Parcel Routing via Real-Time Vehicle Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current parcel transportation systems are inefficient as they rely on dedicated vehicles, which are vastly outnumbered by non-dedicated vehicles on the roads, leading to underutilization of transportation capacity and increased resource expenditure.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an information handling system that determines real-time location and route information for parcels and vehicles, allowing for the selection of a replacement vehicle to optimize route efficiency and initiate physical transfers between vehicles to ensure parcels reach their destinations efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated vehicles are used for parcel transportation, then parcel delivery reliability is improved, but transportation resource utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling non-dedicated vehicles to perform parcel transportation in addition to their primary functions. The system allows any vehicle on the road to become a potential transportation carrier, transforming single-function vehicles into multi-functional units that can transport parcels while maintaining their original purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an information handling system as an intermediary that coordinates parcel transfers between vehicles. This mediator tracks vehicle locations, manages route efficiency analysis, and orchestrates the complex interactions between multiple vehicles and parcels, enabling reliable delivery without dedicated transportation.
2Reliability
If dedicated transportation vehicles are deployed, then parcel delivery service quality is improved, but transportation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges parcel transportation with existing non-dedicated vehicle operations. Instead of maintaining separate dedicated transportation systems, the system combines parcel delivery functions with vehicles already in circulation, consolidating resources and eliminating redundant transportation infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables vehicles to self-select parcel transportation opportunities based on their existing routes and capacity. Vehicles autonomously evaluate whether to accept parcels based on route efficiency criteria, eliminating the need for centralized dispatch and reducing operational costs.
3Productivity
If real-time vehicle tracking and route optimization is implemented, then transportation efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback loops where the information handling system monitors vehicle locations, analyzes route efficiency in real-time, and dynamically adjusts parcel assignments. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to changing conditions and optimize transportation efficiency automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical coordination systems with information-based management. Instead of physical communication between vehicles and centralized control, the system uses digital information handling, GPS tracking, and automated algorithms to manage transportation coordination, reducing mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes determining real-time location information for a transportation item. The method further includes determining real-time route information for a plurality of vehicles, the plurality of vehicles comprising a vehicle-in-transit actively transporting the transportation item. In addition, the method includes analyzing, via the real-time location information and the real-time route information, a route efficiency of the plurality of vehicles relative to an intended destination of the transportation item. Further, the method includes selecting a replacement vehicle from among the plurality of vehicles based, at least in part, on a result of the analyzing. Additionally, the method includes initiating physical transfer of the transportation item from the vehicle-in-transit to the replacement vehicle.