Locker Bank Drop Compartment Design for Consolidated Shipment Returns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locker bank systems are inefficient in handling return and direct sending processes due to the need for multiple compartments, incorrect compartment size usage, and the requirement for end users to print and affix labels, which can hinder immediate returns and complicate carrier collection processes.
Innovation Solution
A locker system with a remote shipping network, a processor, and integrated drop and printing compartments that allow for consolidated shipment drop-offs and label printing, optimizing space usage and streamlining the collection process by electronically controlling access and label generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple single shipment compartments are used for return and direct sending, then each shipment can be stored individually, but the occupancy of multiple compartments results in inefficient space usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single shipment compartments into a single consolidated drop compartment. Instead of using separate compartments for each return or direct sending shipment, the system provides one shared drop compartment where multiple shipments can be deposited simultaneously, thereby optimizing space utilization while maintaining individual shipment storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The drop compartment serves multiple functions: it stores return shipments, direct sending shipments, and consolidates multiple packages in a single location. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated compartments for different shipment types, improving overall space efficiency in the locker bank.
2Loss of information
If end users print and affix labels manually, then shipment identification is achieved, but the process requires access to a printer and additional time
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service label printing capability within the locker bank itself. Users can obtain printed labels directly at the locker without needing external printers or devices, making the label generation process convenient and accessible while ensuring proper shipment identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The locker bank system acts as an intermediary between the user and the label printing function. Instead of requiring users to bring their own printers or devices, the locker bank provides the printing capability as a中介 service, allowing users to print labels on-site through the locker's integrated printing system.
3Productivity
If carrier agents collect shipments from multiple single shipment compartments, then all shipments can be retrieved, but the collection process requires opening multiple doors and is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple shipment storage locations into a single drop compartment with one access point. Carrier agents can collect all return and direct sending shipments from this single consolidated location rather than accessing multiple separate compartments, significantly reducing collection time while ensuring complete retrieval of all shipments.
4Adaptability or versatility
If small shipments occupy large compartments, then all shipment sizes can be accommodated, but the total space is not used efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The drop compartment is designed with dynamic adaptability to accommodate various shipment sizes. Rather than using fixed-size compartments that may be too large for small shipments, the system provides a flexible drop compartment where space utilization can be optimized based on the actual shipments present, allowing small shipments to occupy only the necessary space while maintaining the capability to handle larger packages when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A locker system for shipment delivery and pick-up comprising: a remote shipping system (130), a long distance communication network (132), and a locker bank (98) communicating with the remote shipping system via the long distance communication network and comprising a processor (99) with a digital storage (140) and a series of single shipment compartments (100) electronically controlled by the processor, a drop compartment (96) comprising an aperture for shipment drop-offs and whose access is protected by a rotating locking protection (106) electronically controlled by the processor, and a locking collection door (108) electronically controlled by the processor and protecting access to the drop compartment.