Smart locker system
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional locker systems lack adaptability, security, and management efficiency, particularly in automated settings, where manual operation and limited functionality hinder their ability to meet evolving customer needs and ensure secure item storage and retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A smart locker system comprising an enclosure unit with cassette units, each containing separable and combinable storage bins equipped with lock devices and a control bin featuring a computing unit connected to a network, allowing for automated operation, secure access management, and alert systems for opening failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation with physical keys is used, then simplicity of operation is maintained, but security and automation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key-based locking systems with electronic lock devices that accept digital access codes, biometric data, or network commands. This substitution enables automated operation while maintaining security through electronic authentication mechanisms and remote control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock device incorporates sensor switches and automated authentication mechanisms that enable users to access lockers independently without manual intervention from operators. The system automatically verifies credentials and actuates locks, providing self-service functionality that improves both security and ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If basic locking functionality is provided, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability and management efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lock device is designed as a multi-functional unit that combines electronic locking, sensor detection, network communication, and automated control capabilities. This universal design allows the same device to perform multiple functions including secure locking, access authentication, remote monitoring, and integration with broader locker management systems, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computing unit and network communication module as intermediary components that mediate between the lock device and external control systems. This intermediary layer enables automated operation and enhanced adaptability by allowing remote control and monitoring while keeping the core locking mechanism relatively simple and modular.
3Productivity
If automated functions are added, then management efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computing unit serves as an intermediary that handles complex automated management functions including access authorization, operation logging, and remote control commands. By centralizing these functions in a dedicated computing module, the system achieves high management efficiency while keeping the overall structure modular and manageable, preventing uncontrolled complexity growth.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock device incorporates sensor switches that provide real-time feedback on lock status, door position, and operational states to the computing unit. This feedback mechanism enables automated monitoring and control, improving management efficiency by allowing the system to respond automatically to status changes without requiring constant human intervention, while the structured feedback loops help manage system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart locker system includes an enclosure unit and a cassette unit. The smart locker is extendable by adding additional enclosure units and the cassette units. The cassette unit includes storage bins and a control bin. The cassette unit contains different size of storage bins and a control bin. The smart locker system further includes a touch screen and authentication devices. The smart locker system can arrange the storage bins and the control bins to maintain the height of the smart locker system.