Offline Parcel Locker with Segmented Code Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current logistical routing solutions for parcel delivery face challenges such as high costs, complexity, and the need for continuous electronic communication with management systems, which are not suitable for sparsely populated areas and do not meet all customer needs for reliable and fast distribution or collection.
Innovation Solution
A method for managing logistical routing that uses a container with an electronic lock that operates independently of a management server, allowing users to receive an availability code for parcel collection, which generates a time-limited opening code for access, enabling offline operations and reducing reliance on network connectivity for reporting transfer operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If automated lockers are electronically connected to a management server via communication networks, then remote management and sharing capability are improved, but installation cost, device complexity, and operational constraints increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the management function into two parts: the container itself (simple, offline-capable) and the management server (centralized, online). The container only needs local code verification capability, while the server handles complex management tasks. This segmentation allows containers to operate independently without continuous network connection, reducing their complexity while maintaining shared use capability through the server.
Solution Approach 2:
The management server performs preliminary actions by pre-generating and storing opening codes in its database before the container needs to operate. When a user requests access, the server prepares the opening code in advance and transmits it to the container. This preliminary preparation allows the container to verify codes locally without needing real-time server connection, reducing operational complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If containers are installed in sparsely populated areas with limited communication services, then coverage and accessibility are improved, but reliable electronic communication with management server becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the communication-critical functions (code generation, user management) from the container unit and places them in the centralized management server. The container itself only performs simple local verification of received codes, minimizing its communication needs. This allows containers to be deployed in remote areas with unreliable communication while maintaining operational reliability through the always-online server.
Solution Approach 2:
The management server creates digital copies of opening codes and stores them in its database. These code copies can be transmitted to containers asynchronously when network connection is available. Once transmitted, the container can independently verify these code copies without needing to communicate with the server, enabling reliable operation in areas with intermittent connectivity.
3Extent of automation
If continuous network connection is required for code verification, then centralized control is improved, but operational speed and user convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The verification process is segmented into two stages: centralized code generation by the server, and decentralized local verification by the container. The server maintains centralized control by generating and managing the master code list, while the container performs rapid local verification by comparing user input against stored codes. This segmentation enables both centralized control and fast local access without continuous network connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The management server performs the computationally intensive code generation and validation in advance, storing pre-validated opening codes in the container's memory. When a user presents a code, the container only needs to perform a simple comparison operation rather than complex verification. This preliminary preparation by the server enables rapid local verification, improving access speed while maintaining centralized control over code issuance.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for managing the logistical routing of objects to multiple users, for distribution and/or collection by a logistics operator, in particular an operator independent of said users. It comprises transfer operations, deposit 131 and then retrieval 231, in a BAC container controlled by an electronic lock, which can be installed without an electronic connection to the management server SI. A package to be delivered is deposited 131 in this container. The recipient user UTI receives on their mobile phone TPU an availability code D21 valid for a few days pT1, indicating where to pick up their package. Upon arrival at the container, they enter the container code D22 into the application. The application then provides 216 an opening code D23 valid for a few minutes pT2, and automatically prepares 217 a report message D25. The container verifies 223 the opening code and opens its locker.As soon as the TPU phone is connected to the network, it automatically sends its D25 report to the SI management server. The invention also relates to a container designed for such a process.