Multi-compartment locker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated storage lockers for perishable goods are bulky, costly to manufacture and maintain, and require on-site repairs, which can lead to operational inefficiencies and increased greenhouse gas emissions due to refrigerant release.
Innovation Solution
A modular, compact refrigeration unit is designed to be removably housed within the locker, allowing for easy maintenance and replacement, with duct interfaces for air circulation and data communication for temperature control, reducing the need for on-site repairs and minimizing refrigerant release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional integrated refrigeration units are built into automated lockers, then temperature control capability is provided, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system is segmented into separate functional modules: a removable environmental control unit containing the compressor and refrigerant circuit, and a stationary locker body containing only the evaporator and air distribution system. This segmentation allows the complex refrigeration components to be isolated in a standardized module that can be manufactured separately and easily replaced, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining temperature control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressor and refrigerant circuit are extracted from the integrated unit and placed in a separate removable environmental control unit. This extraction allows the main locker body to be simpler in design, while the refrigeration function is contained in a self-contained module that can be easily maintained and replaced without affecting the locker structure.
2Temperature
If conventional integrated refrigeration units are used, then temperature control is achieved, but maintenance difficulty and operational downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The environmental control unit is designed with dynamic replaceability - it can be quickly removed and replaced without tools or complex disassembly. The unit slides out on guides and connects/disconnects from the locker body through simple interface mechanisms, transforming the static, permanently integrated refrigeration system into a dynamic, easily serviceable module.
Solution Approach 2:
The environmental control unit is pre-assembled and pre-charged with refrigerant at the manufacturing stage. This preliminary preparation means that when maintenance is needed, the entire unit can be replaced as a complete, ready-to-install module without requiring on-site refrigerant handling or system recharging, significantly reducing maintenance time and complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If refrigeration systems are integrated into lockers, then perishable goods storage is enabled, but greenhouse gas emissions from refrigerant release increase
Solution Approach 1:
The potential harm of refrigerant leakage is converted into a benefit through the modular design. The sealed environmental control unit contains the refrigerant circuit completely, and if leakage occurs, the entire unit can be quickly replaced and sealed at a controlled facility rather than requiring field repairs that might compromise the seal. The modularity itself becomes a protective mechanism against emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates preventive measures by designing the environmental control unit with a sealed, self-contained refrigerant circuit that is protected from damage during normal operation. The unit can be easily replaced if issues arise, preventing potential leakage scenarios before they occur. This proactive design approach cushions against the harmful effects of refrigerant release.
4Strength
If conventional integrated locker units are manufactured as complete assemblies, then structural integrity is maintained, but manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locker system is segmented into two main components: a stationary locker body providing structural integrity and shelving, and a removable environmental control unit providing refrigeration. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured optimally for its function - the locker body can be built with simple, cost-effective materials and assembly methods, while the environmental control unit is manufactured as a standardized, high-precision module at a specialized facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The environmental control unit is designed as a universal module that can be installed in multiple different locker configurations and locations. The standardized interface and mounting system allow the same refrigeration unit to serve different locker models and sizes, reducing manufacturing costs through economies of scale and simplifying installation through repeatability.
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
This solution reduces manufacturing and installation costs, enhances maintenance efficiency, and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions by standardizing the environmental control units for centralized maintenance, while allowing for flexible temperature control across compartments.
Implementation Method 1
an environmental control unit removably housed in the locker housing, the environmental control unit having duct interfaces engagable with the air inlet duct and with the air outlet duct for circulating air between the at least one environmentally controlled compartment and the environmental control unit
Data Source
AI summary
A locker for unattended storage and automated access of stored goods including a locker housing having at least one environmentally controlled compartment with an environmentally controlled access opening, an air inlet duct and an air outlet duct; a door sealingly engaging the environmentally controlled access opening; an automated latch engaging the door and movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; an access control unit in communication with the automated latch; and an environmental control unit removably housed in the locker housing, the environmental control unit having duct interfaces engagable with the air inlet duct and with the air outlet duct for circulating air between the at least one environmentally controlled compartment and the environmental control unit, and the environmental control unit having an electric power connector engagable with an electric power outlet in the locker housing in communication with a source of electric power.