US 11,454,985 B1 · Modular vehicles with detachable pods

Abstract

The subject matter of this specification generally relates to modular vehicles including separable pod and base units. In some implementations, a computing system installed in a vehicle base identifies a vehicle pod that is detachably connected to a chassis on the vehicle base. In response to identifying that the vehicle pod is detachably connected to the chassis on the vehicle base, a communications link can be established between the computing system installed in the vehicle base and a computing system installed in the vehicle pod. Based on information obtained through the communications link, the computing system installed in the vehicle base can determine a particular configuration of the vehicle pod that is detachably connected to the chassis. The computing system can then verify that the vehicle base can safely transport the vehicle pod while the vehicle pod is detachably connected.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A pod for a modular vehicle, comprising:

a cabin configured to carry at least one of a passenger or cargo;
a mechanical interface configured to facilitate connection and removal of the pod from a base unit for the modular vehicle, wherein the base unit includes a base computing system and a drivetrain to deliver power from an engine or a motor to at least one wheel of the modular vehicle;
and
a communications interface;
wherein in relation to connecting the pod to the base unit, the pod is configured to:
identify a configuration of the base unit;
adjust settings of the pod according to the configuration of the base unit;
and
provide an indication of a configuration of the pod to the base unit using the communications interface.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Modular vehicles with detachable pods

Life of this patent

Modular vehicles with detachable pods

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20