Module for Determining a Shipping Option
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compartment installations for shipping do not adequately consider properties such as weight and size of shipments when determining shipping options, leading to inefficient and potentially costly logistics.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a lockable measuring module that obtains measurement parameters like weight and size of a shipment and provides measurement information to determine appropriate shipping options, using sensors and communication interfaces to transmit data for secure and efficient shipping decisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If shipment properties (weight and size) are not measured, then the compartment installation operation is simple, but shipping options cannot be determined accurately leading to inefficient logistics
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a separate lockable measuring module that can be integrated into the compartment installation. This module contains dedicated sensors for weight and size measurement, isolating the measurement functionality from the main compartment system. The measuring module can be independently configured and maintained, reducing complexity in the overall system while enabling precise measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
A control unit acts as an intermediary between the sensors in the measuring module and the compartment installation system. The control unit processes measurement data from multiple sensors (weight sensors, optical sensors for size), determines shipping options based on this data, and communicates with the user interface. This intermediary layer simplifies the integration complexity by centralizing the data processing and decision-making logic.
2Reliability
If the measuring module is lockable and secure, then protection against vandalism and environmental influences is improved, but access for measurement may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring module is pre-configured with all necessary sensors (weight sensors, optical sensors) and processing capabilities before deployment. The lockable enclosure is designed with predetermined access points and authentication mechanisms. This preliminary preparation ensures that once installed, the module can operate reliably in protected environments while maintaining ease of access through pre-planned procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors the measurement process and provides status information to users through an interface. The lockable module can detect when a shipment is placed inside and automatically initiate the measurement sequence. This feedback loop ensures that users understand the status of their shipment and that measurements are performed automatically, reducing the need for manual intervention while maintaining security.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used for measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed as a multi-functional component that can process data from various types of sensors (weight sensors, optical sensors for size measurement). The same control unit handles sensor data acquisition, processing, shipping option determination, and user interface communication. This universal approach allows the system to achieve precise measurements using multiple sensor types while avoiding the need for separate processing systems for each sensor type, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed. The method includes causing the opening of a lockable measuring module. The method includes obtaining at least one measurement parameter of a shipment deposited in the measuring module. The method includes providing, at least partially based on the obtained at least one measurement parameter, measurement information. The measurement information represents at least one weight and/or size of the shipment deposited in the measuring module. The at least one shipping option for shipping the shipment is determined at least partially based on the provided measurement information.