Accessible Delivery Locker with Biometric Height Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional locker systems for package delivery can be inaccessible to individuals with disabilities or those of varying heights, leading to inefficiencies and discomfort in accessing services.

Innovation Solution

A delivery system with a cabinet containing controlled-access storage cells, a user evaluation device to detect physical characteristics, and a control processor that adjusts access and user interface formats to accommodate users' needs, ensuring accessible and comfortable service provision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of stationary object

If lockers are placed at various distances off the ground to maximize space utilization, then storage capacity is improved, but accessibility for disabled persons and comfort for tall persons deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the user interface format and cell access recommendations based on detected user physical characteristics. The control processor receives biometric information, determines the user's physical profile (e.g., wheelchair user, tall person), and adapts the interface display format and suggests appropriate cell locations that are accessible and comfortable for that specific user, resolving the contradiction between maximizing storage space utilization and ensuring accessibility for all users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple unsuccessful pickup attempts are made without coordination, then delivery service provider flexibility is improved, but time and money are wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelivery flexibilityVSAvoidpickup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control processor communicates with both the delivery service provider and the user. It provides real-time information about user availability, preferred pickup times, and location preferences. This coordinated feedback loop prevents multiple unsuccessful attempts by aligning the delivery provider's actions with user preferences, reducing wasted time while maintaining delivery flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-coordinating pickup details before the delivery service provider arrives. User preferences, availability windows, and optimal cell locations are determined in advance through the automated system, so when the provider arrives, the pickup can be executed efficiently without multiple attempts, thus reducing time loss while preserving service flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2862149B1System and methods for providing user services at remote locations
Publication Date: 2018.05.23 FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP
  • EP2862149B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2862149B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2862149B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A delivery service system includes a cabinet having a plurality of controlled- access storage cells, located in a plurality of zones, a user interface, a user evaluation device, and a processor. The system receives a user request to accept an item for delivery, detects user physical characteristics, and provides user access to a storage cell in a selected zone, the zone being selected based on the detected user physical characteristics. Biometric recognition is used for selecting a cell and opening a door. This invention is suitable for persons with disabilities or sitting in a wheelchair because the height of the person is detected and a cell at a predetermined height is assigned.