Modular Delivery Container With Onboard Package Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Delivering packages is a complex process that involves high shipping and transportation costs, logistical challenges, and the risk of disease transmission through person-to-person contact during handling and delivery.
Innovation Solution
A modular container delivery system attached to a battery-operated electric vehicle (BEV) with autonomous driving capabilities, featuring a package sorting mechanism that allows for contactless delivery, quick container exchange, and real-time route adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manual package handling and delivery methods are used, then delivery operations can be performed with simple equipment, but shipping and transportation expenses are high and disease transmission risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a contactless delivery interface as an intermediary between the delivery vehicle and the recipient. This interface includes a delivery door on the vehicle that can open to allow package transfer without direct contact between delivery personnel and recipients, thereby preventing disease transmission while maintaining delivery functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery vehicle is segmented into distinct functional zones including a storage area for packages, a contactless delivery interface with a separate door, and a driver area. This segmentation allows independent operation of each zone, enabling contactless package transfer while maintaining simple overall system operation
2Productivity
If automated package sorting and delivery systems are implemented, then delivery efficiency and route optimization improve, but system complexity and initial costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic package sorting system where packages are automatically organized in the storage area based on real-time delivery route information. The system dynamically adjusts package positions and delivery sequences according to changing route conditions, enabling efficient deliveries without requiring complex fixed infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery vehicle serves multiple functions: it acts as both a transportation platform and an automated sorting facility. The vehicle's computer system performs route optimization, package sorting, and delivery coordination simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate sorting facilities and reducing overall system complexity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If contactless delivery interfaces are added to vehicles, then disease transmission is minimized, but vehicle design and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The contactless delivery interface is designed to enable self-service package retrieval. Recipients can independently access packages through the delivery door using provided access codes or identification, eliminating the need for delivery personnel interaction and maintaining simple vehicle operation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery door serves as a physical intermediary that facilitates package transfer without direct human contact. The door can be opened remotely or through automated mechanisms, allowing packages to be transferred while maintaining a simple operational interface for both delivery personnel and recipients
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
Reduces delivery costs, enhances logistical efficiency, and minimizes disease transmission by enabling automated, touchless package delivery with real-time route optimization and container management.
Implementation Method 1
The modular container may comprise a magnetic arm with an attachment mechanism for attaching to the box units. Box units may have one or more magnetic picks that the magnetic arm can attach to.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular container delivery systems and methods are described herein. A modular container delivery system may be implemented to facilitate autonomous delivery of packages to customers. A modular container, as described in greater detail below, may be attached to a battery operated electric vehicle (BEV) and autonomous driving platform chassis. The container system itself contains a package sorting mechanism that is configured to move packages inside the vehicle, organize them into separate section of the vehicle and retrieve packages for delivery on as needed.