Parcel Safe Alignment Apparatus for Remote Drone Delivery Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel delivery systems face challenges such as package loss, theft, damage, and exposure to inclement weather, particularly when using remote delivery vehicles like drones, due to difficulties in aligning and securely placing packages in smart parcel safes.
Innovation Solution
A parcel safe with a powered lid and externally controllable locking mechanism, combined with an alignment apparatus using sensors and recognizable patterns for remote vehicle orientation, allows for secure and accurate delivery and pickup of packages by enabling remote control of the lid's position and providing an index for precise package placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote delivery vehicle (drone) attempts to deliver a package close to the opening of the smart parcel safe, then the delivery can be made remotely without human presence, but the alignment and placement of the package becomes extremely difficult and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an alignment apparatus as an intermediary between the remote delivery vehicle and the parcel safe. This apparatus includes alignment markers positioned around the opening and a receiving surface with alignment features that guide the package into the correct position. The markers provide visual or sensor-based guidance to the drone, enabling precise alignment without requiring the drone to manually judge positioning, thus resolving the contradiction between remote operation ease and placement precision.
2Extent of automation
If the parcel safe uses a traditional manual locking mechanism, then the structure remains simple, but the automated remote delivery process cannot securely lock the package without human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to operate autonomously based on signals from the remote delivery vehicle. When the vehicle indicates successful package delivery, the locking mechanism automatically engages to secure the package. This self-service approach enables automated locking without requiring human intervention while keeping the mechanism relatively simple, as it only needs to respond to automated triggers rather than complex control systems.
3Reliability
If multiple delivery attempts are made due to failed initial deliveries, then the parcel can eventually be delivered, but time is wasted driving and waiting in long lines, fuel is wasted, and environmental harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by preparing the parcel safe in advance for automated delivery. The alignment apparatus is pre-positioned, the locking mechanism is pre-configured to respond to automated signals, and the receiving surface is ready to guide packages. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the remote delivery vehicle arrives, the package can be delivered successfully in one attempt without requiring multiple trips, thereby reducing time loss and environmental impact.
4Productivity
If perishable parcels are left exposed during delivery attempts, then delivery can be attempted, but the parcels are damaged or destroyed by exposure to heat, cold, rain, wind, sun, and other extreme conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel safe provides beforehand protection by offering a sheltered, climate-controlled environment for packages. Instead of leaving parcels exposed during delivery attempts, the system allows packages to be placed directly into the protected safe structure. The safe acts as a cushioning barrier against harmful environmental factors such as heat, cold, rain, and wind, ensuring package integrity while maintaining delivery productivity through automated processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A parcel safe for remote vehicle pickup and delivery of packages including a container having an opening for receiving or deploying packages. The container has a lockable lid associated with the opening and has a closed position and an open position. The container and associated lid define a package receiving surface in the open position. Alignment apparatus is associated with the package receiving surface and provides an index for a receiving point of the package receiving surface. The alignment apparatus is designed for use by a remote vehicle in a pickup or delivery process.