Autonomous Cargo Delivery System with Dynamic Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current delivery vehicles lack integrated mechanisms to manage and deliver cargo according to the specific timing needs and locations of recipients, often resulting in cargo being left unattended.
Innovation Solution
A cargo transportation system equipped with a computing device that receives requests for delivery times and locations from recipients, determines routes autonomously, and includes a cargo movement subsystem to deliver cargo at preferred times and locations, minimizing unattended cargo through a vehicle design that allows for interchangeable cargo cabs and integration with unmanned aerial vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If cargo is delivered based on predetermined routes without recipient input, then delivery efficiency is maintained, but cargo may be left unattended and delivery timing/location flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts delivery routes and stops based on real-time recipient availability data. The computing device receives availability information from multiple recipients and recalculates optimal delivery sequences, transforming static predetermined routes into adaptive dynamic pathways that respond to changing conditions while maintaining overall delivery efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where recipient availability information is continuously collected and processed. The computing device uses this feedback to optimize delivery routes, ensuring that cargo is delivered at times when recipients are actually available, thereby reducing unattended cargo while preserving delivery efficiency through data-driven route adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cargo requests are delivered separately, then specific timing and location needs are met, but travel time and fuel consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple individual cargo delivery requests into consolidated delivery routes. The computing device analyzes availability data from multiple recipients and combines deliveries along optimized pathways, allowing the vehicle to serve multiple locations in a single trip rather than making separate trips, thereby reducing total travel time while still accommodating recipient-specific timing needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery system is designed to handle multiple different cargo requests simultaneously through a single integrated routing process. The computing device performs multiple functions: receiving availability data, optimizing routes, coordinating multiple stops, and managing diverse cargo types, all within a unified system that reduces overall travel time compared to separate deliveries.
3Speed
If cargo is left for recipients to collect at a later time, then delivery speed is improved, but cargo security and recipient convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by collecting recipient availability information before finalizing delivery routes. The computing device receives and processes availability data in advance, allowing it to plan deliveries that ensure recipients will be present to receive cargo immediately upon arrival, eliminating the need to leave cargo unattended while maintaining efficient delivery speeds through advance coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a body, a removable cab, a cargo movement subsystem, and a computing device. The removable cab is attachable to the body. The computing device includes a processor and a memory. The computing device is programmed to actuate at least one vehicle subsystem to move the vehicle to deliver cargo stored in the cab and the cargo movement subsystem move the cargo. The cargo movement subsystem is arranged to move the cargo from the cab to a position accessible from an exterior of the vehicle.