Locker system for storage and delivery of packages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current package delivery locker systems lack efficient and secure methods for managing package storage and retrieval, particularly in ensuring authorized access and maintaining the integrity of stored items, especially for varied item sizes and types, and do not effectively optimize locker availability for individuals with disabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular package delivery system with electronically operated lockers, controlled by a cloud-connected kiosk system that allows secure storage and retrieval through authentication, includes sensors for item presence and temperature monitoring, and UV sterilization options, with locker configurations adaptable for accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individually controllable lockers are used for secure storage, then security and authorized access control are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple controllers and coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individually controllable lockers into a single modular locker system with unified control architecture. Each locker module maintains individual controllability through electronic locks and sensors, while the system-level coordination is simplified through a centralized controller that manages multiple lockers as integrated units, reducing the complexity of inter-controller communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If locker systems are designed for multiple recipients, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to authentication and retrieval coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where each recipient can independently authenticate and retrieve their own packages through the locker system. The electronic authentication system allows users to access their designated lockers without requiring assistance from other users or manual intervention from staff, simplifying the operation while maintaining multi-recipient capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If locker size is standardized for security and manufacturing efficiency, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability deteriorates for varied item sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage system into multiple standardized locker modules that can be individually configured. Each locker maintains a standardized design for ease of manufacture, while the overall system achieves adaptability through modular arrangement where lockers can be selectively activated, combined, or reconfigured to accommodate different item sizes and storage requirements.
4Reliability
If electronic locks and sensors are integrated for secure access control, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with electronic lock mechanisms controlled by sensors and a central controller. This substitution enables more reliable authorized access control through electronic authentication while reducing the mechanical complexity of multiple physical locking mechanisms. The electronic system integrates sensing, control, and actuation functions that simplify the overall mechanical structure.
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
The system ensures secure, efficient storage and retrieval of packages of varying sizes, maintains item integrity through UV sterilization, and optimizes locker accessibility for individuals with disabilities, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
UV sterilization options
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system of locker banks for receipt and delivery of packages is described. The system may include associate modules each having one or more lockers and a control board in communication with each of the lockers in the module. Each locker may include a locker board having a processor and memory configured to control operation of the locker. Each locker may include a lock and a light. The system may further include one or more control modules, each having the above components and further including a kiosk having one or more input and output devices for entering information to the module for controlling operation of the system. The modular system may be connected to a server and/or an administrator terminal.