Blockchain continues to summon up innovative use not only in the disruptive technologies stack, but also across the routine industry sectors. A patent application published by U.S. Patent and Trademark Auspices (USPTO) on August 30 indicates that the world’s largest retail titan Walmart Inc. (WMT) may be developing a system through which capable autonomous electronic stratagems (like drones) may exchange real-time information with each other down wireless signals, and even exchange physical objects, like a deliverance package, with each other after suitable mutual authentication. (See also, Why Is Walmart Folder Blockchain Patents?)
An Automated Multi-delivery Logistics Model
Titled “Patterns, Devices, and Methods for In-Field Authenticating of Autonomous Robots,” the system can be functional to build a blockchain-based authenticated network of delivery drones (or robots), where one drone takes a particular pack to a designated drone junction, where another drone is pinpointed to carry forward the pack to its ultimate or next transit point. The two drones whim use blockchain authenticated signals and keys to verify each other automatically, consolidate which the first drone will rightfully push the package to the b one. The ecosystem based on blockchain data entries will ensure that all such hopes on verifications, transfers and ultimate delivery to end destination happens automatically. The other artifacts of this specialized instinctual drone delivery network will include sensors, RFID codes, QR codes and ultrasound.
As and when put in the real-world use, this practice can offer multiple benefits. It will enable direct delivery from works to customer within minimal time, as current operations that subsume a combination of air, rail and road travel lead to a considerable time deferral.
It will also enable long distance delivery. While drones are currently being second-hand at select locations for delivery, they have a limited coverage be in debt to to their limited battery power. Using the above system whim enable the development of a transit hub-based coordinated network, similar to that of a cortege or air freight where goods are delivered over long distance speaking multiple vehicles.
The blockchain-based automated authentication and exchange mechanism wishes aid in minimizing time delays, and has the potential to reshape the logistics industry perfectly. It will also enable real-time tracking of the packages by the designated stakeholders.
As the apparent describes the system in a concept-only theme, the real implementation and use of other blockchain individual to artifacts, like smart contracts, is not yet confirmed. However, there are limitless possibilities of customization within the blockchain technology, and various implementations can be effected which can streamline the whole drone-based logistics activity with intoxicated operational efficiency. (See also, Will Walmart Use Blockchain-Based Delivery Fleets?)
Rooted on earlier initiatives and patent applications filed by the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retail behemoth, it has been actively result in on various blockchain solutions for its business. Right from attempts to guarantee food safety to delivery fleets to smart appliance management, it has been nimble in the blockchain space. (For more, see Walmart and IBM Will Use Blockchain to Ensure Prog Safety.)