Real-Time Multi-Order Batching with Walker–Vehicle Handoffs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing delivery systems struggle to efficiently utilize both walker and vehicle couriers to optimize order fulfillment in high-density merchant areas, leading to increased bandwidth and processing resource utilization, as well as a high rate of order request denials due to inefficient matching and batching.
Innovation Solution
A computing system that determines walker and vehicle couriers to perform specific portions of orders based on current location, estimated preparation times, and vehicle arrival times, allowing for real-time multi-order batching and optimizing overall courier trip times by breaking orders into walking and vehicle portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single courier type (vehicle or walker) is used for entire order requests, then the system is simple to operate, but courier resource utilization is inefficient and order fulfillment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides an order request into two distinct segments: a walking portion (from courier to merchant) and a vehicle portion (from merchant to customer). Different courier types are assigned to different segments based on their capabilities and the specific order requirements, optimizing resource utilization while maintaining system manageability
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a universal courier assignment framework that can handle multiple courier types (walkers and vehicles) for different portions of the same order. This multi-functional approach allows flexible resource allocation where walkers handle local pick-up and vehicles handle long-distance delivery, improving overall productivity
2Loss of energy
If real-time multi-order batching is implemented, then bandwidth and processing resource utilization decrease, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary batching of multiple orders before assignment to couriers. By pre-grouping compatible orders based on merchant location, courier availability, and delivery constraints, the system reduces real-time processing requirements and bandwidth usage while maintaining effective resource allocation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple order requests into batches that can be handled by single couriers or coordinated courier teams. This consolidation reduces the total number of individual assignments and communications required, decreasing system resource utilization while managing complexity through standardized batching algorithms
3Productivity
If walker couriers are used for pick-up portions, then local area efficiency improves, but coordination complexity with vehicle couriers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a centralized computing system as an intermediary that coordinates between walker couriers and vehicle couriers. This mediator manages the handoff process, tracks positions, and ensures seamless transitions between walking and vehicle portions, reducing direct coordination complexity while improving local efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for real-time multi-order batching using multiple couriers. The method includes determining that a walker courier can pick up a walking portion of a first order request and a second order request. The method includes determining that the walker courier can pick up the second order items based on (i) a current location of a computing device associated with the first walker courier, (ii) estimated time of preparation for the second item associated with the second order request, and (iii) an estimated item of arrival for the vehicle courier to a merchant area associated with the first order request and the second order request. Based on progress of assigned vehicle couriers, the transition point for the walker courier to met the vehicle courier can be computed and transmitted to the respective computing devices.