Automated Postal Logistics Module for Urban Parcel Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current postal and parcel delivery systems face inefficiencies in densely populated urban areas, particularly in terms of cost, speed, and the need for fully automatic operations to minimize human interaction and optimize space usage.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an Automated Postal Logistic Module (APLM) that incorporates robotic means for fully automatic handling and storage of parcelboxes, allowing for the creation of a network of automated postal delivery systems that can operate independently or integrated with existing services, featuring underground or surface installations, and enabling contactless delivery and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional postal delivery systems are used in densely populated urban areas, then human labor is required for delivery operations, but this increases operational costs and reduces delivery speed
Solution Approach 1:
The APLM system enables self-service delivery operations where robotic modules autonomously handle parcelbox exchanges without human intervention. The system serves itself by automatically receiving, storing, and delivering parcelboxes through robotic means, eliminating the need for human workers in delivery operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces human mechanical operations with automated robotic systems. Robotic modules with grippers and moving mechanisms substitute human hands and labor, performing tasks such as picking up parcelboxes, moving them between storage locations, and exchanging them at access points entirely through mechanical automation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more postal delivery infrastructure is installed in urban areas, then delivery accessibility improves, but available space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The APLM system transitions from horizontal space utilization to vertical dimension by installing modules in multi-story buildings. Parcelboxes are stored in vertical racks with multiple levels, and robotic modules operate vertically to exchange parcelboxes between different floors and access points, effectively using building height rather than ground space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system nests the APLM infrastructure within existing building structures. The modular design allows integration into building lobbies, corridors, and existing spaces, with robotic modules operating within compact vertical racks that fit into limited urban real estate without requiring additional land area.
3Extent of automation
If automated robotic systems are deployed for parcelbox handling, then fully automatic operations are achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The APLM system divides the automated delivery function into separate modular units: external access points for user interaction, internal robotic modules for handling operations, and vertical rack systems for storage. Each module operates independently with standardized interfaces, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving full automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic modules are designed as universal units that can perform multiple functions: picking up parcelboxes from various locations, moving them between different levels, exchanging them at access points, and returning them to storage. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized components needed, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
4Area of stationary object
If underground or surface installations are used for APLM, then space efficiency improves, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The APLM system is designed with movable and adjustable components rather than fixed installations. Robotic modules can be repositioned along tracks, racks can be adjusted to different heights, and access points can be relocated within buildings. This dynamic design allows flexible adaptation to different installation environments without requiring complex custom construction for each location.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention discloses an automated postal logistic module, APLM (1) for postal delivery services. This APLM (1) is a generic device for building automated postal networks. The APLM (1) can be configured either as Automated Postal Access Point, APAP (1.1) for users, or Automated Postal Network Node, APNN (1.3) or Automated Cargo Compartment on a postal Vehicle, ACCV (1.2) for transporting postal items in parcelboxes (4), where functional and constructional features of APAPs, APNNs and ACCVs are similar or identical. A plurality of APAPs, APNNs, and ACCVs, together with their control system (42), constitutes a postal network for automatic delivery of parcelboxes (4), where routing and logistics are conducted in a homogeneous technological environment. Due to the automated (automatic) delivery, a contactless transfer, increased quality, and cost reduction of postal delivery services can be achieved.