FOOD AND BEVERAGE DELIVERY SYSTEM ON AUTONOMOUS AND SEMI-AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

Abstract

Provided herein is an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles for delivering a food or beverage item to a customer. The autonomous vehicle herein may comprise of storage units that are easily configured to effectively and efficiently carry different types of food or beverage items, including a temperature control system configured to maintain a target unit temperature for different types of food or beverage items.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The field of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles is a growing field of innovation. Vehicles are being used for many purposes including warehouse inventory operations, household operations, hospital deliveries, sanitation, and military or defense applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to an autonomous and/or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of vehicles, in particular vehicles for transporting or retrieving deliveries in either unstructured outdoor environment or closed environments.

There are unique challenges when delivering a plurality of foods and beverage items. Various foods, beverages, and similar items require they be kept in specific temperature ranges so that they can be delivered at an optimal temperature to a customer. Different items with varying sizes, shapes, weight, and temperature requirements make efficient delivery difficult. This difficulty is only compounded when utilizing an autonomous or a semi-autonomous vehicle, which has unique constraints directed to energy consumption, size, safety concerns, etc. not dealt with manned delivery vehicles. Thus, there is a need for a proper food and beverage delivery system on autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles.

One aspect provided herein is a platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers, the platform comprising: a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, wherein each vehicle comprises: two or more storage units, each storage unit configured to contain the food or beverage item; and a temperature control system configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units; and the platform further comprising a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application comprising: a database storing a plurality of item profiles and storage unit profiles, wherein each item profile is associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature; and wherein each storage unit profile is associated with one of the two or more storage units and one of the plurality of vehicles; an order module receiving a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers, wherein each order comprises one or more of the plurality item profiles; a distribution module assigning each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders; and a loading module directing the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, one or more of the storage units comprises a modular insert configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types, wherein each modular insert type is configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the unit location. In some embodiments, the each storage units comprises a thermometer, and wherein the item distribution application further comprises a temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles, each of the two or more storage units, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit. In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application comprising a remote temperature control module, receiving the target temperature and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both. In some embodiments, each of the two or more two or more storage units are the same size. In some embodiments, each of the two or more storage units have different sizes. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a different temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain the same temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of the same food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of different food or beverage items. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a shape, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the shape. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a weight, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the weight. In some embodiments, some of the vehicles comprise one storage unit.

Another aspect provided herein is an autonomous vehicle for delivering a food or beverage item to a customer, the autonomous vehicle comprising: an input device configured to receive a selection of the food item or beverage item by a customer; a plurality of compartments, wherein each compartment is configured to contain, secure, and vend the food or beverage item; an air conditioner configured to individually maintain a target food or beverage item temperature within at least one compartment based on the food or beverage item within the compartment; a sensor associated with at least one compartment, wherein the sensor is configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both; an autonomous propulsion system; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage media encoded with a computer program including instructions executable by a processor to create an application comprising: a storage module containing an identifier associated with the food or beverage item, wherein each identifier is associated with at least the target food or beverage item temperature; a delivery module controlling the autonomous propulsion system to direct the autonomous vehicle to a location of the customer; a vending module directing one or more of the plurality of compartment to vend the food or beverage item based on the selection; and a confirmation module determining that the food or beverage item has been vended based at least on the sensed data.

In some embodiments, the input device comprises a button, a touchscreen, a Bluetooth sensor, a wireless network device, a cellular network device, a camera, a USB input, a keyboard, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the compartment is configured to contain, secure, and vend 2 or more of the food or beverage items. In some embodiments, the food or beverage item comprises an indicator associated with an identifier. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to sense the presence of the food or beverage item by sensing the indicator. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises at least one of a thermometer, a barcode scanner, an RFID reader, a scale, a pressure sensor, a switch, and a camera. In some embodiments, vending the food or beverage item comprises unlocking a door of the compartment, opening a door of the compartment, releasing a food or beverage item locked within the compartment, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises an insert. In some embodiments, the insert comprises a removable insert fastener configured to removably attach to at least one compartment. In some embodiments, the removable insert fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one of the insert and the compartment is configured to affix a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the specific food comprises a can, a bottle, a fruit, a vegetable, a meat, a poultry, a fish, a frozen food, a fresh meal, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one compartment comprises a removable compartment fastener configured to removable couple with the removable insert fastener. In some embodiments, the removable compartment fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises a communication device configured to receive an instruction from a fleet management module. In some embodiments, the delivery module controls the autonomous propulsion system to direct the autonomous vehicle to the location of the customer based at least on the instruction. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises at least one of an energy storage device, and an energy collection device. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle further comprises a screen configured to display a media. In some embodiments, the media comprises the food or beverage item, the target food or beverage item temperature, the presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, the location of the customer, or any combination thereof.

Another aspect provided herein is a vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous vehicles operating autonomously and/or semi-autonomously and a fleet management module, associated with a central server for coordination of the autonomous vehicle fleet; the fleet management module configured to coordinate the activity and positioning of each autonomous vehicle in the fleet, wherein the fleet is configured for transporting, delivering or retrieving goods or services and capable of operating in an unstructured open or closed environments; each autonomous vehicle in the fleet comprising: a power system , a conveyance system; (e.g., a drive system with a propulsion engine, wheels, treads, wings, rotors, blowers, rockets, propellers, brakes, etc.); a navigation module for navigation in the unstructured open or closed environments; (e.g., digital maps, HD maps, GPS); a communication module configurable to receive, store and send data to the fleet management module, a user, and the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, related to at least; user interactions and the autonomous vehicle fleet interactions, comprising: scheduled requests or orders, on-demand requests or orders, or a need for self-positioning of the autonomous vehicle fleet based on anticipated demand within the unstructured open or closed environments; a sensor system, at least one securable compartment or a plurality of securable compartments to hold said goods or items associated with said services; and a controller configurable to associate each one of the at least one or plurality of securable compartments to an assignable customer, or customer group in a marketplace, or provider and provide entry when authorized; at least one processor configured to manage the conveyance system, the navigation module, the sensor system, instructions from the fleet management module, the communication module, and the controller.

In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined geographic region accessible by navigable pathways comprising: public roads; private roads; bike paths; open fields; open public lands; open private lands; pedestrian walkways; lakes; rivers; streams; or open airspace.

In some embodiments, the closed environment is a confined, enclosed or semi-enclosed structure accessible by navigable pathways comprising: open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; airspace within open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; public or dedicated aisles; hallways; tunnels; ramps; elevators; conveyors; or pedestrian walkways.

In some embodiments, the navigation module controls routing of the conveyance system of the autonomous vehicles in the fleet in the unstructured open or closed environments.

In some embodiments, the communication to the user, to the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, between the autonomous vehicles of the fleet, and between the user and the autonomous vehicles in the fleet, occurs via wireless transmission.

In some embodiments, the user comprises a fleet manager; a sub-contracting vendor; a service provider; a customer; a business entity; an individual; or a third party.

In some embodiments, the user's wireless transmission interactions and the autonomous vehicle fleet wireless transmission interactions occur via mobile application transmitted by an electronic device and forwarded to the communication module via: a central server; a fleet management module; and/or a mesh network.

In some embodiments, the electronic device comprises: a phone; a personal mobile device; a personal digital assistant (PDA); a mainframe computer; a desktop computer; a laptop computer; a tablet computer; and/or wearable computing device comprising: a communication headset; smart glasses; a contact lens or lenses; a digital watch; a bracelet; a ring; jewelry; or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, each autonomous vehicle fleet is configured with a maximum speed range from 1.0 mph to 90.0 mph.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is humidity and temperature controlled for: hot goods, cold goods, wet goods, dry goods, or combinations or variants thereof.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is configurable for a plurality of goods. Such configurations and goods comprise: bookshelves for books; thin drawers for documents; larger box-like drawers for packages, and sized compartments for vending machines, coffee makers, pizza ovens and dispensers.

In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is variably configurable based on: anticipated demands; patterns of behaviors; area of service; or types of goods to be transported.

In some embodiments, the services comprise: subscription services; prescription services; marketing services; advertising services; notification services; a mobile marketplace; or requested, ordered or scheduled delivery services. In particular embodiments, the scheduled delivery services include, by way of example, special repeat deliveries such as groceries, prescriptions, drinks, mail, documents, etc.

In some embodiments, the services further comprise: the user receiving and returning the same or similar goods within the same interaction; (e.g., signed documents); the user receiving one set of goods and returning a different set of goods within the same interaction; (e.g., product replacement/returns, groceries, merchandise, books, recording, videos, movies, payment transactions, etc.); a third party user providing instruction and or authorization to a goods or service provider to prepare, transport, deliver and/or retrieve goods to a principle user in a different location.

In some embodiments, the services further comprise: general services, (e.g., picking up a user's dry cleaning, dropping off a user's dry cleaning, renting goods, (such as tools, DVDs, etc.), sharing/borrowing goods from other users or businesses, etc.). Further still, it may be a general pickup service for items to be shipped, returned, or sent to other users/businesses, etc.

In some embodiments, at least one autonomous vehicle in the fleet is further configured to process or manufacture goods.

In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured goods comprise: beverages, etc., with or without condiments; (e.g., coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.); a plurality of fast foods; or microwavable foods.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet further comprises at least one autonomous vehicle having a digital display for curated content comprising: advertisements (i.e., for both specific user and general public), including; services provided, marketing/promotion, regional/location of areas served, customer details, local environment, lost, sought or detected people, public service announcements, date, time, or weather.

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, the positioning of autonomous vehicles can be customized based on: anticipated use, a pattern of historical behaviors, or specific goods being carried.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is fully-autonomous.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is semi-autonomous.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle fleet is controlled directly by the user.

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, a plurality of said autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles within the fleet is operated on behalf of third party vendor/service provider; (e.g., fleet managed by an owner, but providing a coffee service/experience for a third party vendor (i.e., Starbucks) with white label vehicles in the fleet).

In some embodiments of the autonomous vehicle fleet, a plurality of said autonomous vehicles within the fleet is further configured to be part of a sub-fleet comprising a sub-plurality of autonomous vehicles, wherein each sub-fleet is configured to operate independently or in tandem with multiple sub-fleets comprising two or more sub-fleets.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary vehicle fleet, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 2 is an perspective view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle comprising a plurality of compartments, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3 is an front view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle beside a walking person, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 4 is an right side view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 5 is an left side view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle beside an average person, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 6 is an rear view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary food delivery autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary pizza delivery autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary coffee delivery autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary meal delivery autonomous vehicle comprising a lighted interior, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of an exemplary autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of another exemplary autonomous vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of an exemplary fleet control system, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of an exemplary fleet control module, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a non-limiting schematic diagram of a digital processing device; in this case, a device with one or more CPUs, a memory, a communication interface, and a display, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a non-limiting schematic diagram of a web/mobile application provision system; in this case, a system providing browser-based and/or native mobile user interfaces, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a non-limiting schematic diagram of a cloud-based web/mobile application provision system; in this case, a system comprising an elastically load balanced, auto-scaling web server and application server resources as well synchronously replicated databases, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 17 is a non-limiting schematic diagram of a platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers;

FIG. 18 is a non-limiting schematic diagram of a platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers; and

FIG. 19 is a non-limiting perspective illustration of storage units within a vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle fleet comprising a plurality of autonomous vehicles, for transporting or retrieving deliveries in either open unstructured outdoor environments or closed environments.

Provided herein is an autonomous or semi-autonomous land vehicle configured to receive a modular unit.

Currently, dedicated custom-made manned vehicles are used for specific use cases. Manned vehicles with cooling systems have been used to deliver fresh cool produce. Such dedicated custom vehicles, however, are unable to simultaneously deliver different items. Alternatively, delivery services that use generic unmodified vehicles are able to simultaneously deliver a wide array of items, but are not configured for optimal delivery of temperature or motion sensitive items.

By contrast, the reconfigurable autonomous vehicle herein may be easily modified to carry different types of removable display cases to enable optimal transport and delivery of various items. The reconfigurable autonomous vehicle herein may be configured to provide optimal delivery of various items without interaction or maintenance by a human driver. Further, the reconfigurable autonomous vehicle may be employed for longer operating hours per day than human drivers, whereby facile reconfigurability ensures optimal utilization throughout the day and/or night.

Fleet of Autonomous Vehicles

Provided herein, per FIG. 1, is a vehicle fleet 100, comprising a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles 101.

In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles 101 in the vehicle fleet 100 are autonomous. In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles 101 in the vehicle fleet 100 are autonomous. In some embodiments the semi-autonomous vehicles 101 can be manually controller by an operator. Manual override may be required to, for example, address navigation malfunctions, provider inventory issues, or unanticipated traffic, mechanical failure, electrical failure, traffic accident, and road conditions. In some embodiments of the plurality of autonomous vehicles 101 within the fleet 100 is operated on behalf of third party vendor or service provider. The third party vendor or service provider may comprise a food and beverage provider.

In some embodiments, one or more of the vehicles 101 within the vehicle fleet 100 are configured to be part of a sub-fleet 100a that operates independently or in tandem with other sub-fleets 100a. In one example, the sub-fleet 100a of vehicles 101 may only provide a product, service, or level of service associated with a single vendor. Each of the vehicles 101 in the sub-fleet 100a may display a logo of the vendor or an alternative indicator representing the specific product, service, or level of service associated with that vehicle 101. Levels of service may include immediate dedicated rush service, guaranteed morning/afternoon delivery service, and general delivery service. Some sub-fleets 100a may offer a faster or more prioritized service than other sub-fleets 100a.

Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, the vehicle 101 may comprise an autonomous or semi-autonomous automobile configured for land travel. The vehicle 101 may have a width, a height, and a length, wherein the length is about 2 feet to about 5 feet. The vehicle 101 may be lightweight and have a low center of gravity for increased stability. The vehicle 101 may be configurable for land, water, or air. The vehicle 101 may comprise a land vehicle such as, for example, a car, a wagon, a van, a tricycle, a truck, a trailer, a bus, a train, or a tram. The vehicle 101 may comprise a watercraft such as, for example, a ship, a boat, a ferry, a landing craft, a barge, a rafts, a hovercraft, or any combination thereof.. Alternatively, the vehicle 101 may comprise an aircraft or a spacecraft.

Each vehicle 101 in the fleet may comprise an autonomous propulsion system 130 comprising a drive system, a propulsion engine, a wheel, a treads, a wing, a rotor, a blower, a rocket, a propeller, a brake, or any combination thereof.

In one exemplary embodiment, a vehicle 101 comprises a land vehicle configured with a traditional 4-wheeled automotive configuration comprising conventional steering and braking systems. In this embodiment, the drive train may be configurable for standard 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel all-terrain traction drive, and the propulsion system may be configurable as a gas engine, a turbine engine, an electric motor, and/or a hybrid gas/electric engine.

In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for water travel as a watercraft with a propulsion system comprising a gas engine, a turbine engine, an electric motor and/or a hybrid gas/electric engine, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for hover travel as an over-land or over-water hovercraft or an air-cushion vehicle (ACV) and is configured with blowers to produce a large volume of air below the hull that is slightly above atmospheric pressure. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for air travel as an aerial drone or aerial hovercraft and is configured with wings, rotors, blowers, rockets, and/or propellers and an appropriate brake system.

The vehicle 101 may further comprise an auxiliary solar power system to provide back-up emergency power or power for minor low-power sub-systems. In some embodiments, each vehicle of the vehicle fleet is configured with one or more power sources, such as battery, solar, gasoline, or propane. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 further comprises a digital display for curated content comprising advertisements, marketing promotions, a public service notification, an emergency notification, or any combination thereof.

Each vehicle 101 in the fleet 100 may comprise a sensor system comprising a plurality of onboard sensors such as, for example, a camera, a video camera, a LiDAR, a radar, an ultrasonic sensor, and a microphone. Each vehicle 101 may further comprise an internal computer for real time navigation and obstacle avoidance, based on the data received by the sensors.

In some embodiments, the vehicles may further comprise an autonomous propulsion system sensor configured to monitor drive mechanism performance (e.g., the propulsion engine), power system levels (e.g., battery, solar, gasoline, propane, etc.), monitor drive train performance (e.g., transmission, tires, brakes, rotors, etc.), or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the vehicle is further configured to process or manufacture a good. In some embodiments, the vehicle is configured to process or manufacture the good in-transit. In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured good comprises: a beverage with or without condiments (such as coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.), a fast food, a microwavable food, a reheatable food, or a rehydratable food. In some embodiments, the vehicle is equipped for financial transactions through debit or credit card readers.

In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 has a driving speed of about 1 mile per hour (mph) to about 90 mph, to accommodate inner-city, residential, and intrastate or interstate driving. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for land travel. In some embodiments, each vehicle 101 in the fleet is configured with a working speed range from 13.0 mph to 45.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured with a maximum speed range from 13.0 mph to about 90.0 mph. In some embodiments, vehicle 101 is configured for water travel as a watercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 45.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for hover travel as an over-land or over-water hovercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 60.0 mph. In some embodiments, the vehicle 101 is configured for air travel as an aerial drone or aerial hovercraft and is configured with a working speed range from 1.0 mph to 80.0 mph.

Primary and Secondary Compartments

Provided herein, per FIG. 2, is an autonomous vehicle 101 comprising a plurality of compartments 102, 104. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 comprises a primary compartment 102 and a secondary compartment 104 within the primary compartment 102. In some embodiments, the plurality of compartments is non-modular. In other embodiments, some of the compartments are modular while the other compartments are non-modular. In some embodiments, the plurality of compartments may be humidity and/or temperature controlled for: hot goods, cold goods, wet goods, dry goods, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments is configurable for a plurality of goods. Exemplary compartments and goods comprise: bookshelves for books; thin drawers for documents; larger box-like drawers for packages; and sized compartments for vending machines, embedded coffee makers, pizza ovens, and dispensers. In some embodiments, the plurality of securable compartments may be configured and reconfigured based on: anticipated demands, patterns of behaviors, area of service, the types of goods to be transported, or any combination thereof. Alternately, the compartments may be configured to contain a set of goods to form a mobile marketplace (similar to a mini bar at a hotel).

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 - 10, the compartment may comprise various additional amenities such as lights for night deliveries, condiment dispensers, and display screens.

Provided herein, per FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, is a reconfigurable autonomous vehicle 101 for displaying and vending an item 1100 to a customer comprising a plurality of removable display cases 1110, an autonomous propulsion system, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage media encoded with a computer program including instructions executable by a processor to create an application.

In some embodiments, each display case 1110 comprises the item 1100, a display fastener 1120 and at least one of: a temperature control system configured to maintain a target temperature within the removable display case 1110; a display screen 1130 configured to display a case media; and a vending device 1140 configured to vend the item 1100. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 further comprises a vehicle interior fastener configured to removably affix the display fastener 1120. The autonomous vehicle 101 may further comprise an energy storage device configured to provide energy to the removable display case 1110. In some embodiments, the energy storage device is further configured to provide power to the autonomous propulsion system, the display, the vending device, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the application comprises a transmission module configured to receive an instruction from a fleet management module; the instruction comprising a route, and at least one of the target temperature and the case media; and a command module configured to communicate at least one of the target temperature and the case media to the removable display case 1110, and a navigation module configured to direct the autonomous propulsion system based on the route. In some embodiments, the command module is configured to communicate the target temperature, the media, or both to the removable case through a communication hub. In some embodiments, the communication hub comprises a Wi-Fi router, a Bluetooth router, a cellular network, a jack, an outlet, a wire, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the route comprises a location of the customer.

In some embodiments, the display fastener 1120 comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the vehicle interior fastener comprises a hook, a ring, a shelf, a bar, a spring, a bolt, a nut, a bearing, a bushing, a tie, a clip, a chain, a rack, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the case media is based on the item 1100, the target temperature, the route, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 further comprises a screen configured to display a vehicular media. In some embodiments, the vehicular media comprises the item, the target temperature, the media, the route, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 further comprises a lock configured to prevent unauthorized removal of the display case from the autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, at least one of the vehicle interior fastener and the display fastener comprise the lock. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 further comprises a strain relief configured to prevent damage to the autonomous vehicle, the display case, the energy storage device the autonomous propulsion system, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle 101 further comprises at least one of a power outlet, a data port, and an exhaust port. The power outlet may be configured to provide one or more power ratings to removable display case 1110 to power the display screen and/or any additional electrical components within the removable display case 1110. The data port may enable data transmission to and/or from the removable display case 1110 and transmission module and the command module. The data may comprise a stock of items within the removable display case 1110, a current temperature removable display case 1110, the case media, a price associated with the item 1100, or any combination thereof.

At least one of the autonomous vehicle and the compartment may comprise a controller configured to associate each one of the plurality of securable compartments 102, 104 to an assigned customer or provider and provide entry to the securable compartments 102, 104 upon authorization. Each securable compartment 102, 104 may be secured separately to transport goods to separate sets of customers. As such, the autonomous vehicle may deliver a first good or service to a first assigned customer from within a first securable compartment 102 and then deliver a second good or service to a second assigned customer from within the second securable compartment 104.

Upon arrival of the autonomous vehicle to the customer destination, the customer may open their respective compartment(s) by verifying their identity. In one embodiment, the customer verifies their identity by providing a PIN (e.g., 4 digit number) via a touchscreen or a keypad within the autonomous vehicle, which they received upon initial request/order. The customer may verify themselves using their mobile phone and an RFID reader on the autonomous vehicle. Alternatively, the customer is verified through voice recognition of a keyword or key-phrase, wherein the autonomous vehicle comprises a microphone and a voice recognition application for recognition thereof. Further, in another embodiment, the customer is verified through facial or identification recognition, wherein the autonomous vehicle comprises a camera and a facial recognition application for recognition thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the customer is verified through a magnetic strip, RFID key or any other computer readable form of identification. Finally, in another embodiment, the customer is verified by entering a code or identification value on their mobile device, wherein the autonomous vehicle receives a cellular signal comprising a confirmation of the user or data related to the code of identification of the user.

In some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for water travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers. Further still, in some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for hover travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers. Further still, in some embodiments, the vehicle could be configured for aerial drone or aerial hover travel, providing at least one and preferably two large storage compartments, and more preferably, at least one large compartment is configured with a plurality of smaller internal secure compartments of variable configurations to carry individual items that are to be delivered to, or need to be retrieved from customers.

Fleet Management Module

Provided herein, per FIG. 12, is a system for fleet management comprising a fleet management module 1201, a central server 1202, a vehicle 1204, a customer 1203, and a service provider 1205. In some embodiments, the fleet management module 1201 coordinates, assigns tasks, and monitors the position of each of the plurality of vehicles 1204 in the fleet. The fleet management module 1201 may coordinate the vehicles 1204 in the fleet to monitor and collect data regarding unstructured open or closed environments, and report to the service provider 1205. As seen, the fleet management module 1201 may coordinate with a central server 1202. The central server 1202 may be located in a central operating facility owned or managed by the fleet owner. The service provider 1205 may comprise a third party provider of a good or service. The service provider 1205 may comprise a vendor, a business, a restaurant, a delivery service, a retailer, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module 1201 is configured to receive, store and transmit data to and/or from the service provider 1205. The fleet management module 1201 may receive and transmit data to and/or from the service provider 1205 via a service provider application. In some embodiments, the service provider application comprises a computer application, an internet application, a tablet application, a phone application, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the central server 1202 is configured to receive, store and transmit data to and/or from the customer 1203. The central server 1202 may receive and transmit data to and/or from the customer 1203 via a customer application. In some embodiments, the customer application comprises a computer application, an internet application, a tablet application, a phone application, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the vehicle 1204 comprises a memory device to store the data for future data transfer or manual download.

In one example, an order by a customer 1203 is transmitted to a central server 1202, which then communicates with the fleet management module 1201, which relays the order to the service provider 1205 associated with the order and a vehicle 1204. The fleet management module 1201 may employ one or more vehicles 1204 or sub-fleet vehicles 1204 that are closest to the service provider 1205, customer 1203, or both. The assigned service provider then interacts with that vehicle 1204 through a service provider application to supply the vehicle 1204 with any goods, maps, or instructions associated with the order. The vehicle 1204 then travels to the customer 1203 and reports completion of the order to at least one of the customer 1203, the service provider 1205, the central server 1202, and the fleet management module 1201.

In some embodiments the vehicle 1204 may be operated on behalf of the service provider 1205, wherein at least one of the central server 1202 and the fleet management module 1201 is operated by the service provider 1205. In any one of the embodiments, the vehicle 1204 is controlled directly by the customer 1203, the service provider 1205, or both. In some embodiments, human interaction of the vehicle 1204 may be required to address maintenance issues such as mechanical failure, electrical failure or a traffic accident.

In one example, the fleet management module 1201 receives an instruction from the service provider 1205 to collect an item at a first location and deliver the item to a second location. Upon receipt of the instruction, the fleet management module 1201 may assign one or more of the vehicles 1204 to perform the instruction by navigating the one or more of the vehicles 1204 the first location. The one more of the vehicles 1204 may then confirm the receipt of the item and navigate to the second location. The one more of the vehicles 1204 may then deliver the item to the second location and confirm receipt of the delivery. In some embodiments, the one more of the vehicles 1204 may further receive an identification associated with the first location, the second location, or both, to enable receipt and delivery of the item.

In one example, a request by the customer 1203 is sent to the central server 1202, which then communicates with the fleet management module 1201 to relay the request to the service provider 1205, which instructs the vehicles 1204. The fleet management module 1201 may select one or more of the vehicles 1204 within the geographic region and/or proximity of the customer 1203, the service provider 1205, or both. The vehicles 1204 may be first directed to a location associated with the service provider 1205 to receive an item associated with the request. The vehicle 1204 may then travel to a location associated with the customer 1203. The customer 1203 may then interacts with the one or more vehicle 1204 to retrieve the item. The customer 1203 may retrieve the item by opening a compartment within the vehicle 1204. The customer 1203 may open the compartment within the vehicle 1204 through a customer application, or a customer interface comprising, for example, an RFID reader, a touchpad, a keypad, a voice command, or a vision-based recognition. Upon completion the vehicles 1204 may then report a completion of the request to the fleet management module 1201 and be reassigned to a subsequent request.

In some embodiments, the autonomous fleet may be strategically positioned throughout a geographic region in anticipation of a known demand. Demand for autonomous vehicle services may be predicted by storing historical demand data relating to the quantity, timing, and type of request received in each region. Such demand predictions may further be weighted by the cost or importance of the good or service and employ historical trends for higher efficiency and throughput. As such, the fleet management module may position the autonomous vehicles as close as possible to the expected source locations.

Per FIG. 13, the fleet management module 1301 instructs the processor 1303 of the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle via a communication module 1302. The processor 1303 may be configured to send an instruction and receive a sensed data from the sensor system 1306, and may further control at least one of the power system 1307, the navigation module 1305, and the conveyance system 1304. The processor 1303 may additionally be configured to instruct a controller 1308 to open a securable compartment 1309 to release any contents associated with an order. The processor 1303 may allow manual override of the conveyance system 1304, the navigational system 1305, or both.

In some embodiments, the processor 1303 is in functional communication with the communication module 1302. In some embodiments, the communication module 1302 is adapted to receive, store, and/or transmit data to and from the customer and the fleet management module 1301. In some embodiments, the data comprises a schedule, a request or order, a current location, a delivery location, a service provider location, a route, an estimated time of arrival (ETA), a repositioning instruction, a vehicle condition, a vehicle speed, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the processor 1303 is capable of both high-level computing for processing as well as low-level safety-critical computing capacity for controlling the hardware. The processor 1303 may configured to direct the conveyance system 1304, the navigation module 1305, the sensor system 1306, the power system 1307, the controller 1308, or any combination thereof. The processor 1303 may reside aboard the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle, or at a remote location.

In some embodiments, the communication module 1302 is configured to receive, store and transmit data via wireless transmission (e.g., 4G, 5G, or satellite communications). In some embodiments, the wireless transmission occurs via: a central server, a fleet management module, a mesh network, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the customer application is configured to send and receive data via an electronic device comprising a phone, a personal mobile device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mainframe computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, and/or wearable computing device comprising: a communication headset, smart glasses, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module 1301 directs each of the vehicles 1204 through a navigation module 1305. In some embodiments, the navigation module 1305 controls the conveyance system 1304 to translate the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle through the unstructured open or closed environments. In some embodiments, the navigation module 1305 comprises an HD maps, a weather condition, an elevation map, a digital map, a street view photograph, a GPS point, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the map is generated by a customer, a customer, a service provider, a fleet operator, an online repository, a public database, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the map is generated only for intended operational geography. The maps may be augmented or confirmed by data obtained by the sensor system 1306. The navigation module 1305 may further implement data collected by the sensor system 1306 to determine the location and/or the surroundings of the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, the map further comprises a navigation marker comprising a lane, a road sign, an intersection, a grade, or any combination thereof. As such the navigation module 1305, in combination with processors and/or applications vehicles 1204 enable a safe, robust navigation trajectory.

In some embodiments, the fleet management module 1301 is configured to determine and predict a geographic demand for the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles for strategic placement throughout a geographic region in anticipation of a known demand. The fleet management module 1301 may determine and predict a geographic demand by storing data relating the location, quantity, time, price, item, item type, service, service type, service provider, or any combination thereof of placed orders and requests. Further, the service provider may provide independently measured trends to supplement or augment the measured trends. As such, the vehicles may be strategically placed to reduce transit and idle time and to increase sales volume and efficiency.

Operating Environments

The autonomous vehicles in the fleet may be configured to operate within a variety of unstructured open operating environments to enable service to a broad range of locations. In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined geographic region accessible by navigable pathways comprising: public roads; private roads; bike paths; open fields, open public lands, open private lands, pedestrian walkways, lakes, rivers, or streams. In some embodiments, the closed environment is a confined, enclosed, or semi-enclosed structure accessible by navigable pathways comprising: open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; airspace within open areas or rooms within commercial architecture, with or without structures or obstacles therein; public or dedicated aisles; hallways; tunnels; ramps; elevators; conveyors; or pedestrian walkways. In some embodiments, the unstructured open environment is a non-confined airspace or even near-space environment which includes all main layers of the Earth's atmosphere comprising the troposphere, the stratosphere, the mesosphere, the thermosphere and the exosphere. In some embodiments, the navigation module controls routing of the conveyance system of the vehicles in the fleet in the unstructured open or closed environments.

Goods and Services

In some embodiments, the user comprises a fleet manager, a sub-contracting vendor, a service provider, a customer, a business entity, an individual, or a third party. In some embodiments, the services comprises a subscription service, a prescription service, a marketing service, an advertising service, a notification service, a requested service, an ordered service, a scheduled delivery service, or any combination thereof. For example, the scheduled delivery services may include special repeat deliveries such as groceries, prescriptions, drinks, mail, documents, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the services alternatively or further comprise a return of a good (e.g., a signed document), receiving one set of goods and returning a different set of goods (e.g., product replacement/returns, groceries, merchandise, books, recording, videos, movies, payment transactions, etc.), or a third party user providing instruction and or authorization to a goods or service provider to prepare, transport, deliver and/or retrieve goods to a principle user in a different location. In some embodiments, the services further or alternatively comprise: advertising services, land survey services, patrol services, monitoring services, traffic survey services, signage and signal survey services, architectural building, or road infrastructure survey services.

In some embodiments, the service further or alternatively comprises processing or manufacturing a good. In some embodiments, the autonomous vehicle is configured to process or manufacture the good in-transit. In some embodiments, the processed or manufactured good comprises: a beverage with or without condiments (such as coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, etc.), a fast food, a microwavable food, a reheatable food, or a rehydratable food. In some embodiments, the service comprises a financial transaction. In some embodiments, the service comprises advertising, marketing, public safety, public service, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the food or beverage items have an optimum temperature. For example, some food and beverage items (e.g., soups, rice dishes, burgers, tea, or coffee) may be preferentially received by a consumer when they are warm. Other food and beverage items (e.g., ice cream, sodas) are preferentially received by a consumer when they are cool. In some cases when items that are preferentially delivered hot and cold are delivered in the same autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle, these items may be delivered in separate compartments with different temperature control systems managing the temperatures accordingly. In some embodiments, the food or beverage items have different sizes, shapes, and weights. Hence, in some cases, to maximize the efficiency of an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle which may have limited energy storage, size, or ability to carry items over a certain weighted threshold, it may be important for storage units of these autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles (and the modular units therein) to have different shapes and sizes to effective store and deliver these differing items. In some embodiments, items of similar target temperature profiles are grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert. In some embodiments, items of similar target size profiles may be grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert. In some embodiments, items of different target weight profiles (e.g., one heavy item, one small item) may be grouped together in the same storage unit or modular insert.

Digital Processing Device

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods described herein include a digital processing device, or use of the same. In further embodiments, the digital processing device includes one or more hardware central processing units (CPUs) or general purpose graphics processing units (GPGPUs) that carry out the device's functions. In still further embodiments, the digital processing device further comprises an operating system configured to perform executable instructions. In some embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected a computer network. In further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to the Internet such that it accesses the World Wide Web. In still further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a cloud computing infrastructure. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to an intranet. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a data storage device.

In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital processing devices include, by way of non-limiting examples, server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers, set-top computers, and media streaming devices, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles, and vehicles. Those of skill in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use in the system described herein. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that select televisions, video players, and digital music players with optional computer network connectivity are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible configurations, known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an operating system configured to perform executable instructions. The operating system is, for example, software, including programs and data, which manages the device's hardware and provides services for execution of applications. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable server operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD®, Linux, Apple® Mac OS X Server®, Oracle® Solaris®, Windows Server®, and Novell® NetWare®. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable personal computer operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft® Windows®, Apple® Mac OS X®, UNIX®, and UNIX-like operating systems such as GNU/Linux®. In some embodiments, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable mobile smart phone operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Nokia® Symbian® OS, Apple® iOS®, Research In Motion® BlackBerry OS®, Google® Android®, Microsoft® Windows Phone® OS, Microsoft® Windows Mobile® OS, Linux®, and Palm® WebOS®. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable media streaming device operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Apple TV®, Roku®, Boxee®, Google TV®, Google Chromecast®, Amazon Fire®, and Samsung® HomeSync®. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable video game console operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Sony® PS3®, Sony® PS4®, Microsoft® Xbox 360®, Microsoft Xbox One, Nintendo® Wii®, Nintendo® Wii U®, and Ouya®.

In some embodiments, the device includes a storage and/or memory device. The storage and/or memory device is one or more physical apparatuses used to store data or programs on a temporary or permanent basis. In some embodiments, the device is volatile memory and requires power to maintain stored information. In some embodiments, the device is non-volatile memory and retains stored information when the digital processing device is not powered. In further embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises flash memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises phase-change random access memory (PRAM). In other embodiments, the device is a storage device including, by way of non-limiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tapes drives, optical disk drives, and cloud computing based storage. In further embodiments, the storage and/or memory device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to send visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, on OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a video projector. In yet other embodiments, the display is a head-mounted display in communication with the digital processing device, such as a VR headset. In further embodiments, suitable VR headsets include, by way of non-limiting examples, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Microsoft HoloLens, Razer OSVR, FOVE VR, Zeiss VR One, Avegant Glyph, Freefly VR headset, and the like. In still further embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an input device to receive information from a user. In some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the input device is a pointing device including, by way of non-limiting examples, a mouse, trackball, track pad, joystick, game controller, or stylus. In some embodiments, the input device is a touch screen or a multi-touch screen. In other embodiments, the input device is a microphone to capture voice or other sound input. In other embodiments, the input device is a video camera or other sensor to capture motion or visual input. In further embodiments, the input device is a Kinect, Leap Motion, or the like. In still further embodiments, the input device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

Referring to FIG. 14, in a particular embodiment, a digital processing device 1401 is programmed or otherwise configured to managing autonomous vehicles. The device 1401 is programmed or otherwise configured to manage autonomous vehicles. In this embodiment, the digital processing device 1401 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein) 1405, which is optionally a single core, a multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The digital processing device 1401 also includes memory or memory location 1410 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 1415 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 1420 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 1425, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/or electronic display adapters. The memory 1410, storage unit 1415, interface 1420 and peripheral devices 1425 are in communication with the CPU 1405 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 1415 comprises a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The digital processing device 1401 is optionally operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 1430 with the aid of the communication interface 1420. The network 1430, in various cases, is the internet, an internet, and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in communication with the internet. The network 1430, in some cases, is a telecommunication and/or data network. The network 1430 optionally includes one or more computer servers, which enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 1430, in some cases, with the aid of the device 1401, implements a peer-to-peer network, which enables devices coupled to the device 1401 to behave as a client or a server.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 14, the CPU 1405 is configured to execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, embodied in a program, application, and/or software. The instructions are optionally stored in a memory location, such as the memory 1410. The instructions are directed to the CPU 105, which subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 1405 to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 1405 include fetch, decode, execute, and write back. The CPU 1405 is, in some cases, part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the device 1401 are optionally included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

Continuing to refer to FIG. 14, the storage unit 1415 optionally stores files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 1415 optionally stores user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The digital processing device 1401, in some cases, includes one or more additional data storage units that are external, such as located on a remote server that is in communication through an intranet or the internet.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 14, the digital processing device 1401 optionally communicates with one or more remote computer systems through the network 1430. For instance, the device 1401 optionally communicates with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PCs (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab, etc.), smartphones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®, etc.), or personal digital assistants.

Methods as described herein are optionally implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the digital processing device 101, such as, for example, on the memory 1410 or electronic storage unit 1415. The machine executable or machine readable code is optionally provided in the form of software. During use, the code is executed by the processor 1405. In some cases, the code is retrieved from the storage unit 1415 and stored on the memory 1410 for ready access by the processor 1405. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 1415 is precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on the memory 1410.

Non-Transitory Computer Readable Storage Medium

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media encoded with a program including instructions executable by the operating system of an optionally networked digital processing device. In further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is a tangible component of a digital processing device. In still further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is optionally removable from a digital processing device. In some embodiments, a computer readable storage medium includes, by way of non-limiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, solid state memory, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical disk drives, cloud computing systems and services, and the like. In some cases, the program and instructions are permanently, substantially permanently, semi-permanently, or non-transitorily encoded on the media.

Computer Program

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include at least one computer program, or use of the same. A computer program includes a sequence of instructions, executable in the digital processing device's CPU, written to perform a specified task. Computer readable instructions may be implemented as program modules, such as functions, objects, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), data structures, and the like, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that a computer program may be written in various versions of various languages.

The functionality of the computer readable instructions may be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises one sequence of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises a plurality of sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program is provided from one location. In other embodiments, a computer program is provided from a plurality of locations. In various embodiments, a computer program includes one or more software modules. In various embodiments, a computer program includes, in part or in whole, one or more web applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more standalone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins, extensions, add-ins, or add-ons, or combinations thereof.

Web Application

In some embodiments, a computer program includes a web application. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that a web application, in various embodiments, utilizes one or more software frameworks and one or more database systems. In some embodiments, a web application is created upon a software framework such as Microsoft®.NET or Ruby on Rails (RoR). In some embodiments, a web application utilizes one or more database systems including, by way of non-limiting examples, relational, non-relational, object oriented, associative, and XML database systems. In further embodiments, suitable relational database systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft® SQL Server, mySQL™, and Oracle®. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that a web application, in various embodiments, is written in one or more versions of one or more languages. A web application may be written in one or more markup languages, presentation definition languages, client-side scripting languages, server-side coding languages, database query languages, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a markup language such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML), or eXtensible Markup Language (XML). In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a presentation definition language such as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a client-side scripting language such as Asynchronous Javascript and XML (AJAX), Flash® ActionScript, JavaScript, or Silverlight®. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a server-side coding language such as Active Server Pages (ASP), ColdFusion®, Perl, Java™, JavaServer Pages (JSP), Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Python™, Ruby, Tcl, Smalltalk, WebDNA®, or Groovy. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a database query language such as Structured Query Language (SQL). In some embodiments, a web application integrates enterprise server products such as IBM® Lotus Domino®. In some embodiments, a web application includes a media player element. In various further embodiments, a media player element utilizes one or more of many suitable multimedia technologies including, by way of non-limiting examples, Adobe® Flash®, HTML 5, Apple® QuickTime® , Microsoft® Silverlight®, Java™, and Unity®.

Referring to FIG. 15, in a particular embodiment, an application provision system comprises one or more databases 1500 accessed by a relational database management system (RDBMS) 1510. Suitable RDBMSs include Firebird, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Oracle Database, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB2, IBM Informix, SAP Sybase, SAP Sybase, Teradata, and the like. In this embodiment, the application provision system further comprises one or more application severs 1520 (such as Java servers, .NET servers, PHP servers, and the like) and one or more web servers 1530 (such as Apache, IIS, GWS and the like). The web server(s) optionally expose one or more web services via app application programming interfaces (APIs) 1540. Via a network, such as the internet, the system provides browser-based and/or mobile native user interfaces.

Referring to FIG. 16, in a particular embodiment, an application provision system alternatively has a distributed, cloud-based architecture 1600 and comprises elastically load balanced, auto-scaling web server resources 1610, and application server resources 1620 as well synchronously replicated databases 1630.

Platform for Autonomously or Semi-Autonomously Delivering a Food or Beverage Item

Provided herein, per FIGS. 17 and 18, are platforms for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers,

As seen in FIG. 17, the platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers may comprise a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles 1710, and a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application 1740. Each vehicle 1710 may comprise two or more storage units 1720 and a temperature control system 1730. In some embodiments, one or more vehicle may comprise one storage unit.

Each storage unit 1720 may be configured to contain the food or beverage item. One or more of the storage units 1720 may comprise a modular insert. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units 1720 comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both.

The temperature control system 1730 may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units 1720. In some embodiments, the each storage units 1720 comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system 1730 to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles 1710, each of the two or more storage units 1720, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system 1730 to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system 1730 is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit 1720 and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit.

The distribution application 1740 may comprise a database 1741, an order module 1742, a distribution module 1743, and a loading module. The database 1741 may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit 1720 profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit 1720 profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units 1720 and one of the plurality of vehicles 1710.

The order module 1742 may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles

The distribution module 1743 may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1720 profile. The distribution module 1743 may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1720 profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module 1743 further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit 1720 profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit 1720 profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles 1710, and wherein the distribution module 1743 further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit 1720 profile based on the unit location.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units 1720. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units 1720, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle 1710 distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module 1743 assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1720 profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

As seen in FIG. 18, the platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers may comprise a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles 1810, and a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application 1840. Each vehicle 1810 may comprise two or more storage units 1820 and a temperature control system 1830.

Each storage unit 1820 may be configured to contain the food or beverage item. One or more of the storage units 1820 may comprise a modular insert. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item. In some embodiments, each of the storage units 1820 comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both.

The temperature control system 1830 may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units 1820. In some embodiments, the each storage units 1820 comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system 1830 to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles 1810, each of the two or more storage units 1820, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system 1830 to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system 1830 is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit 1820 and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit.

The distribution application 1840 may comprise a database 1841, an order module 1842, a distribution module 1843, and a loading module. The database 1841 may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit 1820 profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit 1820 profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units 1820 and one of the plurality of vehicles 1810.

The order module 1842 may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles

The distribution module 1843 may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1820 profile. The distribution module 1843 may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1820 profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders. In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module 1843 further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit 1820 profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit 1820 profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles 1810, and wherein the distribution module 1843 further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit 1820 profile based on the unit location.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units 1820. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units 1820, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle 1810 distribution processor aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the distribution module 1843 assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit 1820 profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application 1850 comprising a remote temperature control module 1851, receiving the target temperature, and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system 1830. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor.

Storage Units

FIG. 18 is a non-limiting perspective illustration of storage units 1910 within a vehicle 101.

Each vehicle may comprise two or more storage units 1910. Each vehicle 101 may comprise only one storage unit. Each vehicle may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more storage units 1910, including increments therein. Each storage unit 1910 may be configured to contain the food or beverage item 1920. Each storage unit 1910 may be configured to contain two or more food or beverage items 1920. Each storage unit 1910 may be configured to contain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more food or beverage items 1920, including increments therein.

One or more of the storage units 1910 may comprise a modular insert. A majority of the storage units 1910 may comprise a modular insert. Each of the storage units 1910 may comprise a modular insert. Each storage unit 1910 may comprise 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, or more modular inserts, including increments therein. The modular insert may be configured to secure the food or beverage item 1920. The modular insert may be configured to secure one or more food or beverage items 1920. Two or more inserts may be required to store one food or beverage item 1920. In some embodiments, the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types. Each modular insert type may be configured to secure a specific food or beverage item 1920.

In some embodiments, each of the storage units 1910 comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item 1920, the vending of the food or beverage item 1920, or both. Each of the storage units 1910 may comprise two or more sensors configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item 1920, the vending of the food or beverage item 1920, or both. Each of the storage units 1910 comprise a sensor configured to sense an absence of the food or beverage item 1920, the vending of the food or beverage item 1920, or both. Each of the storage units 1910 comprise a sensor configured to detect the item 1920 profile associated with the food or beverage item 1920, the vending of the food or beverage item 1920, or both. The sensor may comprise a weight sensor, a touch sensor, a pressure sensor, an infrared sensor, a camera, a video camera, or any combination thereof.

Temperature Control System

The temperature control system may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units. The temperature control system may be configured to maintain a target unit temperature within only one of the storage units. The temperature control system may be configured to maintain the same target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units. In some embodiments, the each storage units comprises a thermometer, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of vehicles, each of the two or more storage units, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature. The temperature control module may direct the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control system is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit. The temperature control input may comprise a knob, a keypad, a wireless device, a Bluetooth device, a cellular device, a data port, or any combination thereof.

Distribution Application

The distribution application may comprise a database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module. In some embodiments, the distribution application is provided by the distribution processor. In some embodiments, the distribution application is provided by two or more distribution processors. In some embodiments at least one of the database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module are provided by the distribution processor. In some embodiments at least one of the database, an order module, a distribution module, and a loading module are provided by a vehicle processor. The vehicle processor may reside aboard the vehicle. In some embodiments at least one of the distribution processor and the vehicle processor comprises a cloud processor, a distributed processor, or any combination thereof.

Database

The database may store a plurality of item profiles and storage unit profiles. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items. Each item profile may be associated one of the food or beverage items, and a target item temperature. Each storage unit profile may be associated with one of the two or more storage units and one of the plurality of vehicles. Each storage unit profile may be further associated with a target temperature capability. The database may be configured to be updated or appended by an administrator.

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include one or more databases, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for autonomous vehicles. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non-limiting examples, relational databases, non-relational databases, object oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. Further non-limiting examples include SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, DB2, and Sybase. In some embodiments, a database is internet-based. In further embodiments, a database is web-based. In still further embodiments, a database is cloud computing-based. In other embodiments, a database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

Order Module

The order module may receive a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers. Each order may comprise one or more of the plurality item profiles. Each order may further comprise a delivery address, a delivery time, a delivery state, or any combination thereof. The delivery state may be associated with the target item temperature, wherein, for example, a hot food may be associated with a delivery state configured for immediate consumption, or for subsequent reheating.

Distribution Module

The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with an order to the same storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with an order to different storage unit profile. The distribution module may assign item profiles associated with different orders to the same storage unit profile.

The distribution module may assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders.

In some embodiments, each item profile is further associated with a size. The distribution module may further assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the size. In some embodiments, each storage unit profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles. The distribution module may further assign each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the unit location.

In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on the target temperature capability.

In some embodiments, the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

Loading Module

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one of the two or more storage units, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles. The loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items may be performed manually or autonomously.

The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing a loading manifest. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing an instruction to each of the storage units to display an icon, barcode, part number, part name, or any combination thereof, associated with the food or beverage item. The loading module may direct the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items by providing an instruction to a marquee, a speaker, a loading application, or any combination thereof.

Server Processor

In some embodiments, the platform further comprises a server processor configured to provide a server application comprising a remote temperature control module, receiving the target temperature and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor.

Mobile Application

In some embodiments, a computer program includes a mobile application provided to a mobile digital processing device. In some embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device at the time it is manufactured. In other embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device via the computer network described herein.

In view of the disclosure provided herein, a mobile application is created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using hardware, languages, and development environments known to the art. Those of skill in the art will recognize that mobile applications are written in several languages. Suitable programming languages include, by way of non-limiting examples, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Java™, Javascript, Pascal, Object Pascal, Python™, Ruby, VB.NET, WML, and XHTML/HTML with or without CSS, or combinations thereof.

Suitable mobile application development environments are available from several sources. Commercially available development environments include, by way of non-limiting examples, AirplaySDK, alcheMo, Appcelerator®, Celsius, Bedrock, Flash Lite,.NET Compact Framework, Rhomobile, and WorkLight Mobile Platform. Other development environments are available without cost including, by way of non-limiting examples, Lazarus, MobiFlex, MoSync, and Phonegap. Also, mobile device manufacturers distribute software developer kits including, by way of non-limiting examples, iPhone and iPad (iOS) SDK, Android™ SDK, BlackBerry® SDK, BREW SDK, Palm® OS SDK, Symbian SDK, webOS SDK, and Windows® Mobile SDK.

Those of skill in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for distribution of mobile applications including, by way of non-limiting examples, Apple® App Store, Google® Play, Chrome WebStore, BlackBerry® App World, App Store for Palm devices, App Catalog for webOS, Windows® Marketplace for Mobile, Ovi Store for Nokia® devices, Samsung® Apps, and Nintendo® DSi Shop.

Standalone Application

In some embodiments, a computer program includes a standalone application, which is a program that is run as an independent computer process, not an add-on to an existing process, e.g., not a plug-in. Those of skill in the art will recognize that standalone applications are often compiled. A compiler is a computer program(s) that transforms source code written in a programming language into binary object code such as assembly language or machine code. Suitable compiled programming languages include, by way of non-limiting examples, C, C++, Objective-C, COBOL, Delphi, Eiffel, Java™, Lisp, Python™, Visual Basic, and VB.NET, or combinations thereof. Compilation is often performed, at least in part, to create an executable program. In some embodiments, a computer program includes one or more executable complied applications.

Web Browser Plug-in

In some embodiments, the computer program includes a web browser plug-in (e.g., extension, etc.). In computing, a plug-in is one or more software components that add specific functionality to a larger software application. Makers of software applications support plug-ins to enable third-party developers to create abilities which extend an application, to support easily adding new features, and to reduce the size of an application. When supported, plug-ins enable customizing the functionality of a software application. For example, plug-ins are commonly used in web browsers to play video, generate interactivity, scan for viruses, and display particular file types. Those of skill in the art will be familiar with several web browser plug-ins including, Adobe® Flash® Player, Microsoft® Silverlight®, and Apple® QuickTime®.

In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that several plug-in frameworks are available that enable development of plug-ins in various programming languages, including, by way of non-limiting examples, C++, Delphi, Java™, PHP, Python™, and VB.NET, or combinations thereof.

Web browsers (also called Internet browsers) are software applications, designed for use with network-connected digital processing devices, for retrieving, presenting, and traversing information resources on the World Wide Web. Suitable web browsers include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft® Internet Explorer®, Mozilla® Firefox®, Google® Chrome, Apple® Safari®, Opera Software® Opera®, and KDE Konqueror. In some embodiments, the web browser is a mobile web browser. Mobile web browsers (also called microbrowsers, mini-browsers, and wireless browsers) are designed for use on mobile digital processing devices including, by way of non-limiting examples, handheld computers, tablet computers, netbook computers, subnotebook computers, smartphones, music players, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and handheld video game systems. Suitable mobile web browsers include, by way of non-limiting examples, Google® Android® browser, RIM BlackBerry® Browser, Apple® Safari®, Palm® Blazer, Palm® WebOS® Browser, Mozilla® Firefox® for mobile, Microsoft® Internet Explorer® Mobile, Amazon® Kindle® Basic Web, Nokia® Browser, Opera Software® Opera® Mobile, and Sony® PSP™ browser.

Software Modules

In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include software, server, and/or database modules, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, software modules are created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using machines, software, and languages known to the art. The software modules disclosed herein are implemented in a multitude of ways. In various embodiments, a software module comprises a file, a section of code, a programming object, a programming structure, or combinations thereof. In further various embodiments, a software module comprises a plurality of files, a plurality of sections of code, a plurality of programming objects, a plurality of programming structures, or combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the one or more software modules comprise, by way of non-limiting examples, a web application, a mobile application, and a standalone application. In some embodiments, software modules are in one computer program or application. In other embodiments, software modules are in more than one computer program or application. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one machine. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on more than one machine. In further embodiments, software modules are hosted on cloud computing platforms. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in one location. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in more than one location.

Terms and Definitions

As used herein, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together.

As used herein, the terms “fleet,” “sub-fleet,” and like terms are used to indicate a number of land vehicles, watercraft, or aircraft operating together or under the same ownership. In some embodiments the fleet or sub-fleet is engaged in the same activity. In some embodiments, the fleet or sub-fleet are engaged in similar activities. In some embodiments, the fleet, or sub-fleet are engaged in different activities.

As used herein, the terms “autonomous vehicle,” “vehicle fleet,” “vehicle,” “all-terrain vehicle,” and like terms are used to indicate a mobile machine that transports cargo. Typical vehicles include cars, wagons, vans, unmanned motor vehicles (e.g., tricycles, trucks, trailers, buses, etc.), unmanned railed vehicles (e.g., trains, trams, etc.), unmanned watercraft (e.g., ships, boats, ferries, landing craft, barges, rafts, etc.), aerial drones, unmanned hovercraft (air, land and water types), unmanned aircraft, and even including unmanned spacecraft.

As used herein, the terms “user,” “operator,” “fleet operator,” and like terms are used to indicate the entity that owns or is responsible for managing and operating the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the term “customer” and like terms are used to indicate the entity that requests the services provided the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the terms “provider,” “business,” “vendor,” “third party vendor,” and like terms are used to indicate an entity that works in concert with the fleet owner or operator to utilize the services of the vehicle fleet to deliver the provider's product from and or return the provider's product to the provider's place of business or staging location.

As used herein, the terms “server,” “computer server,” “central server,” “main server,” and like terms are used to indicate a computer or device on a network that manages the fleet resources, namely the autonomous vehicles.

As used herein, the term “controller” and like terms are used to indicate a device that controls the transfer of data from a computer to a peripheral device and vice versa. For example, disk drives, display screens, keyboards, and printers all require controllers. In personal computers, the controllers are often single chips. As used herein the controller is commonly used for managing access to components of the autonomous vehicle such as the securable compartments.

As used herein a “mesh network” is a network topology in which each node relays data for the network. All mesh nodes cooperate in the distribution of data in the network. It may be applied to both wired and wireless networks. Wireless mesh networks may be considered a type of “Wireless ad hoc” network. Thus, wireless mesh networks are closely related to Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). Although MANETs are not restricted to a specific mesh network topology, Wireless ad hoc networks or MANETs may take any form of network topology. Mesh networks may relay messages using either a flooding technique or a routing technique. With routing, the message is propagated along a path by hopping from node to node until it reaches its destination. To ensure that all its paths are available, the network must allow for continuous connections and must reconfigure itself around broken paths, using self-healing algorithms such as Shortest Path Bridging. Self-healing allows a routing-based network to operate when a node breaks down or when a connection becomes unreliable. As a result, the network is typically quite reliable, as there is often more than one path between a source and a destination in the network. This concept may also apply to wired networks and to software interaction. A mesh network whose nodes are all connected to each other is a fully connected network.

As used herein, the term “module” and like terms are used to indicate a self-contained hardware component of the central server, which in turn comprises software modules. In software, a module is a part of a program. Programs are composed of one or more independently developed modules that are not combined until the program is linked. A single module may contain one or several routines, or sections of programs that perform a particular task. As used herein the fleet management module comprises software modules for managing various aspects and functions of the vehicle fleet.

As used herein, the terms “processor,” “digital processing device,” and like terms are used to indicate a microprocessor or central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is the electronic circuitry within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetic, logical, control and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions.

In accordance with the description herein, suitable digital processing devices include, by way of non-limiting examples, server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, netpad computers, set-top computers, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles, and vehicles. Those of skill in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with booklet, slate, and convertible configurations, known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an operating system configured to perform executable instructions. The operating system is, for example, software, including programs and data, which manages the device's hardware and provides services for execution of applications. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable server operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD®, Linux, Apple® Mac OS X Server®, Oracle® Solaris®, Windows Server®, and Novell® NetWare®. Those of skill in the art will recognize that suitable personal computer operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft® Windows®, Apple® Mac OS X®, UNIX®, and UNIX-like operating systems such as GNU/Linux®. In some embodiments, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that suitable mobile smart phone operating systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Nokia® Symbian® OS, Apple® iOS®, Research In Motion® BlackBerry OS®, Google® Android®, Microsoft® Windows Phone® OS, Microsoft® Windows Mobile® OS, Linux®, and Palm® WebOS®.

In some embodiments, the device includes a storage and/or memory device. The storage and/or memory device is one or more physical apparatus used to store data or programs on a temporary or permanent basis. In some embodiments, the device is volatile memory and requires power to maintain stored information. In some embodiments, the device is non-volatile memory and retains stored information when the digital processing device is not powered. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises flash memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory comprises phase-change random access memory (PRAM). In some embodiments, the device is a storage device including, by way of non-limiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tapes drives, optical disk drives, and cloud computing based storage. In some embodiments, the storage and/or memory device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to send visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In some embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various some embodiments, on OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In some embodiments, the display is a video projector. In some embodiments, the display is interactive (e.g., having a touch screen or a sensor such as a camera, a 3D sensor, a LiDAR, a radar, etc.) that may detect user interactions/gestures/responses and the like. In still some embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

EXAMPLES

Example 1

Order Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

The distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

Example 2

Set Temperature Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

As an item profile associated with a microwave dinner, which is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has been assigned to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1. The distribution module further assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

Example 3

Destination Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from customer B for a pizza and a pint of ice cream to location BB. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

An item profile associated with a microwave dinner associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has already been assigned to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1 which is associated with an order from customer A and location AA. As location AA is close to location BB, the distribution module then assigns the item profiles associated with the pizza and the ice cream to vehicle 1. The distribution module then assigns the item profiles associated with the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

Example 4

Storage Unit Location Distribution

In one example provided herein, the platform receives an order from a customer for a pepperoni pizza and a pint of ice cream. The order module receives the item profiles associated with the pepperoni pizza and the item profile associated with the ice cream.

In the database, the item profiles for the pepperoni pizza is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. and the ice cream is associated with a target item temperature of 0° F.

As an item profile associated with a microwave dinner, which is associated with a target item temperature of 100° F. has been assigned to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the pepperoni pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1. As both the pizza and the ice cream are ordered for delivery to the same location, and to ensure that the ice cream does not absorb the pepperoni aromas, the distribution module then assigns the item profile associated with the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1, wherein storage unit 10 is located far from storage unit 1.

The loading module then directs the loading of the pizza to storage unit 1 aboard vehicle 1, and the loading of the ice cream to storage unit 10 aboard vehicle 1.

Claims

1. A platform for autonomously or semi-autonomously delivering a food or beverage item to a plurality of customers, the platform comprising: a) a plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, wherein each vehicle comprises: (i) two or more storage units, each storage unit configured to contain the food or beverage item; and(ii) a temperature control system configured to maintain a target unit temperature within each of the two or more storage units; andb) the platform further comprising a distribution processor configured to provide an item distribution application comprising: (i) a database storing a plurality of item profiles and storage unit profiles, wherein each item profile is associated with one of the food or beverage items and a target item temperature; and wherein each storage unit profile is associated with one of the two or more storage units and one of the plurality of vehicles;(ii) an order module receiving a plurality of orders from the plurality of customers, wherein each order comprises one or more of the plurality item profiles;(iii) a distribution module assigning each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based at least on the target item temperature associated with each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders; and(iv) a loading module directing the loading of each of the one or more food or beverage items to at least one storage unit, based on the assignment of each of the one or more item profiles.

2. The platform of claim 1, wherein one or more of the storage units comprises a modular insert configured to secure the food or beverage item.

3. The platform of claim 2, wherein the modular insert comprises two or more modular insert types, wherein each modular insert type is configured to secure a specific food or beverage item.

4. The platform of claim 1, wherein each of the storage units comprise a sensor configured to sense a presence of the food or beverage item, the vending of the food or beverage item, or both.

5. The platform of claim 1, wherein each item profile is further associated with a size, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the size.

6. The platform of claim 1, wherein each storage unit profile is further associated with a unit location within one of the plurality of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the unit location.

7. The platform of claim 1, wherein the each storage units comprises a thermometer and wherein the item distribution application further comprises a temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on a measurement of the thermometer.

8. The platform of claim 7, wherein each of the plurality of vehicles, each of the two or more storage units, or both further comprise a temperature control input configured to receive a manual temperature, and wherein the temperature control module directing the temperature control system to maintain the target unit temperature based on the manual temperature.

9. The platform of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system is configured to maintain a first target unit temperature within a first storage unit and a second target unit temperature within a second storage unit.

10. The platform of claim 7, further comprising a server processor configured to provide a server application comprising a remote temperature control module, receiving the target temperature and transmitting the target temperature to the temperature control system.

11. The platform of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a server distribution processor.

12. The platform of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the distribution processor comprises a vehicle distribution processor aboard the vehicle.

13. The platform of claim 1, wherein the distribution module assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to one storage unit profile based on a machine learning algorithm, a rule based algorithm, or both.

14. The platform of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more storage units are the same size.

15. The platform of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more storage units have different sizes.

16. The platform of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system is configured to maintain a different temperature within each of the two or more storage units.

17. The platform of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system is configured to maintain the same temperature within each of the two or more storage units.

18. The platform of claim 1, wherein each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of the same food or beverage item.

19. The platform of claim 1, wherein each storage unit is configured to contain a plurality of different food or beverage items.

20. The platform of claim 1, wherein each item profile is further associated with a shape, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the shape.

21. The platform of claim 1, wherein each item profile is further associated with a weight, and wherein the distribution module further assigns each of the one or more item profiles associated with each of the plurality of orders to the storage unit profile based on the weight.