Smart locker system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional locker systems lack adaptability, security, and convenience, particularly in automated applications, as they fail to efficiently manage interchangeable configurations and user interactions.
Innovation Solution
A smart locker system comprising interchangeable cassette units with separable and combinable bins, equipped with individual lock devices, a computing unit for network connectivity, and user interface devices, allowing for automated operation and management through sensors and cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional manual lockers with physical keys are used, then simplicity and ease of manufacture are maintained, but adaptability, security, and automated functionality are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locker system is divided into modular components: multiple enclosure units, multiple cassette units, storage bins, and control bins that can be independently configured and combined. This segmentation enables flexible adaptation to different space requirements and functional needs while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cassette units serve multiple functions: they act as storage containers, security modules with individual lock devices, and interchangeable components that can be configured in different patterns. The computing unit provides centralized control for multiple enclosures and cassettes, enabling the system to adapt to various operational scenarios including parcel lockers and store pickup lockers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable cassette units with separable bins are implemented, then flexibility and configurability improve, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each cassette unit is designed as a self-contained module with separable storage bins and control bins that can be manufactured independently using standardized components. The modular design allows for streamlined manufacturing processes while enabling flexible configuration during assembly to meet different spatial and functional requirements.
3Reliability
If individual lock devices are assigned to each bin, then security is enhanced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Security is segmented at the bin level with individual lock devices on each storage bin and control bin, allowing independent access control for each compartment. This segmentation enables differentiated security policies for different bins while using standardized lock mechanisms to manage complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors and cameras provide feedback on the status of each bin and its lock device, enabling the computing unit to monitor and control access individually. This feedback mechanism allows for automated security management that reduces the operational complexity despite having multiple lock devices.
4Productivity
If automated functions with computing units and network connectivity are added, then convenience and productivity improve, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The computing unit enables automated operations where the system serves itself by managing lock operations, monitoring bin status through sensors, and controlling access without manual intervention. This self-service capability improves productivity by eliminating manual tasks while the centralized control architecture manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with automated electronic control through the computing unit, which manages lock devices, sensors, and network connectivity. This substitution improves productivity and convenience while the modular architecture and standardized interfaces help manage the resulting complexity.
5Measurement precision
If sensors and cameras are integrated for item status monitoring, then measurement precision and reliability improve, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Monitoring functions are segmented into discrete sensors and cameras placed at specific locations within each bin and cassette unit. This segmentation allows for targeted monitoring of critical parameters while using standardized sensing components to manage complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors and cameras provide real-time feedback on item status, bin occupancy, and lock state to the computing unit. This feedback enables precise monitoring and automated responses while the centralized processing architecture manages the complexity of multiple sensing elements through unified control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart locker system includes an enclosure unit and a cassette unit. The smart locker is extendable by adding additional enclosure units and the cassette units. The cassette unit includes storage bins and a control bin. The cassette unit contains different size of storage bins and a control bin. The smart locker system further includes a touch screen and authentication devices. The smart locker system can arrange the storage bins and the control bins to maintain the height of the smart locker system.