Parcel detection device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel locker systems face challenges in accurately detecting small items due to sensitivity to temperature variations, complex cabling requirements, and the need for precise adjustments, which increases costs and reduces reliability in detecting items of varying sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A parcel detection device using a laser diode and a light reflector with concave mirrors, where the mirrors are arranged to minimize the impact of misalignments and simplify cabling, allowing for effective detection of small items without requiring complex adjustments or costly cabling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weight sensors are used to detect parcel presence, then detection capability is improved, but temperature sensitivity increases and precision decreases for light items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical weight sensors with an optical detection system using laser beams and light sensors. This substitution eliminates the temperature sensitivity and precision issues inherent in mechanical sensing, as the optical system detects parcel presence through light obstruction rather than weight measurement.
2Measurement precision
If light sensors with arrays of emitters and receivers are used, then detection capability is improved, but cabling complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser emitter and light sensor into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate cabling to multiple emitters and receivers. This merging maintains detection capability while dramatically simplifying the cabling structure and reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single light sensor performs multiple functions: it detects both the presence of parcels and determines their position within the compartment. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple specialized sensors and their associated cabling infrastructure.
3Device complexity
If mirrors are used to redirect light beams, then device complexity is reduced, but alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a concave mirror with a specific radius of curvature to focus and redirect the laser beam. The curved surface provides inherent alignment tolerance, as the focal properties of the concave mirror compensate for minor misalignments, reducing the precision requirements compared to flat mirror systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The concave mirror acts as an intermediary optical element that mediates between the laser emitter and the target area. It focuses the divergent laser beam into a concentrated path, providing robustness against alignment variations while maintaining detection effectiveness.
4Measurement precision
If conventional light arrays are used to detect small items, then detection accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to complex cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical cabling systems with a simplified optical path using a laser diode and concave mirror. This substitution maintains the ability to detect small items while dramatically reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating extensive wiring infrastructure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides reliable detection of small items across a range of temperatures and operating conditions, reducing manufacturing costs and improving accuracy while being insensitive to manufacturing tolerances and misalignments.
Implementation Method 1
comprises a laser diode for emitting a light beam
Implementation Method 2
a light reflector for reflecting said light beam towards a light sensor for detecting said light beam, wherein said light reflector comprises two square rulers or rods carrying opposite mirrors, a first square ruler or rod carrying a plurality of concave mirrors
Data Source
AI summary
A parcel detection device for detecting an item in a compartment of a parcel locker, comprising a laser diode for emitting a light beam and a light reflector for reflecting said light beam towards a light sensor for detecting said light beam, said light reflector comprising two square rulers or rods carrying opposite mirrors, a first square ruler or rod carrying a plurality of concave mirrors disposed in front of a flat mirror carried by a second square ruler or rod.