Parallel Parcel Terminal Zones for Faster Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel terminal systems are time-consuming due to the sequential nature of inserting and retrieving parcels, which can take hours for multiple parcels, as users can only handle one parcel at a time and must wait for the carousel-like system to move into position.
Innovation Solution
The parcel terminal is divided into a user zone and an internal zone, allowing simultaneous insertion and retrieval processes, with a loading mechanism that moves vertically and horizontally to transport trays, enabling parallel operation and reducing the number of stages required for insertion and discharge, and utilizing statistical data analysis to optimize tray management and user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a carousel-like system with sequential shelf movement is used to store and retrieve parcels, then the system can accommodate multiple parcels in storage, but the time required to insert or retrieve each parcel increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent vertical columns, each capable of autonomous operation. Each column has its own motor-driven shelf mechanism, allowing parallel processing of multiple parcels simultaneously. This segmentation enables the system to handle multiple insertion/retrieval operations at the same time, dramatically reducing total processing time while maintaining high storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelves in each column are designed to move continuously or in rapid succession without waiting for individual operations to complete before starting the next. The system maintains continuous operational flow by pre-positioning shelves and enabling overlapping operations, eliminating idle time between parcel handling activities.
2Ease of operation
If a carousel-like system moves shelves into position for each insertion or retrieval operation, then parcels can be accessed from a single access point, but the user must wait for each shelf to move into position
Solution Approach 1:
The single access point is segmented into multiple virtual access points corresponding to different vertical columns. Each column operates independently with its own control mechanism, allowing the system to service multiple users or multiple parcels simultaneously while maintaining a physically unified access interface.
Solution Approach 2:
Shelves are pre-positioned in anticipation of required operations. The system uses statistical data and usage patterns to predict which parcels will be accessed next and pre-moves shelves to optimal positions, eliminating waiting time for shelf movement during actual user operations.
3Ease of manufacture
If parcels are transported one by one to shelves or from shelves, then each parcel can be individually placed or retrieved, but the sequential process requires significant time for multiple parcels
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel handling system is segmented into multiple parallel processing channels, one for each vertical column. Each channel can independently transport and handle parcels simultaneously, transforming the sequential single-channel process into a parallel multi-channel system that maintains individual parcel attention while achieving high throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple independent column operations are merged into a coordinated system that shares common control infrastructure and access points. The system combines the capabilities of multiple parallel processors while maintaining the individualized handling characteristics of each column, achieving both efficiency and precision.
4Reliability
If the parcel terminal uses a conventional shelf system with separate lockers, then each parcel has dedicated storage space, but inserting and retrieving multiple parcels takes hours
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into multiple autonomous vertical columns, each functioning as an independent secure storage unit. Each column maintains its own locked shelves and access control, ensuring that parcel security is preserved while enabling parallel operations across columns to dramatically reduce total handling time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for decreasing the time spent on inserting postal objects in and discharging them from a parcel terminal and a parcel terminal comprising at least one storage space with multiple compartments within the parcel terminal for loading and storing postal objects on movable trays; an insertion and discharge area with one or more insertion and discharge slots equipped with a door, and a control unit; a loading mechanism for transporting postal objects from the insertion and discharge area to the storage space of postal objects and from the storage space to the insertion and discharge area. For performing the method, the parcel terminal is provided with a stack of movable trays, an area for storing the stack of movable trays and a stacker of movable trays, the terminal includes a user zone and an internal zone and the method comprises the cycles of inserting and discharging a postal object in the user zone, a cycle parallel with the insertion and/or discharge cycle which is performed in the internal zone of the parcel terminal, a cycle of stacking and/or emptying the stack of trays in the user zone, and gathering and analyzing statistical data on the use of the terminal by means of the control unit.