Delivery Van Door Selection for Shifting Cargo Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of locating objects in a cargo space of a delivery van is exacerbated by shifting due to inertial forces during maneuvers, leading to time-consuming and inefficient searches, especially when the cargo area lacks shelving and items are placed chaotically, increasing delivery time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A computer-aided method using a positioning device with a camera or laser scanner, integrated with a control system, tracks the current position of objects in the cargo space and determines the closest door for retrieval, displaying this information to the driver through visual, acoustic, or haptic signals, enabling efficient door selection and object location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If objects are placed on the loading platform without shelving to maximize cargo space, then cargo space utilization is improved, but locating objects becomes time-consuming due to chaotic arrangement and shifting
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting and recording the initial positions of all objects during loading, storing this information in a database before the delivery journey begins. This preliminary positioning data serves as the baseline for subsequent tracking and door selection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device continuously monitors object positions during transport and provides feedback to the control system. This feedback loop enables real-time tracking of object locations despite shifting due to inertial forces, allowing the system to dynamically update the nearest door calculation.
2Quantity of substance
If the cargo area is loaded with dozens or hundreds of items to be delivered sequentially, then delivery capacity is improved, but searching for items results in significant time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical search process is replaced with an automated optical/electronic system. The positioning device with camera and laser scanner automatically detects object positions, while the control system processes this data to determine the nearest door, eliminating the need for manual searching through the cargo area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy or representation of the cargo space layout by detecting object positions and storing them in a database. This virtual model allows the control system to calculate and identify the nearest door without physically searching through the actual cargo area.
3Ease of operation
If objects are placed against side doors for easy access, then retrieval efficiency is improved, but inertial forces during cornering cause objects to shift to the opposite side
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static assumption of object positions to a dynamic tracking approach. The positioning device continuously monitors object locations during motion, and the control system dynamically recalculates the nearest door based on current positions, adapting to the dynamic nature of objects subject to inertial forces.
4Measurement precision
If a positioning device with camera and laser scanner is installed to track object positions, then object location accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into an integrated solution: the positioning device combines camera and laser scanner capabilities, while the control system integrates database management, nearest door calculation, and door control functions. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate systems for each function.
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
This method significantly reduces search time and prevents incorrect deliveries by providing real-time guidance on the nearest door and object location, allowing for efficient retrieval even in a shelving-free cargo space, enhancing delivery efficiency and reducing transport damage.
Implementation Method 1
a positioning device provided on the ceiling of the cargo space, wherein the plurality of doors comprise a left side door, a right side door and a tailgate of the cargo space, and the van has a control system, comprising the steps of: detecting a storage location of the object in the cargo space during loading of the cargo space by means of the positioning device
Implementation Method 2
which is in communication with the control system and comprises a camera and/or a laser scanner
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for locating at least one object (8) transported in a cargo space (3) of a delivery van (1), wherein the cargo space (3) has a plurality of doors (7) for removing the at least one object (8) from the cargo space (3) and the delivery van (1) has a control unit (10), comprising the steps of: determining a current position of the at least one object (8) in the cargo space (3) during a journey of the delivery van (1) by means of a position determination device (9) in communication with the control unit, and for removing the at least one object (8) from the cargo space (3), determining the door (7) from the plurality of doors (7) with the smallest distance to the current position,Displaying the designated door (7) by means of a display device (11) in communication with the control unit (10) and/or opening the designated door (7) and displaying the current position of the at least one object (8) in the cargo space (3) by means of the display device (11).