SoylentNews is people
SoylentNews
Mercedes Benz has invested in the drone delivery startup Matternet, and unveiled a concept van that can automatically load packages onto a Matternet M2 drone resting on top. Why not just drive to a package's destination? The system could be used to reach destinations not easily accessible to the driver, or deliver packages or aid during heavy traffic or during disaster recovery. Drones could also fly packages from a distribution center to the van:
Mercedes-Benz Vans and drone tech startup Matternet have created a concept car, or as they're calling it a Vision Van, that could change the way small packages are delivered across short distances.
The Vision Van's rooftop serves as a launch and landing pad for Matternet's new, Matternet M2 drones. The Matternet M2 drones, which are autonomous, can pick up and carry a package of 4.4 pounds across 12 miles of sky on a single battery charge in real world conditions.
They are designed to reload their payload and swap out batteries without human intervention. They work in conjunction with Mercedes Benz Vans' on-board and cloud-based systems so that items within a van are loaded up into the drone, automatically, at the cue of software and with the help of robotic shelving systems within the van.
Matternet has existed since 2011, and originally envisioned delivering 1 kilogram packages up to 20 kilometers on a single charge. As for the vans, I told you so!
(Score: 2) by JoeMerchant on Thursday September 08 2016, @03:35AM
I'd say that a package snagged in a (your) tree is just as much your property as if it were accidentally delivered to your front doorstep when not addressed to you.
Yes, if you're an asshole, it's yours to keep. Do you really want to do that to your neighbors?
🌻🌻 [google.com]