Tray-Handling Lift Cage and Loader for Multi-Entry Parcel Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated parcel terminals often have a single entry point, are costly, and lack practicality for smaller vendors, necessitating a more efficient and affordable solution with multiple entry points.
Innovation Solution
A lift and loader assembly for an automated parcel terminal that allows vertical movement of a lift cage and horizontal movement of a loader within the cage, enabling multiple entry and retrieval points, with a loader that can push or pull trays from shelf columns using toothed engagement racks and rollers, and a back cover to stabilize trays during loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single entry point is used in automated parcel terminals, then the system structure is simplified, but the distribution efficiency and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is divided into multiple independent entry points (first entry point for vendors, second entry point for customers) located at different positions. Each entry point has its own console and access to the lift cage, allowing simultaneous independent operations without interfering with each other, thus improving distribution efficiency while keeping each entry point's structure relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The lift cage serves multiple functions by being accessible from different entry points - it can receive parcels from vendors at one entry point while simultaneously delivering to customers at another entry point. This multi-functional design allows the same core structure to handle multiple operational flows, improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple entry points are added to parcel terminals, then accessibility and distribution efficiency improve, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal structure is segmented into independent access zones with separate consoles and control interfaces at different locations. The lift cage is divided into multiple accessible areas, each reachable from different entry points. This segmentation allows the system to provide multiple access paths without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration of the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The console units are nested within or adjacent to the lift cage structure, with each console providing access to specific portions of the lift cage. This nested arrangement allows multiple entry points to share the common lift cage infrastructure, increasing accessibility while avoiding the need for entirely separate systems at each entry point
3Productivity
If a moving mast lift system is used, then vertical movement capability is achieved, but the system becomes more expensive and less practical for smaller vendors
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary mast and lift cage assembly serves multiple functions - it can load trays from shelf columns, deliver to different entry points, and accommodate various parcel sizes. This multi-functional design provides comprehensive order fulfillment capability using a simpler, more cost-effective stationary structure rather than complex moving mast systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simpler stationary mast structure with a movable lift cage instead of expensive moving mast systems. The lift cage with its tray handling mechanism provides adequate functionality for smaller vendors at a lower cost, sacrificing some of the complexity and expense of industrial-grade moving mast systems while maintaining sufficient productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
An automated parcel terminal (10) having one or more entry and retrieval points is disclosed. The terminal has a lift cage (300) and a loader (200) that allows moving specifically designed trays (100) to and from shelf columns (402) on two sides of the lift cage (300). The loader (200) has a back cover (216) configured to protect the users from moving parts of the terminal, but also to support trays (100) in a shelf column (402) while the loader (200) pulls one tray (100) out from the shelf column (402).