A modular unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system comprises a body module, a rotor module, and a wing module. The body module includes a flight controller and a power distribution device. The body module is releasably attachable to the rotor module or the wing module, and the body module is releasably attachable to the rotor module. The rotor module includes one or more motors and electronic speed controllers (ESCs), while the wing module includes a wing having a flap, elevator, aileron, or rudder. Various UAV configurations can be formed from the body module, the rotor module, and the wing module. Each configuration includes different advantages for flight time, distance, battery life, and payload capacity. A UAV can be configured to a particular configuration to optimize parcel delivery.

In some embodiments, apparatuses and methods are provided herein useful to allocate unmanned aircraft system (UAS). Some embodiments, provide UAS allocation systems, comprising: a UAS database that stores for each registered UAS an identifier and corresponding operational capabilities; an allocation control circuit configured to: obtain a first set of multiple task parameters specified by a first customer and corresponding to a requested first predefined task that the customer is requesting a UAS be allocated to perform; identify, from the UAS database, a first UAS having operational capabilities to perform the first set of task parameters while implementing the first task; and cause an allocation notification to be communicated to a first UAS provider, of the multiple UAS providers, associated with the first UAS requesting the first UAS provider to allocate the identified first UAS to implement the first task.

A package handling system for delivery of a widget ordered and destined for a delivery stop on a delivery route, includes one or more delivery packages affixed in series to a package feed tape, a feed tape mechanism, said feed tape mechanism configured to engage said package feed tape to propel said package feed tape and said one or more delivery packages affixed thereto, a tape cutter to cut said package feed tape to separate at least one delivery package from said one or more delivery packages, a drone platform positioned proximate said tape cutter, and a drone having a drone feed tape capture system to receive said package feed tape and said at least one delivery package of said one or more delivery packages affixed to said package feed tape, and thus, provides non-person delivery of packages.

Disclosed is a smart mailbox receptacle and drone docking station for deposit of items/goods delivered by a robot, drone by landing or tethering packages, or courier each to a secured receptacle. Items can be delivered to a receptacle at a curb, mailbox, post, or porch. Features include communication systems between the station and drone; security; hot and cold temperature control and preservation of the goods before and after delivery; battery charging and exchange station; a collector to identify explosive materials, anthrax, etc.; ultraviolet system to eradicate disease, virus and harmful materials; an ozone applicator to eradicate disease, virus and harmful materials; weather monitoring; tag and track of vehicles and packages; facial recognition camera and software for pets and humans; and local two-way speakers; LED lights that strobe flash, and a flood light.

A vehicle delivery box for delivering content to a location using a transport vehicle is provided. The vehicle delivery box can include a main body having a first mode and a second mode. The main body can also include a cavity formed in the main body. The main body in the first mode can be removably coupled to the transport vehicle. The main body in the second mode can be uncoupled from the transport vehicle and adapted to deliver a product. Further, a vehicle delivery box system is provided including a vehicle delivery box and a transport vehicle. A method for delivering a product is also provided.

A robotic arm configured to load and unload one or more payloads from a drone, the robotic arm comprising: a central body portion; one or more arm sections configured to rotate with respect to the central body portion; one or more end effectors attached to respective end portions of the one or more arm sections; one or more unlocking mechanisms configured to unlock the one or more payloads from the drone; and at least one mechanism configured to remove the one or more payloads from the drone.

A bail hook for use with cargo is disclosed. The bail hook can have a base plate, a spacer and a handle. The bail hook can also include a handle plate located between the base plate and the handle. The bail hook can include position markers located along an edge of the base plate and the handle plate. The bail hook can include a handle mount located between the handle plate and the handle. The bail hook can have a first and second flap slot configured to receive a first and second box flap. The bail hook can have a bevel, where the bevel can be located on the handle plate. The bail hook can be made from plastic or a combination of materials, such as metal. A method of use of the bail hook with box cargo is also disclosed.

An unmanned hybrid airship for delivering packages, featuring: a forward payload bay counterbalanced by a moveable counterweight; and a gripping mechanism for engaging unconventional mooring structures such as balcony rails and window sills. Other embodiments are described.

A package supporting device including: a base; ground contacting portions that contact a landing surface in a state of having landed; package supporting portions provided at an underside of the base, the package supporting portions supporting a package; a drive portion that is operable in a first state to cause each of the package supporting portions to move toward the package, and is operable in a second state to cause each of the package supporting portions to move away from the package; and a restricting portion that is provided independently from the drive portion, and that allows operation of the drive portion in a state in which the ground contacting portions are contacting a landing surface, and, in a state in which the ground contacting portions do not contact a landing surface, restricts operation of the drive portion in at least the second state.

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is disclosed that includes a retractable payload delivery system. The payload delivery system can lower a payload to the ground using a delivery device that secures the payload during descent and releases the payload upon reaching the ground. The location of the delivery device can be determined as it is lowered to the ground using image tracking. The UAV can include an imaging system that captures image data of the suspended delivery device and identifies image coordinates of the delivery device, and the image coordinates can then be mapped to a location. The UAV may also be configured to account for any deviations from a planned path of descent in real time to effect accurate delivery locations of released payloads.