Automated delivery device and handling method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous delivery vehicles require customers to be present to receive and manually lift delivered goods, which can be difficult or impossible for disabled, elderly, or frail individuals.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous delivery vehicle equipped with storage compartments that can automatically dispense containers to a secure location at the customer's site, allowing for unattended retrieval of deliveries, using mechanisms like ramps, containers with locking means, and optionally drone platforms for secure and convenient delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the autonomous delivery vehicle requires customer presence to receive goods, then the delivery can be completed with simple vehicle design, but disabled or elderly customers cannot receive deliveries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secure storage compartment as an intermediary between the delivery vehicle and the customer. This compartment can be remotely accessed or automatically opened, allowing customers who cannot physically interact with the vehicle to receive their deliveries. The compartment acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between the autonomous vehicle's delivery capability and the customer's inability to manually retrieve goods.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage compartment is equipped with automatic opening mechanisms or remote access capabilities that allow customers to retrieve their deliveries without needing to physically approach or manually open the vehicle. The system enables self-service delivery receipt through automated or remotely-controlled compartment opening, eliminating the need for direct customer-vehicle interaction.
2Ease of operation
If the vehicle delivers to a secure location for unattended retrieval, then customers can receive deliveries at their convenience, but the vehicle requires additional locking and securing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The secure storage compartment is pre-equipped with locking mechanisms and securing systems before the delivery process begins. These mechanisms are installed in advance and can be remotely activated or automatically engaged when the vehicle arrives at the delivery location, enabling unattended retrieval without requiring complex real-time intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage compartment serves multiple functions: it protects the delivered goods during transport, provides a secure storage location at the delivery site, and enables remote or automated access. This multi-functional design consolidates several security and convenience features into a single integrated system, reducing overall system complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If the vehicle carries high-value or fragile items, then the delivery service can accommodate more customers, but the items require additional security and protection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where secure storage compartments are integrated within the vehicle's body, and additional protective elements can be nested within the compartments. This nested design allows multiple levels of security and protection without significantly increasing the vehicle's external dimensions or overall complexity, enabling the safe transport of high-value or fragile items.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage compartment and protective mechanisms utilize composite materials that combine strength, security, and protection properties in a single integrated structure. These composite materials provide enhanced security for high-value items while maintaining a compact and relatively simple vehicle design.
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous delivery device can make unattended deliveries of customer orders to predetermined locations. The device includes a plurality of compartments containing portions of the order or all of the order or a number of separately deliverable orders. The device includes a compartment opening such that on arrival at the predetermined location the contents of the or each compartment may be automatically dispensed.