Automated Locker Onboard Power and Data Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated lockers with no onboard power and communication systems become inoperable during primary power supply failures or network disconnections, disrupting e-commerce services and requiring manual notification to customers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of onboard power generation equipment, such as photovoltaic solar panels, and a controller that autonomously manages power switching and data transactions, allowing the locker to operate independently and store data until primary power is restored.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated lockers rely on primary power supply and central server connection, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates during power outages or network disconnections
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing transaction data locally in the database before network disconnection occurs. The automated locker is prepared in advance to operate independently by having the capability to conduct transactions and store data internally, so when power outage or network disconnection happens, it can continue functioning without immediate external support.
Solution Approach 2:
The database acts as an intermediary between the transaction system and the central server. It temporarily holds transaction data when the central server is inaccessible, mediating between the need for continuous operation and the absence of external connectivity. This intermediary storage mechanism allows the system to maintain operations during network disconnections.
2Productivity
If automated lockers have no onboard power and communication systems, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The automated locker system is designed with multi-functionality to operate in multiple modes: connected mode with central server communication and disconnected mode with independent operation. The same hardware infrastructure supports both centralized and decentralized operations, allowing the system to maintain productivity regardless of network availability or power supply status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation by allowing the automated locker to conduct transactions and store data independently when the central server is inaccessible. The onboard database and processing capabilities allow the locker to serve customers without external support, maintaining productivity during network disconnections or power outages.
3Loss of information
If automated lockers lack onboard power systems, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information increases during power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data storage actions by immediately recording transaction data in the onboard database before power outage occurs. This preliminary storage ensures that transaction information is preserved and not lost during power disruptions, allowing data recovery and synchronization when power is restored.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures uninterrupted e-commerce services by enabling automated lockers to conduct transactions and store data internally during power outages, with the ability to upload data once connectivity is reestablished, providing a reliable and convenient solution for customers.
Implementation Method 1
an onboard power generation equipment comprising a plurality of photovoltaics solar panels configured to generate a first backup power for charging the onboard power
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling onboard power and communication systems at an automated locker are provided. An example method can include: autonomously detecting a status of a primary power supply connected to the locker, a communication status between the locker and a central server, an internal server status, and an onboard battery percentage of an onboard power; when the onboard battery percentage is greater than or equal to the predetermined battery percentage, autonomously switching to the onboard power and requesting the internal server to conduct transactions and store transaction data internally; and when the battery percentage of the onboard power is lower than the predetermined battery percentage, shutting down the locker; and when the primary power supply is detected to be reestablished and the locker is in communication with the central server, autonomously requesting the internal server to upload the transaction data to the central server.