Automated Pallet Sled Navigation for Dynamic Store Deliveries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) and Automated Mobile Robot (AMR) technologies are not suitable for dynamic delivery scenarios, such as from a truck to multiple stores and coolers, requiring significant labor and time for pallet transportation in beverage and food service applications.
Innovation Solution
A delivery assist system, including an automated pallet sled with a base, fork tines, lift actuator, and sensors, that can autonomously locate, lift, and move pallets within a delivery vehicle, and navigate to delivery destinations, reducing the need for additional labor and increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) and Automated Mobile Robot (AMR) technology is implemented in warehouse-like environments with fixed landmarks, then automation capability is improved, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic delivery scenarios from trucks to stores
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static warehouse environments with fixed landmarks to dynamic delivery scenarios by implementing real-time navigation using mobile devices, GPS, and computer vision technologies. The robot can adapt to changing environments, uneven terrain, and dynamic obstacles during delivery operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery robot is designed to perform multiple functions: autonomous navigation from truck to store, pallet transport, interaction with delivery personnel via mobile devices, and adaptation to various delivery scenarios. This multi-functionality enables the same system to handle diverse delivery situations.
2Productivity
If multiple pallets over 1000 lb are transported manually from trailers to stores, then delivery can be completed, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service delivery operations where the autonomous robot independently performs pallet transport from the truck to the store without requiring manual handling. The robot can interact with delivery personnel through mobile devices to receive instructions and complete the delivery autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical labor with an autonomous robotic system equipped with sensors, motors, and control algorithms. The robot uses computer vision, LIDAR, and mobile device communication to navigate and transport pallets, eliminating the need for human physical labor in the delivery process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional labor in the form of ride along helpers or additional vehicles is allocated to delivery, then delivery capability is improved, but cost significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the labor-intensive pallet transport function from the delivery vehicle and assigns it to an autonomous robot. This allows the primary delivery vehicle to focus on transportation while the separate robotic unit handles local pallet delivery, eliminating the need for additional drivers or helpers.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated mobile robot for assisted and/or automated delivery between a delivery vehicle and a store may take the form of an automated pallet sled. The automated pallet sled may include a base and tines that can be raised by a lift actuator. A processor and various sensors enable the automated pallet sled to navigate and avoid people and obstacles. In a first implementation, the automated pallet sled retrieves pallets destined for a store at a current location within the delivery vehicle and places them on a liftgate of the delivery vehicle. In a second implementation, the automated pallet sled follows a manual pallet sled operated by the driver. In another implementation, the automated pallet sled brings pallets into the store independently of the driver.