Modular Parcel Storage Shifting for Faster In-Vehicle Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
The logistics industry faces challenges in efficiently locating, storing, and retrieving parcels during delivery processes due to growing package volumes and increasing delivery demands, leading to inefficiencies in storage space utilization and time consumption by delivery drivers.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising modular storage structures with shifting mechanisms and control systems that dynamically position parcels based on delivery routes, allowing for efficient staging and retrieval of parcels at desired locations within vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If parcels are stored in fixed positions within delivery vehicles, then storage space utilization is maximized, but time is lost locating and retrieving parcels during delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system transitions from fixed static positions to dynamic reconfigurable positions. Storage structures can be automatically repositioned along rails or tracks within the vehicle based on delivery routes, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically rather than remaining fixed, thus reducing retrieval time without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning of parcels before delivery occurs. Storage structures are pre-positioned at optimal locations based on predicted delivery sequences, so that when delivery time arrives, parcels are already staged and ready for rapid retrieval, eliminating the need for time-consuming location searches during actual delivery operations
2Quantity of substance
If delivery vehicles carry large volumes of parcels, then delivery capacity increases, but efficiency of locating and retrieving specific parcels decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system divides the vehicle interior into multiple segmented zones or bays, each capable of independent positioning or identification. This segmentation allows the system to quickly identify and access specific parcels or groups of parcels without searching through the entire vehicle volume, maintaining high retrieval efficiency even when carrying large parcel volumes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary positioning mechanisms such as rails, tracks, or automated guiding systems that mediate between the large storage volume and the retrieval operation. These intermediaries enable precise positioning and selection of specific parcels from the bulk storage, allowing efficient access to individual items without disrupting the overall high-capacity storage configuration
3Productivity
If storage structures are repositioned dynamically during delivery, then retrieval efficiency improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic rather than continuous repositioning of storage structures. Repositioning occurs at discrete intervals or trigger points (e.g., when approaching delivery locations or transitioning between delivery zones), rather than continuously during the entire delivery route. This periodic action reduces cumulative energy consumption while still achieving the productivity benefits of dynamic positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent explores replacing heavy mechanical shifting mechanisms with lighter alternative systems such as pneumatic positioning, magnetic levitation, or automated guiding carts that require less energy to operate. These substitutions maintain the dynamic repositioning capability while significantly reducing the energy consumption associated with moving storage structures during delivery operations
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
Improves delivery efficiency and accuracy by reducing the time spent locating parcels and maximizing storage space utilization, enabling more deliveries per vehicle and lowering operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
The shifting mechanism may include a support surface and a plurality of rollers, at least some of which are powered to provide rotational movement in at least one direction that is imparted to one or more of the storage structures
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for selectively shifting and staging storage structures in a storage space are provided. Systems, methods, and apparatuses for dynamically organizing packages based on a travel route are also provided. In embodiments, a plurality of parcels may be stored on storage structures located within a vehicle and each storage structure may be provided in a modular assembly. During a delivery operation, the system may determine which parcels are next to be delivered and, either based on predetermined information or dynamic information, may adjust the position of the storage structures within the vehicle using shifting mechanisms and control systems coupled thereto to present the appropriate parcel for retrieval from the vehicle.