Hybrid Parcel Shop Locker Control for Throughput and Refilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Parcel shops are labor-intensive due to manual handling, while parcel lockers have low capacity and throughput, especially when parcels are collected after several days, leading to inefficiencies in parcel distribution.
Innovation Solution
A service point integrating a manned parcel shop and a parcel locker, controlled by a service point controller that optimizes parcel distribution between storage and locker compartments, ensuring efficient refilling and automated handling through a computerized system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If parcel lockers are filled only once a day, then the labor intensity is reduced, but the parcel throughput and capacity utilization are lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the refilling frequency and timing of parcel lockers based on real-time monitoring of compartment occupancy levels. Instead of a fixed daily refilling schedule, the controller continuously updates distribution instructions to optimize throughput while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The service point controller monitors the occupancy status of locker compartments and uses this feedback information to generate optimized refilling instructions. The system adjusts distribution strategies based on actual parcel accumulation patterns and collection rates, improving overall system efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling is used in parcel shops, then parcel distribution flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service parcel distribution through the parcel locker, where recipients can collect parcels using third-party devices or touch screens without manual intervention. The service point controller automatically manages parcel allocation and locker refilling, reducing labor intensity while maintaining service availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The service point integrates both automated parcel lockers and manual parcel shop functions into a single hybrid system. This allows the system to handle different parcel types and service requirements through multiple modes of operation, maintaining flexibility while optimizing for reduced labor intensity through automated handling where applicable.
3Quantity of substance
If parcel locker capacity is increased, then more parcels can be stored, but the complexity of the locker system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel locker system is divided into multiple independent compartments, each with its own lock and control mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to manage large total capacity through modular units, simplifying the overall control architecture while maintaining high storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The service point controller acts as an intermediary between the parcel storage system and the locker compartments. It manages the complex coordination of parcel distribution, monitoring, and refilling operations, thereby reducing the complexity burden on the locker hardware itself while enabling high-capacity storage management.
Data Source
AI summary
A service point for distribution of a plurality of parcels is provided, wherein the service point includes a parcel shop being a manned service point for manually handing over parcels, the parcel shop including a storage room for storing the plurality of parcels, and a shop instruction unit including a display for displaying instructions; a parcel locker positioned inside the parcel shop or positioned in a near vicinity of the parcel shop, the parcel locker including a plurality of compartments for storing parcels and the plurality of compartments including a compartment door provided with a lock; and a locker communication unit, a service point controller including a computer readable storage for storing thereon a parcel ID of each of the plurality of parcels and for storing a service point parcel distribution including a parcel position of each of the plurality of parcels within the service point; a service point communication unit for wired or wireless communication with the shop instruction unit, the locker communication unit, third-party devices and optionally, a distribution server; and a service point processor configured to send instructions to the shop instruction unit about refilling the parcel locker as a function of the service point parcel distribution.