Parcel Redirection to Locker Banks via Preference Queries

Solution Overview

Problem

Current delivery systems face inefficiencies and increased costs due to repeated redelivery attempts when parcels cannot be delivered to the intended address, leading to delays and higher transaction costs for carriers.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for redirecting parcels to alternate delivery locations, such as secure locker banks, which allows delivery drivers to redirect parcels to suitable locker banks based on size, availability, and recipient preferences, enabling secure storage and retrieval by consignees.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the carrier attempts redelivery multiple times, then the parcel may eventually reach the consignee, but transaction costs increase and delivery delays occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery completionVSAvoiddelivery delay

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by proactively identifying alternative delivery locations before redelivery attempts are made. The carrier system queries available alternative locations (such as locker banks, retail stores, or designated addresses) and obtains consignee preferences in advance, so that when a delivery fails, the parcel can be immediately redirected without waiting for multiple redelivery attempts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary component - an alternative delivery location system that acts as a mediator between the carrier and consignee. This intermediary provides a network of possible delivery points (locker banks, retail stores, etc.) and coordinates the redirection process, eliminating the need for repeated carrier attempts at the original address.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the carrier attempts redelivery multiple times, then the parcel may eventually reach the consignee, but transaction costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery completionVSAvoidtransaction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by proactively identifying alternative delivery locations before redelivery attempts are made. The carrier system queries available alternative locations (such as locker banks, retail stores, or designated addresses) and obtains consignee preferences in advance, so that when a delivery fails, the parcel can be immediately redirected without waiting for multiple redelivery attempts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary component - an alternative delivery location system that acts as a mediator between the carrier and consignee. This intermediary provides a network of possible delivery points (locker banks, retail stores, etc.) and coordinates the redirection process, eliminating the need for repeated carrier attempts at the original address.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If the parcel is redirected to an alternate delivery location, then delivery costs and delays are reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedelivery efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies universality by creating a multi-functional platform that serves multiple purposes: it acts as a database of alternative locations, a communication channel between carrier and consignee, a preference management system, and a redirection coordination hub. This universal system can handle various types of alternative locations (lockers, stores, addresses) and different delivery scenarios through a single integrated platform.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing consignees to autonomously manage their delivery preferences and select alternative locations through a user interface. The system automatically queries available locations, processes preferences, and executes redirections without requiring manual carrier intervention, thereby managing complexity through automation rather than manual processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11562318B2Systems and methods for conveying a parcel to a consignee, for example, after an unsuccessful delivery attempt

Publication Date: 2023.01.24 UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICAN INC

AI summary

A system for redirecting a parcel from a primary delivery location (e.g., a residential address) to a locker bank is configured to redirect the parcel following an unsuccessful delivery attempt at the primary delivery location. In some embodiments, the system is configured to determine a suitable locker bank to which to redirect the parcel based on preferences received from a carrier (e.g., common carrier), shipper of the parcel, or consignee of the parcel. In various embodiments, following the unsuccessful delivery attempt, the system is configured to receive a request to deliver the parcel to the locker bank, provide access to one or more lockers at the locker bank for placement of the parcel, receive confirmation that the parcel has been placed in a particular locker at the locker bank, and associate the parcel with the particular locker.