Robotic Package Shelf Module for Pre-Arrival Delivery Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and distribution systems for cargo vehicles are inefficient, leading to increased loading errors, manual handling risks, and prolonged sorting times for delivery drivers.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained storage and distribution module with a shelf assembly and robotic assembly, including a robotic arm and elevator, that autonomously stores and distributes packages based on known dimensions and weights, predicting delivery locations to efficiently withdraw packages before arrival, reducing manual handling and increasing package density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and sorting by drivers is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the robotic assembly autonomously performs package sorting and distribution without requiring driver intervention. The robot navigates shelves, identifies packages via vision systems, and delivers them to designated locations, making the system self-sufficient in handling logistics tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical sorting by drivers is replaced with an automated robotic system equipped with vision sensors, robotic arms, and navigation capabilities. This substitution transitions from human-operated mechanical sorting to an automated electromechanical system, improving efficiency and reducing errors.
2Reliability
If automated robotic assembly is implemented, then productivity increases and errors reduce, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates vision systems and sensors that continuously monitor package locations, robot positioning, and delivery status. This feedback mechanism allows the control system to adjust robot movements, verify package identification, and ensure accurate delivery, thereby improving reliability through real-time monitoring and correction.
Solution Approach 2:
Packages are pre-sorted and positioned on shelves according to delivery destinations before the robot begins its operation. The system performs preliminary organization of packages, which simplifies the subsequent robotic retrieval and delivery process, reducing complexity while maintaining high accuracy.
3Volume of moving object
If packages are stored densely on shelves, then volume efficiency increases, but accessibility for retrieval becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic assembly with multi-axis movement and articulated arms replaces manual retrieval operations, enabling access to densely packed packages on shelves. The robot's dexterous manipulation capabilities allow it to navigate tight spaces and retrieve packages from high-density storage configurations that would be difficult for humans to access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional shelf surfaces to three-dimensional space utilization by employing vertical shelves and multi-level storage. The robotic arm operates in three-dimensional space to access packages at various heights and depths, maintaining ease of retrieval while maximizing volume efficiency through vertical dimension exploitation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including: a self-contained module configured to install within a cargo vehicle; and a controller. The self-contained module includes: a shelf assembly; and a robotic assembly. The shelf assembly includes: shelves configured to store packages; and a chute extending between the shelves and configured to locate proximal a driver cab of the cargo vehicle. The robotic assembly includes: an end effector configured to manipulate the packages; a robotic arm configured to manipulate the end effector across the shelves; and an elevator configured to maneuver the robotic arm between the shelves. The controller is configured to: identify a shelf occupied by a package associated with a delivery location; trigger the elevator to maneuver the robotic arm to the shelf; and trigger the robotic arm to withdraw the package, via the end effector, toward the chute prior to arrival of the cargo vehicle at the delivery location.