Package Pickup Identification Using Non-Transit Markings
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of efficiently identifying and picking up multiple packages left at the same location by couriers during returns, which is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to errors due to reliance on transport-related markings.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing non-transit-related identifying markings on packages, such as barcodes and QR codes, scanned by consumers using mobile devices and stored by a return coordinator server, enabling couriers to accurately identify packages using mobile devices upon arrival.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If couriers rely on transport-related markings to identify packages, then package identification can be performed using existing labels, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming when multiple packages are left at the same location
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having consumers scan and upload images of their packages along with location data before the courier arrives. The return coordinator server processes these images in advance, extracts markings, and creates a database of expected packages at each location. When the courier arrives, they only need to compare against this pre-prepared list rather than manually examining multiple packages, significantly reducing identification time.
2Reliability
If couriers manually examine multiple packages to find the correct one, then accurate identification can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of physically examining packages with an automated image recognition system. The courier uses a mobile device to capture images of packages, and the return coordinator server automatically extracts markings and compares them against the database of expected packages. This substitution of manual inspection with automated optical recognition maintains high accuracy while dramatically reducing labor intensity and operational complexity for the courier.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple packages are left at the same location, then consumers have convenient drop-off options, but courier identification becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by having consumers provide information about their packages (images and location data) in advance. This feedback loop allows the return coordinator server to build an accurate database of expected packages at each location. When the courier arrives, they receive feedback from the system indicating which packages match the expected list, enabling efficient identification even when multiple packages are present at the same location. This maintains drop-off flexibility while preserving pickup efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus, articles of manufacture, and methods to facilitate pick-up of packages are disclosed. Example machine-readable instructions cause at least one processor circuit to at least access a list of markings associated with an intended package to be collected for delivery to a destination location, access an image that includes at least a portion of a potential package, the image including a first marking of the potential package, the first marking not used for transportation of the potential package to the destination location, compare the first marking to a second marking in the list of markings, and when the first marking matches the second marking, identify the potential package as the intended package.