When Jeff Bezos announced Amazon's ambitious plans for package deliveries via robotic drones, his statements were characterized by many as something that was more part of the company's public relations strategy than a viable plan/perspective.
However, Amazon seems to be continuing to move in this direction, as, according to a registered patent published by the US Patent Office, these aircraft will be able to detect and locate the recipient, "pulling" data from their smartphone.
Also, as reported in a BBC report, these vessels will be able to communicate with each other, exchanging weather and traffic data.
The company filed the patent application in September 2014, but details are being published now, after the relevant approval was given by the body.
It seems that the company is moving seriously in this direction and is working on solving various problems/issues of a technical nature. However, in any case, the approval of the patent does not automatically mean that the final product will be like this or that it will necessarily become a reality.
However, the company is leading the effort to convince the FAA (US Federal Aviation Authority) to allow widespread commercial use of drones.
According to the plans, Amazon's drones will be able to update their routes in real time, while customers will have the option to choose where to pick up their order: at home, at work or elsewhere.
The company will also use a variety of aircraft, depending on the size, weight and shape of each package, while landing sites will be identified with flight sensors, radar, sonar, cameras and infrared sensors. In addition, the area will be constantly scanned for people or animals to avoid accidents.
Source: naftemporiki
