WO2018199460A1 - Unmanned transport system using unmanned aerial vehicle - Google Patents

Unmanned transport system using unmanned aerial vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018199460A1
WO2018199460A1 PCT/KR2018/002621 KR2018002621W WO2018199460A1 WO 2018199460 A1 WO2018199460 A1 WO 2018199460A1 KR 2018002621 W KR2018002621 W KR 2018002621W WO 2018199460 A1 WO2018199460 A1 WO 2018199460A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
unmanned
goods
delivery
aerial vehicle
unmanned aerial
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/KR2018/002621
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Seung Mo Kim
Jae Sook JUNG
Koo Po Kwon
Tae Young Chung
Original Assignee
Cj Logistics Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Cj Logistics Corporation filed Critical Cj Logistics Corporation
Priority to CN201880001502.2A priority Critical patent/CN109121387B/en
Publication of WO2018199460A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018199460A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/30—Accessories, e.g. signalling devices, lamps, means for leaving messages
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05F—DEVICES FOR MOVING WINGS INTO OPEN OR CLOSED POSITION; CHECKS FOR WINGS; WING FITTINGS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, CONCERNED WITH THE FUNCTIONING OF THE WING
    • E05F15/00—Power-operated mechanisms for wings
    • E05F15/70—Power-operated mechanisms for wings with automatic actuation
    • E05F15/73—Power-operated mechanisms for wings with automatic actuation responsive to movement or presence of persons or objects
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01L—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS H10
    • H01L31/00—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof
    • H01L31/04—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices
    • H01L31/042—PV modules or arrays of single PV cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S10/00—PV power plants; Combinations of PV energy systems with other systems for the generation of electric power
    • H02S10/40—Mobile PV generator systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S30/00—Structural details of PV modules other than those related to light conversion
    • H02S30/20—Collapsible or foldable PV modules
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/142—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle interior being adapted to receive a transportable deposit container for food or large parcels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/144—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle being transportable and attachable to a building
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/145—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle comprising means for identifying a deposit; Deposits carrying identification means, e.g. a bar code
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/146—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means the receptacle comprising identification means, e.g. a bar code
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00 
    • A47G29/14—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels
    • A47G29/141—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means
    • A47G2029/149—Deposit receptacles for food, e.g. breakfast, milk, or large parcels; Similar receptacles for food or large parcels with appliances for preventing unauthorised removal of the deposited articles, i.e. food or large parcels comprising electronically controlled locking means with central server link
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64U—UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES [UAV]; EQUIPMENT THEREFOR
    • B64U2101/00—UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications
    • B64U2101/60—UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting passengers; for transporting goods other than weapons
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle and, more particularly, to an unmanned delivery port configured to automatically store and discharge goods air-dropped by an unmanned aerial vehicle and an unmanned transport system including the unmanned delivery port.
  • a drone or unmanned aerial vehicle
  • it is used in various fields, such as aerial photographing.
  • the drone is used for goods delivery as e-commerce is generalized, and thus appeals much to the related business worlds.
  • the drone is used as goods delivery means, a recipient who receives delivery goods feels inconvenient because he or she has to directly receive the delivery goods of the drone.
  • the reason for this is that when a recipient is not present, the drone cannot leave the goods at the place near the residence of the recipient.
  • there is no danger of lost goods because there is a layer-to-layer height although the drone leaves the goods at the porch or terrace of the apartment or public building.
  • there is a danger of lost or robbery goods In the case of a common house not having a wall, there is a danger of lost or robbery goods.
  • it rains there is a high possibility that goods may be wet and damaged.
  • an unmanned home delivery box capable of receiving delivery goods without a recipient is increasingly installed.
  • the existing unmanned home delivery box has a problem in that it cannot be used for drone home delivery because a person must deliver goods to the existing unmanned home delivery box.
  • the drone may not accurately recognize information about the position of a delivery box to which the goods will be delivered or a safety accident may occur if communication related to the drop of goods is not properly performed between the delivery box and the drone. Furthermore, there are problems in that a robbery case may occur from the nature of the unmanned home delivery box and goods air-dropped over the delivery box may be damaged, causing compensation for damages.
  • Patent Document 1 Korean Patent Application Publication No. 2014-0032613
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned delivery port configured to safely receive airdrop goods when the goods are delivered using an unmanned aerial vehicle, to automatically store the goods and to automatically discharge the goods when an authenticated customer requests the goods.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein delivery goods can be safely received by leading the unmanned aerial vehicle on which the delivery goods have been mounted into an accurate position.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle, which is capable of supplying driving power and required power for wireless charging using solar energy.
  • an unmanned delivery port including a body in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed, an input door unit formed at the top of the body to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input, and a receipt unit configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body.
  • the body may include an input hole configured to form the delivery passage of delivery goods, a recognition unit configured to recognize information about delivery goods when the delivery goods lands on the bottom of the input hole, and a storage unit configured to sequentially store the delivery goods recognized by the recognition unit.
  • a shock-absorbing unit for reducing an impact on input delivery goods may be disposed in the input hole, and the shock-absorbing unit may be configured to form the four inclined surfaces of the input hole.
  • the storage unit may include a storage shelf and a transfer device configured to open or shut a bottom surface of the input hole and to transfer delivery goods to the storage shelf or transfer delivery goods requested by the receipt unit to the receipt unit.
  • the storage shelf may be driven by at least one of a rotation type and an elevation type.
  • the storage shelf may be divided into partitions in order to separately keep a plurality of delivery goods.
  • ID information may be assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with delivery goods information recognized by the recognition unit.
  • a moving device may be disposed at the bottom of the body so that the body is movable.
  • the input door unit may include an input door formed at the top of the body to open or shut the input hole through which delivery goods are input, rails formed at the top of the body to lead the input door, and a driving unit configured to drive the opening or shutting of the input door.
  • the input door may slide along the guide rails to open or shut the input hole.
  • the input door may include a solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity.
  • the input door may operate as a door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches the input door and may operate as the solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity in other cases.
  • the unmanned delivery port may further include a wireless charging station configured to provide a physical space where an unmanned aerial vehicle lands and to wirelessly change the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the wireless charging station may include a station panel on which the unmanned aerial vehicle lands, a wireless charging unit configured to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle landed on the station panel using a magnetic resonant method, and a management unit configured to manage at least one of the takeoff and landing state, charging state, and station panel state of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the unmanned delivery port may further include a communication unit configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system and a control unit configured to automatically open the input door when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, to shut the input door when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and to control a wireless charging station so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station.
  • a communication unit configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system
  • a control unit configured to automatically open the input door when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, to shut the input door when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and to control a wireless charging station so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station.
  • the unmanned delivery port may further include a precise position guidance unit configured to generate precise position information about a guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information.
  • a precise position guidance unit configured to generate precise position information about a guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information.
  • the precise position guidance unit may generate the precise position information based on real time kinematic (RTK).
  • RTK real time kinematic
  • the receipt unit may include an input unit configured to receive receipt information of delivery goods and a receipt door configured to automatically open when receipt information is received through the input unit and to discharge goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  • the receipt unit may further include a freight detection sensor configured to prevent a collision when the discharged goods are picked up and to transmit receipt unit state information to an external system.
  • the receipt unit may open the receipt door and receive corresponding goods so that the goods are kept in the storage shelf.
  • the receipt unit may be formed on the side of the body.
  • an unmanned transport system may include an unmanned aerial vehicle assigned unique ID code and configured to automatically fly along a delivery route after delivery goods are mounted at the delivery source and to automatically drop the delivery goods at the regular position over an unmanned delivery port, an unmanned delivery port disposed at the delivery destination and configured to automatically open an input door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a predetermined specific radius, to automatically receive and store goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods warehousing information to an operating server, and the operating server configured to manage destination information of delivery goods and ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods state information to a corresponding customer when delivery goods warehousing information may be received from the unmanned delivery port.
  • the unmanned delivery port may automatically open the receipt door when receipt information of delivery goods is received and may automatically discharge goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  • the unmanned delivery port may transmit precise position information about the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle to the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the unmanned delivery port may transmit the present loading information of delivery goods within a storage unit to the operating server.
  • the operating server may control the delivery of the delivery goods based on the present delivery goods loading information transmitted by the unmanned delivery port.
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle may receive precise position information through an unmanned delivery port at the delivery destination in real time and precisely fly.
  • airdrop goods from an unmanned aerial vehicle can be safely received and automatically stored because the unmanned delivery port is equipped with the shock-absorbing unit. Furthermore, a robbery case can be prevented because goods are automatically discharged based on receipt information input by a customer.
  • the unmanned transport system has a function for leading a precise position by correcting an error of the existing GPS system while operating in conjunction with an unmanned aerial vehicle. Accordingly, delivery goods can be safely received by leading the unmanned aerial vehicle on which the delivery goods have been mounted into an accurate position.
  • the input door is configured using a solar cell panel using solar energy as power, driving power and required power for wireless charging can be supplied using the solar energy.
  • a base for constructing an operating infrastructure and process for unmanned transport system-based delivery can be provided through the embodiments of the present invention.
  • an optimized unmanned aerial vehicle operation base can be set up and productivity improvement can be expected if logistic service using an unmanned aerial vehicle is provided in the parcel express service industry in the future through the system capable of reducing a limit to a product destination and shortening the transport cycle time.
  • Effects of the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned effects, and may include various other effects within the range evident to those skilled in the art from the following description.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the outside of an unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating a body shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a diagram for illustrating an input door unit shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a receipt unit shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a wireless charging station shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a precise position guidance unit included in the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • station panel 244 wireless charging unit
  • detection sensor 254 RTK module
  • each of the elements may be purely implemented using a hardware or software element, but may be implemented using a combination of various hardware and software elements that perform the same function. Furthermore, two or more elements may be implemented together by a piece of hardware or software.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle includes an unmanned aerial vehicle 100, an unmanned delivery port 200 disposed at each delivery destination, an operating server 300 and a customer terminal 400.
  • Each unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is an aerial vehicle that is identifiable from other unmanned aerial vehicles based on unique identification (ID) code assigned thereto, and may be a drone, for example.
  • ID unique identification
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 After delivery goods are mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 at a delivery source, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 automatically flies along a delivery route.
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 receives precise position information in real time through the unmanned delivery port 200 located at a delivery destination, precisely flies based on the position information, and automatically drops the delivery goods when it is located a regular position over the unmanned delivery port 200.
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 when the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 approaches the unmanned delivery port 200, it sends its own ID code and unmanned delivery port ID code of the delivery destination to the unmanned delivery port 200, receives precise position information from the unmanned delivery port 200 in real time in response thereto, and precisely flies. If the current position of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is identical with the position of precise position information while the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 precisely flies, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 determines that it has been located at a regular position over the unmanned delivery port, drops delivery goods, and flies to a delivery source (or a next delivery destination).
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may be equipped with aerial vehicle control logic that controls such a series of operations.
  • the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 basically automatically flies up to a destination, but when an emergency situation occurs, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may be manually controlled under the control of a ground control center.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 is disposed at each delivery destination, and transmits precise position information about the guidance position of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens its input door, automatically receives and stores goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, and transmits delivery goods warehousing information to the operating server 300.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 receives GPS information through a real time kinematic (RTK) module included therein, processes precise position information, and transmits the processed position information to a ground control system (GCS) disposed at the ground control center of the unmanned aerial vehicle 200.
  • the ground control system functions to manually control the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 when an emergency situation occurs, and may set up a flight plan based on precise position information.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 determines whether the unmanned delivery port ID code of the delivery destination is identical with its own ID code. If, as a result of the determination, it is determined that the two ID codes are identical, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits precise position information to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 in real time and continues to receive proximity information (i.e., information about the position of the unmanned aerial vehicle) from the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. When the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 approaches within a preset specific distance, the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens its input door.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 recognizes invoice information of the delivery goods and transmits delivery goods warehousing information including the recognized invoice information to the operating server 300.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 may recognize the invoice information using a recognition technology, such as image-based invoice recognition or barcode scanner-based barcode recognition.
  • the invoice information may include product recipient information, a product name, a destination and so on.
  • the delivery goods warehousing information may include the invoice information, unmanned delivery port ID information and so on.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically slides the received delivery goods into an empty partition within a storage shelf and keeps the delivery goods. Thereafter, when receipt information of the delivery goods is received, the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens the receipt door and automatically discharges goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 shuts the open input door so that the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can land at a designated landing station.
  • unmanned delivery port 200 may supply driving power and required power for wireless charging using solar energy.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present loading information of delivery goods within the storage unit to the operating server 300 so that the present loading information is incorporated into delivery.
  • the present delivery goods loading information may include the number of empty storage shelves within the storage unit and information about whether delivery is possible. For example, if the storage unit is fully filled with delivery goods, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present delivery goods loading condition, indicating that there is no empty storage shelf, to the operating server 300 in order to prevent additional delivery. If an empty storage shelf occurs because delivery goods have been picked up by a customer, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present delivery goods loading condition, including the number of empty storage shelves and information about whether delivery is possible, to the operating server 300.
  • the operating server 300 manages destination information of delivery goods and the ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • delivery goods warehousing information is received from the unmanned delivery port 200
  • the operating server 300 transmits delivery goods state information to a corresponding customer terminal 400.
  • the delivery goods state information may include unmanned delivery port warehousing information, goods receipt method, and receipt information of goods.
  • the operating server 300 receives the present delivery goods loading information from the unmanned delivery port 200, and may control the goods delivery to the corresponding unmanned delivery port 200 based on the present delivery goods loading information.
  • the operating server 300 is disposed in a computer terminal provided in a delivery source, such as a delivery central station or a local office.
  • the operating server 300 manages delivery destination information (e.g., location coordinates or address information based on GPS signals and unmanned delivery port ID code disposed at a delivery destination) of goods to be delivered and the aerial vehicle ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle, and controls the loading and unloading of delivery goods for each of one or more unmanned aerial vehicles and an overall flight operation of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • delivery destination information e.g., location coordinates or address information based on GPS signals and unmanned delivery port ID code disposed at a delivery destination
  • the operating server 300 registers and manages delivery destination information, including ID code for identifying the unmanned delivery port 200 disposed at a delivery destination, and aerial vehicle ID code uniquely assigned to each of one or more unmanned aerial vehicles. Furthermore the operating server 300 remotely controls an overall operation of the unmanned aerial vehicle for the input and setting of delivery destination information of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 that will deliver goods, the loading of goods onto the unmanned aerial vehicle, flight to a delivery destination, the unloading of goods at a delivery destination, return to a delivery source.
  • the operating server 300 may be configured to access a delivery management server (not shown) that provides a parcel delivery service over a wired/wireless communication network and to receive home delivery or goods-related delivery information from the delivery management server. Furthermore, the operating server may be configured to output an invoice through a printer connected to a computer terminal.
  • a delivery management server not shown
  • the operating server may be configured to output an invoice through a printer connected to a computer terminal.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the outside of the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating a body shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a diagram for illustrating an input door unit shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a receipt unit shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a wireless charging station shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a precise position guidance unit included in the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the unmanned delivery port includes a body 210 in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed, an input door unit 220 formed at the top of the body 210 to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input, and a receipt unit 230 configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body 210.
  • the body 210 has a square shape, for example, and forms a receiving space having a specific depth and horizontal and vertical widths in order to receive and keep one or more delivery goods.
  • the body 210 includes an input hole 212 configured to form the delivery passage of delivery goods, a recognition unit (not shown) configured to recognize information about delivery goods when the delivery goods lands on the bottom of the input hole, and a storage unit 214 configured to sequentially store the delivery goods recognized by the recognition unit.
  • the input hole 212 includes a shock-absorbing unit (not shown) for reducing an impact on input delivery goods and has a function for safely receiving air-dropped goods.
  • the input hole may be designed to receive goods of 1m x 1m in size based on common home delivery freight, but it is not limited thereto.
  • the shock-absorbing unit has a shock-absorbing function for minimizing an impact on a surface of the input hole when goods are dropped. That is, materials (e.g., latex or foam sponge) capable of reducing an impact generated when goods freely fall and collide against the surface of the input hole may be directly attached to the shock-absorbing unit. Alternatively, an air tube into which air can be automatically injected when goods are input to the input hole may be attached to the shock-absorbing unit so that the shock-absorbing unit has a shock-absorbing function. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing unit may include a separate suspension device to minimize impact energy attributable to free-fall when goods are dropped in addition to surface shock absorption.
  • materials e.g., latex or foam sponge
  • an air tube into which air can be automatically injected when goods are input to the input hole may be attached to the shock-absorbing unit so that the shock-absorbing unit has a shock-absorbing function.
  • the shock-absorbing unit may include a separate suspension device to minimize impact energy attributable to free-fall when goods are dropped in addition to surface shock
  • the suspension device may be disposed at the bottom of the input hole, and thus can reduce an impact using a pneumatic method or a common suspension method using a force of restoration according to the coefficient of elasticity of a spring.
  • the shock-absorbing unit is configured to form the four inclined surfaces of the input hole so that goods can downward slide by gravity when the goods collide against the surface of the input hole, and has a form structured in a proper depth so that goods do not bounce off due to a reaction to a collision.
  • the recognition unit When delivery goods land at the bottom of the input hole, the recognition unit recognizes information about the delivery goods.
  • the recognition unit may recognize an invoice using a recognition technology, such as image-based invoice recognition using a camera or barcode scanner-based barcode recognition.
  • the storage unit 214 sequentially stores goods whose invoice has been recognized by the recognition unit, and includes a storage shelf and a transfer device.
  • the storage shelf is driven using a method, such as a rotation type or an elevation type and is divided into partitions in order to separately keep a plurality of delivery goods.
  • ID information is assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with delivery goods information recognized by the recognition unit.
  • the transfer device is configured to open or shut the bottom surface of the input hole 212 and to transfer delivery goods to the storage shelf or to transfer delivery goods, requested by the receipt unit 230, to the receipt unit 230.
  • the input hole collects an image of the goods through the recognition unit, and the bottom surface of the input hole is open or shut in a sliding manner, so the goods slide into the storage shelf of a rotation type.
  • the goods input to the storage shelf are sequentially stored, and may be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise and discharged to a point connected to the receipt unit 230.
  • the storage shelf driven in the rotation type is divided into the partitions to keep a plurality of goods. A number is assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with information about sequentially input goods so that the goods can be automatically discharged in accordance with a receipt customer.
  • the body 210 is configured to receive goods of specific weight by absorbing an impact so that damage to the goods is prevented when the goods freely fall from the sky of a specific height (e.g., goods of up to 10 kg at the sky of up to 10 m are recommended, but the present invention is not limited thereto.
  • the body may be differently designed depending on the free-fall height and weight/volume of goods).
  • the body automatically recognizes information about the received goods, automatically stores the recognized goods, and discharges the goods in response to a request from a customer so that the customer can directly receive the goods.
  • the body 210 may be designed to be controlled automatically and manually, and may have a structure capable of storing goods temporarily stored by a home delivery person and picked up by a customer directly in addition to goods carried through an unmanned aerial vehicle, like the existing unmanned home delivery box.
  • moving devices such as wheels capable of fixing a regular position, rollers or wheels, may be attached to the bottom of the body 210 in order to secure position mobility.
  • the input door unit 220 may be configured to open or shut the input door 222 of the unmanned delivery port 200 in a sliding manner.
  • the input door unit 220 includes the input door 222 formed at the top of the body 210 to open or shut the input hole 212 through which delivery goods are input, rails 224 formed at the top of the body to lead the input door 222, and a driving unit (not shown) configured to drive the opening or shutting of the input door 222.
  • the input door 222 slide along the rails 224 to open or shut the input hole 212.
  • the sliding power is provided by the driving unit. For the sliding, a sufficient space in which the input door 222 for opening the input door 222 can move may be secured.
  • the input door 222 may include a solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity. Accordingly, the input door 222 may operate as a door capable of being automatically open or shut when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches the input door, and may operate as the solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity in other cases. That is, the input door 222 is an unmanned delivery port cover capable of being automatically open or shut in a sliding manner in such a way as to shield the input hole 212 at normal times, and may be configured to have a condensing plate formed on a surface of the input door so that solar light can be used as power.
  • the condensing plate converts solar light supplied to a solar cell into electricity, and is designed by taking into consideration a condensing area so that it can supply power necessary for the unmanned delivery port.
  • the cover of a sliding method has the driving unit, such as a linear motor, mounted thereon and can be automatically controlled.
  • the receipt unit 230 is configured to automatically discharge corresponding goods kept in the storage shelf of the body 210 when a customer inputs receipt information, such as a password, in order to pick up the goods.
  • the receipt unit includes an input unit 232 and a receipt door 234.
  • the input unit 232 receives receipt information of delivery goods from a customer, and may be implemented using various input devices, such as a button and a touch screen.
  • the receipt information may be a password assigned to or set by a customer so that the customer can receive goods.
  • the input unit 232 may be implemented in the receipt door 234.
  • the receipt door 234 is automatically open when receipt information is received through the input unit 232, and discharges goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  • the receipt door 234 may be configured to automatically open or shut in a sliding or hinged door manner.
  • the receipt unit 230 may further include a freight detection sensor (not shown) for preventing a collision when discharged goods are picked up and transmitting receipt unit state information to an external system. That is, when the receipt door 234 is open, the separate freight detection sensor disposed within the receipt unit prevents a collision accident with the receipt door 234 while a customer picks up goods and transmits receipt unit state information to the operating server so that delivery management can be performed.
  • a freight detection sensor not shown
  • the receipt unit 230 may open the receipt door 234 when goods warehousing information is received through the input unit 232 so that corresponding goods are received and kept in the storage shelf.
  • a home delivery person may temporarily input goods to the receipt unit 230 of the unmanned delivery port so that a customer can directly pick up the goods.
  • the goods may be automatically located in an available partition of the storage shelf of the receipt unit, and the receipt unit may transmit corresponding warehousing information to the external operating server.
  • the receipt unit 230 has been illustrated as being formed on the side of the body 210, but the position of the receipt unit 230 is not limited thereto.
  • the receipt unit may be formed at various positions where delivery goods can be discharged, such as the top or bottom of the receipt unit.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a wireless charging station 240 configured to provide a physical space where an unmanned aerial vehicle lands and to wirelessly charge the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the wireless charging station 240 may include a station panel 242 on which an unmanned aerial vehicle lands, a wireless charging unit 244 configured to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle landed on the station panel 242 using a magnetic resonant method, and a management unit 246 configured to manage at least one of the takeoff and landing state, charging state, and station panel state of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the wireless charging station 240 may be configured to extend the station panel 242 to secure a seating space before an unmanned aerial vehicle lands so that the unmanned aerial vehicle can land in emergency and can be automatically charged and to charge an unmanned aerial vehicle when it is powered off after normal landing.
  • a surface of the station panel 242 may be made of materials having a non-slip function, and a collector coil may be inserted into the station panel 242 to enable wireless charging using a magnetic resonant method.
  • the station panel 242 may be made of materials capable of transmitting a resonant frequency, generated by the collector coil, in order to avoid interference with the resonant frequency.
  • the wireless charging station 240 is configured to transmit charging completion information to the control unit of the unmanned delivery port when the charging of an unmanned aerial vehicle is completed, and may be designed to digitize and manage the takeoff and landing state, the charging state, and the station panel state.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a precise position guidance unit (not shown) configured to generate precise position information about the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information.
  • the precise position guidance unit may generate the precise position information based on real time kinematic (RTK).
  • the precise position guidance unit 250 may include a detection sensor 252 configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle and obtain position information of the unmanned aerial vehicle and an RTK module 254 configured to generate GPS correction information by comparing the position information of the detection sensor with position information received from the unmanned aerial vehicle and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle into a precise position by transmitting the GPS correction information to the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the detection sensor 252 obtains the position information of the unmanned aerial vehicle when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches using ultrasonic waves, infrared light, a laser or radio waves.
  • the precise position guidance unit 250 has the RTK module 254 mounted thereon to enable the precise position flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle, and may generate GPS correction information and lead the unmanned aerial vehicle into a precise position.
  • the existing GPS information has an average error of about 3 m, and thus makes an unmanned aerial vehicle difficult to be precisely located over the input hole within the unmanned delivery port. Accordingly, the precise position guidance unit 250 generates GPS precise position information based on the unmanned delivery port 200 using the RTK technology, that is, a precise positioning technology, and provides the position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle. Accordingly, the unmanned aerial vehicle can precisely fly within an average error of 1 m or less.
  • the RTK technology may be a technology for correcting GPS reception and position information within the unmanned delivery port and transmitting precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the precise position guidance unit 250 may be located at the upper part of the body 210 because it has to obtain position information of an unmanned aerial vehicle.
  • the unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a communication unit (not shown) configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system and a control unit (not shown) configured to generally control the unmanned delivery port 200.
  • the communication unit has a mobile communication or wireless communication module mounted thereon for communication with an external system and constructs a main communication network.
  • the communication unit may be configured to transmit or receive unmanned aerial vehicle proximity guidance information using a separate short-distance communication module (e.g., Bluetooth or Zigbee), if necessary.
  • a separate short-distance communication module e.g., Bluetooth or Zigbee
  • the control unit automatically opens the input door 222 when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, shuts the input door 222 when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and controls the wireless charging station 240 so that an unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station 240.
  • the control unit controls the unmanned delivery port 200 so that it normally operates while operating in conjunction with an unmanned aerial vehicle and the operating server.
  • control unit may be implemented based on a programming logic controller (PLC) in such a way as to control all automation elements, such as a motor and sensors disposed within the unmanned delivery port, and may be implemented to be associated with an unmanned aerial vehicle and the operating server while operating in conjunction with a separate internal management PC.
  • PLC programming logic controller
  • the control unit may store the ID code and precise position information of the unmanned delivery port.
  • the ID code is for identifying a corresponding unmanned delivery port, and the precise position information may be accurate x,y,z coordinates based on the input door.
  • the ID code is uniquely assigned to each unmanned delivery port, and the precise position information is changed and updated depending on the position where the unmanned delivery port is disposed.
  • the precise position information may be manually input after an installation position is accurately measured, but may be configured to be automatically updated because goods may be erroneously delivered or an accident may occur while goods are dropped if wrong position information is input or if the position where a takeoff and landing device is disposed is changed.
  • the control unit transmits precise position information regarding the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle to the unmanned aerial vehicle through the communication unit.
  • the control unit controls the input door so that it is automatically open so that goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle is automatically received and stored, and transmits delivery goods warehousing information to the operating server.
  • control unit shuts an open input door and performs control so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on a designated landing station.
  • control unit transmits the present loading information about delivery goods within the storage unit 214 to the operating server so that the present loading information is incorporated into delivery.
  • present delivery goods loading information may include the number of empty storage shelves within the storage unit and information whether delivery is possible.
  • the control unit controls the operations of various elements of the unmanned delivery port 200.
  • the control unit may include at least one operation device.
  • the operation device may be a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a programmable device element (CPLD, FPGA) implemented for a specific object, application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) or a microcontroller.
  • CPU central processing unit
  • CPLD programmable device element
  • FPGA field-programmable gate array
  • ASIC application-specific integrated circuits
  • Technological characteristics described in this specification and an implementation for executing the technological characteristics may be implemented using a digital electronic circuit, may be implemented using computer software, firmware or hardware including the structure described in this specification and structural equivalents thereof, or may be implemented using a combination of one or more of them. Furthermore, the implementation for executing the technological characteristics described in this specification may be implemented using a computer program product, that is, a module regarding computer program instructions encoded on a kind of program storage media in order to control the operation of a processing system or for execution by the processing system.

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Abstract

Disclosed is an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle. There may be provided an unmanned delivery port, including a body in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed, an input door unit formed at the top of the body to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input, and a receipt unit configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body, and an unmanned transport system including the unmanned delivery port.

Description

[Rectified under Rule 91, 28.03.2018] UNMANNED TRANSPORT SYSTEM USING UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE
The present invention relates to an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle and, more particularly, to an unmanned delivery port configured to automatically store and discharge goods air-dropped by an unmanned aerial vehicle and an unmanned transport system including the unmanned delivery port.
A drone (or unmanned aerial vehicle) is recently commercialized, it is used in various fields, such as aerial photographing. In particular, the drone is used for goods delivery as e-commerce is generalized, and thus appeals much to the related business worlds.
Conventional transport means is inevitably used for heavy and bulky goods, but the drone is used for goods that are light and small in volume instead of using conventional transport equipment and manpower, thereby being capable of improving business efficiency.
However, if the drone is used as goods delivery means, a recipient who receives delivery goods feels inconvenient because he or she has to directly receive the delivery goods of the drone. The reason for this is that when a recipient is not present, the drone cannot leave the goods at the place near the residence of the recipient. In the case of an apartment or public building, there is no danger of lost goods because there is a layer-to-layer height although the drone leaves the goods at the porch or terrace of the apartment or public building. In the case of a common house not having a wall, there is a danger of lost or robbery goods. Furthermore, if it rains, there is a high possibility that goods may be wet and damaged.
Recently, an unmanned home delivery box capable of receiving delivery goods without a recipient is increasingly installed. However, the existing unmanned home delivery box has a problem in that it cannot be used for drone home delivery because a person must deliver goods to the existing unmanned home delivery box.
If goods are delivered using the drone, that is, an unmanned aerial vehicle, using the existing unmanned home delivery box without any change, the drone may not accurately recognize information about the position of a delivery box to which the goods will be delivered or a safety accident may occur if communication related to the drop of goods is not properly performed between the delivery box and the drone. Furthermore, there are problems in that a robbery case may occur from the nature of the unmanned home delivery box and goods air-dropped over the delivery box may be damaged, causing compensation for damages.
[Prior Art Document]
[Patent Document]
(Patent Document 1) Prior Art 1: Korean Patent Application Publication No. 2014-0032613
An object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned delivery port configured to safely receive airdrop goods when the goods are delivered using an unmanned aerial vehicle, to automatically store the goods and to automatically discharge the goods when an authenticated customer requests the goods.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein delivery goods can be safely received by leading the unmanned aerial vehicle on which the delivery goods have been mounted into an accurate position.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle, which is capable of supplying driving power and required power for wireless charging using solar energy.
Technical objects to be achieved by the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned objects, and may include various technical objects within the range evident to those skilled in the art from the following description.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an unmanned delivery port, including a body in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed, an input door unit formed at the top of the body to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input, and a receipt unit configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body.
The body may include an input hole configured to form the delivery passage of delivery goods, a recognition unit configured to recognize information about delivery goods when the delivery goods lands on the bottom of the input hole, and a storage unit configured to sequentially store the delivery goods recognized by the recognition unit.
A shock-absorbing unit for reducing an impact on input delivery goods may be disposed in the input hole, and the shock-absorbing unit may be configured to form the four inclined surfaces of the input hole.
The storage unit may include a storage shelf and a transfer device configured to open or shut a bottom surface of the input hole and to transfer delivery goods to the storage shelf or transfer delivery goods requested by the receipt unit to the receipt unit.
The storage shelf may be driven by at least one of a rotation type and an elevation type.
The storage shelf may be divided into partitions in order to separately keep a plurality of delivery goods. ID information may be assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with delivery goods information recognized by the recognition unit.
A moving device may be disposed at the bottom of the body so that the body is movable.
The input door unit may include an input door formed at the top of the body to open or shut the input hole through which delivery goods are input, rails formed at the top of the body to lead the input door, and a driving unit configured to drive the opening or shutting of the input door. The input door may slide along the guide rails to open or shut the input hole.
The input door may include a solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity. The input door may operate as a door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches the input door and may operate as the solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity in other cases.
The unmanned delivery port may further include a wireless charging station configured to provide a physical space where an unmanned aerial vehicle lands and to wirelessly change the unmanned aerial vehicle.
The wireless charging station may include a station panel on which the unmanned aerial vehicle lands, a wireless charging unit configured to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle landed on the station panel using a magnetic resonant method, and a management unit configured to manage at least one of the takeoff and landing state, charging state, and station panel state of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port may further include a communication unit configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system and a control unit configured to automatically open the input door when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, to shut the input door when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and to control a wireless charging station so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port may further include a precise position guidance unit configured to generate precise position information about a guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information.
The precise position guidance unit may generate the precise position information based on real time kinematic (RTK).
The receipt unit may include an input unit configured to receive receipt information of delivery goods and a receipt door configured to automatically open when receipt information is received through the input unit and to discharge goods corresponding to the receipt information.
Furthermore, the receipt unit may further include a freight detection sensor configured to prevent a collision when the discharged goods are picked up and to transmit receipt unit state information to an external system.
Furthermore, when goods warehousing information are received through the input unit, the receipt unit may open the receipt door and receive corresponding goods so that the goods are kept in the storage shelf.
Furthermore, the receipt unit may be formed on the side of the body.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an unmanned transport system may include an unmanned aerial vehicle assigned unique ID code and configured to automatically fly along a delivery route after delivery goods are mounted at the delivery source and to automatically drop the delivery goods at the regular position over an unmanned delivery port, an unmanned delivery port disposed at the delivery destination and configured to automatically open an input door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a predetermined specific radius, to automatically receive and store goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods warehousing information to an operating server, and the operating server configured to manage destination information of delivery goods and ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods state information to a corresponding customer when delivery goods warehousing information may be received from the unmanned delivery port.
The unmanned delivery port may automatically open the receipt door when receipt information of delivery goods is received and may automatically discharge goods corresponding to the receipt information.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port may transmit precise position information about the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle to the unmanned aerial vehicle.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port may transmit the present loading information of delivery goods within a storage unit to the operating server.
The operating server may control the delivery of the delivery goods based on the present delivery goods loading information transmitted by the unmanned delivery port.
The unmanned aerial vehicle may receive precise position information through an unmanned delivery port at the delivery destination in real time and precisely fly.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, airdrop goods from an unmanned aerial vehicle can be safely received and automatically stored because the unmanned delivery port is equipped with the shock-absorbing unit. Furthermore, a robbery case can be prevented because goods are automatically discharged based on receipt information input by a customer.
Furthermore, the unmanned transport system has a function for leading a precise position by correcting an error of the existing GPS system while operating in conjunction with an unmanned aerial vehicle. Accordingly, delivery goods can be safely received by leading the unmanned aerial vehicle on which the delivery goods have been mounted into an accurate position.
Furthermore, since the input door is configured using a solar cell panel using solar energy as power, driving power and required power for wireless charging can be supplied using the solar energy.
Furthermore, a base for constructing an operating infrastructure and process for unmanned transport system-based delivery can be provided through the embodiments of the present invention.
Furthermore, an optimized unmanned aerial vehicle operation base can be set up and productivity improvement can be expected if logistic service using an unmanned aerial vehicle is provided in the parcel express service industry in the future through the system capable of reducing a limit to a product destination and shortening the transport cycle time.
Effects of the present invention are not limited to the aforementioned effects, and may include various other effects within the range evident to those skilled in the art from the following description.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the outside of an unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating a body shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for illustrating an input door unit shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a receipt unit shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a wireless charging station shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a precise position guidance unit included in the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
<Description of Reference Numerals>
100: unmanned aerial vehicle
200: unmanned delivery port
210: body 212: input hole
214: storage unit 220: input door unit
222: input door 224: rail
230: receipt unit 232: input unit
234: receipt door 240: wireless charging station
242: station panel 244: wireless charging unit
246: management unit
250: precise position guidance unit
252: detection sensor 254: RTK module
300: operating server 400: customer terminal
Hereinafter, an "unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle" according to an embodiment of the present invention is described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments to be described are provided in order for those skilled in the art to easily understand the technical spirit of the present invention, and the present invention is not restricted by the embodiments. Furthermore, contents represented in the accompanying drawings have been diagrammed in order to easily describe the embodiments of the present invention, and the contents may be different from drawing forms that are actually implemented.
Furthermore, each of the elements may be purely implemented using a hardware or software element, but may be implemented using a combination of various hardware and software elements that perform the same function. Furthermore, two or more elements may be implemented together by a piece of hardware or software.
Furthermore, an expression that some elements are "included" is an expression of an "open type", and the expression simply denotes that the corresponding elements are present, but should not be construed as excluding additional elements.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 1, the unmanned transport system using an unmanned aerial vehicle includes an unmanned aerial vehicle 100, an unmanned delivery port 200 disposed at each delivery destination, an operating server 300 and a customer terminal 400.
Each unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is an aerial vehicle that is identifiable from other unmanned aerial vehicles based on unique identification (ID) code assigned thereto, and may be a drone, for example.
After delivery goods are mounted on the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 at a delivery source, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 automatically flies along a delivery route. The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 receives precise position information in real time through the unmanned delivery port 200 located at a delivery destination, precisely flies based on the position information, and automatically drops the delivery goods when it is located a regular position over the unmanned delivery port 200.
That is, when the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 approaches the unmanned delivery port 200, it sends its own ID code and unmanned delivery port ID code of the delivery destination to the unmanned delivery port 200, receives precise position information from the unmanned delivery port 200 in real time in response thereto, and precisely flies. If the current position of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 is identical with the position of precise position information while the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 precisely flies, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 determines that it has been located at a regular position over the unmanned delivery port, drops delivery goods, and flies to a delivery source (or a next delivery destination). The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may be equipped with aerial vehicle control logic that controls such a series of operations.
The unmanned aerial vehicle 100 basically automatically flies up to a destination, but when an emergency situation occurs, the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 may be manually controlled under the control of a ground control center.
The unmanned delivery port 200 is disposed at each delivery destination, and transmits precise position information about the guidance position of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. When the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 approaches within a predetermined specific radius, the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens its input door, automatically receives and stores goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, and transmits delivery goods warehousing information to the operating server 300.
That is, the unmanned delivery port 200 receives GPS information through a real time kinematic (RTK) module included therein, processes precise position information, and transmits the processed position information to a ground control system (GCS) disposed at the ground control center of the unmanned aerial vehicle 200. The ground control system functions to manually control the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 when an emergency situation occurs, and may set up a flight plan based on precise position information.
When aerial vehicle ID code and unmanned delivery port ID code of a delivery destination are received from the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, the unmanned delivery port 200 determines whether the unmanned delivery port ID code of the delivery destination is identical with its own ID code. If, as a result of the determination, it is determined that the two ID codes are identical, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits precise position information to the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 in real time and continues to receive proximity information (i.e., information about the position of the unmanned aerial vehicle) from the unmanned aerial vehicle 100. When the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 approaches within a preset specific distance, the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens its input door. Thereafter, when delivery goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 are received, the unmanned delivery port 200 recognizes invoice information of the delivery goods and transmits delivery goods warehousing information including the recognized invoice information to the operating server 300. In this case, the unmanned delivery port 200 may recognize the invoice information using a recognition technology, such as image-based invoice recognition or barcode scanner-based barcode recognition. The invoice information may include product recipient information, a product name, a destination and so on. The delivery goods warehousing information may include the invoice information, unmanned delivery port ID information and so on.
The unmanned delivery port 200 automatically slides the received delivery goods into an empty partition within a storage shelf and keeps the delivery goods. Thereafter, when receipt information of the delivery goods is received, the unmanned delivery port 200 automatically opens the receipt door and automatically discharges goods corresponding to the receipt information.
If emergency landing is necessary for the charging of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100, for example, the unmanned delivery port 200 shuts the open input door so that the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 can land at a designated landing station.
Furthermore the unmanned delivery port 200 may supply driving power and required power for wireless charging using solar energy.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present loading information of delivery goods within the storage unit to the operating server 300 so that the present loading information is incorporated into delivery. In this case, the present delivery goods loading information may include the number of empty storage shelves within the storage unit and information about whether delivery is possible. For example, if the storage unit is fully filled with delivery goods, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present delivery goods loading condition, indicating that there is no empty storage shelf, to the operating server 300 in order to prevent additional delivery. If an empty storage shelf occurs because delivery goods have been picked up by a customer, the unmanned delivery port 200 transmits the present delivery goods loading condition, including the number of empty storage shelves and information about whether delivery is possible, to the operating server 300.
The operating server 300 manages destination information of delivery goods and the ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle. When delivery goods warehousing information is received from the unmanned delivery port 200, the operating server 300 transmits delivery goods state information to a corresponding customer terminal 400. In this case, the delivery goods state information may include unmanned delivery port warehousing information, goods receipt method, and receipt information of goods.
The operating server 300 receives the present delivery goods loading information from the unmanned delivery port 200, and may control the goods delivery to the corresponding unmanned delivery port 200 based on the present delivery goods loading information.
The operating server 300 is disposed in a computer terminal provided in a delivery source, such as a delivery central station or a local office. The operating server 300 manages delivery destination information (e.g., location coordinates or address information based on GPS signals and unmanned delivery port ID code disposed at a delivery destination) of goods to be delivered and the aerial vehicle ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle, and controls the loading and unloading of delivery goods for each of one or more unmanned aerial vehicles and an overall flight operation of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
To this end, the operating server 300 registers and manages delivery destination information, including ID code for identifying the unmanned delivery port 200 disposed at a delivery destination, and aerial vehicle ID code uniquely assigned to each of one or more unmanned aerial vehicles. Furthermore the operating server 300 remotely controls an overall operation of the unmanned aerial vehicle for the input and setting of delivery destination information of the unmanned aerial vehicle 100 that will deliver goods, the loading of goods onto the unmanned aerial vehicle, flight to a delivery destination, the unloading of goods at a delivery destination, return to a delivery source.
Furthermore, the operating server 300 may be configured to access a delivery management server (not shown) that provides a parcel delivery service over a wired/wireless communication network and to receive home delivery or goods-related delivery information from the delivery management server. Furthermore, the operating server may be configured to output an invoice through a printer connected to a computer terminal.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the outside of the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram for illustrating a body shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram for illustrating an input door unit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a receipt unit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a diagram for illustrating a wireless charging station shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a diagram for illustrating a precise position guidance unit included in the unmanned delivery port according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 2, the unmanned delivery port includes a body 210 in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed, an input door unit 220 formed at the top of the body 210 to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input, and a receipt unit 230 configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body 210.
The body 210 has a square shape, for example, and forms a receiving space having a specific depth and horizontal and vertical widths in order to receive and keep one or more delivery goods.
As shown in FIG. 3, the body 210 includes an input hole 212 configured to form the delivery passage of delivery goods, a recognition unit (not shown) configured to recognize information about delivery goods when the delivery goods lands on the bottom of the input hole, and a storage unit 214 configured to sequentially store the delivery goods recognized by the recognition unit.
The input hole 212 includes a shock-absorbing unit (not shown) for reducing an impact on input delivery goods and has a function for safely receiving air-dropped goods. The input hole may be designed to receive goods of 1m x 1m in size based on common home delivery freight, but it is not limited thereto.
The shock-absorbing unit has a shock-absorbing function for minimizing an impact on a surface of the input hole when goods are dropped. That is, materials (e.g., latex or foam sponge) capable of reducing an impact generated when goods freely fall and collide against the surface of the input hole may be directly attached to the shock-absorbing unit. Alternatively, an air tube into which air can be automatically injected when goods are input to the input hole may be attached to the shock-absorbing unit so that the shock-absorbing unit has a shock-absorbing function. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing unit may include a separate suspension device to minimize impact energy attributable to free-fall when goods are dropped in addition to surface shock absorption. In this case, the suspension device may be disposed at the bottom of the input hole, and thus can reduce an impact using a pneumatic method or a common suspension method using a force of restoration according to the coefficient of elasticity of a spring. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing unit is configured to form the four inclined surfaces of the input hole so that goods can downward slide by gravity when the goods collide against the surface of the input hole, and has a form structured in a proper depth so that goods do not bounce off due to a reaction to a collision.
When delivery goods land at the bottom of the input hole, the recognition unit recognizes information about the delivery goods. In this case, the recognition unit may recognize an invoice using a recognition technology, such as image-based invoice recognition using a camera or barcode scanner-based barcode recognition.
The storage unit 214 sequentially stores goods whose invoice has been recognized by the recognition unit, and includes a storage shelf and a transfer device.
The storage shelf is driven using a method, such as a rotation type or an elevation type and is divided into partitions in order to separately keep a plurality of delivery goods. ID information is assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with delivery goods information recognized by the recognition unit.
The transfer device is configured to open or shut the bottom surface of the input hole 212 and to transfer delivery goods to the storage shelf or to transfer delivery goods, requested by the receipt unit 230, to the receipt unit 230.
When goods land on the bottom of the input hole 212, the input hole collects an image of the goods through the recognition unit, and the bottom surface of the input hole is open or shut in a sliding manner, so the goods slide into the storage shelf of a rotation type. The goods input to the storage shelf are sequentially stored, and may be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise and discharged to a point connected to the receipt unit 230. The storage shelf driven in the rotation type is divided into the partitions to keep a plurality of goods. A number is assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with information about sequentially input goods so that the goods can be automatically discharged in accordance with a receipt customer.
The body 210 is configured to receive goods of specific weight by absorbing an impact so that damage to the goods is prevented when the goods freely fall from the sky of a specific height (e.g., goods of up to 10 kg at the sky of up to 10 m are recommended, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the body may be differently designed depending on the free-fall height and weight/volume of goods). The body automatically recognizes information about the received goods, automatically stores the recognized goods, and discharges the goods in response to a request from a customer so that the customer can directly receive the goods. The body 210 may be designed to be controlled automatically and manually, and may have a structure capable of storing goods temporarily stored by a home delivery person and picked up by a customer directly in addition to goods carried through an unmanned aerial vehicle, like the existing unmanned home delivery box.
Furthermore, moving devices, such as wheels capable of fixing a regular position, rollers or wheels, may be attached to the bottom of the body 210 in order to secure position mobility.
The input door unit 220 may be configured to open or shut the input door 222 of the unmanned delivery port 200 in a sliding manner. To this end, the input door unit 220 includes the input door 222 formed at the top of the body 210 to open or shut the input hole 212 through which delivery goods are input, rails 224 formed at the top of the body to lead the input door 222, and a driving unit (not shown) configured to drive the opening or shutting of the input door 222.
The input door 222 slide along the rails 224 to open or shut the input hole 212. The sliding power is provided by the driving unit. For the sliding, a sufficient space in which the input door 222 for opening the input door 222 can move may be secured.
The input door 222 may include a solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity. Accordingly, the input door 222 may operate as a door capable of being automatically open or shut when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches the input door, and may operate as the solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity in other cases. That is, the input door 222 is an unmanned delivery port cover capable of being automatically open or shut in a sliding manner in such a way as to shield the input hole 212 at normal times, and may be configured to have a condensing plate formed on a surface of the input door so that solar light can be used as power. The condensing plate converts solar light supplied to a solar cell into electricity, and is designed by taking into consideration a condensing area so that it can supply power necessary for the unmanned delivery port. The cover of a sliding method has the driving unit, such as a linear motor, mounted thereon and can be automatically controlled.
The receipt unit 230 is configured to automatically discharge corresponding goods kept in the storage shelf of the body 210 when a customer inputs receipt information, such as a password, in order to pick up the goods. The receipt unit includes an input unit 232 and a receipt door 234.
The input unit 232 receives receipt information of delivery goods from a customer, and may be implemented using various input devices, such as a button and a touch screen. In this case, the receipt information may be a password assigned to or set by a customer so that the customer can receive goods. The input unit 232 may be implemented in the receipt door 234.
The receipt door 234 is automatically open when receipt information is received through the input unit 232, and discharges goods corresponding to the receipt information. The receipt door 234 may be configured to automatically open or shut in a sliding or hinged door manner.
The receipt unit 230 may further include a freight detection sensor (not shown) for preventing a collision when discharged goods are picked up and transmitting receipt unit state information to an external system. That is, when the receipt door 234 is open, the separate freight detection sensor disposed within the receipt unit prevents a collision accident with the receipt door 234 while a customer picks up goods and transmits receipt unit state information to the operating server so that delivery management can be performed.
Furthermore, the receipt unit 230 may open the receipt door 234 when goods warehousing information is received through the input unit 232 so that corresponding goods are received and kept in the storage shelf. For example, a home delivery person may temporarily input goods to the receipt unit 230 of the unmanned delivery port so that a customer can directly pick up the goods. When goods are received, the goods may be automatically located in an available partition of the storage shelf of the receipt unit, and the receipt unit may transmit corresponding warehousing information to the external operating server.
The receipt unit 230 has been illustrated as being formed on the side of the body 210, but the position of the receipt unit 230 is not limited thereto. The receipt unit may be formed at various positions where delivery goods can be discharged, such as the top or bottom of the receipt unit.
The unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a wireless charging station 240 configured to provide a physical space where an unmanned aerial vehicle lands and to wirelessly charge the unmanned aerial vehicle.
As shown in FIG. 6, the wireless charging station 240 may include a station panel 242 on which an unmanned aerial vehicle lands, a wireless charging unit 244 configured to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle landed on the station panel 242 using a magnetic resonant method, and a management unit 246 configured to manage at least one of the takeoff and landing state, charging state, and station panel state of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
The wireless charging station 240 may be configured to extend the station panel 242 to secure a seating space before an unmanned aerial vehicle lands so that the unmanned aerial vehicle can land in emergency and can be automatically charged and to charge an unmanned aerial vehicle when it is powered off after normal landing. A surface of the station panel 242 may be made of materials having a non-slip function, and a collector coil may be inserted into the station panel 242 to enable wireless charging using a magnetic resonant method. In this case, the station panel 242 may be made of materials capable of transmitting a resonant frequency, generated by the collector coil, in order to avoid interference with the resonant frequency.
Furthermore, the wireless charging station 240 is configured to transmit charging completion information to the control unit of the unmanned delivery port when the charging of an unmanned aerial vehicle is completed, and may be designed to digitize and manage the takeoff and landing state, the charging state, and the station panel state.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a precise position guidance unit (not shown) configured to generate precise position information about the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information. In this case, the precise position guidance unit may generate the precise position information based on real time kinematic (RTK).
The precise position guidance unit is described with reference to FIG. 7. The precise position guidance unit 250 may include a detection sensor 252 configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle and obtain position information of the unmanned aerial vehicle and an RTK module 254 configured to generate GPS correction information by comparing the position information of the detection sensor with position information received from the unmanned aerial vehicle and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle into a precise position by transmitting the GPS correction information to the unmanned aerial vehicle. In this case, the detection sensor 252 obtains the position information of the unmanned aerial vehicle when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches using ultrasonic waves, infrared light, a laser or radio waves.
The precise position guidance unit 250 has the RTK module 254 mounted thereon to enable the precise position flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle, and may generate GPS correction information and lead the unmanned aerial vehicle into a precise position. The existing GPS information has an average error of about 3 m, and thus makes an unmanned aerial vehicle difficult to be precisely located over the input hole within the unmanned delivery port. Accordingly, the precise position guidance unit 250 generates GPS precise position information based on the unmanned delivery port 200 using the RTK technology, that is, a precise positioning technology, and provides the position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle. Accordingly, the unmanned aerial vehicle can precisely fly within an average error of 1 m or less. The RTK technology may be a technology for correcting GPS reception and position information within the unmanned delivery port and transmitting precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle.
The precise position guidance unit 250 may be located at the upper part of the body 210 because it has to obtain position information of an unmanned aerial vehicle.
Furthermore, the unmanned delivery port 200 may further include a communication unit (not shown) configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system and a control unit (not shown) configured to generally control the unmanned delivery port 200.
The communication unit has a mobile communication or wireless communication module mounted thereon for communication with an external system and constructs a main communication network. The communication unit may be configured to transmit or receive unmanned aerial vehicle proximity guidance information using a separate short-distance communication module (e.g., Bluetooth or Zigbee), if necessary.
The control unit automatically opens the input door 222 when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, shuts the input door 222 when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and controls the wireless charging station 240 so that an unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station 240.
The control unit controls the unmanned delivery port 200 so that it normally operates while operating in conjunction with an unmanned aerial vehicle and the operating server.
Furthermore, the control unit may be implemented based on a programming logic controller (PLC) in such a way as to control all automation elements, such as a motor and sensors disposed within the unmanned delivery port, and may be implemented to be associated with an unmanned aerial vehicle and the operating server while operating in conjunction with a separate internal management PC.
The control unit may store the ID code and precise position information of the unmanned delivery port. The ID code is for identifying a corresponding unmanned delivery port, and the precise position information may be accurate x,y,z coordinates based on the input door. The ID code is uniquely assigned to each unmanned delivery port, and the precise position information is changed and updated depending on the position where the unmanned delivery port is disposed. The precise position information may be manually input after an installation position is accurately measured, but may be configured to be automatically updated because goods may be erroneously delivered or an accident may occur while goods are dropped if wrong position information is input or if the position where a takeoff and landing device is disposed is changed.
The control unit transmits precise position information regarding the guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle to the unmanned aerial vehicle through the communication unit. When the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a predetermined specific radius, the control unit controls the input door so that it is automatically open so that goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle is automatically received and stored, and transmits delivery goods warehousing information to the operating server.
Furthermore, when the dropping of delivery goods from an unmanned transport system is completed or if emergency landing is necessary due to the charging of an unmanned aerial vehicle, the control unit shuts an open input door and performs control so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on a designated landing station.
Furthermore, the control unit transmits the present loading information about delivery goods within the storage unit 214 to the operating server so that the present loading information is incorporated into delivery. In this case, the present delivery goods loading information may include the number of empty storage shelves within the storage unit and information whether delivery is possible.
The control unit controls the operations of various elements of the unmanned delivery port 200. The control unit may include at least one operation device. In this case, the operation device may be a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a programmable device element (CPLD, FPGA) implemented for a specific object, application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) or a microcontroller.
As described above, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in other detailed forms without changing the technical spirit or essential characteristic of the present invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the aforementioned embodiments are only illustrative, but are not limiting or restrictive.
Technological characteristics described in this specification and an implementation for executing the technological characteristics may be implemented using a digital electronic circuit, may be implemented using computer software, firmware or hardware including the structure described in this specification and structural equivalents thereof, or may be implemented using a combination of one or more of them. Furthermore, the implementation for executing the technological characteristics described in this specification may be implemented using a computer program product, that is, a module regarding computer program instructions encoded on a kind of program storage media in order to control the operation of a processing system or for execution by the processing system.
As described above, The detailed terms proposed in this specification are not intended to limit the present invention. Accordingly, although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains may reconstruct, change and modify the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention.
The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the detailed description, and the present invention should be construed as covering all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (25)

  1. An unmanned delivery port, comprising:
    a body in which a storage shelf for keeping one or more delivery goods has been formed;
    an input door unit formed at a top of the body to open or shut an input hole through which delivery goods are input; and
    a receipt unit configured to discharge delivery goods stored in the storage shelf of the body.
  2. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, wherein the body comprises:
    an input hole configured to form a delivery passage of delivery goods;
    a recognition unit configured to recognize information about delivery goods when the delivery goods lands on a bottom of the input hole; and
    a storage unit configured to sequentially store the delivery goods recognized by the recognition unit.
  3. The unmanned delivery port of claim 2, wherein a shock-absorbing unit for reducing an impact on input delivery goods is disposed in the input hole.
  4. The unmanned delivery port of claim 3, wherein the shock-absorbing unit is configured to form four inclined surfaces of the input hole.
  5. The unmanned delivery port of claim 2, wherein the storage unit comprises:
    a storage shelf; and
    a transfer device configured to open or shut a bottom surface of the input hole and to transfer delivery goods to the storage shelf or transfer delivery goods requested by the receipt unit to the receipt unit.
  6. The unmanned delivery port of claim 5, wherein the storage shelf is driven by at least one of a rotation type and an elevation type.
  7. The unmanned delivery port of claim 5, wherein:
    the storage shelf is divided into partitions in order to separately keep a plurality of delivery goods, and
    ID information is assigned to each of the partitions and synchronized with delivery goods information recognized by the recognition unit.
  8. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, wherein a moving device is disposed at a bottom of the body so that the body is movable.
  9. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, wherein the input door unit comprises:
    an input door formed at the top of the body to open or shut the input hole through which delivery goods are input;
    rails formed at the top of the body to lead the input door; and
    a driving unit configured to drive the opening or shutting of the input door,
    wherein the input door slides along the guide rails to open or shut the input hole.
  10. The unmanned delivery port of claim 9, wherein:
    the input door comprises a solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity, and
    the input door operates as a door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches the input door and operates as the solar cell panel for converting solar light into electricity in other cases.
  11. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, further comprising a wireless charging station configured to provide a physical space where an unmanned aerial vehicle lands and to wirelessly change the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  12. The unmanned delivery port of claim 11, wherein the wireless charging station comprises:
    a station panel on which the unmanned aerial vehicle lands;
    a wireless charging unit configured to charge the unmanned aerial vehicle landed on the station panel using a magnetic resonant method; and
    a management unit configured to manage at least one of a takeoff and landing state, charging state, and station panel state of the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  13. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, further comprising:
    a communication unit configured to communicate with an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system; and
    a control unit configured to automatically open the input door when the unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a preset specific distance, to shut the input door when goods are input or if an unmanned aerial vehicle requires emergency landing, and to control a wireless charging station so that the unmanned aerial vehicle lands on the wireless charging station.
  14. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, further comprising a precise position guidance unit configured to generate precise position information about a guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle, to transmit the precise position information to an unmanned aerial vehicle or an external system, and to lead the unmanned aerial vehicle based on the precise position information.
  15. The unmanned delivery port of claim 14, wherein the precise position guidance unit generates the precise position information based on real time kinematic (RTK).
  16. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, wherein the receipt unit comprises:
    an input unit configured to receive receipt information of delivery goods; and
    a receipt door configured to automatically open when receipt information is received through the input unit and to discharge goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  17. The unmanned delivery port of claim 16, wherein the receipt unit further comprises a freight detection sensor configured to prevent a collision when the discharged goods are picked up and to transmit receipt unit state information to an external system.
  18. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1 wherein when goods warehousing information are received through an input unit, the receipt unit opens a receipt door and receives corresponding goods so that the goods are kept in the storage shelf.
  19. The unmanned delivery port of claim 1, wherein the receipt unit is formed on a side of the body.
  20. An unmanned transport system, comprising:
    an unmanned aerial vehicle assigned unique ID code and configured to automatically fly along a delivery route after delivery goods are mounted at a delivery source and to automatically drop the delivery goods at a regular position over an unmanned delivery port;
    an unmanned delivery port disposed at a delivery destination and configured to automatically open an input door when an unmanned aerial vehicle approaches within a predetermined specific radius, to automatically receive and store goods dropped by the unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods warehousing information to an operating server; and
    the operating server configured to manage destination information of delivery goods and ID code of an unmanned aerial vehicle and to transmit delivery goods state information to a corresponding customer when delivery goods warehousing information is received from the unmanned delivery port.
  21. The unmanned transport system of claim 20, wherein the unmanned delivery port automatically opens a receipt door when receipt information of delivery goods is received and automatically discharges goods corresponding to the receipt information.
  22. The unmanned transport system of claim 20, wherein the unmanned delivery port transmits precise position information about a guidance position of an unmanned aerial vehicle to the unmanned aerial vehicle.
  23. The unmanned transport system of claim 20, wherein the unmanned delivery port transmits present loading information of delivery goods within a storage unit to the operating server.
  24. The unmanned transport system of claim 23, wherein the operating server controls the delivery of the delivery goods based on the present delivery goods loading information transmitted by the unmanned delivery port.
  25. The unmanned transport system of claim 20, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle receives precise position information through an unmanned delivery port at a delivery destination in real time and precisely flies.
PCT/KR2018/002621 2017-04-25 2018-03-06 Unmanned transport system using unmanned aerial vehicle WO2018199460A1 (en)

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