Ever heard of Project Wing? It was Google's drone-based delivery service that promises a five minute delivery within five miles? We have not heard news of this project in quite a long while but a recent patent filing suggests that Google has been quietly been working on it.
A new patent filing shows the world that Google's "mobile delivery receptacles" has been granted. These are basically remote boxes on the ground with wheels.
How does this work? The drones are being guided via infrared lasers or beacons. The drones flies down to the "remote boxes" and transfers the package. The mobile delivery receptacle then scurries off to its secured designated space.
Why is Google working on a robot with wheels? The company explains that this is a safer and reliable alternative compared to direct deliveries to the door. A designated secured space could be a pick up point for delivery companies which can safely receive deliveries. Such option alleviates concerns such as drones confronting or injuring domestic animals, packages being stolen or possible properties being destroyed.
The patent details:
Conventional aerial delivery methods do not allow for safe, secure delivery of packages to delivery locations.
The patent is just an official citing that indicates Google has the rights to operate this. And although this is just a patent, this is makes it concrete that Google is working on drone deliveries. Dave Vos, Project Wing head, indicated that the service would most likely be launched in 2017. It could possibly clash with Amazon's drone delivery service launch as well but, like faithful consumers that the world is, the world is eager to see which technology comes first. At this point, it won't be long until we see drones flying in the skies. The Federal Aviation Administration has not yet released the necessary regulations required for drones to operate.
