MEDICINE DELIVERY DRONE AND METHOD THEREOF

Abstract

MEDICINE DELIVERY DRONE AND METHOD THEREOF ABSTRACT A medicine delivery drone (100) is disclosed. The delivery drone (100) comprising: a frame (102) comprising a storage container (108) designed to securely hold and protect the medicines during transport; propellers (104a-104d) attached to the frame (102) and configured to create lift and thrust; motors (106) adapted to drive the propellers (104a-104d) for achieving lift and movement. A processor (118) is configured to: receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to a location of a customer; actuate a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy; navigate the delivery drone (100) based on the receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to the location of a customer; actuate a verification mechanism for ensuring secure delivery by prompting the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP); and release the medicines. Claims: 10, Figures: 6 Figure 1A is selected.

Specification

Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a drone, particularly to a medicine delivery drone.
Description of Related Art
[002] A drone, also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), is a type of an aircraft that operates without a pilot on board. Drones are typically equipped with a range of technologies including Global Positioning System (GPS), cameras, and sensors that allow them to navigate autonomously or be controlled remotely. They have been increasingly utilized in various fields such as agriculture, surveillance, and logistics due to their ability to perform tasks efficiently and access hard-to-reach areas.
[003] Dispensing medicines, especially in emergency situations, presents several challenges. The key difficulties include ensuring timely delivery, maintaining the integrity and safety of the medicines during transport, and verifying the recipient's identity to prevent misuse. Medicines often require specific storage conditions and handling procedures to ensure their efficacy. Additionally, the urgency of medical deliveries necessitates a system that can operate swiftly and accurately, minimizing delays and errors that could impact patient health.
[004] Common methods of delivering medicines include traditional courier services, postal services, and pharmacy delivery personnel. In many cases, medicines are transported by ground vehicles which can face traffic congestion, delays, and limitations in reaching remote or hard-to-access locations. Some pharmacies also offer in-house delivery services using dedicated personnel. While these methods can be effective, they often encounter limitations related to speed, accuracy, and the ability to handle urgent deliveries.
[005] The traditional methods of medicine delivery have several disadvantages. Ground transportation can be slow and prone to delays due to traffic, weather conditions, or logistical issues. Additionally, there is a risk of compromised medicine integrity due to improper handling or storage conditions. Verification of the recipient's identity is typically manual and can be prone to errors or fraud. These factors can lead to inefficiencies, increased costs, and potential risks to patient safety. Thus, there is a need for innovative solutions that address these challenges and improve the efficiency and reliability of medicine delivery systems.
[006] There is thus a need for a medicine delivery drone that can overcome the limitations of the prior art in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a medicine delivery drone. The delivery drone comprising: a frame comprising a storage container designed to securely hold and protect the medicines during transport. The delivery drone further comprising: propellers attached to the frame and configured to create lift and thrust. The delivery drone further comprising: motors adapted to drive the propellers for achieving lift and movement. The delivery drone further comprising: a processor connected to the propellers and the motors. The processor is configured to: receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to a location of a customer; actuate a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy; navigate the drone based on the receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to the location of a customer; actuate a verification mechanism for ensuring secure delivery by prompting the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP) received through an application interface; and release the medicines upon successful verification of the provided One Time Password (OTP).
[008] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method of delivering medicines by employing a medicine delivery drone The method comprising steps of receiving Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to a location of a customer; actuating a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy; navigating the drone based on the receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to the location of a customer; actuating a verification mechanism for ensuring secure delivery by prompting the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP) received through an application interface; and releasing the medicines upon successful verification of the provided One Time Password (OTP).
[009] The aspect of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on its particular configuration. In one implementation, the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that enables autonomous navigation from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to the location of a customer.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that enables an autonomous loading of ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that ensures a secure delivery of medicines by using a verification mechanism that prompts the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP).
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that is capable of initiating a return mechanism for autonomously returning to the base location after delivering the medicine.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that performs a self-diagnosis routine upon return to the base location to ensure it is in optimal condition for future flights.
[0014] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that includes storage sections designed to securely hold and protect medicines during transport.
[0015] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that is equipped with a camera to capture video and images based on instructions from the processor.
[0016] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a medicine delivery drone that includes an application interface configured to enable customers to order medicines and interact with the system.
[0017] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0018] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0020] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a medicine delivery drone, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the medicine delivery drone, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 1C illustrates a front view of the medicine delivery drone, according to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 1D illustrates a bottom view of the medicine delivery drone, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a processor of the medicine delivery drone, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method for delivering medicines by employing the medicine delivery drone, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words "include", "including", and "includes" mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0028] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises", and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", "consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of", the like.
[0029] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0030] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a medicine delivery drone 100 (hereinafter referred to as the delivery drone 100), according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the delivery drone 100 may be adapted to supply medicines, medicinal necessities, and so forth. The delivery drone 100 may be capable of delivering the medicines and the medicinal necessities in emergency situations such as a pandemic, an earthquake, an accident, a flood, a tsunami, and so forth.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the delivery drone 100 may be, but not limited to, a single rotor drone, a multi rotor drone, a fixed wing rotor drone, a variable-wing rotor drone, a helicopter, a gyroplane, a tiltrotor, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the delivery drone 100, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0032] According to embodiments of the present invention, the delivery drone 100 may comprise a frame 102, propellers 104 (hereinafter individually referred to as the propeller 104, or combinedly referred to as the propellers 104), motors 106 (hereinafter individually referred to as the motor 106, or combinedly referred to as the motors 106), a storage container 108, a camera 110, a relay 112, a siren 114, a battery 116, a processor 118, and an application interface 120.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102 may be structured to provide a robust and lightweight support structure for accommodating all other components of the delivery drone 100. The frame 102 may be adapted to provide an integral strength to the delivery drone 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102 may be designed to securely house the storage container 108, the propellers 104, the motors 106, and other critical elements while ensuring stability and durability during flight.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102 may be made from high-strength, lightweight materials that may be but not limited to a carbon fibre, an aluminium alloy, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for construction of the frame 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, dimensions of the frame 102 may be in a range from 400 millimetres (mm) to 500 millimetres (mm). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dimension of the frame 102 may be 450 millimetres (mm). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any dimensions of the frame 102.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the propellers 104 may be mounted on the frame 102. The propellers 104 may be configured to create lift and thrust for the delivery drone 100. The propellers 104 may be designed to provide efficient aerodynamic performance, enabling stable and controlled flight. Each propeller 104 may be driven by a corresponding motor 106 to achieve the necessary propulsion and maneuverability. The propellers 104 may be constructed from materials that may be, but not limited to, reinforced plastic, composite materials, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the construction of the propellers 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0037] The propellers 104 may be diagonally arranged on the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100. Moreover, the diagonal arrangement of the propellers 104 may equibalance the frame 102 and therefore, equibalancing the delivery drone 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the dimensions of the propellers 104 may be in a range from 9 inches (in) to 11 inches (in). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the dimensions of the propellers 104 may be 10 inches (in). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any dimension of the propellers 104.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the motors 106 may be adapted to propel the delivery drone 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the motors 106 may be adapted to drive the propellers 104 for achieving lift and movement. The motors 106 may rotate the propellers 104 at a high speed. The high-speed rotation of the propellers 104 by the motors 106 may create the thrust that may in return lift the delivery drone 100. The motors 106 may be diagonally arranged on the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100. Further, the motors 106 may be individually connected to the propellers 104 such as a first motor (not shown) may be connected to a first propeller (not shown), a second motor (not shown) may be connected to a second propeller (not shown) and so forth. Moreover, the diagonal arrangement of the propellers 104 and the motors 106 may equibalance the frame 102 for further equibalancing the delivery drone 100.
[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention, a power intensity of the motors 106 may be in a range from 900 Kilovolts (KV) to 1000 Kilovolts (KV). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the power intensity of the motors 106 may be 935 Kilovolts (KV). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any power intensity of the motors 106. According to embodiments of the present invention, the motors 106 may be, but not limited to, a stepper motor, a servo motor, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the motors 106 may be a high-power Brush Less Direct Current (BLDC) motor. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the motors 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the motors 106 may be controlled by an electronic speed controller (not shown). The electronic speed controller may manipulate rotations of the motors 106 and may further control the rotations of the propellers 104. The manipulation of the rotations of the motors 106 and the rotations of the propellers 104 may control parameters that may be, but not limited to, a speed, a velocity, a turning radius, and a rotation of the delivery drone 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the electronic speed controller may be, but not limited to, a brushless electronic speed controller, a brushed electronic speed controller, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the electronic speed controller may be a biheli30A speed controller. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the electronic speed controller, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electronic speed controller may be connected to a flight controller (not shown). The flight controller may be adapted to fly the delivery drone 100 on a route mapped by the processor 118. Further, the flight controller may manage flight dynamics of the delivery drone 100 and may integrate various sensors and inputs. The flight controller may be capable of commanding a plurality of functions of the delivery drone 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of functions of the delivery drone 100 may be, but not limited to, an obstacle detection, a route remembrance, a return-to-home, a self-charging, an aerially-track the person of interest, and so forth. According to embodiments of the present invention, the flight controller may be, but not limited to, a flyer, a DJI drone control engine, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flight controller may be a Pixhawk Cube Orange+. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the flight controller, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the storage container 108 may be adapted to store the medicines. Further, the storage container 108 may comprise sections 108a-108n for accommodating a variety of the medicines. According to embodiments of the present invention, the storage container 108 may be constructed of any material such as, but not limited to, a metallic material, a wooden material, a ceramic material, a plastic material, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for construction of the storage container 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. In an embodiment of the present invention, an attachment of the storage container 108 with the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100 may further be explained in conjunction with FIG. 1C.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be mounted on the frame 102. The camera 110 may be configured to capture video and images as directed by the processor 118. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the predefined duration of the captured video may be 2 seconds. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the predefined duration of the captured video may be 4 seconds. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the captured video may be of any duration such as defined by a system administrator.
[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be adapted to rotate at an angle of 90 degrees. In another embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be adapted to rotate at an angle of 180 degrees. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be adapted to rotate at an angle of 360 degrees. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be adapted to rotate at any angle of degrees.
[0045] The camera 110 may also be configured to transmit the captured video and images to a system administrator, in an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system administrator may continuously monitor the captured video and the images. In another embodiment of the present invention, the continuous monitoring of the captured video and the images may be automated using a computer system.
[0046] The camera 110 may be used for various purposes, that may be, but not limited to monitoring a delivery environment, assisting in navigation, verifying the delivery process, and so forth. The camera 110 may have features that may be, but not limited to, a high-definition resolution, a night vision, a real-time video streaming capability and so forth. The camera 110 may be constructed from materials that include, but are not limited to, high-quality lenses and electronic components, and may utilize known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0047] According to other embodiments of the present invention, a resolution for the captured images and/or videos of the person of interest using the camera 110 may be in a range from 320 pixels by 240 pixels to 1920 pixels by 1080 pixels. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any resolution for the captured images and/or videos of the person of interest using the camera 110, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. According to the other embodiments of the present invention, the camera 110 may be, but not limited to, a still camera, a video camera, a color balancer camera, a thermal camera, an infrared camera, a telephoto camera, a wide-angle camera, a macro camera, a Close-Circuit Television (CCTV) camera, a web camera, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may be a Raspberry Pi Cam2. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the camera 110, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, the relay 112 may be an electronic switching device controlled by the processor 118. The relay 112 may be used to activate or deactivate other components, such as the siren 114. The relay 112 may include a variety of switching technologies, including but not limited to electromagnetic relays, solid-state relays, and other known types of switching mechanisms. The relay 112 may further ensure precise control of the siren 114 according to commands of the processor 118.
[0049] In an embodiment of the present invention, the siren 114 may be an audible signalling device mounted on the frame 102. The siren 114 may produce sound alerts to notify a customer of the delivery drone 100 arrival or to signal other events during the delivery process. The siren 114 may have adjustable volume settings and different sound patterns to accommodate various environmental conditions. The siren 114 may be constructed from materials such as, but not limited to, durable plastics and metal components. According to the other embodiments of the present invention, the siren 114 may be, but not limited to, a buzzer, a beeper, a sound unit, a speaker, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the siren 114, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention, the battery 116 may supply an operational power to the processor 118. The battery 116 may further supply operational power to the motors 106, the camera 110, and so forth, in an embodiment of the present invention. The battery 116 may be designed to offer extended flight times and reliable power delivery. The battery 116 may be securely mounted within the frame 102 and connected to a power distribution system of the delivery drone 100 to ensure continuous operation during flights.
[0051] The battery 116 may comprise a power module (not shown). The power module may be configured to distribute power to the components of the delivery drone 100. The power module may further be configured to regulate a voltage distribution across the components of the delivery drone 100. The battery 116 may further comprise a Power Distribution Board (not shown). The Power Distribution Board may be adapted to ensure that the power supplied by the battery 116 may be evenly distributed across the components of the delivery drone 100.
[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the battery 116 may be a rechargeable battery. According to embodiments of the present invention, the battery 116 for power supply may be of any composition such as, but not limited to, a Nickel-Cadmium battery, a Nickel-Metal Hydride battery, a Zinc-Carbon battery, a Lithium-Ion battery, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the battery 116 may have a capacity of 3s 5000 mAh (milli-Ampere hours). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any composition of the battery 116, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0053] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 118 may be the central processor 118 of the delivery drone 100, responsible for managing all operational aspects. The processor 118 may execute computer-executable instructions for navigation, loading, verification, and other functionalities. The processor 118 may interface with various components including the propellers 104, the motors 106, the camera 110, and the relay 112. The processor 118 may be equipped with processing power to handle real-time data and control commands, utilizing known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The processor 118 may further be configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to generate an output relating to the delivery drone 100.
[0054] According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor 118 may be, but not limited to, a Programmable Logic Control (PLC) unit, a microprocessor, a development board, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the processor 118 may be Raspberry Pi 4B+. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the processor 118, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 118 may further be explained in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention, the application interface 120 may be configured to enable the customer to order the medicines. The application interface 120 may be electronically linked to a user device (not shown). The user device may be an electronic device used by the customer to order the medicines. Further, the user device may feature a user interface, enabling the customer to optimally select and order the medicines. The medicines ordered by the customer using the user device may further be transmitted to the application interface 120. The user device may be, but not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet, a wearable device, and so forth.
[0056] FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the delivery drone 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The delivery drone 100 may be designed with specific dimensions to ensure functionality and efficiency in the delivery of the medicines. In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102 may measure approximately 500 millimetres (mm) in length, 500 millimetres (mm) in width, and 150 millimetres (mm) in height. In an embodiment of the present invention, each of the propellers 104 may have a diameter of about 200 millimetres (mm) that may be optimized for generating lift and thrust for stable flight. In an embodiment of the present invention, the motors 106 may have a diameter of approximately 50 millimetres (mm) and a height of around 60 millimetres (mm), suitable for driving the propellers 104 effectively. In an embodiment of the present invention, the storage container 108 may be sized at approximately 150 millimetres (mm) by 150 millimetres (mm) by 100 millimetres (mm)each, designed to securely accommodate and protect the medicines during transport.
[0057] FIG. 1C illustrates a front view of the delivery drone 100, according to another embodiment of the present invention. The storage container 108 may be detachably attached to the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100 using attachment means such as, but not limited to, a magnetic means, a screwing means, a latching means, a bracketing means, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any attachment means for the storage container 108 with the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0058] Further, the storage container 108 may be rigidly and permanently attached to the frame 102 of the delivery drone 100, in an embodiment of the present invention. In case of the permanent attachment, the medicines in the storage container 108 may be released by release mechanisms. The release mechanisms may be, but not limited to, a hydraulic drawer, a motorized box, a release ratchet, a spring-loaded catapult, a parachute, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any release mechanisms for releasing the medicines from the storage container 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0059] FIG. 1D illustrates a bottom view of the delivery drone 100, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.
[0060] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the processor 118 of the delivery drone 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The processor 118 may comprise the computer-executable instructions in form of programming modules such as a data receiving module 200, a navigation module 202, a loading module 204, a verification module 206, a medicine releasing module 208, a returning module 210, and a diagnosis module 212.
[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention, the data receiving module 200 may be configured to handle an initial reception and processing of data related to the delivery order. The data receiving module 200 may be configured to receive data through the application interface 120. The received data may be in form of data packets that may comprise Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates from a base location to a pharmacy, the Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates from the pharmacy to the location of the customer, and the One-Time Password (OTP), and so forth. Upon receiving the data related to the delivery order, the data receiving module 200 may be configured to generate a first navigation signal and transmit the generated first navigation signal to the navigation module 202.
[0062] The navigation module 202 may be actuated by receiving the first navigation signal from the data receiving module 200. Upon receiving the first navigation signal, the navigation module 202 may be configured to actuate the propellers 104 and the motors 106 to initiate and control a movement of the delivery drone 100. The navigation module 202 may be configured to manage flight dynamics of the delivery drone 100 to ensure precise navigation according to the Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates provided. The navigation module 202 may further be configured to autonomously navigate the delivery drone 100 between the base location and the pharmacy. In an embodiment of the present invention, the navigation module 202 may be configured to continuously track the location of the delivery drone 100 throughout the flight. In an embodiment of the present invention, the tracked location may be periodically transmitted to the application interface 120 for providing updates related to a position and a progress of the delivery drone 100 to the customer. In an embodiment of the present invention, the navigation module 202 may be configured to transmit a loading signal to the loading module 204 upon arrival of the delivery drone 100 at the pharmacy.
[0063] The loading module 204 may be activated upon receipt of the loading signal received from the navigation module 202. The loading module 204 may be configured to actuate a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy. The loading mechanism actuated by the loading module 204 may be configured to load the ordered medicines into the storage container 108. In an embodiment of the present invention, the loading mechanism may be configured to load the medicines by picking the medicines from shelves of the medicines at the pharmacy. This process may involve automated mechanisms or robotic arms that may securely retrieve the medicines and transfer the retrieved medicine to the sections 108a-108n of the storage container 108 in the delivery drone 100. The loading module 204 may further be configured to ensure that the medicines are properly positioned and secured within the storage container 108 to prevent any damage during transport. Once the loading is complete, the loading module 204 may generate a second navigation signal and transmit the generated second navigation signal to the navigation module 202.
[0064] In an embodiment of the present invention, the navigation module 202 may be actuated by receiving the second navigation signal from the loading module 204. Upon receiving the second navigation signal, the navigation module 202 may be configured to actuate the propellers 104 and the motors 106 to initiate and control the movement of the delivery drone 100. The navigation module 202 may enable the delivery drone 100 to take the flight to the location of the customer. Upon reaching the location of the customer of the delivery drone 100, the navigation module 202 may be configured to actuate the relay 112 to activate the siren 114 to alert the customer. The navigation module 202 may further be configured to generate a verification signal and transmit the generated verification signal to the verification module 206. The verification module 206 may be configured to handle the OTP verification process.
[0065] Upon receiving the verification signal from the navigation module 202, the verification module 206 may be configured to actuate a verification mechanism. The verification mechanism actuated by the verification module 206 may prompt the customer to provide the OTP received through the application interface 120. In an embodiment of the present invention, the customer may be enabled to provide OTP verbally. In such an embodiment of the present invention, the verbally provided OTP may be recorded by the delivery drone 100. In another embodiment of the present invention, the OTP may be provided by typing it into an input device (not shown) of the delivery drone 100. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the OTP may be provided by displaying the received OTP to the camera 110 of the delivery drone 100. In such an embodiment of the present invention, the camera 110 may capture the displayed OTP.
[0066] In an embodiment of the present invention, the verification module 206 may be configured to compare the provided One Time Password (OTP) with the OTP generated and transmitted by the data receiving module 200. If the provided One Time Password (OTP) matches the generated One Time Password (OTP), the verification module 206 may generate a confirmation signal. The confirmation signal may be sent to the medicine releasing module 208 to enable the release of the medicines. If the OTP does not match, the verification module 206 may prompt the customer to re-enter the OTP or initiate a retry process until successful verification is achieved.
[0067] Upon successful verification, the medicine releasing module 208 may be actuated by the confirmation signal from the verification module 206. The medicine releasing module 208 may be configured to release the medicines from the storage container 108 by activating the release mechanisms. The release mechanisms may be, but not limited to, a hydraulic drawer, a motorized box, a release ratchet, a spring-loaded catapult, a parachute, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any release mechanisms for releasing the medicines from the storage container 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0068] Upon releasing the medicines, the returning module 210 may be activated by the navigation module 202 to initiate a return mechanism. The return mechanisms initiated by the returning module 210 may guide the delivery drone 100 back to the base location. The return mechanisms may manage and memorize a flight path of the delivery drone 100. Further, for returning to the base location, the delivery drone 100 may backtrack the memorized flight path. Additionally, the returning module 210 may be configured to ensure that the delivery drone 100 returns safely and may be ready for subsequent deliveries. The returning module 210 may further ensure that the delivery drone 100 may reach the base location for recharging and maintenance.
[0069] Upon arrival at the base location, the diagnosis module 212 may be activated to initiate a self-diagnosis routine. The diagnosis module 212 may perform a series of checks to ensure that the delivery drone 100 is in optimal condition for future flights. The diagnosis module 212 may include assessing the functionality of the propellers 104, the motors 106, and other critical components. The diagnosis module 212 may generate diagnostic reports and may alert the maintenance team if any issues are detected. The diagnosis module 212 may ensure a reliability and readiness of the delivery drone 100 for subsequent operations.
[0070] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300 for delivering the medicines by employing the delivery drone 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0071] At step 302, the delivery drone 100 may receive the delivery order comprising Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation from the base location to the pharmacy and from the pharmacy to the location of the customer through the application interface 120.
[0072] At step 304, the delivery drone 100 may be navigated from the base location to the pharmacy using the received Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates.
[0073] At step 306, the delivery drone 100 may actuate the loading mechanism for loading the ordered medicines.
[0074] At step 308, the delivery drone 100 may be navigated to the location of the customer from the pharmacy based on the provided Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates.
[0075] At step 310, the delivery drone 100 may prompt the customer to provide the OTP received through the application interface 120 for verification.
[0076] At step 312, the delivery drone 100 may match the provided One Time Password (OTP) with a generated One Time Password (OTP). If the provided One Time Password (OTP) matches with the generated One Time Password (OTP). The method 300 may proceed to step 314. Else, the method 300 may return to the step 310.
[0077] At step 314, the delivery drone 100 may release the medicines by actuating one or more of the release mechanisms associated with the storage container 108.
[0078] At step 316, the delivery drone 100 may initiate the return mechanism for autonomously returning to the base location after delivering the medicine.
[0079] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0080] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A medicine delivery drone (100), the delivery drone (100) comprising:
a frame (102) comprising a storage container (108) designed to securely hold and protect the medicines during transport;
propellers (104a-104d) attached to the frame (102) and configured to be driven by motors (106) to create lift and thrust; and
a processor (118) connected to the propellers (104a-104d) and the motors (106); characterized in that the processor (118) is configured to:
receive Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation, by actuating the propellers (104a-104d), from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to a location of a customer;
actuate a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy;
navigate the delivery drone (100) based on the received Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to the location of a customer;
actuate a verification mechanism for ensuring secure delivery by prompting the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP) received through an application interface (120); and
release the medicines upon successful verification of the provided One Time Password (OTP).
2. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (118) is configured to initiate a return mechanism for autonomously returning the delivery drone (100) to the base location after delivering the medicine.
3. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (118) is configured to initiate a self-diagnosis routine upon return to the base location to ensure the delivery drone (100) is in optimal condition for future flights.
4. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage container (108) comprises sections (108a-108n) for accommodating a variety of medicines.
5. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a camera (110) to capture video and images based on instructions received from the processor (118).
6. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application interface (120) is configured to enable the customer to order the medicines.
7. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (118) is configured to turn on a relay (112) to actuate a siren (114).
8. The delivery drone (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (118) is configured to locate the pharmacy based on a distance and an availability of the ordered medicines.
9. A method (300) of delivering medicines by employing a medicine delivery drone (100), the method (300) comprising steps of:
receiving Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates for autonomous navigation from a base location to a pharmacy and from the pharmacy to a location of a customer;
actuating a loading mechanism for autonomously loading ordered medicines upon arrival at the pharmacy;
navigating the delivery drone (100) based on the received Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates to the location of a customer;
actuating a verification mechanism for ensuring secure delivery by prompting the customer to provide a One Time Password (OTP) received through an application interface (120); and
releasing the medicines upon successful verification of the provided One Time Password (OTP).
10. The method (300) as claimed in claim 9, comprising a step of initiating a return mechanism for autonomously returning the delivery drone (100) to the base location after delivering the medicine.

Date: November 19, 2024
Place: Noida


Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant

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