Amazon's new Prime Air drone could start making 30-minute deliveries "a few months from now"



[ad_1]

We've been hearing about Amazon's plans to deliver drone parcels for years, but the prospect of 30-minute deliveries seems almost a reality. On the occasion of today's MARS conference, Amazon unveiled its new 'Prime Air' drone model, saying it would allow air deliveries 'in the coming months'. In other words, it is the robotic mail that you will soon see on your doorstep.

For reference, here is the previous version:

And this was the first iteration:

We have come a long way.

The main change to the new Prime Air is its "hybrid" design, which combines the vertical takeoff and precision of a traditional UAV with the aerodynamics and efficiency of an aircraft. The Prime Air operates on six degrees of freedom instead of the usual four, which, according to Amazon, makes it more stable in gusty conditions. This shroud around the drone works like a wing for increased lift, making it more efficient while making it safer.

Amazon also uses a multitude of sensors and artificial intelligence systems to allow the drone to make independent decisions in case of unexpected obstacles on the flight path. This is particularly important considering the destination of the drone: your house. He is supposed to be able to avoid small objects like clotheslines and telephone wires that frustrate other systems.

Jeff Bezos had already promised that Prime Air deliveries would begin in 2019, so it's nice to see that the project is still underway. The program promises to be able to deliver packages under five pounds sterling and within 15 miles of an execution center in less than 30 minutes. It also reduces Amazon's carbon footprint: an electric UAV that travels in a straight line is certainly more efficient than a car traveling on busy roads.

Of course, Amazon simply wants users to order more products. The quick gratification of deliveries in 30 minutes seems to be a surefire way of getting people to do it.

Read more:

5 of the smartest people in artificial intelligence have teamed up to create super robots

[ad_2]

Source link