Transport Container Securing System with Electronic Controller
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for modular securing systems that can easily adapt to different types of transport containers and attachment points, ensuring secure attachment and reporting of successful attachment, as existing solutions are impractical and expensive for residential use and vulnerable to theft and tampering during transit.
Innovation Solution
A securing system comprising an actuator, an attachment structure, and an electronic controller that authenticates and securely attaches transport containers to attachment points, using various locking mechanisms such as threaded fasteners, pistons, and electromagnets, with an electronic controller for managing attachment and release, and transmitting status signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic lockers are installed for package delivery, then package security is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase prohibitively for residential homes
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the secure delivery function into two separate components: a portable secure container that travels with the package, and a simple attachment point installed at the destination. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex electronic locker installations while maintaining security through the container-attachment point interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure container is extracted from the traditional electronic locker system and made portable. The container can be detached and transported independently to any delivery location, removing the requirement for permanent, complex installations and enabling secure delivery anywhere an attachment point can be placed.
2Reliability
If packages are placed in secure areas during transit, then package security is improved, but access control complexity and vulnerability to internal threats increase due to multiple authorized personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic controller continuously monitors the attachment status between the secure container and attachment point, providing real-time feedback on whether the container is properly secured. This automated monitoring eliminates the need for manual access control checks by multiple personnel while maintaining security through continuous status verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of attachment status and security conditions through its electronic controller and sensors. The container and attachment point automatically confirm proper engagement without requiring human intervention or complex access control procedures, simplifying the security process while maintaining reliability.
3Productivity
If transport containers are left unattended during delivery, then delivery efficiency is improved, but security against theft and tampering deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The secure container is prepared and attached to the attachment point before the driver needs to leave. The automated attachment system ensures the container is properly secured in advance, allowing the driver to depart immediately without compromising security. This preliminary securing action enables unattended delivery while maintaining protection against theft and tampering.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual monitoring and physical securing of packages are replaced with an automated electronic system that includes sensors, actuators, and controllers. This mechanical-to-electronic substitution enables the container to be securely attached and monitored automatically, allowing efficient unattended delivery while maintaining security through automated rather than manual means.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular securing systems are designed to adapt to different container and attachment point types, then versatility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure and actuator are designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate various container types and attachment point configurations. The electronic controller provides adaptive control that automatically adjusts to different attachment scenarios, enabling a single modular system to handle diverse applications without requiring complex specialized components for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability through programmable parameters in the electronic controller rather than physical reconfiguration. By changing control parameters and software settings, the same hardware can adapt to different container sizes, weights, and attachment point types, providing versatility without increasing physical system complexity.
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 provides secure, adaptable, and cost-effective attachment of transport containers to various points, ensuring correct attachment and reporting, thereby reducing theft and tampering risks during transit and delivery.
Implementation Method 1
using various locking mechanisms such as threaded fasteners, pistons, and electromagnets
Data Source
AI summary
Securing systems and methods of securing a transport container to an attachment point. In one embodiment, the securing system includes an actuator, an attachment structure, and an electronic controller. The attachment structure is dimensioned to complement the actuator. The electronic controller is operably coupled to the actuator for attaching and releasing the actuator to the attachment structure.