Locking system for retractable and removable delivery bin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in retrieving packages from delivery bins on conveyor systems due to obstructing bins, and manual actuation requirements can lead to bins falling off before retrieval is possible, necessitating a solution that allows for safe and hands-free removal while maintaining autonomous swapping capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A retractable and removable delivery bin system featuring a solenoid latch with manual locking and electronic unlocking, allowing bins to be stopped at a user-accessible point for retrieval, with symmetrical design enabling 180-degree rotation and secure locking mechanisms for easy exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation is required for bin retraction, then the user can control bin movement, but the user may not have enough time to input the command before the bin falls off the conveyor
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic bin retraction without requiring manual user input. The conveyor system autonomously retracts bins to the service position, eliminating the time constraint for manual command input while maintaining controlled bin movement through automated actuation mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If the bin is made completely removable for hands-free retrieval, then the user can easily access packages, but autonomous bin swapping between robots may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bin system is segmented into removable bin bodies and fixed conveyor/latch structures. The bins can be completely removed from the conveyor for hands-free user retrieval, while the conveyor system maintains autonomous capability to swap bins through coordinated latch actuation and conveyor movement, allowing both manual and autonomous operations
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic unlocked state through automated latch actuation. The system dynamically adjusts between secure locked positioning during transport and unlocked removable positioning during service, enabling both autonomous swapping and manual removal based on operational phase
3Quantity of substance
If bins are stacked vertically for space efficiency, then storage density increases, but obstructing bins block access to the lid of the target bin
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes the vertical dimension for bin stacking to achieve high storage density, while the horizontal conveyor dimension provides access pathways. Bins are stacked vertically in the storage array, but the conveyor system accesses bins horizontally at the service position, allowing simultaneous high-density storage and easy bin retrieval without obstruction
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
Enables users to safely retrieve packages without manual actuation, allowing for hands-free removal and maintaining autonomous bin swapping, ensuring efficient end-to-end goods delivery with secure locking and easy integration into robotic and vehicle systems.
Implementation Method 1
A retractable latch, e.g., a solenoid latch, with manual locking and electronic unlocking
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system for retractable and removable bins, and methods of use thereof, are provided. The locking system includes a retractable latch disposed within a carrier sized and shaped to receive one or more delivery bins. The locking system further includes a first retention feature disposed on the bin and configured to receive the latch in a first locked configuration where horizontal and vertical movement of the bin relative to the latch is prohibited. Additionally, the locking system includes a second retention feature disposed on the bin distal to the first retention feature and configured to receive the latch in a second locked configuration. The second retention feature has an opening such that, in the second locked configuration, vertical movement of the bin relative to the latch is permitted to thereby remove the bin from the latch through the opening.