System for parcel transport and tracking operated responsive to data bearing records
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current depository systems lack efficient control and tracking mechanisms for deposit items, particularly in terms of access management and item status, leading to potential errors and inefficiencies in item handling and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A depository apparatus equipped with electronic locks, sensors, and control circuitry that reads data from items using data-bearing records to authorize access, track item status, and manage compartment access, enabling secure and efficient handling of deposit items through a networked system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual access control and tracking methods are used in traditional depositories, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of item tracking and access management deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical access control and tracking methods with electronic and optical systems. Specifically, it uses electronic locks controlled by access codes, optical scanners to read barcodes on items, and electronic databases to track item locations and status. This substitution significantly improves tracking reliability while accepting increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automated self-service operations where users can independently access depositories, scan items, and update tracking information without manual intervention from operators. The electronic system automatically records access events, item movements, and status changes, improving reliability while reducing the need for complex manual oversight procedures.
2Productivity
If automated electronic control systems are implemented, then productivity of item handling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-registering items with unique barcodes and pre-establishing access control parameters before items are deposited. This allows the automated system to efficiently process items through scanning and electronic logging without requiring complex real-time decision-making, thereby improving productivity while managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the electronic system continuously monitors item status, access events, and location information, then automatically updates tracking records and notifies relevant parties. This automated feedback loop improves item handling efficiency by eliminating manual status checks while the standardized feedback protocols keep system complexity manageable.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive tracking and access control mechanisms are added, then measurement precision of item status is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual tracking procedures with automated electronic monitoring and optical barcode scanning. This allows for precise tracking of item status, location, and access history without requiring users to manually record information, thereby maintaining measurement precision while simplifying user interaction through automated data capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to independently interact with the tracking system through simple actions like scanning barcodes or entering access codes, with the electronic system automatically handling the complex tasks of data recording, verification, and status updates. This self-service approach maintains high measurement precision while preserving ease of operation for end users.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for parcel transport and tracking that operates responsive to data bearing records includes a plurality of geographically spaced repositories. The exemplary repositories include a plurality of enclosed compartment spaces. Access to each of the enclosed compartment spaces is controlled by a respective door which is in operative connection with the respective lock. Central system circuitry in operative connection with the repositories is operative to control access to the compartment spaces and to cause compartments to be selectively accessible so that selected parcels may be placed therein or removed therefrom.