Cargo Sensing Mat for Delivery Timing Prediction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The variability in human workers' loading and unloading efficiency, particularly in autonomous delivery systems, makes it challenging for organizations to predict and optimize delivery times, as factors like physical strength and stamina affect the time taken by individuals to handle packages, leading to inconsistent delivery operations.
Innovation Solution
Equipping vehicles with an object-sensing mat coupled to a computer that generates timing prediction models based on sensor signals, allowing for the evaluation and optimization of loading and unloading times by tracking weight and pressure changes, and providing alerts for efficient handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If workers are trained to improve loading and unloading efficiency, then work efficiency improves, but training time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables workers to self-assess their loading and unloading speeds through automated timing measurements. The sensor system automatically records performance data without requiring manual timing or supervision, allowing workers to independently monitor their own productivity metrics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback to workers about their loading and unloading performance by measuring actual times and comparing them against target thresholds. This feedback mechanism allows workers to adjust their behavior immediately based on measured performance without requiring formal training interventions.
2Measurement precision
If the system measures loading and unloading times for each individual, then timing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential measurement function from complex timing systems. Instead of using complex sensor arrays or multiple measurement devices, the invention uses a simple weight sensor that detects when items are placed on or removed from the cargo floor, providing sufficient timing data without unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The weight sensor serves multiple functions: it detects item placement, measures item weight, and provides timing information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized sensors for each measurement type, simplifying the overall system while maintaining precision.
3Productivity
If the system provides alerts for efficient handling, then worker performance improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic weight sensing rather than continuous monitoring. The sensor is activated only when items are placed on or removed from the cargo floor, creating discrete measurement events rather than continuous data collection. This periodic operation significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective timing measurement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables organizations to generate personalized timing models for each worker or customer, optimizing delivery operations, improving scheduling, wage determination, and ensuring timely and efficient package handling by alerting workers to potential delays or heavy loads.
Implementation Method 1
A first change in weight or pressure is sensed when an item is either placed upon or removed from the object-sensing mat
Implementation Method 2
A first change in weight or pressure is sensed when an item is either placed upon or removed from the object-sensing mat
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is generally directed to evaluating loading and unloading times of items in a vehicle. The vehicle may be equipped with an object-sensing mat placed in a cargo area and coupled to a computer configured to execute a timing evaluation module. A first change in weight or pressure is sensed when an item is either placed upon, or removed from, the object-sensing mat. An increase in weight or pressure indicates loading of the item on to the vehicle, and vice-versa. The computer can generate a timing prediction model based on processing sensor signals from the object-sensing mat and determining the amount of time taken for loading or unloading items from the vehicle. In one application, a timing prediction model may be generated for each customer of a goods delivery service and used for optimizing delivery operations.