SEATTLE — Amazon recently patented a network of mobile drone delivery hubs that can deliver items from moving workstations based on trains, boats and trucks.
Dubbed the "intermodal vehicle" in its patent document, the mobile hubs look similar to shipping containers, with fulfillment centers inside. They are also equipped with drone maintenance facilities that change battery or replace motors or propellers.
The vehicles can be loaded on moving trains, ships and trucks and can move to places with high demand. Amazon environs a network of mobile fulfillment centers which could cut the costs of building fixed warehouses.
However, there is no guarantee that Amazon is really going forward with this system. UPS, on the other hand, has already tested drone delivery from its trucks.
