Abstract

A drone delivery system is a relatively new method for transporting packages. These systems are used to transport goods in warehouses or remote locations, some without the need for a pilot. Although drone flight is often done without a pilot, there is still need for a human when loading and sometimes unloading packages. While many companies, like Amazon and UPS, have successfully created these systems, there are limits to the shape and size of the packages that they can deliver.

Cummins requested a drone delivery system that completes an entire delivery with a 15 lb package without a human. Because self-flying drone delivery systems exist, the team narrowed the project’s focus to the loading and unloading processes. The goal is to build an attachable mechanism on a purchased drone and complete a successful delivery. The mechanism identifies, measures, and weighs the package. The system then decides if it is safe to perform the delivery.

Since the project’s budget could not fund a drone large enough to carry 15 lb, the sponsor encouraged two final models to be made. The first model is a small-scale mechanism which includes a drone that can fly with a 5 lb package. The second model is a large-scale mechanism that does not include a drone but can carry a 15 lb package. The reason for this is to stay within budget and proves that the design works in flight.