Locker system
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a locker system that is accessible to the public, easy to use, and has enhanced security measures, allowing for flexible storage and exchange solutions, as existing lockers are often not available in public or private places due to security concerns and lack of user transferability.
Innovation Solution
A locker system with adjustable-sized compartments controlled by a controller, featuring movable partitions, locking mechanisms, and a database for managing item-specific data, enabling secure and flexible storage and exchange of items between users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lockers are made secure and controlled, then security is improved, but accessibility and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between users and the locking mechanisms. The controller manages lock engagement based on authorized user input (such as codes or biometric data), allowing secure access for authorized persons while maintaining protection against unauthorized access. This mediator enables both security and ease of use by automating the authentication and lock control process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system operates autonomously by automatically engaging locks when compartments are closed and requiring only user-initiated authentication to unlock. The system self-manages security protocols without requiring manual locking or constant supervision, providing both high security and user convenience through automated operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If locker compartments are made fixed-size, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements movable partitions that can be repositioned along tracks within the locker body, transforming fixed compartments into dynamic, adjustable spaces. This allows users to modify compartment sizes according to their storage needs while maintaining a simple, modular manufacturing process for the base structure. The dynamic element is added as a flexible feature rather than redesigning the entire manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locker is divided into modular segments with standardized components (walls, shelves, partitions) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for simple production of individual parts while enabling great versatility in final configuration, as partitions can be moved to create different compartment arrangements suitable for various storage requirements.
3Reliability
If multiple locking mechanisms are added to each door, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single controller that manages multiple locking mechanisms across all locker doors, rather than having independent locking systems for each door. This universal control system reduces overall complexity by centralizing the control logic while maintaining multiple lock points for enhanced security. The controller can manage lock engagement and authentication for multiple compartments through a unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated control system. The controller combines authentication processing, lock engagement control, and status monitoring into one unified device, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system architecture while providing comprehensive security across all compartments.
4Adaptability or versatility
If movable partitions are added to create adjustable compartments, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustment function from complex mechanical systems and implements it through simple, slideable partitions that move along pre-formed tracks. The complexity is removed by using straightforward linear motion mechanisms rather than intricate jointed or articulated structures. The tracks are integrated into the locker walls, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A locker system having adjustable-sized lockers, the locker system comprising: a first movable partition disposed between a first wall and a second wall as an upstanding partition or between a third wall and a fourth wall as a shelf partition wherein the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and a fifth wall are configured to create an enclosed space and the first movable partition is disposed between two walls at a first position and the enclosed space is divided into a first compartment and a second compartment, each of the first compartment and the second compartment having an initial volume; a first door connected to one of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and the fifth wall to enable access to the first compartment and a second door connected to one of the first wall, the second wall, the third wall, the fourth wall, and the fifth wall to enable access to the second compartment; a first locking mechanism corresponding to the first door and a second locking mechanism corresponding to the second door; and a controller in communication with the first locking mechanism, the second locking mechanism, or both to cause the first locking mechanism, the second locking mechanism, or both to be engaged/locked or disengaged/unlocked wherein the controller is also in communication with the first movable partition to cause the first movable partition to move from the first position to a second position.