Self-Service Parcel Terminal with Dynamic Adjustable Shelving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-service parcel terminals are inefficient in space usage and time-consuming for parcel delivery and retrieval due to fixed-sized shelf-drawers, which leave unused space and require extensive manual handling.
Innovation Solution
A parcel terminal with a shelving unit having shelves separated by predetermined distances, an electronic controller to determine the required number of open shelves based on parcel size, and a loader to efficiently place parcels on the selected shelves, along with a user identification system using QR-codes or bar codes for touch-free transactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed-sized shelf-drawers are used for each parcel, then each parcel has a dedicated storage space, but the capacity of the parcel terminal remains unused and space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static fixed-sized shelf-drawers to dynamic adjustable shelving units. The shelves can be repositioned vertically along guide rails to accommodate parcels of different heights, and the entire shelving unit can rotate to access different storage positions. This dynamic configuration allows the same physical space to adapt to varying parcel dimensions, significantly improving space utilization while maintaining dedicated storage for each parcel.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the storage system by making shelf positions adjustable rather than fixed. The shelving units can be moved to different heights and rotational positions, allowing the storage capacity and configuration to be modified based on the actual parcel dimensions. This parameter flexibility resolves the contradiction between providing dedicated storage and maximizing space efficiency.
2Reliability
If separate lockers or shelf-drawers are used for each parcel, then each parcel is securely stored, but the parcel terminal takes up much space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension and rotational movement to increase storage capacity without proportionally increasing the horizontal footprint. By stacking shelving units vertically and enabling rotational access, the system accommodates more parcels within a compact circular footprint, reducing the area occupied while maintaining secure individual storage through the enclosed shelving structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelving units are designed to be nested within a compact circular housing structure. Multiple shelves are stacked vertically within the same horizontal footprint, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes vertical space utilization while keeping the overall terminal footprint small. This nested configuration provides secure individual storage for each parcel without requiring excessive horizontal space.
3Device complexity
If fixed-sized shelf-drawers are used, then the structure is simple, but loading and delivering parcels becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic adjustable shelving system, while more complex than fixed drawers, enables faster parcel handling through automated positioning. The shelves can be quickly reconfigured to optimal positions, and the rotational mechanism allows rapid access to different parcels. This dynamic capability increases productivity by reducing the time required for loading and delivering parcels compared to manual handling of fixed drawers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated features where the shelving units self-adjust to optimal positions based on parcel dimensions and access patterns. The electronic control system automatically determines the best shelf positions and rotational angles, reducing manual intervention and accelerating the parcel handling process. This self-service capability improves productivity while managing the complexity through automation rather than manual operation.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes a parcel terminal that may include a shelving unit comprising a plurality of shelves that are separated by respective predetermined distances along a dimension of the unit. In an embodiment, the plurality of shelves may be evenly spaced. The parcel terminal may further include a receptable for receiving a parcel from a user, a loader configured to transfer the parcel from the receptacle to a shelf on the shelving unit, and an electronic controller in electronic communication with the loader. The electronic controller may be configured to determine a number of open shelves required to accommodate the parcel based on a size of the parcel and on the respective predetermined distances, to select a set of shelves having at least the required number of open shelves, and to initiate a movement of the loader so as to place the parcel within the selected set of shelves.