Automated IC Tag Attachment for Faster Parcel Receiving
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to streamline the process of receiving parcels for delivery to reduce the associated work and waiting time for customers.
Innovation Solution
An IC tag attaching apparatus and method that includes a detecting unit to identify parcels, a writing unit to store parcel identification information in an IC tag, and an attaching unit to affix the tag to the parcel, thereby automating the process of attaching and writing information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual attachment of IC tag and writing of parcel information is performed, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but work time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-service operation where the IC tag attaching apparatus autonomously detects parcels, attaches tags, and writes identification information without requiring manual intervention from reception staff, thereby improving productivity while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated workflows
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of attaching IC tags and writing information are replaced with automated mechanical and electronic systems including detection units, attachment mechanisms, and writing units that operate automatically upon parcel detection, eliminating labor-intensive processes
2Loss of time
If automatic IC tag attachment system is implemented, then work time is reduced, but initial system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting parcels upon arrival and immediately attaching IC tags and writing identification information before the parcel is processed further, eliminating delays and reducing overall receiving time through proactive automated operations
Solution Approach 2:
The attaching apparatus is segmented into distinct functional units including a detection unit for identifying parcels, a writing unit for storing identification information, and an attachment unit for affixing IC tags, allowing each component to operate independently and manage complexity through modular design
Data Source
AI summary
An IC tag attaching apparatus (10) includes a detecting unit (110), a writing unit (120), and an attaching unit (130). The detecting unit (110) detects that a parcel is placed in a predetermined area. The writing unit (120) acquires parcel identification information to be provided for the parcel, and causes an IC tag to store the parcel identification information. The attaching unit (130) attaches the IC tag to the parcel. When the IC tag is integrated with an invoice of the parcel, the attaching unit (130) attaches the invoice to the parcel.