WO2021034309A1

WO2021034309A1 - Regulated consumable distribution

Info

Publication number: WO2021034309A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/046988
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander John GARDEN
Original assignee: Zume Inc
Current assignee: Zume Inc
Priority date: 2019-08-19
Filing date: 2019-08-19
Publication date: 2021-02-25
Anticipated expiration: 2022-02-19

Abstract

Technologies are generally described for regulated consumable distribution. Distribution of regulated consumables may begin with inventory operations such as predictive inventory to determine quantity of regulated consumables to be transported to a delivery location. Transportation of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure may be controlled, for example, through an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle. A regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable may be determined based on delivery location (e.g., restrictions near a school or place of worship), delivery time (e.g., restrictions based on day of week or time of day), and/or recipient (e.g., age restrictions). Upon confirming compliance with the determined regulation, delivery of the regulated consumable may be completed by providing access to the storage enclosure. Regulated consumables may also be partially processed during transport with control of process parameters (e.g., environmental parameters). Auditable records of deliveries may be maintained.

Description

REGULATED CONSUMABLE DISTRIBUTION

BACKGROUND

[0001] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

[0002] Regulated consumables such as alcoholic beverages and alcohol-infused food items, tobacco and similar inhalable or chewable equivalents, cannabis in various consumable forms, and comparable items may be subject to various regulations at different locations and at different times (e.g., restrictions on day of the week or time of the day), as well as, regulations restricting the age of consumers. For example, under the regulations of a particular jurisdiction in which the retail establishment is located, the sale of alcoholic beverages may not be made within a specified distance of schools or other establishments which are licensed to sell liquor. As a further example, the sale of alcohol to minors is typically considered to be a serious violation and may lead to the loss of a business license. Furthermore, such products may be subject to varying types and amounts of taxes and fees. Thus, a stationary resale establishment may have to deal with relatively stable regulations and taxes, but managing all applicable regulations, taxes, etc. for a mobile distribution system that may deliver regulated consumables to different locations may be challenging.

SUMMARY

[0003] The present disclosure generally describes techniques, systems, and devices for regulated consumable distribution.

[0004] According to some examples, a method for distribution of regulated consumables is described. The method may include determining a quantity of a regulated consumable to be transported to a delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; controlling transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure; determining a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirming compliance with the determined regulation; and/or controlling completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[0005] According to other examples, a regulated consumable distribution system is described. The system may include a vehicle configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures semi-autonomously or autonomously and a controller. The controller may be communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the vehicle and at least one remote computing device, and may be configured to determine the quantity of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; determine a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirm compliance with the determined regulation; and/or control completion of the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[0006] According to further examples, a regulated consumable distribution truck is described. The truck may include a cargo area configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the truck and at least one remote computing device. The controller may be configured to receive, from the remote computing device, quantity information of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location determined based on a predictive inventory computation; receive, from the remote computing device, a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; receive, from the remote computing device, confirmation of compliance with the determined regulation; and/or complete the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[0007] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A includes a high-level block diagram for an example regulated consumable distribution system;

FIG. IB includes a summary of considerations in distributing regulated consumables by the example system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A includes an isometric exterior view of an example truck equipped distribution of regulated consumables;

FIG. 2B includes a conceptual illustration of a semi-truck that may be used for autonomous, modular distribution of regulated consumables;

FIG. 2C includes an isometric exterior view of an example railway car equipped with a container for distribution of regulated consumables;

FIG. 3 A includes an isometric interior cut view of an example truck equipped with vending machines and other equipment for distribution of regulated consumables;

FIG. 3B includes an isometric exterior view of an example container equipped for distribution of regulated consumables that may also be used as a sales kiosk;

FIG. 3C includes a top plan view of a cargo area of a vehicle such as a truck or a container that may be used for processing and distribution of regulated consumables;

FIG. 4A includes a conceptual illustration of an example long-range truck based regulated consumable distribution system over a map of Western United States;

FIG. 4B includes another conceptual illustration of an example short-range truck based regulated consumable distribution system over a map of a local area;

FIG. 4C includes an example map and regulated consumable distribution route with different regulatory and/or taxation zones; FIG. 5A is a flow diagram illustrating an example method for regulated consumable distribution;

FIG. 5B is a flow diagram illustrating another example method for regulated consumable distribution; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a computing device, which may be used to manage an example regulated consumable distribution system, at least some of which are arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. The aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein.

[0010] This disclosure is generally drawn, inter alia, to methods, apparatus, systems, devices, and/or computer program products related to distribution of regulated consumables.

[0011] Briefly stated, technologies are generally described for distribution of regulated consumables. Distribution of regulated consumables such as alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis may begin with inventory operations such as predictive inventory to determine a quantity of regulated consumables to be transported to a delivery location. Transportation of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure may be controlled, for example, through an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle. A regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable may be determined based on the delivery location (e.g., restrictions near a school or place of worship), delivery time (e.g., restrictions based on day of week or time of day), and/or recipient (e.g., age restrictions). Upon confirming compliance with the determined regulation, delivery of the regulated consumable may be completed by providing access to the storage enclosure. Regulated consumables may also be partially processed during transport with control of process parameters (e.g., environmental parameters). Auditable records of deliveries may be maintained.

[0012] FIG. 1A includes a high-level block diagram for an example regulated consumable distribution system, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0013] As shown in diagram 100A, regulated consumables 102 may include alcoholic beverages, alcohol-infused consumable goods, chewable or inhalable tobacco products, raw or processed cannabis products, cannabis-infused consumable goods, or the like may be distributed to long- or short-range delivery destinations 112. Transportation 108 of the regulated consumables 102 may be arranged through different types of vehicles such as a truck, a container, a railway car, an aircraft, a watercraft, or similar ones. The transport vehicle may be human-controlled, autonomous, or semi-autonomous. Destination, route (e.g., route selection or suggestions, road conditions), traffic, and environmental (e.g., weather conditions), and similar information may be provided by a remote control system 104 to the transportation vehicle as instructions to a driver or instructions to an on-board controller in case of semi-autonomous or autonomous vehicles.

[0014] A number of aspects of regulated consumable transportation such as a controlled environment, inventory management, packaging, labeling, and advertisement (110) may be associated with the transportation vehicle. For example, one or more controlled environments may be provided to ensure safety and freshness of the transported consumables. Parameters of the controlled environment may be adjusted based on consumable type and/or delivery. For example, alcoholic beverages that are desired to be consumed cold may be chilled as the transport mechanism approaches a delivery location (as opposed to being kept cold throughout the delivery route). In case of different types of consumables being stored in the same transport mechanism, multiple environments with different temperatures, humidity levels, a motion (shaking or reduced motion to prevent sloshing), an atmosphere composition, lighting (e.g., composition and level of lighting), etc. may be provided.

[0015] An inventory tracking system may keep track of and estimate needed inventory (predictive inventory) based on past delivery records and other information. The other information may include expected arrival time at a location, conditions at the delivery location (e.g., a sports or entertainment event with large attendance, weather conditions, season, etc.), and similar information that may help predict needed inventory and/or adjust environmental conditions for the consumables.

[0016] In some examples, regulated consumables may be at least partially processed prior to delivery. For example, alcoholic beverages, cannabis products, chewable tobacco, or the like may be prepared, mixed, or packaged in desired quantities or containers based on expected sales or orders at the delivery destination or as the transport vehicle approaches the delivery destination. Regulated consumable packaging or container may also be labeled according to applicable regulations at the delivery destination or as the transport vehicle approaches the delivery destination.

[0017] Furthermore, the transport vehicle may be equipped with one or more display devices outside or inside, which may display information associated with the regulated consumables and/or advertisements. The displayed information (or advertisement) may be adjusted based on applicable regulations in some cases.

[0018] Controlled access may be provided at the delivery destination 112 to a cargo area of the parked transport vehicle or by installing a portion of the transport vehicle at the delivery destination. For example, the transport vehicle may be a truck carrying pre-filled vending machines with access control equipment. Once the truck reaches a delivery destination, the vending machine(s) may be unloaded manually or automatically for distribution. In another example, a container may be configured as a controlled access kiosk and include regulated consumables. At the delivery destination, the truck may unload the container. Door(s) or other access openings of the container may be opened and regulated consumables offered for delivery at that point.

[0019] The transport vehicle or a portion of it (e.g., cargo area of a truck or container) may be equipped with an automatic release mechanism that may release purchased consumables to a consumer or a delivery person upon confirmation of compliance with applicable regulations and application of relevant taxes and fees. For controlled access, the automatic release mechanism may be equipped with device(s) to confirm a person’s identity (or qualification to receive the consumable). The mechanism may also be configured to provide different types of consumables. The automatic release mechanism as described herein (optionally together with other components according to embodiments) may be implemented in controlled-access sale locations, hotel refrigerators, and similar consumable distribution locations. [0020] In case of partial processing of the regulated consumables during delivery, any preparation, mixing, packaging, and/or labeling may be performed/completed en route or at the delivery destination 112. The transport vehicle and/or transported container, vending machines, etc. may be equipped with one or more display devices outside or inside as mentioned above. Displayed information associated with the regulated consumables and/or advertisements may be adjusted based on applicable regulations at the delivery destination and/or time. The delivery aspects discussed above are indicated in diagram 100A by reference numeral 114.

[0021] Remote control system 104 may manage various aspects 106 of regulated consumable distribution such as controlling travel of the transport vehicle (e.g., by providing instructions for destination, route, etc.), determining and managing inventory, determining applicable regulations and confirming compliance with the determined regulations, controlling partial processing parameters, maintaining auditable records of deliveries, controlling displayed information or advertisements, and managing controlled access at the delivery destination. The remote control system 104 may manage the various aspects of regulated consumable distribution centrally and/or by communicating with local controllers and other devices at the transport vehicle.

[0022] FIG. IB includes a summary of considerations in distributing regulated consumables by the example system of FIG. 1A, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0023] As shown in diagram 100B, example considerations in distribution of regulated consumables may include regulatory compliance 120, taxes and fees 122, inventory control 124, environmental control 126, and partial processing 128. Regulatory compliance 120 may include determination and enforcement of regulations based on day 132 and/or time 136 of delivery. For example, delivery of regulated consumable may be restricted on certain days (e.g., Sundays or certain Hobdays) or certain times of day (e.g., after midnight). Regulations may also be based on location 134 of the delivery. For example, certain consumables such as alcohol or cannabis may not be delivered within a prescribed perimeter of a school, place of worship, prison, etc. A recipient of delivery 138 may also be subject to regulations. For example, age-based restrictions may be applicable, intoxicated persons may not be allowed to receive regulated consumables, etc. Other regulations may also prescribe information 140 that has to be displayed at the delivery location (e.g., on display device(s) inside our outside of the transport vehicle) or control content, timing, and format of advertisements associated with the delivered regulated consumables.

[0024] Regulated consumables may be subject to varying local, state, and federal (and corresponding versions in other countries) taxes and fees. A delivery system according to embodiments may generate and maintain auditable records of applied regulations and taxes such that even when delivery (or sale) is made at different locations and at different times, compliance can be proven through the records. If a delivery is unsuccessful due to non-compliance (e.g., age of recipient not meeting requirements), access may be prevented, a warning may be issued, and/or a record of the unsuccessful attempt may be maintained. In case of successful delivery, record of sale, applied taxes and fees, and recipient information may be kept. On-board devices such as point-of-sale (POS) terminals and comparable computing devices may be used in completing sales and capturing information for the auditable records.

[0025] An inventory tracking system may keep track of and estimate needed inventory (predictive inventory) based on past delivery records and other information. The other information may include expected arrival time at a location, conditions at the delivery location (e.g., a sports or entertainment event with large attendance, weather conditions, season, etc.), and similar information that may help predict needed inventory and/or adjust environmental conditions for the consumables.

[0026] For environmental control 126, regulated consumables may be maintained in a controlled environment in the transport mechanism, which may be adjusted based on consumable type and/or delivery. For example, alcoholic beverages that are desired to be consumed cold may be chilled as the transport mechanism approaches a delivery location (as opposed to being kept cold throughout the delivery route). In case of different types of consumables being stored in the same transport mechanism, multiple environments with different temperatures, humidity levels, a motion (shaking or reduced motion to prevent sloshing), an atmosphere composition, lighting (e.g., composition and level of lighting), etc. may be provided.

[0027] In some examples, regulated consumables may be at least partially processed prior to delivery. For example, alcoholic beverages, cannabis products, chewable tobacco, or the like may be packaged (142) in desired quantities or containers based on expected sales or orders at the delivery destination or as the transport vehicle approaches the delivery destination. Regulated consumable packaging or container may also be labeled (144) according to applicable regulations at the delivery destination or as the transport vehicle approaches the delivery destination. In addition, one or more display devices, outside or inside the transport vehicle, may display information associated with the regulated consumables and/or advertisements. The displayed information (or advertisement) may be adjusted based on applicable regulations (location or time of delivery, for example) in some cases.

[0028] A remote control system 104 comprising one or more servers and other computing devices may manage performance of tasks associated with the aspects discussed above. The remote control system 104 may perform or control performance of the tasks in conjunction with other computing devices and special purpose devices on the transport vehicle, on any containers and similar transport or distribution mechanisms, as well as, at the delivery destination 112. For example, various robotic devices on the transport vehicle may be used to perform partial processing tasks, autonomous drive controllers may guide the transport vehicle, POS and access control devices may perform sale and delivery completion tasks, etc.

[0029] In some examples, the transport vehicle may deliver regulated consumables to multiple delivery destinations. An order of the delivery destinations and or a route of travel may be selected and adjusted based on applicable regulations, traffic conditions, environmental conditions, etc. For example, a number of orders and/or types of regulated consumables ordered may change while the transport mechanism is en route. Based on the changes, a new route or a new order of delivery destinations may be determined.

[0030] FIG. 2A includes an isometric exterior view of an example truck equipped distribution of regulated consumables, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0031] Diagram 200A shows an exterior view of a regulated consumable transport truck 208 that includes a cab portion 206 and a cargo portion 212, according to at least one illustrated implementation. The truck 208 may further include a wireless communications interface, such as one or more antennas 210 coupled to an internally installed transceiver. The one or more antennas 210 may, for example, be located on or above the roof of the cab portion 206. The antenna(s) 210 may be communicatively coupled to enable communication between components on the truck 208 and a remote control system 202 located remotely from the truck via a communications network 204. The cargo portion 212 may include a back wall 216. The dimensions (width, length, and height) of the cargo portion 212 may be based on local or state ordinances regarding delivery, such as, for example, local or state ordinances governing consumable delivery vehicles, as well as, delivery environment needs (size of streets, parking spaces), delivered/processed consumables, etc.

[0032] The back wall 216 may include one or more doors 214 that are sized and dimensioned to provide access to a cargo area enclosed within the cargo portion 212 of the delivery truck. In some implementations, the door(s) 214 may be a single door that stretches substantially across (i.e., >50%) the width of the back wall 216 or a smaller door covering only a portion of the back wall 216 may be physically, rotationally coupled to the back wall 216 by a set of one or more hinges. In some implementations, the door 214 may include one or more additional small doors 218 that may enable regulated consumables to be passed from the cargo portion to a delivery recipient standing outside of the vehicle. The door 214 (and/or the small doors 218) may be fitted with electronically controlled locks to provide controlled access to the regulated consumables upon confirmation of compliance with applicable regulations.

[0033] In some scenarios, an exterior surface of one or both of the side walls of the cargo portion 212 may be used to attach a static image, a display monitor, or an electronic paper (219) for informational, advertising, or branding purposes. In case of display monitor or electronic paper, displayed information may be location- and/or time-based, that is, it may change depending on the location and/or time of the truck, regulated consumable being delivered, etc. Displayed information may be pre-loaded to an on-board controller or dynamically changed by the remote controller.

[0034] In some examples, the static image, the display monitor, or the electronic paper may be arranged to cover a majority or substantially all of the exterior side walls and the remaining surfaces of the truck may be generic. That way, by changing the displayed information, a brand identity presented by the truck may be completely changed with minimal effort and time. For example, the truck may be configured to reflect the brand and products of a first business (e.g., a tobacco company) in the morning. Then, in the afternoon, the brand and products presented on the static image, the display monitor, or the electronic paper may be modified to represent a second business (e.g., a distillery).

[0035] The cargo portion 212 may be fitted with preparation equipment to allow partial preparation and regulated consumables manually, semi-autonomously, or fully autonomously while the truck is en route (or upon reaching the delivery destination). Robotic devices, refrigerators, warmers, sorters, packaging equipment, labeling equipment, etc. may be installed in the cargo portion 212 for the partial processing purposes.

[0036] In some example embodiments, the truck may be used as a delivery hub. For example, the truck may pick up ready-to-deliver or partially processed regulated consumables at a source and drive to a central location for expected deliveries (e.g., a parking lot, a business, etc.). Once the truck is parked (or in some cases, still en route), regulated consumables may be provided to human delivery people, airborne or ground-based drones for delivery to end destinations (e.g., homes, businesses, etc.). The delivery drones may be manually controlled by a human who is located locally or remotely from the delivery robot, and/or controlled autonomously, for example using location input or coordinate from an on-board GPS or GLONASS positioning system and receiver for from one or more wireless service provider cellular towers. In some implementations, location input and/or positioning may be provided using on-board telemetry to determine position, vision systems coupled with pre-recorded photos of the surrounding environment, peer-to-peer relative positioning with other autonomous or non- autonomous vehicles, and/or triangulation with signals from other autonomous or non- autonomous vehicles. In some implementations involving multiple delivery drones, the delivery drones may make deliveries during overlapping time periods.

[0037] In other examples, one of the side walls of the cargo portion 212 may include a service window (not shown), which may be used for receiving customer orders, providing regulated consumables to customers or delivery people / drones. The service window may be sized, dimensioned, and located to facilitate transactions between customers and operators of the truck and/or drones thereof. The location of the service window may be modified based upon the layout of equipment within the cargo area. In some implementations, an access cover of the service window may be rotated upwards and outwards to form a canopy over the service window when the truck is parked. The service window may be aligned with a counter and/or payment system (cash register, card reader, point-of-sale (POS) terminal, etc.) that may be controlled by an operator of the truck. A POS terminal may include a wireless access point, which allows orders to be placed and paid for by a delivery recipient via a mobile device (e.g., smartphone, tablet computer). In some implementations, a delivery recipient may place an order using a kiosk or point of sale terminal that may be accessible to the delivery recipient. Such a kiosk or terminal may be physically attached to the truck or a part thereof. Alternatively, the kiosk or terminal may be detached and spaced from the truck, such as a kiosk or terminal that is wirelessly coupled to the truck for processing of an order.

[0038] FIG. 2B includes a conceptual illustration of a semi-truck that may be used for autonomous, modular distribution of regulated consumables, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0039] As shown in diagram 200B, a semi -truck may have a cab 221 and a trailer portion 220. The trailer portion 220 may include a container with a number of distinct modules 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234. Some of the modules may be fitted with equipment for partial processing of the regulated consumables. Other modules may be used to provide controlled access to delivery recipients to enter and receive their consumables upon completion of the sale and confirmation of regulatory compliance. For example, beer products 248 may be provided in module 228, wine products 246 may be provided in module 226, cannabis products 244 may be provided in module 224, tobacco products 242 may be provided in module 222, etc. In such configurations, each module may be provided with distinct access control mechanisms to prevent a person accessing regulated consumables they may not be allowed to have access to.

[0040] Partial processing equipment installed in the distinct modules may be configured to perform different steps of a preparation process. For example, module 234 may include storage equipment with or without chilling (or warming). Module 232 may include regulated consumable sorting equipment for sorting determined quantities of regulated consumables and packaging them (e.g., bottling, bagging, boxing, etc. Operational parameters for modules 232 and 234 may include predefined temperatures, humidity, air composition, air pressure, etc. and may be controlled by an on-board controller or a remote controller. Module 230 may include labeling equipment that may be configured to label sorted and packaged regulated consumables according to applicable regulations.

[0041] In some implementations, the liquid regulated consumables (e.g., beer or wine spritzers) may be carbonated, for example, via a carbon dioxide system with a reservoir of carbon dioxide, conduits, valves, actuators (e.g., solenoids, electric motors), compressors, pumps, blowers, operable to introduce carbon dioxide in a gaseous form into the drink or beverage. The drink or beverage may be maintained in bulk form without carbon dioxide during transit, and the carbon dioxide may be added in the vehicle prior to delivery to a delivery recipient of the alcoholic drink or beverage. [0042] FIG. 2C includes an isometric exterior view of an example railway car equipped with a container for distribution of regulated consumables, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0043] Diagram 200C shows an intermodal shipping container 254 loaded onto a railway car 252. The container 254 may have same or similar features as corresponding standardized shipping containers in use throughout the world, and dimensions and other characteristics in accordance with corresponding standards for shipping containers. In some implementations, the container 254 may have an external an elongated side face with an opening 256, a top face, and a front end comprising a pair of doors 258. In addition to being transported on a railway car, the container 254 may also be transported on a semi-truck, a flat-bed truck, a watercraft, and similar vehicles.

[0044] In some embodiments, a partial processing container and/or a controlled access delivery kiosk may be dimensioned to slide into and fit inside a shell of the shipping container 254. The partial processing container may include a pair of doors 258 for access to the inside space. The partial processing container may be configured to house autonomous preparation equipment such that partially processed regulated consumables may be loaded into the container at a starting station and packaged products may be completed by the time the container 254 reaches its destination. The container 254 may also have access ports as discussed above in conjunction with the transport truck. Thus, in some cases, the dimensions of the partial processing container and/or the controlled access kiosk may be smaller than the shipping container 254 acting as the outer shell.

[0045] In some alternative implementations, the opening 256 of the container 254 may be configured and dimensioned to act as entry point to the controlled access kiosk such that the fully stocked container 254 may be placed at the delivery destination to allow recipients to enter and receive the regulated consumables. Once the inventory in the container 254 reaches predefined level (e.g., empty), the container may be replaced with another one. The container 254 may include suitable control, power, communications, and computing equipment in addition to the partial processing equipment such as transport or processing robots, sorting devices, cooling devices, storage equipment, etc. [0046] FIG. 3 A includes an isometric interior cut view of an example truck equipped with vending machines and other equipment for distribution of regulated consumables, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0047] Diagram 300A shows the example truck with a cab portion 302 and cargo portion 304. The cargo portion 304 may be equipped with an access-controlled door 306, which may be opened to allow access to a regulated consumable recipient only upon confirmation of compliance with applicable regulations. For example, an electronic lock mechanism may allow the door to be opened once location- and time-based restrictions are confirmed to not apply and an identity (e.g., for age restrictions) of the recipient is confirmed.

[0048] Devices such as a POS terminal 310, an identity verification terminal 312, and others may be placed inside (with access from outside) or outside the door 306. a camera 308 or similar image capture device may be used for security purposes, as well as, identity verification (e.g., confirmation of age through facial recognition).

[0049] Inside the cargo portion 304, one or more vending machine type equipment may be set up to deliver different amounts or packages of the same regulated consumable or different types of regulated consumables. For example, one vending machine 314 may include bottled alcoholic beverages (same kind or different kinds) 316. Another vending machine 320 may include different types of regulated consumables such as bags of cannabis 322, boxes of cigarettes 324, and bottles of alcoholic beverages 326. The vending machines may be controlled by an on-board controller, which upon confirmation of regulatory compliance and completion of sale may cause the vending machine to dispense the ordered consumable. In other examples, each vending machine may be equipped with distinct access control mechanisms (e.g., its own POS terminal, identity verification terminal, etc.).

[0050] FIG. 3B includes an isometric exterior view of an example container equipped for distribution of regulated consumables that may also be used as a sales kiosk, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0051] As discussed herein, various vehicles and configurations may be used to transport and deliver regulated consumables. For example, a cargo area of a truck or a watercraft may be fitted to provide controlled access to recipients upon confirmation of compliance with applicable regulations. Diagram 300B shows another example configuration, where a container may be arranged to transport and deliver regulated consumables. Inside the container, automated (or manual) devices may be installed for partial processing of regulated consumables during transport and deliver upon confirmation of compliance and completion of sale. For example, a portion of the container may be configured to deliver regulated consumables through an attendant. A service window 330 may allow completion of sale operations (e.g., payment, identification confirmation, etc.) and handing of packaged consumables to the recipients by the attendant.

[0052] Another portion of the container may be configured for automated delivery as vending machine 340. Different types and/or amounts of regulated consumables 342 may be in controlled access compartments. A POS device and other financial transaction, regulatory compliance devices (e.g., identification reader) 344 may also be installed at the vending machine 340 such that recipients can take delivery of the consumables even when the attendant is not present.

[0053] The container may also include electronic or non-electronic displays 332, 334, 336 to display required information, advertisements, or branding information. Content and format of the displayed information may be adjusted based on applicable regulations (e.g., location or time) or delivered consumables (e.g., different information for tobacco products, cannabis products, alcohol products, etc.)

[0054] FIG. 3C includes a top plan view of a cargo area of a vehicle such as a truck or a container that may be used for processing and distribution of regulated consumables, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0055] As discussed herein, regulated consumables may, in some cases, be partially processed during transport and/or upon reaching a delivery destination. In such scenarios, the transport vehicle may be equipped with devices to perform partial processing tasks. Diagram 300C shows an example container equipped with robotic devices (e.g., robotic arm 368 and robotic platform 360) to move the regulated consumables between different preparation equipment. Preparation equipment may include, but is not limited to, storage equipment 354, 355, 356. Different storage equipment may store regulated consumables at different temperatures. For example, storage equipment 354 may store tobacco products at room temperature, storage equipment 355 may store alcoholic beverages in colder temperatures, and storage equipment 356 may store cannabis-infused products at warmer temperatures. Each storage equipment may have suitable access doors 358. A robotic platform 360, movable along a rail 362 may move the regulated consumables in and out of the storage equipment and to and from other preparation equipment.

[0056] Other preparation equipment may include a sorter 372, which may sort and separate predefined quantities of regulated consumables, a preparation surface 370, packaging equipment 364 to package sorted consumables in bottles, bags, boxes, and other packaging options. The packaging equipment 364 may include different portions 366 for different packaging options (bottling, bagging, boxing, etc.). A robotic arm 368 may move regulated consumables along a side wall 352 of the container between the different preparation equipment. Packaged consumables may be labeled according to applicable regulations by labeling equipment 374 and 378 depending on the packaging type. For example, labeling equipment 374 may label bottles, while labeling equipment 378 may label boxes and bags.

[0057] An access door or window 380 may be used to dispense processed, packaged, and labeled consumables from the container. In some implementations, the on-board control system and/or the remote control system may have access to one or more sensors or imagers to review progress of partial processing. Such sensors may include, for example, one or more cameras 308 that may be used to visually confirm that the preparation equipment are operating as intended and to determine whether human intervention is needed. Other sensors (not shown) such as motion detectors, mechanical sensors (e.g., to confirm doors are open or closed), optical sensors, and piezo-electric sensors. The container may also include an operator area 376 where an operator can stand during an on-demand operation. The operator area 376 may be separated from the area used by the robotic platform by a wall that runs at least partially along the length of the container. The operator area 376 may include a service counter proximate to the access door or window 380.

[0058] In some cases, dispensing, transfer, conveyance of regulated consumables may be adjusted based on determined travel and environmental information (estimated measured, etc.). For example, a sealed conveyor may be used when vehicle vibrations or sway are high based on road conditions. Additionally or alternatively, regulated consumable transfer processes and/or equipment may be slowed down to accommodate travel information leading to vehicle conditions at edges of operational parameters (high road tilt, vehicle sway or vibration, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, multifunctional equipment (e.g., a processor, a blender, a chilling unit, or a warming unit) may be selected and used for a regulated consumables partial processing to reduce spillage, spoilage, etc. to accommodate expected or measured travel information.

[0059] While specific arrangements of preparation equipment, including arrangements where the equipment is installed against the walls, have been illustrated, any arrangement of preparation equipment may be used within the container. For example, preparation equipment may be provided in any number of rows, such as one, two, three, four, or five rows extending along the length of the container. As another example, preparation equipment may be provided in any number of layers, such as one, two, three, four, or five layers stacked vertically on top of one another. In general, the arrangement of the equipment within the interior space of the container may be determined or driven by improvements to the overall efficiency of the partial processing system. Inner surfaces of the walls and doors, as well as, surfaces of preparation equipment may be made of various plastics or of stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or other oligodynamic materials. Doors, windows, or comparable openings may be closed to seal, such as hermetically seal, the interior of the container from an external environment. In other implementations, the container may have one or more segmented airlocks to control, allow, or prevent the flow of air between the interior of the container and the external environment, and prevent or contain infestations. In some implementations, one or more cleaning systems, such as a robotic cleaning system that sweeps, mops, and/or vacuums various surfaces within the container and/or a UV (ultra-violet) lighting system may be used to disinfect and self-clean the interior of the container. Such automated and manual cleaning systems and techniques may be combined to maintain a level of cleanliness within the interior of the container that meets or exceeds all legal requirements and other standards for cleanliness in consumable processing or preparation facilities.

[0060] In some implementations, the container may be provided with equipment to control a temperature, a pressure, a humidity, an oxygen level, a carbon dioxide level, a nitrogen level, an argon level, levels of other inert gases, levels of other chemical compositions, and/or other properties of the air within the interior of the container. The equipment may create distinct zones or regions within the interior of the container that have different temperatures, different pressures, different humidities, different oxygen levels, different carbon dioxide levels, different nitrogen levels, different argon levels, different levels of other inert gases, different levels of other chemical compositions, and/or different levels of other properties. Such zones within the container may be used for different purposes, such as to delay oxidation of regulated consumables (e.g., alcoholic beverages) or to accelerate consumability of the regulated consumables (e.g., airing of wine). In one specific implementation, the interior of the container may be compartmentalized into a sanitary consumable processing or preparation portion and a processed or prepared consumable storage portion separated from one another by an airlock or an air curtain. In another specific implementation, an entire interior of the container may be refrigerated. The container may also include one or more air sampling and testing systems to test the properties of the air within the container, such as a temperature, a pressure, a humidity, an oxygen level, a carbon dioxide level, a nitrogen level, an argon level, levels of other inert gases, levels or other chemical compositions, and/or any levels of other properties of the air within the interior of the container.

[0061] FIG. 4 A includes a conceptual illustration of an example long-range truck based regulated consumable distribution system over a map of Western United States, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0062] Regulated consumable delivery may be long distance such as interstate but may also be short-distance such as between two cities, within a city or a neighborhood. On the other hand, long-distance regulated consumable delivery may be even international or intercontinental and may implement one or more different delivery vehicles of which all or only a portion may be used to partially process regulated consumables. Depending on the type of delivery distance, the delivery vehicle may be a small truck, a semi-truck, a train, a watercraft, or a container arranged to fit in any one or more of the listed vehicles. Diagram 400A shows an example interstate delivery route on a map 410 with starting station 414, intermediary waypoints 416, and final delivery destination 418.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the delivery truck 412 may be equipped with equipment that may include robotic devices such that regulated consumables can be partially processed autonomously while the delivery truck 412 is en route. An on-board controller may manage operations of the robotic devices to perform tasks associated with partial processing according to timing requirements of the travel route. Other on-board devices may include devices to complete sales, identification confirmation, and other controlled access operations. In some examples, the on-board controller may receive travel information and/or regulated consumable information from a remote computing device such as server 406. Travel information may include any one or more of one or more delivery destinations, one or more potential routes between delivery destinations, road condition information for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, licensing information, vehicle information, and/or weather condition information for the potential routes. The regulated consumable information may include source information, quantity information, quality information, and/or type information associated with ingredients for the regulated consumable to be partially processed. The regulated consumable information may also include packaging and labeling information associated with the regulated consumable to be processed.

[0064] The on-board controller may communicate 409 with the server 406 and/or with other resources such as a global positioning system server via wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, or wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), microwave, infrared (IR) and other wireless media (e.g., terrestrial based or satellite based). In some cases, a backend system including a number of servers (e.g., server 404) and other general purpose of special purpose devices (e.g., satellite 408) communicating over a network 402 may collect the travel information and/or regulated consumable information, and provide travel and/or regulated consumable processing instructions to the on-board controller. In other cases, the on board controller may receive part or all of the information and generate the instructions itself.

[0065] In some examples, regulated consumables or ingredients for the regulated consumables may be received by the delivery truck 412 may be received all at the starting station 414 or at various intermediary waypoints 416, Similarly, regulated consumables may be delivered all to the final delivery destination 418 or at some of the intermediary waypoints 416 as well. In other examples, updated traffic information or delivery instructions may be received while en route. For example, the truck may be instructed to deliver the regulated consumables to a new delivery destination 419. Upon receiving the updated information, partial processing steps and their timing may be adjusted to ensure the regulated consumables are properly prepared timely for arrival at the delivery destination.

[0066] FIG. 4B includes a conceptual illustration of an example short-range truck based regulated consumable distribution system over a map of a local area, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0067] Diagram 400B shows a short-distance regulated consumable delivery on map 420 with the delivery truck 422 having an in-city travel route. The delivery truck 422 may be completely autonomous, capable of moving from one location to another under its own control or the control of a remote processor-based system without user input or user control. Alternatively, the delivery truck 422 may be semi-autonomous, capable of moving from one location to another under its own control or the control of a remote processor-based system. For example, the delivery truck 422 may be capable of moving from one location to another under with a minimal amount of user input or minimal amount of user control.

[0068] In some cases, a delivery destination 424 may be a fixed location compliant with location-based regulations. In other cases, delivery destinations may be flexible and determined while the truck is en route (e.g., based on orders or timing of the truck’s arrival). In such scenarios, location (and time) based regulations may be determined and taken into account. For example, regulated consumables may not be allowed to be delivered near a school 428 or a place of worship 426. Thus, a flexible delivery destination (e.g., a parking lot) may be selected based on location restrictions. Similarly, time-based restrictions may also be considered. For example, one locality may not allow delivery of regulated consumables on Sundays, while a neighboring locality may allow such deliveries. Thus, the delivery destination may be selected based on the locality boundaries and day of the week in such a scenario.

[0069] FIG. 4C includes an example map and regulated consumable distribution route with different regulatory and/or taxation zones, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0070] The map in diagram 400C shows an area divided into three zones 442, 444, and 446. The zones 442, 444, and 446 may be regulatory zones and/or taxation zones, that is, different regulations and/or taxes (or fees) may be applicable to sale/delivery of regulated consumables. For example, delivery of regulated consumables may be prohibited between 10.00 pm and 6.00 am, as well as, on Sundays in zone 444, whereas prohibited times may be between 12.00 am and 6.00 am and Sundays in zone 442. In zone 446, there may be no time-based restrictions. In another example, delivery may be restricted to areas outside of a 1 -mile region around schools in zones 442 and 444, whereas the restricted area may encompass a circle with a radius of 0.5-mile around schools in zone 446. Similarly, the three distinct zone may apply different amounts of taxes on sale of regulated consumables. In some cases, the taxation rates may be time or day of the week based. Furthermore, the applicable regulations and/or the taxes may be based on a type of regulated consumable (e.g., cannabis taxed differently from tobacco products). Age-based restrictions on recipients may also vary depending on the locality zone.

[0071] A transport vehicle (e.g., truck 432) may deliver regulated consumables to destinations 434 and 436 along route 438 and provide controlled access to recipients at the destinations 434 and 436. As the destinations 434 and 436 are in different zones, an on-board controller or a remote control system may determine applicable and/or taxes for each destination. Access to the consumables, calculation of taxes and fees, and generation of delivery records may then be managed based on the determined regulations and taxes. Thus, operations of the access control and sale may be different at each destination for the same transport truck.

[0072] In some examples, a travel route and timing of the transport tuck’s arrival at the delivery destinations may be dynamically adjusted based on the applicable regulations and/or taxes. In one example scenario, alcohol sales may be prohibited between 10.00 pm and 6.00 am in zone 444, while the restricted times may be between 12.00 am and 6.00 am in zone 442. If the truck’s estimated arrival time is 9.00 pm at destination 436 (in zone 442), the on-board controller or the remote controller may instruct the truck to skip destination 436 and arrive in destination 434 first. The truck may then be instructed to return to destination 436 at 10.00 pm. That way, the time that truck can be open for deliveries in both destinations may be optimized.

[0073] In another scenario, the controller may determine, based on received traffic condition information, that the truck will reach destination 436 about 30 minutes before the time restriction. Instead of keeping the truck at destination 436 for only 30 minutes, the controller may instruct the truck to go directly to destination 434, where it may be open for business for a longer period based on the restrictions at that zone.

[0074] FIG. 5A is a flow diagram illustrating an example method for regulated consumable distribution, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0075] Example methods may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 522, 524, 526, 528, and 530, which may in some embodiments be performed by a computing device such as the computing device 510 in FIG. 5 A and/or other general purpose and specialized devices communicatively coupled to the computing device 510. Such operations, functions, or actions in FIG. 5 A and in the other figures, in some embodiments, may be combined, eliminated, modified, and/or supplemented with other operations, functions or actions, and need not necessarily be performed in the exact sequence as shown. The operations described in the blocks 522-530 may be implemented through execution of computer-executable instructions stored in a computer-readable medium such as a computer- readable medium 520 of the computing device 510.

[0076] An example process for regulated consumable distribution may begin with block 522, “DETERMINE A QUANTITY OF A REGULATED CONSUMABLE TO BE TRANSPORTED TO A DELIVERY LOCATION BASED ON A PREDICTIVE INVENTORY COMPUTATION”, where an inventory tracking system may keep track of and estimate needed inventory (predictive inventory) based on past delivery records and other information. The other information may include expected arrival time at a location, conditions at the delivery location (e.g., a sports or entertainment event with large attendance, weather conditions, season, etc.), and similar information that may help predict needed inventory and/or adjust environmental conditions for the consumables.

[0077] Block 522 may be followed by block 524, “CONTROL TRANSPORTATION OF THE DETERMINED QUANTITY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLE TO THE DELIVERY LOCATION IN AN ACCESS- AND/OR ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED STORAGE ENCLOSURE”, where an on-board controller may manage travel of the transport vehicle between a starting point and a delivery destination or multiple delivery destinations. Regulated consumables may be maintained in a controlled environment in the transport vehicle, which may be adjusted based on consumable type and/or delivery. For example, alcoholic beverages that are desired to be consumed cold may be chilled as the transport vehicle approaches a delivery location (as opposed to being kept cold throughout the delivery route). In case of different types of consumables being stored in the same transport vehicle, multiple environments with different temperatures, humidity levels, a motion (shaking or reduced motion to prevent sloshing), an atmosphere composition, lighting (e.g., composition and level of lighting), etc. may be provided.

[0078] Block 524 may be followed by block 526, “DETERMINE A REGULATION APPLICABLE TO DELIVERY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLE BASED ON THE DELIVERY LOCATION AND/OR A DELIVERY TIME”, where the on-board controller may take local, state, federal (and country in case of non-US countries) regulations into account. The controller may determine regulations imposing restrictions on sales or handling of certain consumables based on age, location, or time. Taxes and fees imposed on sales of regulated consumables may also vary depending on location and therefore different taxation computations may be applied depending on the location of delivery. In some examples, determining the regulation applicable to delivery may include licensed operations of the vehicle. For example, the vehicle may be licensed in Zone 1 but not licensed in Zone 2. Based on the licensing status determination, a location, a time, or other factors associated with the requested regulated consumable delivery may be adjusted to be in compliance with the determined regulation. As an example implementation of the adjustment, the delivery recipient may be notified that the delivery will occur within Zone 1 at a location close to Zone 2 and not Zone 2 as requested by the delivery recipient, the time of delivery may be changed to be within local regulations, or the order for the regulated consumable cancelled. Additionally, a confirmation of changed requested delivery parameters or cancellation of the order may be received from delivery recipient.

[0079] Block 526 may be followed by block 528, “CONFIRMING COMPLIANCE WITH THE DETERMINED REGULATION”, where the controller may confirm compliance with the determined regulation(s), for example, by verifying an age of a recipient, time of delivery, location of delivery, etc. against requirements of the determined regulation. In some examples, confirming compliance with the determined regulation may include authenticating the delivery recipient is within the regulation, which may include confirming an identity and/or age of the delivery recipient. For example, a two-step process of compliance confirmation may be employed first confirming electronically the delivery recipient’ s compliance and then confirming that the delivery recipient is actually the same person prior to delivery. An example implementation may include receiving a user identification card number, for example, at the time an order is accepted. The delivery recipient may then be asked to scan the same identification card prior to delivery, where a compliance system may scan the delivery recipient’s face and compare to a picture on the user identification card.

[0080] Block 528 may be followed by block 530, “CONTROL COMPLETION OF THE DELIVERY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLE TO A DELIVERY RECIPIENT AT THE DELIVERY LOCATION BY PROVIDING ACCESS TO THE STORAGE ENCLOSURE”, where delivery may be completed based on the confirmed compliance. The transport vehicle (e.g., cargo area of a truck or container) may be equipped with an automatic release mechanism that may release purchased consumables to a consumer or a delivery person upon confirmation of compliance with applicable regulations and application of relevant taxes and fees. The automatic release mechanism may be equipped with device(s) to confirm a person’s identity (or qualification to receive the consumable). The mechanism may also be configured to provide different types of consumables. The automatic release mechanism as described herein (optionally together with other components according to embodiments) may be implemented in controlled-access sale locations, hotel refrigerators, and similar consumable distribution locations.

[0081] FIG. 5B is a flow diagram illustrating another example method for regulated consumable distribution, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0082] Example methods may include one or more operations, functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 542, 544, 546, 548, and 550, which may in some embodiments be performed by a computing device such as the computing device 510 in FIG. 5B and/or other general purpose and specialized devices communicatively coupled to the computing device 510. Such operations, functions, or actions in FIG. 5B and in the other figures, in some embodiments, may be combined, eliminated, modified, and/or supplemented with other operations, functions or actions, and need not necessarily be performed in the exact sequence as shown. The operations described in the blocks 542-550 may be implemented through execution of computer-executable instructions stored in a computer-readable medium such as a computer- readable medium 520 of the computing device 510.

[0083] Another example process for regulated consumable distribution may begin with block 542, “RECEIVE, FROM THE REMOTE COMPUTING DEVICE, QUANTITY INFORMATION OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLES TO BE TRANSPORTED TO THE DELIVERY LOCATION DETERMINED BASED ON A PREDICTIVE INVENTORY COMPUTATION”, where an on-board controller may receive inventory information from a remote control system to perform on-board inventory operations such as receiving regulated consumables to be transported, stocking on-board storage equipment, etc.

[0084] Block 542 may be followed by block 544, “CONTROL TRANSPORTATION OF THE DETERMINED QUANTITY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLE TO THE DELIVERY LOCATION IN AN ACCESS- AND/OR ENVIRONMENT-CONTROLLED STORAGE ENCLOSURE”, where the on-board controller may receive instructions / information associated with controlling travel of the transport vehicle and management of on- board environmental controls (as well as partial processing) and perform the tasks based on the received instructions/information.

[0085] Block 544 may be followed by block 546, “RECEIVE, FROM THE REMOTE COMPUTING DEVICE, A REGULATION APPLICABLE TO DELIVERY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLES BASED ON ONE OR MORE OF THE DELIVERY LOCATION AND A DELIVERY TIME”, where the on-board controller may receive information associated with one or more applicable regulations based on time, location, and recipient of delivery from the remote controller. The on-board controller may also receive applicable tax/fee information from the remote controller.

[0086] Block 546 may be followed by block 548, “RECEIVE, FROM THE REMOTE COMPUTING DEVICE, CONFIRMATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE DETERMINED REGULATION”, where the on-board controller may transmit information (e.g., identification of a recipient, location of the vehicle, etc.) to the remote controller and receive confirmation of compliance with the determined regulation(s) from the remote controller.

[0087] Block 548 may be followed by block 550, “COMPLETE THE DELIVERY OF THE REGULATED CONSUMABLES TO A DELIVERY RECIPIENT AT THE DELIVERY LOCATION BY PROVIDING ACCESS TO THE STORAGE ENCLOSURE UPON CONFIRMATION OF THE COMPLIANCE WITH THE DETERMINED REGULATION”, where based on received instructions/information from the remote controller, the on-board controller may activate access control devices (e.g., electronic locks) and provide access to the regulated consumable(s). The on-board controller may also transmit information associated with the delivery such as time, amount delivered, etc. to the remote controller for record keeping purposes.

[0088] The operations included in the processes described above in FIG. 5A and 5B are for illustration purposes. Regulated consumable distribution may be implemented by similar processes with fewer or additional operations, as well as in different order of operations using the principles described herein. The operations described herein may be executed by one or more processors operated on one or more computing devices, one or more processor cores, and/or specialized processing devices, among other examples. [0089] FIG. 6 illustrates a computing device, which may be used to manage an example regulated consumable distribution system, arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments described herein.

[0090] In an example basic configuration 602, the computing device 600 may include one or more processors 604 and a system memory 606. A memory bus 608 may be used to communicate between the processor 604 and the system memory 606. The basic configuration 602 is illustrated in FIG. 6 by those components within the inner dashed line.

[0091] Depending on the desired configuration, the processor 604 may be of any type, including but not limited to a microprocessor (mR), a microcontroller (pC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or any combination thereof. The processor 604 may include one or more levels of caching, such as a cache memory 612, a processor core 614, and registers 616. The example processor core 614 may include an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a floating point unit (FPU), a digital signal processing core (DSP core), or any combination thereof. An example memory controller 618 may also be used with the processor 604, or in some implementations, the memory controller 618 may be an internal part of the processor 604.

[0092] Depending on the desired configuration, the system memory 606 may be of any type including but not limited to volatile memory (such as RAM), non-volatile memory (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.) or any combination thereof. The system memory 606 may include an operating system 620, a consumable delivery management application 622, a routing module 626, and a control module 627. The consumable delivery management application 622, in conjunction with the routing module 626, may direct a vehicle equipped to transport regulated consumables to a delivery destination. The routing module 626 may provide instructions to an on-board controller to direct the vehicle to the final delivery destination along with one or more intermediary waypoints, selected or available routes, and provide additional information such as traffic/road/weather conditions that may be used to determine applicable regulations (e.g., location or time of delivery based regulations) and/or adjust partial processing parameters for regulated consumables such as timing. The control module 627 may determine a quantity of a regulated consumable to be transported to a delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation, control transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure, determine a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on the delivery location and/or a delivery time, and upon confirming compliance with the determined regulation, control completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure. The program data 624 may include travel route, regulation, location, inventory data 628, among other data, as described herein. Travel route data may include destination, available or recommended routes, traffic information, travel time information, etc. Regulation data may include information associated with potentially applicable regulations (actual applicable regulations being determined based on location and timing). Inventory data may include information to perform predictive inventory computation or similar ones to determine amounts and kinds of regulated consumables to be transported.

[0093] The computing device 600 may have additional features or functionality, and additional interfaces to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 602 and any desired devices and interfaces. For example, a bus/interface controller 630 may be used to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 602 and one or more data storage devices 632 via a storage interface bus 634. The data storage devices 632 may be one or more removable storage devices 636, one or more non-removable storage devices 638, or a combination thereof. Examples of the removable storage and the non-removable storage devices include magnetic disk devices such as flexible disk drives and hard-disk drives (HDDs), optical disk drives such as compact disc (CD) drives or digital versatile disk (DVD) drives, solid state drives (SSDs), and tape drives to name a few. Example computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0094] The system memory 606, the removable storage devices 636 and the non-removable storage devices 638 are examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD- ROM, digital versatile disks (DVDs), solid state drives (SSDs), or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used to store the desired information and which may be accessed by the computing device 600. Any such computer storage media may be part of the computing device 600. [0095] The computing device 600 may also include an interface bus 640 for facilitating communication from various interface devices (e.g., one or more output devices 642, one or more peripheral interfaces 650, and one or more communication devices 660) to the basic configuration 602 via the bus/interface controller 630. Some of the example output devices 642 include a graphics processing unit 644 and an audio processing unit 646, which may be configured to communicate to various external devices such as a display or speakers via one or more A/V ports 648. One or more example peripheral interfaces 650 may include a serial interface controller 654 or a parallel interface controller 656, which may be configured to communicate with external devices such as input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc.) or other peripheral devices (e.g., printer, scanner, etc.) via one or more I/O ports 658. An example communication device 660 includes a network controller 662, which may be arranged to facilitate communications with one or more other computing devices 666 over a network communication link via one or more communication ports 664. The one or more other computing devices 666 may include servers at a datacenter, customer equipment, and comparable devices.

[0096] The network communication link may be one example of a communication media. Communication media may be embodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and may include any information delivery media. A “modulated data signal” may be a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), microwave, infrared (IR) and other wireless media. The term computer readable media as used herein may include non- transitory storage media.

[0097] The computing device 600 may be implemented as a part of a specialized server, mainframe, or similar computer that includes any of the above functions. The computing device 600 may also be implemented as a personal computer including both laptop computer and non laptop computer configurations.

[0098] According to some examples, a method for distribution of regulated consumables is described. The method may include determining a quantity of a regulated consumable to be transported to a delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; controlling transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure; determining a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirming compliance with the determined regulation; and/or controlling completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[0099] According to other examples, the method may further include determining the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient. The method may also include determining an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable. Determining the quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported to the delivery location based on the predictive inventory computation may include determining the quantity based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, or delivery location information. Delivery location information may include one or more of an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of the year.

[00100] According to further examples, determining the regulation applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable may include one or more of: determining a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or determining a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable. The method may also include determining at least two regulations applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable; and if a conflict is detected between the at least two regulations, selecting a stricter one of the at least two regulations to apply to the delivery of the regulated consumable. The method may include issuing a warning or recording the violation if a violation of the determined regulation is detected, one or more of preventing the delivery.

[00101] According to some examples, determining a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; and generating an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable. Controlling the completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable may include completing a financial transaction charging the delivery recipient, wherein the financial transaction includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge. Controlling the transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location may include adjusting one or more parameters associated with the environment-controlled storage enclosure based an expected arrival time at the delivery location. The one or more parameters may include a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting. The method may further include controlling transportation of multiple types of regulated consumables to the delivery location; and providing distinct access-controlled and/or environmentally-controlled storage enclosures for each type of regulated consumable.

[00102] According to yet other examples, controlling the transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location may include providing instructions to an autonomous vehicle or a semi-autonomous transport vehicle for transportation to the delivery location, where the transport vehicle includes a truck, a container, a railway car, an aircraft, or a watercraft, and wherein the transport vehicle is equipped with one or more devices to confirm the compliance with the determined regulation and complete the delivery of the regulated consumable to the delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing automatic access to the storage enclosure. The method may further include controlling installation of the access-controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk. The delivery recipient may be a consumer, a delivery person, or a resale store clerk. The method may also include partially processing the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location. Partially processing the regulated consumable may include one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation. The method may further include displaying one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement on one or more display devices affixed to an outside surface or an inside surface of a transport vehicle for transporting the regulated consumable to the delivery location.

[00103] According to other examples, a regulated consumable distribution system is described. The system may include a vehicle configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures semi-autonomously or autonomously and a controller. The controller may be communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the vehicle and at least one remote computing device, and may be configured to determine the quantity of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; determine a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirm compliance with the determined regulation; and/or control completion of the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[00104] According to some examples, the controller may be further configured to determine the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient. The controller may also be configured to determine an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable. The controller may be further configured to control operations of the one or more devices in the vehicle to autonomously execute processes for one or more of control of an environment of the storage enclosure, confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation, performance of a financial transaction, provision of access to the storage enclosure, partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location, or display of one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement.

[00105] According to other examples, the process for control of the environment of the storage enclosure may include adjustment of one or more of a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting. The process for performance of the financial transaction may include determination of a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; completion of a purchase that includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge; and generation of an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable. The process for partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location may include one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation.

[00106] According to further examples, the controller may be configured to determine the quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported based on the predictive inventory computation based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of the year. The determined regulation may include one or more of: a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable. The controller may be further configured to determine at least two regulations applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable; and if a conflict is detected between the at least two regulations, select a stricter one of the at least two regulations to apply to the delivery of the regulated consumable.

[00107] According to yet other examples, the controller may be further configured to or record the violation if a violation of the determined regulation is detected, one or more of prevent the delivery, issue a warning. The controller may also be configured to control operations for installation of the access-controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk. The delivery recipient may be a consumer, a delivery person, or a resale store clerk. The controller may be further configured to provide travel information to a driver or an autonomous drive controller of the vehicle associated with one or more delivery destination locations, one or more potential routes between the delivery destinations, road condition information for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, or weather condition information for the potential routes. The vehicle may be a truck, a container, a railway car, an aircraft, or a watercraft.

[00108] According to further examples, a regulated consumable distribution truck is described. The truck may include a cargo area configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the truck and at least one remote computing device. The controller may be configured to receive, from the remote computing device, quantity information of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location determined based on a predictive inventory computation; receive, from the remote computing device, a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; receive, from the remote computing device, confirmation of compliance with the determined regulation; and/or complete the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

[00109] According to some examples, the controller may be further configured to control operations of the one or more devices in the truck to autonomously execute processes for one or more of control of an environment of the storage enclosure, confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation, performance of a financial transaction, provision of access to the storage enclosure, partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location, or display of one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement on an inside or outside surface of the cargo area. The process for control of the environment of the storage enclosure may include adjustment of one or more of a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting. The process for performance of the financial transaction may include determination of a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; completion of a purchase that includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge; and generation of an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable.

[00110] According to other examples, the process for partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location may include one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation. The quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported may be determined based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of the year. The determined regulation may include one or more of a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

[00111] According to yet other examples, the controller may be further configured to receive, from the remote computing device, information associated with the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient. The controller may also be configured to determine an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable. The controller may be further configured to one or more of prevent the delivery, issue a warning, or record the violation if a violation of the determined regulation is detected.

The controller may also be configured to control operations for installation of the access- controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk. The controller may be further configured to receive, from the remote computing device, travel information associated with one or more delivery destination locations, one or more potential routes between the delivery destinations, road condition information for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, or weather condition information for the potential routes; and provide the travel information to a driver or an autonomous drive controller of the vehicle.

[00112] Certain specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, certain structures associated with regulated consumable processing devices such as portioning equipment, packaging equipment, and other similar devices, closed- loop controllers used to control processing conditions and techniques, wired and wireless communications protocols, wired and wireless transceivers, radios, communications ports, geolocation, and optimized route mapping algorithms have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments. In other instances, certain structures associated with conveyors, robots, and/or vehicles have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

[00113] As used herein the term “travel information” refers to delivery destination locations, one or more potential routes between the delivery destinations, road condition information (road curvatures, road tilt, expected vehicle tilt, construction, road roughness, etc.) for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, weather condition information (temperature, humidity, altitude, winds, wave size, etc.) for the potential routes, licensing information, and any other conditions that may affect travel of the vehicle equipped to transport regulated consumables.

[00114] As used herein the terms “regulated consumable" refers to any item or product intended for human consumption and subject to local, state, national, and/or international regulations. Illustrative, but non-limiting, examples of regulated consumables may include alcoholic beverages and alcohol-infused food items, tobacco and similar inhalable or chewable equivalents, cannabis in various consumable forms, and comparable items. For example, some localities are beginning to regulate sugary drinks (non-alcoholic). Thus, sugary drinks may also be delivered in an access-controlled manner (e.g., not dispensed to youth under a certain age).

[00115] As used herein the terms “robot” or “robotic” refer to any device, system, or combination of systems and devices that includes at least one appendage, typically with an end of arm tool or end effector, where the at least one appendage is selectively moveable to perform work or an operation useful in the preparation a regulated consumable or packaging of a regulated consumable. The robot may be autonomously controlled, for instance based at least in part on information from one or more sensors (e.g., optical sensors used with machine-vision algorithms, position encoders, temperature sensors, moisture or humidity sensors). Alternatively, one or more robots can be remotely controlled by a human operator. Alternatively, one or more robots can be partially remotely controlled by a human operator and partially autonomously controlled.

[00116] As used herein, the term “partial processing equipment” refers to any equipment or appliance used partially prepare “regulated consumables” including, but not limited to portioning (selecting a quantity), heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling in compliance with one or more regulations. Partial processing equipment may also be able to control temperature, pressure, mechanical stability, humidity, airflow, etc.

[00117] As used herein the term “vehicle” refers to any car, truck, van, train, watercraft, aircraft, or other vehicle useful in delivering regulated consumables with or without partial processing.

[00118] There are various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein may be affected (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware), and the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt for mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware.

[00119] The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples may be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, may be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs executing on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs executing on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs executing on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs executing on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware are possible in light of this disclosure.

[00120] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, are possible from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. [00121] In addition, the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative embodiment of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, a solid state drive (SSD), etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communication link, a wireless communication link, etc.).

[00122] It is common within the art to describe devices and/or processes in the fashion set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering practices to integrate such described devices and/or processes into data processing systems. That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein may be integrated into a data processing system via a reasonable amount of experimentation. A data processing system may include one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, a memory such as volatile and non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors and digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices, such as a touch pad or screen, and/or control systems including feedback loops and control motors.

[00123] A processing system may be implemented utilizing any suitable commercially available components, such as those found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems. The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. Such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and in fact, many other architectures may be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality may be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermediate components. Likewise, any two components so associated may also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated may also be viewed as being "operably couplable", to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically connectable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

[00124] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[00125] In general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

[00126] Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[00127] For any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

[00128] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are possible. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for distribution of regulated consumables, the method comprising: determining a quantity of a regulated consumable to be transported to a delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; controlling transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location in an access- and/or environment-controlled storage enclosure; determining a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirming compliance with the determined regulation; and controlling completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: determining an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported to the delivery location based on the predictive inventory computation comprises: determining the quantity based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, or delivery location information.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein delivery location information comprises one or more of an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of a year.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the regulation applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable comprises one or more of: determining a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or determining a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining at least two regulations applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable; and if a conflict is detected between the at least two regulations, selecting a stricter one of the at least two regulations to apply to the delivery of the regulated consumable.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: if a violation of the determined regulation is detected, one or more of preventing the delivery, issuing a warning, or recording the violation.

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; and generating an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein controlling the completion of the delivery of the regulated consumable comprises: completing a financial transaction charging the delivery recipient, wherein the financial transaction includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein controlling the transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location comprises: adjusting one or more parameters associated with the environment-controlled storage enclosure based an expected arrival time at the delivery location.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more parameters include a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising: controlling transportation of multiple types of regulated consumables to the delivery location; and providing distinct access-controlled and/or environmentally-controlled storage enclosures for each type of regulated consumable.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling the transportation of the determined quantity of the regulated consumable to the delivery location comprises: providing instructions to an autonomous vehicle or a semi-autonomous transport vehicle for transportation to the delivery location, wherein the transport vehicle includes a truck, a container, a railway car, an aircraft, or a watercraft, and wherein the transport vehicle is equipped with one or more devices to confirm the compliance with the determined regulation and complete the delivery of the regulated consumable to the delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing automatic access to the storage enclosure.

15. The method of claim 1, further comprising: controlling installation of the access-controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the delivery recipient is a consumer, a delivery person, or a resale store clerk.

17. The method of claim 1, further comprising: partially processing the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein partially processing the regulated consumable comprises: one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation.

19. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement on one or more display devices affixed to an outside surface or an inside surface of a transport vehicle for transporting the regulated consumable to the delivery location.

20. A regulated consumable distribution system, comprising: a vehicle configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures semi-autonomously or autonomously; and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the vehicle and at least one remote computing device, wherein the controller is configured to: determine the quantity of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location based on a predictive inventory computation; determine a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; confirm compliance with the determined regulation; and control completion of the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

23. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: control operations of the one or more devices in the vehicle to autonomously execute processes for one or more of control of an environment of the storage enclosure, confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation, performance of a financial transaction, provision of access to the storage enclosure, partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location, or display of one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the process for control of the environment of the storage enclosure includes adjustment of one or more of a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting.

25. The system of claim 23, wherein the process for performance of the financial transaction includes: determination of a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; completion of a purchase that includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge; and generation of an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable.

26. The system of claim 23, wherein the process for partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location includes one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation.

27. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is configured to determine the quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported based on the predictive inventory computation based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of a year.

28. The system of claim 20, wherein the determined regulation includes one or more of: a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

29. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine at least two regulations applicable to the delivery of the regulated consumable; and if a conflict is detected between the at least two regulations, select a stricter one of the at least two regulations to apply to the delivery of the regulated consumable.

30. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: if a violation of the determined regulation is detected, one or more of prevent the delivery, issue a warning, or record the violation.

31. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: control operations for installation of the access-controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk.

32. The system of claim 20, wherein the delivery recipient is a consumer, a delivery person, or a resale store clerk.

33. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured to: provide travel information to a driver or an autonomous drive controller of the vehicle associated with one or more delivery destination locations, one or more potential routes between the delivery destinations, road condition information for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, or weather condition information for the potential routes.

34. The system of claim 20, wherein the vehicle is a truck, a container, a railway car, an aircraft, or a watercraft.

35. A regulated consumable distribution truck, comprising: a cargo area configured to transport a determined quantity of the regulated consumables to a delivery location in one or more access-controlled storage enclosures; and a controller communicatively coupled to one or more devices in the truck and at least one remote computing device, wherein the controller is configured to: receive, from the remote computing device, quantity information of the regulated consumables to be transported to the delivery location determined based on a predictive inventory computation; receive, from the remote computing device, a regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumables based on one or more of the delivery location and a delivery time; receive, from the remote computing device, confirmation of compliance with the determined regulation; and complete the delivery of the regulated consumables to a delivery recipient at the delivery location by providing access to the storage enclosure upon confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation.

36. The truck of claim 35, wherein the controller is further configured to: control operations of the one or more devices in the truck to autonomously execute processes for one or more of control of an environment of the storage enclosure, confirmation of the compliance with the determined regulation, performance of a financial transaction, provision of access to the storage enclosure, partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location, or display of one or more of information associated with the regulated consumable or an advertisement on an inside or outside surface of the cargo area.

37. The truck of claim 36, wherein the process for control of the environment of the storage enclosure includes adjustment of one or more of a temperature, a humidity, a motion, an atmosphere composition, or a lighting.

38. The truck of claim 36, wherein the process for performance of the financial transaction includes: determination of a tax, a fee, or a surcharge applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable based on one or more of the delivery location, the delivery time, and the delivery recipient; completion of a purchase that includes the determined tax, fee, or surcharge; and generation of an auditable record of the determined tax, fee, or surcharge upon completing the delivery of the regulated consumable.

39. The truck of claim 36, wherein the process for partial processing of the regulated consumable prior to arrival at the delivery location includes one or more of selecting a quantity, heating, chilling, shaking, airing, packaging, or labeling the regulated consumable in compliance with the determined regulation.

40. The truck of claim 35, wherein the quantity of the regulated consumable to be transported is determined based on one or more of past sales records, received orders, an expected arrival time at the delivery location, a public gathering near the delivery location, weather conditions at the delivery location, or a season of a year.

41. The truck of claim 35, wherein the determined regulation includes one or more of: a local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable based on delivery location and types of buildings in a vicinity of the delivery location; or a delivery time of day or day of week restriction based on another local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

42. The truck of claim 35, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive, from the remote computing device, information associated with the regulation applicable to delivery of the regulated consumable further based on the delivery recipient.

43. The truck of claim 42, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine an age restriction for the delivery recipient based on a further local, county, state, or federal regulation associated with the delivery of the regulated consumable.

44. The truck of claim 35, wherein the controller is further configured to: if a violation of the determined regulation is detected, one or more of prevent the delivery, issue a warning, or record the violation.

45. The truck of claim 35, wherein the controller is further configured to: control operations for installation of the access-controlled storage enclosure in a vending machine or controlled access kiosk.

46. The truck of claim 35, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive, from the remote computing device, travel information associated with one or more delivery destination locations, one or more potential routes between the delivery destinations, road condition information for the potential routes, traffic condition information for the potential routes, or weather condition information for the potential routes; and provide the travel information to a driver or an autonomous drive controller of the truck.