Autonomous Delivery Hub with Proximity-Triggered Compartment Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience when they miss a delivery attempt from autonomous delivery devices, as they must wait for the next scheduled delivery attempt, rather than being able to promptly retrieve their packages.
Innovation Solution
A package retrieval system that includes a dispenser or hub where delivery devices can dock for charging and data exchange, allowing users to access their packages securely and flexibly by detecting user proximity and opening the storage compartment for retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the delivery device returns to the transportation vehicle when the customer misses the delivery, then the delivery can be re-attempted at a later time, but the customer experiences extended wait time and reduced delivery flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
A pickup location is introduced as an intermediary between the transportation vehicle and the customer's residence. The delivery device deposits the item at the pickup location instead of returning to the vehicle, enabling the customer to retrieve the item immediately while the device can quickly return for re-attempt delivery without extended waiting
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares multiple possible pickup locations in advance and allows the customer to select their preferred location before the delivery device arrives. This preliminary selection process enables the customer to choose a convenient location that minimizes their wait time and maximizes delivery flexibility
2Reliability
If the delivery device docks at a dispenser for charging and data exchange, then the device maintains operational readiness, but the device cannot immediately re-attempt delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The charging and data exchange functions are extracted from the delivery device and provided by the dispenser infrastructure. The device only docks briefly to transfer energy and data, then can immediately proceed to the next delivery attempt without prolonged docking periods, maintaining both reliability and productivity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the storage compartment remains secured for security purposes, then package security is maintained, but the customer cannot retrieve the package immediately upon arrival
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses customer identification and authentication to provide feedback control on the storage compartment locking mechanism. Once the customer is verified, the compartment automatically unlocks, maintaining security while enabling immediate retrieval. The system continuously monitors and adjusts the locking state based on real-time authentication feedback
Data Source
AI summary
An automated package retrieval system is provided. The automated package retrieval system includes a hub apparatus that includes multiple docking stations for multiple delivery devices, a power supply unit coupled to the hub apparatus, and a controller. The controller is configured to instruct at least one of the delivery devices to travel to a location to deliver an item ordered by a user. Once it is determined that the user has not retrieved the item from the delivery device, the delivery device is instructed to return to the hub apparatus. In response to detecting the user in proximity to the hub apparatus after the delivery device has returned to the hub apparatus, the user is provided with access to a storage compartment of the delivery device.