodiments, the transportation system 700 may comprise one or more interfaces 712 for wireless communication with one or more users, such as an application 714 in a mobile device 716, such as a mobile phone, or a smart phone.

[0141] With reference to figure 6, for some embodiments, the storage system 706 may comprise one or more first docking stations 718 for the docking of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c so as to load the self-driving vehicle 500a-c with one or more modules 508, 510, and / or goods. The first docking station 718 may include one or more guides 719, such as one or more rails, for guiding the module 508, 510 or goods into, or onto, the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The storage system 706 may include one or more storage buildings 720 for storing the modules 508, 510. The one or more first docking stations 718 may be connected or attached to the storage building 720. For someembodiments, it may be defined that the module 508, 510, or the goods, is / are automatically loaded, inter alia, for example, by way of one or more robots 724a, into, or onto, the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. For other embodiments, instead of one or more robots 724a, or in addition thereto, it may be defined that the module 508, 510, or the goods, is / are automatically loaded, inter alia, by way of the one or more guides 719 of the first docking station 718, and optionally in cooperation with the one or more guides 514 of the self-driving vehicle 500a, and optionally in cooperation with one or more driving or feeding devices, such as motors or magnets, associated with the one or more guides 719, 514. Some embodiments may include charging the electric battery unit 506 of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c and / or cleaning the self-driving vehicle 500a-c while loading the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. For some embodiments, the charging station 708 may be located adjacent to the first docking station 718.

[0142] With reference to figure 7, for some embodiments, the module 508, 510, or the goods, may be automatically unloaded, inter alia, for example, by way of one or more robots 724a, for example, at a delivery destination 721, or at the storage system 706 or the storage building 720. For some embodiments, at one or more delivery destinations 721 , or delivery stations, there may be provided one or more second docking stations 722 (which may be included in the transportation system 700) for the docking of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c so as to unload one or more modules 508, 510, and / or goods, from the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The second docking station 722 may include one or more guides 723, such as one or more rails, for guiding the module 508, 510 or goods off the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. For other embodiments, instead of one or more robots 724a, or in addition thereto, it may be defined that the module 508, 510, or the goods, is / are automatically unloaded, inter alia, by way of the one or more guides 719, 723 of the first or second docking station 718, 722, and optionally in cooperation with the one or more guides 514 of the self-driving vehicle 500a, and optionally in cooperation with one or more driving or feeding devices, such as motors or magnets, associated with the one or more guides 719, 723, 514. Some embodiments may include charging the electric battery unit 506 of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c while unloading the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. For some embodiments, both of the first and second docking stations 718, 722 may comprise one or more guides 719, 723, such as one or more rails.With reference to figures 8 to 10, embodiments of the method 400 for the control (or operation) of (or for controlling) one or more transportation systems 700 comprising one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c (or autonomous or remote-controlled vehicles) according to the first aspect of the invention are schematically illustrated, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c comprises equipment for propulsion, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, and wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks.

[0143] With reference to figure 8, embodiments of the method 400 include the step of:

[0144] • controlling 401 the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c for one or more first tasks; and

[0145] • controlling 403 the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

[0146] It is to be understood that the second time period is different from the first time period. For some embodiments, the step of controlling 401 may include step of controlling the reconfiguration of one, or each one, of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-cfor the one or more first tasks. For some embodiments, the step of controlling 401 may include step of controlling the reconfiguration of a plurality of two or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c for the one or more first tasks. For some embodiments, the step of controlling 403 may include step of controlling 403 the rearrangement of a layout of one, or each one, of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c to the first layout. For some embodiments, the step of controlling 403 may include step of controlling 403 the rearrangement of a layout of a plurality of two or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c to the first layout.With reference to figure 9, when the self-driving vehicle 500a-c may be reconfigurable for one or more first tasks and for one or more second tasks, embodiments of the method 400 may include one or more of the steps of:

[0147] • reconfiguring 402 one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c for one or more first tasks; and

[0148] • rearranging 404 the layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks.

[0149] With reference to figure 10, when the transportation system 700 comprises one or more first regions 702 of a human settlement, wherein the one or more first regions is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c, and when the transportation system 700 comprises one or more second regions 704 of the human settlement, wherein the one or more second regions is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c, embodiments of the method 400 may include one or more of the steps of:

[0150] • controlling 405 access to the first and second regions for the one or more selfdriving vehicles 500a-c.

[0151] With reference to figure 10, embodiments of the method 400 may include the step of:

[0152] • controlling 406 a storage system 706 for storing modules 508, 510, which are associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, wherein the modules 508, 510 comprise one or more first modules 508 associated with one or more first tasks, and wherein the modules 508, 510 comprise one or more second modules 510 associated with one or more second tasks.

[0153] With reference to figure 8, when the self-driving vehicle 500a-c comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units 506 for the propulsion of the selfdriving vehicle 500a-c, and when the transportation system 700 comprises chargingstations 708 for charging the electric battery unit 506 of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, embodiments of the method 400 may include the step of:

[0154] • in connection with the charging (for example, during charging) of the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, controlling 401 the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c for one or more first tasks.

[0155] With reference to figure 10, embodiments of the method 400 may include the step of: coordinating 407 the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicles 500a-c for one or more first tasks so as to maximize the number of first tasks performed by a minimized number of self-driving vehicles 500a-c, more specifically, a minimized number of selfdriving vehicles 500a-c of the transportation system 700.

[0156] With reference to figures 8 to 10, for some embodiments, one or more of the first and second tasks may comprise one or more of the group of:

[0157] • transporting passengers;

[0158] • transporting people;

[0159] • transporting animals;

[0160] • transporting food and beverage;

[0161] • transporting goods; and

[0162] • cleaning streets and / or pavements.

[0163] With reference to figure 10, embodiments of the method 400 may include the step of:

[0164] • in one or more data storage devices 710, storing 408 data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more selfdriving vehicles 500a-c.

[0165] With reference to figures 8 to 10, for some embodiments, the method 400 may further comprise: performing the method 400 automatically or autonomously (inter alia, for example, by way of one or more robots 724a, 724b).

[0166] The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the method 400 may be combined in various possible ways.Unless disclosed otherwise, it should be noted that the method steps illustrated in figures 8 to 10 and described herein do not necessarily have to be executed in the order illustrated in figures 8 to 10. The steps may essentially be executed in any suitable order. Further, one or more steps may be added without departing from the scope of the appended claims. One or more steps may be excluded without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0167] For some embodiments, the method 400 may further comprise: cleaning the interior and / or exterior of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c in connection with the charging (for example, during charging) of the electric battery unit 506 of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, and / or in connection with the reconfiguration (for example, during the reconfiguration), for example, inter alia, by way of one or more robots 724b.

[0168] By way of embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to establish closed loop systems within city centers, including mostly self-driving vehicles, which may be optimized for city traffic, for example, having simpler seats, being possible to reconfigure, or configure, so they can deliver goods, packages, hot / frozen food etc. Legislation may be provided to allow self-driving vehicles 500a-c to operate independently without interference from the public. For example, the self-driving vehicle 500a-c may be required to stay on the road and stop for people at pedestrian crossings. People may be required to stay away from the self-driving vehicle 500a-c in all other cases. Embodiments of the present invention may be combined with a significantly increased parking fee within the closed loop system (such as within the first and second regions 702, 704) and increase the fee for entering and exiting the closed loop system, such one or more of the first and second regions 702, 704. This will put pressure on the market and force other vehicles out of the city. Open loop systems may be provided outside city centers, or outside the first and second regions 702, 704.

[0169] The self-driving vehicles 500a-c may have both external and internal cameras, and biometric identification, which may be used to identify passengers. For thetransportation of passengers who are not registered or paying members of the closed loop payment system, they may pay by the interface 712, for example.

[0170] An example of a schedule of a closed loop system, or of a transportation system 700, or of a self-driving vehicle 500a-c, may be as follows:.

[0171] • 5-9 AM: drive people to work and school;

[0172] • Reconfiguration (of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c), cleaning and charging; • 9-11 AM: deliver goods to stores;

[0173] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging.

[0174] • 11-13 AM: deliver lunch to workplaces;

[0175] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging.

[0176] • 13-15 PM: deliver goods to stores;

[0177] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging;

[0178] • 14-20 PM: drive people home from work and to sport activities;

[0179] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging;

[0180] • 16-22 PM: deliver packages bought online;

[0181] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging.

[0182] • 17-20 PM: deliver dinner to homes;

[0183] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging;

[0184] • 17-21 PM: drive people to social activities with colleagues or friends after office hours;

[0185] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging.

[0186] • 18-24 PM: drive people home from training and social activities with colleagues or friends after office hours;

[0187] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging;

[0188] • 22 PM-01 AM: drive people to nightclubs and parties;

[0189] • Reconfiguration, cleaning and charging;

[0190] • 23 PM - 05 AM: drive people home from nightclubs and parties; and

[0191] • 00-05 AM: vehicle inspection, reconfiguration, cleaning and charging.

[0192] However, it is to be understood that many other schedules are possible.Embodiments of the present invention may include one or more of the following features and / or may involve one or more of the following advantages:

[0193] • Creating a new and more efficient form of public transportation in relation to conventional solutions, where the vehicles 500a-c are self-driving, i.e., there is no driver in the vehicle. Possibly, the possibility of remote-control of the vehicle may be provided;

[0194] • A closed loop optimization system, or a transportation system 700, for human settlements;

[0195] • Cameras placed at the boundaries of entry / exit of the system 700 and photographing everyone who enters and exits the closed loop system;

[0196] • It costs money to enter and exit the closed loop system;

[0197] • It also costs money to park within the closed loop system;

[0198] • The vehicles 500a-c in the system 700 may be of modular design. For example, the vehicles 500a-c may have different lengths / heights / widths / volumes. The vehicles 500a-c in the system 700 may have different configurations and different characterizing features;

[0199] • The design of the vehicles 500a-c makes it possible for at least two different vehicles 500a-c in the system 700 to have different lengths and / or heights and / or widths and / or volumes;

[0200] • The vehicle 500a-c may be designed in rows, and the interior of the vehicle may be configurable;

[0201] • The vehicle 500a-c has at least one door at the rear (the door may be opened automatically);

[0202] • The vehicle 500a-c has at least one door at the side (the door may be opened automatically;

[0203] • The vehicle 500a-c may be reconfigured from the rear;

[0204] • The vehicle 500a-c may be reconfigured from the side;

[0205] • The interior of the vehicle 500a-c is characterized by modules 508, 510, for example, a row of seats, a row of boxes, for example, packages, food, hot food, cold food etc.;• The modules 508, 510 with, for example, seats may be pulled out of the vehicle 500a-c or pushed into the vehicle 500a-c, either from the rear and / or from the side;

[0206] • There may be rails, slide rails and / or racks and / or magnet and / or electric motor / drive and / or other mechanics in the floor of the vehicle 500a-c to pull out or push in the modules 508, 510, manually or automatically;

[0207] • There may be rails, slide rails and / or racks and / or magnet and / or electric motor / drive and / or other mechanics in the ceiling of the vehicle 500a-c to pull out or push in the modules 508, 510, manually or automatically;

[0208] • There may be rails, slide rails and / or racks and / or magnet and / or motor, electric motor / drive and / or other mechanics in at least one wall of the vehicle 500a-c to pull out or push in the modules 508, 510, manually or automatically;

[0209] • The modules 508, 510 may be mechanically (magnet may also work) fixed when they have reached their place in or on the vehicle 500a-c;

[0210] • Mechanical fixation (or may be magnetic) of the modules 508, 510 may be released before the modules 508, 510 can be pulled out of the vehicle 500a-c;

[0211] • The modules 508, 510 may be completely removed, leaving no interior, and the vehicle 500a-c may then be used as a truck that can transport goods;

[0212] • When the modules 508, 510 are pulled out, the interior of the vehicle 500a-c may be automatically cleaned and / or vacuumed by an arm / robot 724b entering from the rear or from the side of the vehicle 500a-c;

[0213] • When the floor and other interior of the vehicle 500a-c are made of washable material, the interior of the vehicle 500a-c may be automatically washed / cleaned by an arm / robot 724b entering from the rear or from the side of the vehicle 500a-c;

[0214] • The vehicle's outer side walls may be angled / shaped like a tube;

[0215] • The vehicle's angled outer side walls and the space defined by the interior walls may be used for automatic sliding doors and for heating / ventilation;

[0216] • The vehicle's roof may be angled, which creates space for, for example, sectional division of the interior of the vehicle 500a-c. The sectional division may be hidden between the angled outer roof and an interior roof. The space between these roofs may also be used for heating and ventilation;• The interior of the vehicle 500a-c may be divided by a partition, for example, a roller wall coming down from the roof, or up from the floor, of the vehicle 500a- c;

[0217] • The vehicle 500a-c may be driven towards or backed up to a docking station, where the vehicle 500a-c may be automatically electrically charged;

[0218] • The docking station may be connected to a storage system 506 with modules 508, 510 of various types that may reconfigure the interior of the vehicle 500a- c;

[0219] • The storage system 506 may reconfigure the vehicle 500a-c with modules 508, 510, for example, seats, parcel boxes, boxes for hot / cold food, etc.;

[0220] • The vehicle 500a-c may have seats that may be automatically lowered into the floor and then the interior becomes empty;

[0221] • When the seats are lowered into the floor of the vehicle 500a-c, the vehicle 500a-c may be configured or reconfigured with modules such as boxes;

[0222] • The vehicles 500a-c have cameras on the outside and / or inside;

[0223] • The cameras on the outside may be used for community surveillance;

[0224] • Biometric identification may be used to identify passengers, for example by way of a secure application;

[0225] • A mobile application 714 may be used for payment per transported distance or time;

[0226] • For people living within the system 700, payment for transport may be made as an integrated part of the tax payment;

[0227] • The system 700 may include at least two vehicles 500a-c or several different vehicles with different characterizing features height / width / length / volume, to create a candidate set of different transport options within the system 700 (to be able to perform as many tasks as possible);

[0228] • The system 700 may include at least two vehicles 500a-c or several different vehicles with different inter-interior configurations to create a candidate set of different transport options within the system (to be able to perform as many tasks as possible);• The system 700 may schedule different configurations (internal configuration) of different vehicles 500a-c and / or vehicles 500a-c with different characterizing features to maximize productivity within the entire system 700;

[0229] • The system 700 may schedule the configuration of a vehicle 500a-c and / or multiple vehicles 500a-c in relation to a time schedule;

[0230] • Via an application, local demand may be collected. The demand may be used to optimize / design new vehicles to be used within the system 700, for example, in terms of length and / or height and / or width and / or volume, so that the vehicles 500a-c have the right characterizing features to satisfy the local market demand;

[0231] • The information may be used to order and produce new vehicles for the system 700;

[0232] • The information may also be used to order and produce new configuration modules 508. 510 (seats, boxes, etc.) for the vehicles 500a-c in the system 700;

[0233] • The information may also be used to order and produce storage systems for the modules 508, 510 used to reconfigure the vehicles 500a-c in the system 700;

[0234] • The application may also determine which vehicles 500a-c (at least one vehicle) within the system 700 have served their purpose both in terms of service level / reliability and whether the vehicle's characterizing features map to the current demand of the local market;

[0235] • If a vehicle 500a-c has served its purpose, it may be removed from the system 700 and recycled;

[0236] • Via an application, local demand may be retrieved. Demand may be used to reconfigure vehicles 500a-c within the system 700 in relation to local market demand;

[0237] • Via an application, local demand may be retrieved. Historical demand may be analyzed and used to optimize vehicle configuration, for example, based on day of the week and time / time interval;

[0238] • Via an application, local demand may be retrieved. This demand may be used to optimize the configurable modules 508, 510 within the system 700 and within the system's storage system; and

[0239] • Via an application, local demand may be retrieved. This demand may be used to give different vehicles different configurations, which creates a candidate setof possible transport, in order to be able to carry out as many requested tasks as possible, as quickly as possible.

[0240] Advantages of embodiments of the present invention may be as follows:

[0241] • Improved productivity: vehicles may be designed and produced in relation to demand in terms of length, height, width, volume;

[0242] • Improved productivity: vehicles may have different characterizing features, for example length, height, width, volume etc., which creates a candidate set of vehicles to perform a set of tasks;

[0243] • Improved productivity: vehicles may be configured or reconfigured to perform different tasks, which may vary depending on the day of the week and time of day;

[0244] • Improved productivity: vehicles that have served their purpose in terms of service level / reliability can be recycled;

[0245] • Improved productivity: the system can be optimized to reduce or minimize the number of vehicles while maximizing the number of tasks that can be executed;

[0246] • Improved productivity: vehicles can be designed according to rows, and the interior can be divided into sections so that the vehicle can perform different tasks simultaneously, for example transporting people and goods;

[0247] • Improved productivity: vehicles can perform different tasks simultaneously, for example transporting people and delivering packages;

[0248] • Improved productivity: vehicles can be automatically configured or reconfigured to minimize the number of vehicles;

[0249] • Improved productivity: the modules used for the configuration or reconfiguration of the vehicles can be optimized according to market demand, even the modules that are in the system's inventory system;

[0250] • Improved productivity: the vehicles in the system can have different configurations. As many tasks as possible can be executed by as few vehicles as possible;

[0251] • Improved productivity: vehicles can be automatically cleaned;

[0252] • Improved productivity: vehicles can be reconfigured while charging;

[0253] • Improved productivity: vehicles can be charged and cleaned simultaneously;• Improved productivity: communities can be optimized to minimize parking spaces because vehicles can roll more than they stand still;

[0254] • Improved productivity: modular configuration or reconfigured in combination with storage systems allows interiors to be stored at height, which saves space in cities;

[0255] • Improved security / lmproved productivity: passengers can be identified with, for example, by biometrics, or other means, to secure and automate the transport of passengers, people, transport of goods, logistics, business transactions, etc.; and

[0256] • Improved security / lmproved productivity: cameras and biometrics can help the society monitoring and controlling traffic safety.

[0257] For some embodiments, the vehicles 500a-c of the system 700 and / or each module 508, 510 may have, or be configured for, connectivity, such as network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT), such that all subcomponents, such as the vehicle 500a-c, in the system 700 can share data, such as data including usage status, such as planned routes, previous, routes, general planning, logic, and location, in real time, for example, with other devices and / or one or more central computers, processing units, central processing units (UPCs), or servers. This creates a candidate set for possible reconfigurations or configurations to solve transportation task needs at a given time. The data including usage status and location may become input data to a function for optimization / calculation of the best possible combinatorics within the transportation system 700 at a given time. Techniques that can be used for optimization can be combinatorial optimization, mathematical optimization, multivariable analysis, artificial intelligence (Al) etc.

[0258] With reference to figure 1 , for some embodiments, the module 508, 510 may comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements 528, or units, for network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT). With reference to figure 1, for some embodiments, the self-driving vehicles 500a-c may comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements 530, or units, for network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT). Withreference to figures 5 and 6, for some embodiments, the storage system 706 and / or the storage building 720 of the storage system 706 may comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements 726, or units, for network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT). Thus, the storage system 706 and / or the storage building 720 of the storage system 706 may share data including status and which modules 508, 510 are available for reconfiguration or configuration at a given time. With reference to figure 7, for some embodiments, the delivery destination / station 721 or the second docking station 722 may comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements 728, or units, for network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT). Thus, the delivery destination / station 721 and / or the second docking station 722 may share data, for example data including status of modules 508, 510. Thus, for some embodiments, one or more of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, first or second module 508, 510, delivery destination / station 721 and storage system 706 may communicate, or be configured to communicate, with one another via one or more central processing units (CPUs), central computers, networks and / or internet.

[0259] With reference to figures 1, 4, 5 and 11, aspects of embodiments of the control arrangement 300 for the control of one or more transportation systems 700 comprising one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c, are schematically illustrated, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c comprises equipment 502a-c for propulsion, wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, and wherein the (or each) self-driving vehicle 500a-c is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks. Embodiments of the control arrangement 300 are configured to:

[0260] • control 401 the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c for one or more first tasks; and

[0261] • control 403 the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.For some embodiments, the control arrangement 300 may be stationary and external to the self-driving vehicle 500a-c. The control arrangement 300 may partly or completely be located in cloud, in a control or computer system, or elsewhere. The control arrangement 300 may partly or completely be located in one or more selfdriving vehicles 500a-c. The control arrangement 300 may be located at two or more of said locations.

[0262] With reference to figures 1, 4 and 5, some embodiments of the control arrangement 300 may include a controlling unit 300a in order to perform steps 401 , 403, 405 and 406 in figures 8 to 10.

[0263] With reference to figures 1, 4 and 5, some embodiments of the control arrangement 300 may include one or more processing units 300b in order to perform steps 407 and 408 in figure 10.

[0264] With reference to figures 1, 4 and 5, for some embodiments, the control arrangement 300 may be configured to directly or indirectly communicate, for example wirelessly or via signal lines (or cables, or wires), with one or more of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c and transportation system 700. Thus, for some embodiments, there may be one or more signal connections between the control arrangement 300 and one or more of the self-driving vehicle 500a-c and transportation system 700.

[0265] Figure 11 shows in schematic representation an embodiment of the control arrangement 300 according to the third aspect of the disclosure, which may include a controller 600, which may correspond to or may include one or more of the above-mentioned units 300a and 300b of the control arrangement 300. The controller 600 may comprise a computing unit 601, which can be constituted by essentially any suitable type of processor or microcomputer, for example a circuit for digital signal processing (Digital Signal Processor, DSP), or a circuit having a predetermined specific function (Application Specific Integrated Circuit, ASIC). The computing unit 601 is connected to a memory unit 602 arranged in the controller 600. The memoryunit 602 provides the computing unit 601 with, for example, the stored program code and / or the stored data which the computing unit 601 requires to be able to perform computations. The computing unit 601 is also arranged to store partial or final results of computations in the memory unit 602.

[0266] With reference to figure 11 , in addition, the controller 600 may be provided with devices 611, 612, 613, 614 for receiving and transmitting input and output signals. These input and output signals may contain waveforms, impulses, or other attributes which, by means of the devices 611, 613 for the reception of input signals, can be detected as information and can be converted into signals which can be processed by the computing unit 601. These signals are then made available to the computing unit 601. The devices 612, 614 for the transmission of output signals are arranged to convert signals received from the computing unit 601 in order to create output signals by, for example, modulating the signals, which, for example, can be transmitted to parts and / or systems of, or associated with, the self-driving vehicle 500a-c, transportation system 700 and / or a data storage device 710 (see figure 5) for storing data. Each of the connections to the devices for receiving and transmitting input and output signals can be constituted by one or more of the group of: a cable; a data bus; and a wireless connection. With reference to figure 5, the data stored in the data storage device 710, which may include data about the routes of the one or more self-driving vehicles 500a-c, may be used for machine learning and / or Al applications.

[0267] Here and in this document, units are often described as being provided for performing steps of the method 400 according to embodiments of the disclosure. This also includes that the units are designed to and / or configured to perform these method steps.

[0268] With reference to figures 1, 4 and 5, the units 300a and 300b of the control arrangement 300 are in figures 1, 4 and 5 illustrated as separate units. These sperate units may, however, be logically separated but physically implemented in the same unit, or can be both logically and physically arranged together. The units 300a and 300b may for example correspond to groups of instructions, which can be in the form of programming code, that are input into, and are utilized by a processor / computingunit 601 (see figure 11) when the units are active and / or are utilized for performing its method step.

[0269] With reference to figure 11, the control arrangement 300, which may include one or more controllers 600, for example one or more devices, or control devices, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, may be arranged to perform all of the method steps mentioned above, in the claims, and in connection with the herein described embodiments. The control arrangement 300 is associated with the abovedescribed advantages for each respective embodiment of the method 400.

[0270] With reference to figure 11, according to the second aspect of the disclosure, a computer program 603 or a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions which, when the program or the instructions is / are executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method 400 according to any one of the embodiments disclosed above.

[0271] The person skilled in the art will appreciate that the herein described embodiments of the method 400 according to the first aspect may be implemented in a computer program 603 (see figure 11), which, when it is executed in a computer, instructs the computer to execute the method 400. The computer program is usually constituted by a computer program product 603 stored on a non-transitory / non-volatile digital storage medium, in which the computer program is incorporated in the computer-readable medium of the computer program product. The computer-readable medium comprises a suitable memory, such as, for example: ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable PROM), Flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), a hard disk unit, etc.

[0272] When an item is disclosed to be connected / connectable to another item in this disclosure, it may imply that the two items are electrically connected / connectable to one another. When an item is disclosed to be connected / connectable to another item in this disclosure, it may imply that the two items are mechanically connected / connectable to one another. When an item is disclosed to beconnected / connectable to another item in this disclosure, it may imply that the two items are both electrically and mechanically connected / connectable to one another.

[0273] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Instead, the present invention relates to, and encompasses all different embodiments being included within the scope of the independent claims.

Claims

Claims1. A method (400) for the control of one or more transportation systems (700) comprising one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c),wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises equipment for propulsion (502a-c),wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, andwherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks,wherein the method (400) comprises:controlling (401) the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more selfdriving vehicles (500a-c) for the one or more first tasks; andcontrolling (403) the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

2. A method (400) according to claim 1, wherein the method (400) further comprises:reconfiguring (402) one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) for one or more first tasks.

3. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 2, wherein the selfdriving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks,wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks, andwherein the method (400) further comprises:rearranging (404) the layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks.

4. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more first regions (702) of a human settlement,wherein the one or more first regions (702) is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c), wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more second regions (704) of the human settlement,wherein the one or more second regions (704) is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c), andwherein the method (400) further comprises:controlling (405) access to the first and second regions (702, 704) for the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c).

5. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the method (400) further comprises:controlling (406) a storage system (706) for storing modules (508, 510) associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), wherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more first modules (508) associated with one or more first tasks, and wherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more second modules (510) associated with one or more second tasks.

6. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the selfdriving vehicle (500a-c) comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units (506) for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c),wherein the transportation system (700) comprises charging stations (708) for charging the electric battery unit (506) of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), and wherein the method (400) further comprises:in connection with the charging of the electric battery unit (506) of the selfdriving vehicle (500a-c), controlling (401) the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) for one or more first tasks.

7. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the method (400) further comprises:coordinating (407) the reconfiguration of the self-driving vehicles (500a-c) for one or more first tasks so as to maximize the number of first tasks performed by a minimized number of self-driving vehicles (500a-c).

8. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein one or more of the first and second tasks comprises / comprise one or more of the group of:• transporting people;• transporting animals;• transporting food and beverage;• transporting goods; and• cleaning streets and / or pavements.

9. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the method (400) further comprises:in one or more data storage devices (710), storing (408) data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c).

10. A method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the method (400) further comprises:performing the method (400) automatically or autonomously.

11. A computer program (603) or a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when the program or the instructions is / are executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method (400) according to any one of the claims 1 to 10.

12. A control arrangement (300) for the control of one or more transportation systems (700) comprising one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c),wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises equipment for propulsion (502a-c),wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, andwherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks,wherein the control arrangement (300) is configured to:control (401 ) the reconfiguration of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) for one or more first tasks; andcontrol (403) the rearrangement of a layout of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks from a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks, wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, and wherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

13. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprising equipment for propulsion (502a-c), wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more first tasks, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is reconfigurable for one or more second tasks,wherein a layout of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is rearrangeable to a first layout configured for the one or more first tasks,wherein the layout of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is rearrangeable to a second layout configured for the one or more second tasks,wherein the one or more first tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more first time periods, andwherein the one or more second tasks is / are configured for performance during one or more second time periods.

14. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to claim 13, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units (506) for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

15. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to any one of the claims 13 to 14, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises a control arrangement (300) according to claim 14.

16. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to any one of the claims 13 to 15, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is configured to receive and detachably hold one or more modules (508, 510) associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), wherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more first modules (508) associated with one or more first tasks, and wherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more second modules (510) associated with one or more second tasks.

17. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to claim 16, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises one or more attachment members or devices (512) for the detachable attachment of the module (508, 510) to the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

18. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to claim 17, wherein the attachment member or device (512) comprises one or more guides (514), for example one or more rails, for guiding the one or more modules (508, 510) in relation to the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

19. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the one or more attachment members or devices (512) com prises / com prise one or more static attachment members or devices.

20. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to any one of the clams 16 or 19, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises one or more locking devices (520) for locking the one or more modules (508, 510) to the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

21. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to any one of the claims 13 to 20, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) is configured to perform one or more tasks of the group of:• transporting people;• transporting animals;• transporting food and beverage;• transporting goods; and• cleaning streets and / or pavements.

22. A self-driving vehicle (500a-c) according to any one of the claims 13 to 21, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises one or more of the group of: a monitoring device (522); a detector; and a scanner, for monitoring the exterior and / or interior of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

23. A transportation system (700) comprising two or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) and a control arrangement (300) according to claim 12.

24. A transportation system (700) according to claim 23, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c) according to any one of the claims 13 to 22.

25. A transportation system (700) according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more first regions (702) of a human settlement,wherein the one or more first regions (702) is / are associated with one or more first access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c), wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more second regions (704) of the human settlement, andwherein the one or more second regions (704) is / are associated with one or more second access requirements for the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c).

26. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 25, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises a storage system (706) for storing modules (508, 510) associated with layouts of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) and connectable to and / or insertable in the self-driving vehicle (500a-c),wherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more first modules (508) associated with one or more first tasks, andwherein the modules (508, 510) comprise one or more second modules (510) associated with one or more second tasks.

27. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 26, wherein the self-driving vehicle (500a-c) comprises or is configured to carry one or more electric battery units (506) for the propulsion of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), wherein the transportation system (700) comprises charging stations (708) for charging the electric battery unit (506) of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), and wherein the transportation system (700) is configured to reconfigure the selfdriving vehicle (500a-c) for one or more first tasks in connection with the charging of the electric battery unit of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c).

28. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 27, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more data storage devices (710) for storing data about performed tasks and performed reconfigurations of one or more of the one or more self-driving vehicles (500a-c).

29. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 28, wherein the transportation system (700) is an automatic or autonomous system.

30. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 29, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more first self-driving vehicles (500a-c) having a first configuration and one or more second self-driving vehicles (500a-c) having a second configuration different from the first configuration.

31. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 30, wherein the transportation system (700) comprises one or more interfaces (712) for wireless communication with one or more users.

32. A transportation system (700) according to any one of the claims 23 to 31, wherein one or more of the self-driving vehicle (500a-c), first or second module (508, 510) and storage system (706) comprises / comprise one or more network and / or internet connectivity arrangements (528, 530, 726) for network and / or internet connectivity, for example, Internet of Things (loT).

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