Amazon has offered to deliver packages using a system of several drones connected to the payload through tethers. According to the authors of the patent, multiple drones can fly in perfect synchronization with each other, and the number of drones can be changed as required. The Next Web brought into view the patent in its publication.

As a rule, drones are designed as static structures with the predetermined number of propellers (four, six or more). In this case a drone can adapt itself to a specific task only by changing thrust of its propellers. In addition, there are research projects on dynamic drones which can transform themselves on the fly. For example, some can fold their fans allowing them pass through narrow gaps, and the others can transform in any way required.

Engineers from Amazon have come up with a unique solution according to which several drones create a single system together with a payload they carry. Various options of such system are described in the patent application. Such system can consist of any number of drones. Both small two-propeller drones and quadcopters can be used to form the configuration. In addition, according to the authors, not only electric jets but also other types of jets, for example, jet engines may be used.

                                                                             Possible drone configurations

                                                                             Amazon Technologies, Inc. / USPTO, 2019

According to the concept, each drone will be connected to the payload through tethers, ranging from rod, rigid, telescopic or other types. The connections can be fixed or releasable. This can be useful when it is required to change the number of drones in the system. The orientation of drones in the system can also be changed. For example, one of the drones may generate thrust, whereas others will create lift.

And finally, the authors described possible configurations of the payload. It may be shaped as a wing in order to be able to facilitate horizontal flight and generate lift. In addition, it may include connections for drones, and the type of connections may vary.

                                                                            Example of a payload

                                                                            Amazon Technologies, Inc. / USPTO, 2019

Amazon has been testing the use of drones to deliver packages to its customers since 2016, and it actively patents various extraordinary solutions in this field. For example, previously Amazon was granted patents for the motor-assisted audio message transfer method, airship warehouse for its delivery drones and containers with airbags that may be dropped off the drones. Furthermore, one of its patents describes the method of drone self-destruction while on the fly to adjust its flight pass and protect people on the ground. In addition to patents, the company also pursues some drone-related legal activities. For example, allocating a restricted airspace for drones is proposed.

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