Dynamic Aircraft Payload Delivery with Recipient Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current delivery systems lack the ability to dynamically adjust delivery location and time based on recipient preferences, limiting flexibility and efficiency in payload delivery using aircraft.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilizes an aircraft equipped with a controller and communication capabilities to dynamically change delivery location and time based on recipient signals, allowing for on-demand delivery and delivery within buildings, with features like GPS, sensors, and autonomous operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional delivery systems are used, then delivery operations are simple, but flexibility in adjusting delivery location and time is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in adjusting delivery location and timeVSAvoidcomplexity of delivery system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic delivery parameters by allowing real-time modification of delivery location and time based on recipient signals. The aircraft delivery system transitions from static pre-planned routes to dynamic adaptive routing, where the controller can adjust delivery parameters in response to recipient preferences or conditions, thereby improving flexibility without requiring complete system redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the aircraft receives signals from recipients or external systems about delivery preferences, conditions, or changes. This feedback loop enables the controller to adjust delivery location and time dynamically, transforming the rigid traditional delivery process into an adaptive system that responds to real-time information

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of time

If fixed delivery schedules are used, then operational efficiency is high, but delivery timing accuracy according to recipient needs is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery timing accuracyVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning the aircraft or preparing delivery sequences while maintaining the capability to adjust. The controller plans delivery routes and schedules in advance but retains flexibility to modify these plans based on received signals, thereby achieving both operational efficiency through preparation and timing accuracy through adaptive adjustments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by allowing modification of delivery time and location parameters based on recipient signals. The system transitions from fixed parameters to variable parameters that can be adjusted within operational constraints, improving delivery timing accuracy while maintaining reasonable operational efficiency through controlled parameter modification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If aircraft deliver to traditional locations only, then operational constraints are minimal, but ability to deliver within buildings is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to deliver within buildingsVSAvoidcomplexity of delivery system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the delivery process into distinct phases: approach to building, identification of delivery point within building, and actual payload transfer. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex building deliveries through manageable sub-tasks, reducing the perceived complexity while improving versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary component (such as a building interface device, drone transfer mechanism, or robotic handoff system) that facilitates payload transfer within buildings. This intermediary handles the complexity of indoor delivery operations, allowing the main aircraft system to maintain simplicity while achieving enhanced delivery versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10046858B2Delivery of payloads using aircraft
Publication Date: 2018.08.14 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US10046858B2 patent drawing
  • US10046858B2 patent drawing
  • US10046858B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the disclosure include a method, system, and computer program for delivering a product. The method includes determining a delivery location and time for a payload using an aircraft. A recipient is notified of the delivery location and time. A first signal is received from the recipient. The time or location of the delivery location and time is changed, dynamically, based on the first signal. The payload is delivered to the recipient.