Smart Carousel Parcel Dispenser for Faster Mobile Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile delivery systems face inefficiencies in parcel loading, unloading, and delivery, with challenges in reducing delivery stops, minimizing parcel damage, and optimizing parcel tracking, especially in varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A mobile delivery system featuring a smart carousel dispenser with a rotatable carousel, storage bins, scanners, and a controller that assigns bin locations based on parcel information, rotates to align bins with retrieval doors, and communicates with external devices for efficient parcel delivery and tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional delivery vehicle with manual parcel handling is used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but delivery efficiency is low and multiple stops are required
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery vehicle is segmented into functional modules: a rotatable carousel divided into multiple bins, each bin acting as an independent storage unit. This segmentation allows parallel access to multiple parcels simultaneously, eliminating sequential handling and improving delivery efficiency without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
Parcels are pre-sorted and placed in specific bins on the carousel before delivery begins. The controller pre-calculates the optimal bin assignments based on delivery locations. This preliminary organization enables rapid retrieval during delivery stops, reducing the time required at each destination while maintaining system simplicity
2Loss of time
If manual parcel handling and multiple delivery stops are used, then the delivery vehicle structure is simple, but delivery time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The carousel is designed to rotate dynamically during delivery stops, bringing the required bin to the retrieval position automatically. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different delivery sequences and minimize the number of stops needed, reducing total delivery time while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Scanners and sensors provide real-time feedback on parcel locations, bin positions, and delivery status to the controller. This feedback loop enables the system to optimize delivery routes and carousel positioning dynamically, reducing unnecessary stops and minimizing delivery time while maintaining high productivity
3Reliability
If parcels are handled manually during loading and unloading, then the system is simple to operate, but parcel damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service through automated functions: the carousel automatically rotates to position bins, scanners automatically identify and track parcels, and the controller automatically manages bin assignments. This automation protects parcels from manual handling damage while maintaining ease of operation through centralized control, eliminating the need for complex manual sorting and retrieval procedures
4Measurement precision
If a rotatable carousel with multiple bins is implemented, then parcel tracking and retrieval efficiency improve, but the device weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces heavy mechanical tracking mechanisms with electronic identification: scanners use optical or RFID technology to identify parcels and bins, and the controller uses software to track locations. This substitution maintains precise tracking capability while significantly reducing the weight compared to traditional mechanical tracking systems
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel bins serve multiple functions: storage, identification targets for scanners, and positioning elements for retrieval. Each bin is equipped with identification markers that serve both tracking and navigation purposes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate tracking devices, reducing overall system weight while maintaining accurate parcel tracking
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables efficient loading and unloading, reduces delivery stops, prevents parcel damage, and enhances tracking, making it suitable for various conditions while being lighter and more compact, thus reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a DC drive motor configured to rotate the storage bins between the upper track and the lower track
Implementation Method 2
a first set of dampeners positioned on an upper portion of the frame, and a second set of dampeners positioned on a lower portion of the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile delivery apparatus is provided. Another aspect provides a software program used with a mobile delivery apparatus. Still another aspect includes a mobile delivery system utilizing a smart carousel dispenser. An aspect of the mobile delivery apparatus includes a delivery vehicle having a motor operable to drive terrestrial wheels of the delivery vehicle, a cargo box section, a carousel positioned in the cargo box section, and a plurality of storage bins positioned on the carousel. A further aspect includes at least one scanner positioned adjacent a first access door and configured to scan the bins and the parcels held in the bins as the carousel rotates. Yet another aspect employs a controller to rotate the carousel and selectively align one or more of the storage bins with a second access door.