Elevated UAV Docking for Mid-Route Charging and Package Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) delivery systems are limited by battery range and duration, requiring frequent returns to base for recharging and resulting in inefficient delivery routes and costly repeat delivery attempts due to human interaction requirements for package confirmation.
Innovation Solution
An unmanned aerial vehicle delivery system that docks at elevated structures for package delivery and simultaneous power replenishment, utilizing logistical software for route optimization, real-time communication, and power source management, allowing for extended range and efficient delivery without ground route dependencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If UAVs use larger batteries to extend range and duration, then flight time and distance are improved, but payload weight capacity deteriorates due to increased battery mass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the recharging function into multiple distributed locations along the delivery route. Instead of one large battery for the entire journey, the UAV uses smaller battery segments that are periodically replenished at intermediate charging stations, allowing extended range without proportionally increasing payload weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate charging stations as mediators between the base and final delivery locations. These stations provide power replenishment services to UAVs during transit, acting as external energy sources that reduce the burden on onboard battery capacity while extending operational range.
2Use of energy by moving object
If UAVs return to base for recharging, then power source is replenished, but delivery efficiency deteriorates due to route interruptions and time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places charging stations along the delivery route in advance, allowing UAVs to recharge during normal transit without deviating from the optimal delivery path. This preliminary positioning of charging infrastructure enables power replenishment to occur as a routine part of the delivery journey rather than as an interruptive return trip.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional ground-based charging model (returning to base) to a three-dimensional aerial charging network (distributed stations at elevated locations). This spatial reconfiguration allows UAVs to access charging points mid-route without ground route dependencies, maintaining delivery efficiency while ensuring power replenishment.
3Reliability
If delivery requires human interaction for confirmation, then signature verification is achieved, but delivery time and cost increase due to repeat delivery attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated electronic confirmation systems at delivery locations that allow recipients to verify and sign for packages without human delivery agent interaction. The elevated docking structures include integrated confirmation mechanisms that enable self-service delivery completion, eliminating the need for repeat attempts when recipients are unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes real-time electronic feedback loops between UAVs and delivery confirmation systems at elevated structures. This immediate feedback mechanism provides instant verification of delivery completion, allowing the system to track and confirm deliveries without human intervention and eliminate repeat delivery requirements.
4Area of stationary object
If UAVs operate in high-density urban environments, then delivery coverage is improved, but ground infrastructure dependency increases causing congestion and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional ground-based delivery model by operating UAVs from elevated launch and docking structures. Instead of vehicles traveling along congested ground routes, packages are transferred vertically to elevated positions and then distributed through the air, eliminating dependency on ground infrastructure while expanding delivery coverage in urban environments.
Data Source
AI summary
An unmanned aerial vehicle delivery system utilizes an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to deliver packages between an initiation point and multiple delivery points at a raised elevation. The UAV flies between points in an organized manner, using logistical, maintenance and safety software, commands from a delivery organization, and guidance tools to coordinate deliveries. One advantage of the system is that the UAV engages the delivery points at a raised elevation, rather than the ground level. The UAV docks through an elevated structure at the delivery point for delivering the package and replenishing a power source. The package is conveyed from a docking end and through a central shaft of the elevated structure by means of an elevator. The package then travels to a lower structure, such as a house or office, for pickup. After completion of the delivery, the UAV replenishes its power source and/or continues on the delivery route.