Modular Parcel Terminal Layout for High-Capacity Accessible Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-service parcel terminals are inefficient in space usage, inconvenient for users, and pose safety issues due to their design, particularly for smaller packages and individuals with mobility impairments, leading to high costs and reduced accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular parcel terminal with open-topped compartments that can be easily connected or disconnected based on usage needs, featuring moving compartments that allow for comfortable and safe access to parcels at convenient heights, optimizing space usage and reducing the need for multiple terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional lockers with doors are used, then security and containment are improved, but space utilization deteriorates and user accessibility worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is divided into multiple independent modules, each containing one or more compartments. This segmentation allows flexible configuration to optimize space utilization while maintaining security through individual compartment access control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional horizontal locker arrangements to a multi-dimensional modular structure with compartments accessible from multiple sides (front, back, sides). This dimensional change dramatically improves space utilization by allowing vertical stacking and corner placement without sacrificing security.
2Quantity of substance
If more lockers are added to increase storage capacity, then parcel accommodation is improved, but floor space consumption worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Modules can be nested or stacked vertically to maximize storage capacity within limited floor space. The modular design allows compartments to be arranged in vertical configurations, effectively nesting storage spaces to increase capacity without proportionally increasing footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows dynamic reconfiguration of the terminal based on space availability and usage patterns. Modules can be added, removed, or rearranged to optimize the ratio of storage capacity to floor space occupation according to specific deployment contexts.
3Volume of moving object
If lockers are placed higher to save floor space, then vertical space utilization is improved, but user accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The modular compartments are designed to be accessible from multiple directions (front, back, sides). This multi-functionality in access paths means that even compartments positioned at higher vertical levels remain easily accessible through alternative approaches, eliminating the need to compromise vertical space utilization for accessibility.
4Device complexity
If traditional locker designs are used, then structural simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different usage scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is segmented into standardized modular units that maintain simple individual structures but provide complex adaptability when combined. Each module is structurally simple yet can be configured in various arrangements to adapt to different space constraints and usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design creates universal building blocks that can serve multiple functions and adapt to various deployment scenarios. The same basic module type can be used in different configurations for high-traffic areas, low-traffic areas, corner placements, or wall-mounted installations, providing versatility without increasing structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The modular parcel terminal according to the present invention has been built from modules comprising outward moving open-topped compartments and compartments with doors and the console module. The outward moving open-topped compartments have been located in the parcel terminal in such a pattern that would allow achieving the maximum capacity of the parcel terminal and that it would be comfortable and safe for the user to enter and retrieve parcels, postal packages, storable items at the parcel terminal. The modules of the parcel terminal have been built in such a way that allows them to be connected with each other according to the need of storage space in a particular parcel terminal exploitation area.