Adjustable Locker Walls and Doors for Customizable Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locker systems face limitations due to fixed sizes, lack of exchange functionality, and inadequate security, leading to inefficiencies in storage and transaction processes, particularly in public and non-secure locations.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable locker system with a computing platform that allows for customizable locker volumes and secure exchange transactions, featuring a network-connected locker controller, item exchange circuit, and adjustable walls and doors, enabling secure storage and flexible transaction capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size lockers are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locker system is divided into multiple adjustable wall segments that can be independently positioned along tracks. Each wall portion can be separated and repositioned to create different locker configurations, allowing the same locker structure to adapt to various storage needs without requiring a completely different design for each size.
Solution Approach 2:
The locker walls are designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The walls can move along predefined tracks and be locked into different positions, transforming the static locker structure into a dynamic system that can be reconfigured based on user needs while maintaining structural integrity through the track-guided movement mechanism.
2Reliability
If secure exchange functionality is added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locker system acts as an intermediary platform between two parties for secure item exchange. Rather than requiring direct interaction between parties, the automated locker receives items from one party, secures them, and makes them available for pickup by the other party. This intermediary function ensures secure transactions without requiring complex security systems within the locker itself, as the security is provided by the automated access control and physical isolation of the exchange process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customizable locker volumes are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable walls are segmented into standardized modules that can be positioned at predetermined intervals along the tracks. This segmentation allows for volume customization using discrete, pre-manufactured components rather than requiring continuous adjustment, thereby reducing the precision requirements during manufacturing while still enabling flexible volume configuration through the assembly of standardized parts.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments, relate to a system of lockers including a plurality of tracks and a plurality of walls. At least two of the plurality of walls slidably coupled to at least two of the plurality of tracks. Four of the plurality of walls form four sides of a locker cavity. The system also includes a plurality of doors. Each of the plurality of doors are oriented perpendicular to the plurality of the walls. A first door of the plurality of doors is coupleable to a second door of the plurality of doors so as to form a third door, and at least one of the plurality of doors form one side of the locker cavity. The system also includes a back wall, which forms one side of the locker cavity. The system further includes a lock for securing positions of the plurality of walls and of the plurality of doors.