Parcel Locker with Retractable Bars for Adaptive Compartment Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic parcel locker systems are inefficient in handling parcels of varying sizes, leading to suboptimal use of space and inability to accommodate all parcels due to fixed compartment sizes, and the collection process is cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive parcel locker system with an internal structure of retractable bars that adjust to fit different parcel shapes, combined with a control system using sensors and actuators to optimize compartment size and facilitate efficient deposit and retrieval, and a secure closure mechanism for authorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size compartments are used in parcel lockers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the volume utilization is poor and small parcels cannot fit when small compartments are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed compartments with movable bars that can dynamically adjust their positions to create variable-sized storage spaces. The bars slide along guides to reconfigure the internal structure, allowing the locker to adapt its compartment sizes based on parcel dimensions, thereby maximizing volume utilization while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the physical configuration parameters of the storage spaces to change dynamically. The bar positions, compartment volumes, and space dimensions are adjustable parameters that can be modified to match different parcel sizes, transforming the rigid fixed-structure into a flexible adaptive system
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple sizes of compartments are provided to match different parcel sizes, then volume utilization improves, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized bar component that serves multiple functions: forming compartment walls, defining storage boundaries, and creating variable spaces. These universal bars replace the need for multiple specialized compartment structures, achieving volume optimization without increasing device complexity or manufacturing variety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses segmentation by dividing the locker interior into flexible zones defined by movable bars rather than fixed compartments. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each zone's size and position, enabling efficient space utilization while maintaining a simple standardized bar component design
3Reliability
If a carrier agent manually opens and closes each compartment for collection, then the collection process is secure, but the collection time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple individual compartment operations into a single automated action. The control system coordinates the movement of multiple bars simultaneously to open several storage spaces at once, allowing the carrier to collect multiple parcels in one operation rather than sequentially accessing each compartment, thereby maintaining security through controlled access while dramatically improving collection speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated control system that manages bar movements. The control system electronically coordinates the mechanical bars, substituting manual opening/closing actions with automated sequences that maintain security protocols while reducing collection time and increasing productivity
4Ease of operation
If the locker maintains fixed compartment structures, then the device is simple to operate, but the adaptability to different parcel shapes and sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the locker structure to dynamically reconfigure itself based on parcel requirements. The movable bars automatically or manually adjust to create appropriate storage spaces for different parcel dimensions and shapes, providing high adaptability while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized control interfaces and automated positioning
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic parcel locker comprising an outside enclosure constituted of two side panels (202), of a bottom panel (206), of a top panel and of a back panel fastened together and defining a front aperture of the electronic parcel locker, and an internal structure for supporting parcels (302, 110, 111, 112) deposited in the electronic parcel locker, the internal structure being constituted of an array of bars (230i) with a same length regularly aligned essentially perpendicularly to the back panel and selectively movable between extended positions where front ends of the bars are aligned in a plan parallel to and near the front aperture of the electronic parcel locker, and retractable positions where the bars are totally or partially retractable towards the back panel for defining temporary compartments exactly adapted to sizes of the parcels deposited in the electronic parcel locker.