Method for delivering items
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a facility to deliver items in a city center during off-peak hours without requiring returns of un-deliverable items, and to enable delivery after transloading from a larger vehicle to a smaller one without special solutions or repacking.
Innovation Solution
A modular system with a container having a standardized coupling mechanism that allows secure attachment to various vehicles and immobile objects, enabling secure transportation and delivery without the need for repacking, using a combination of bores and projections for locking and unlocking, and an electronic module for secure access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If items are delivered in a city center during off-peak hours, then delivery flexibility and urban area accessibility are improved, but the risk of un-deliverable items requiring returns increases when addressees are not present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary secure location (locker, designated area, or third-party location) as a mediator between the delivery vehicle and the addressee. When the addressee is not present, the container is transferred to this intermediary location where it remains securely stored until the addressee can collect it, thus preventing returns while maintaining delivery flexibility during off-peak hours
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service delivery where the addressee can collect items at their convenience from secure locations or locked containers. The container itself serves the dual function of transport and secure storage, allowing the delivery system to operate autonomously without requiring the addressee to be present during delivery attempts
2Adaptability or versatility
If transloading from larger delivery vehicles to smaller delivery vehicles is performed, then last-mile delivery capability is improved, but the complexity of securing and repacking items increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the delivery system into modular containers that can be independently handled. Each container is a self-contained unit with integrated security features, allowing seamless transfer between different vehicle types without requiring complex repacking or resecuring operations. The standardized container design enables simple mechanical or manual transfer while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The container design provides universal functionality that serves multiple purposes: it acts as both the transport vehicle for bulk items and the secure delivery unit for final delivery. The same container used in large distribution vehicles can be directly transferred to small delivery vehicles or secure locations without modification, eliminating the need for specialized equipment or complex repacking procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A system for delivering and/or picking up items comprising a container, which is closable via an openable/closable door and has access protection, and a standardized coupling mechanism for the option of fastening on a delivery vehicle, a mobile mini-vehicle or a stationary upright, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a receiving means on the holder and comprises an engagement means, which is for engagement in the receiving means and is arranged on the delivery vehicle, on the mobile mini-vehicle and on the stationary upright such that the container is securable in a releasable manner optionally on the delivery vehicle, on the mobile mini-vehicle or on the stationary upright, and a corresponding method.