Reconfigurable On-Board Package Sorting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current delivery vehicles require manual retrieval of packages, which is time-consuming due to the varied sizes and shapes of packages, leading to inefficiencies in loading and unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable on-board package sorting system with motorized conveyor belts and computer-readable identifiers allows for automated directional movement and relocation of bins within the vehicle, optimizing package loading and unloading through selective rotation of conveyor belts and a sliding assembly for efficient access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual retrieval of packages is used, then the driver can access packages, but the process is time-consuming due to varied package sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service package retrieval by implementing automated conveyor belts that transport packages to the driver without manual intervention. The driver simply needs to input destination information, and the system automatically sorts and delivers packages to the correct location, eliminating the time-consuming manual search and retrieval process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of package handling with an automated conveyor belt system. The conveyor belts, controlled by a computer, automatically transport packages based on destination codes, substituting the driver's manual retrieval actions with an automated mechanical system that operates continuously and efficiently.
2Productivity
If packages are sorted manually, then packages can be loaded and unloaded, but the varied sizes and shapes make the process time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from destination code input to control package sorting. When the driver inputs a destination code, the computer receives this information and uses it to control the conveyor belts, ensuring packages are automatically routed to the correct destination. This feedback loop enables rapid, accurate sorting without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor belt system serves multiple functions: it transports packages horizontally, vertically, and diagonally; it sorts packages by destination; and it adapts to packages of various sizes and shapes. This multi-functional system replaces multiple manual operations with a single automated platform that handles diverse package types efficiently.
3Productivity
If the vehicle is equipped with automated sorting systems, then package handling efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sorting system is divided into segmented conveyor belts, each responsible for specific sorting tasks. The computer controls individual belt segments independently, allowing the system to handle complex sorting operations through simple, modular components. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by breaking down the sorting function into manageable, controllable units.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is generally directed to systems and methods for a reconfigurable on-board package sorting system for a delivery vehicle including an enclosed storage compartment with a horizontal plane, a plurality of bins for holding packages, each bin including a computer readable identifier, a set of correlated conveyor belts on each horizontal plane, the correlated conveyors belts sized as a function of the bins, including at conveyor belts linearly oriented on the horizontal plane, mixing conveyors, each oriented adjacent to each convey belt to provide directional transition to a next conveyor belt, wherein the correlated conveyor belts provide directional movement of the bins in a loop on the horizontal plane by selective rotation of each conveyor belt, and a computer including a processor and memory to receive data from each identifier, the processor including instructions to: identify a location of bin and direct the operation of the correlated conveyor belts.