Systems and methods for delivering merchandise using autonomous ground vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles

This invention describes a package delivery system that combines a self-driving ground vehicle (AGV) with a drone (UAV). The AGV carries the package along a route. If the AGV encounters an obstacle and stops, a central control system determines if the drone should retrieve the package from the AGV and complete the delivery. The claims focus on the specific logic for deciding when the drone takes over, including evaluating alternative AGV routes and comparing UAV flight times.