Parcel Delivery Vehicle Layout for UGV Access and Storage Space
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parcel delivery vehicles face challenges in efficiently utilizing space for parcel storage and unmanned transport device operation, as conventional layouts do not adequately accommodate parcel handling devices without reducing storage capacity or securing entry space for UGVs.
Innovation Solution
A parcel delivery vehicle design with a parcel handling device positioned near the vehicle's side opposite the door, facing the door opening, and a flat work space allowing UGV access, combined with a drone port and auxiliary handling device for efficient parcel transfer between storage, UGV, and drone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a parcel handling device is installed on the vehicle, then automated parcel handling capability is improved, but the space for parcel storage compartment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel handling device is positioned on the side of the vehicle rather than occupying central storage space, utilizing the lateral dimension effectively. The device is arranged along the vehicle width direction, allowing storage compartments to be configured in the remaining longitudinal and vertical spaces without significant volume loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle interior space is segmented into distinct functional zones: a work space for the parcel handling device and UGV operations, and separate parcel storage compartments. This segmentation allows optimized utilization of each zone, with storage compartments positioned in areas not interfering with the handling device's operational envelope.
2Extent of automation
If a parcel handling device is installed on the vehicle, then automated parcel handling capability is improved, but the space for unmanned transport device entry is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel handling device is extracted from the central vehicle interior and positioned on the side, creating a clear entry path for UGVs through the door opening. This placement separates the handling function from the entry/operation zone, allowing UGVs to access the vehicle without colliding with the handling device.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle interior is designed with differentiated local qualities: the area near the door opening maintains high accessibility and minimal obstructions for UGV entry, while the side area houses the parcel handling device. This spatial differentiation ensures both functions can operate simultaneously without interference.
3Volume of stationary object
If parcel storage compartment is positioned to maximize space utilization, then storage capacity is improved, but access to parcel handling device becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The parcel handling device conveys parcels in the vehicle width direction rather than requiring deep access into the vehicle interior. This lateral conveyance approach allows storage compartments to be positioned along the sides and rear, maintaining both high storage capacity and easy access to the handling device at the side position.
Data Source
AI summary
A parcel delivery vehicle includes a door opening provided in a left side part of a vehicle, a parcel storage compartment provided inside the vehicle to store a parcel, and a parcel handling device configured to convey the parcel between a first delivery reception position and a second delivery reception position and receive the parcel from the parcel storage compartment at the first delivery reception position and transfer the parcel to a worker or an unmanned transport device at the second delivery reception position. The parcel storage compartment is provided on a front side and/or a rear side of the parcel handling device in the vehicle. The parcel handling device is provided in a vicinity of a right side part and at a position facing the door opening in a vehicle width direction, and the second delivery reception position is set between the parcel handling device and the door opening.