Vehicle Inventory Management System for Secure Package Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current delivery systems face inefficiencies in package retrieval time and security, particularly for less experienced drivers and in scenarios involving autonomous vehicles, where pilferage can occur due to uncontrolled access to packages.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a vehicle inventory management system with a bed of rollers and movable panels controlled by a computer, allowing for efficient package retrieval and secure access by isolating items within an alcove accessible from outside the vehicle, preventing unauthorized access to other packages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If packages are placed inside the delivery vehicle in a driver's preferred order and retrieved using memory, then experienced drivers can become relatively efficient at deliveries, but less experienced or disorganized drivers spend excessive time identifying and retrieving packages
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated package identification and retrieval. Sensors detect which package should be delivered next, and the system automatically guides the retrieval process without requiring the driver's memory or organizational skills, thus resolving the dependency on driver experience
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/cognitive system of manual package organization and memory-based retrieval with an automated sensor-based identification system. This substitution eliminates the need for drivers to mentally track package locations and reduces retrieval time across all driver experience levels
2Productivity
If packages are left accessible in the delivery vehicle for customer retrieval, then delivery speed is improved, but unauthorized access to other packages becomes a risk
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery vehicle's cargo space is segmented into multiple isolated compartments or zones. Each compartment can be independently accessed or sealed, allowing the system to provide rapid access to the intended package while physically preventing access to other packages through automated barrier mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
An automated system acts as an intermediary between the customer and the packages. The system controls access mechanisms (such as automated doors or barriers) to ensure that only the intended package is accessible to the customer, while other packages remain protected behind controlled access points
3Productivity
If autonomous vehicles are used for delivery, then operational costs are reduced, but security concerns arise regarding customer access to packages
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors and detection devices that continuously monitor the cargo area. When a customer approaches or attempts to access packages, the system receives feedback and automatically responds by controlling access mechanisms, ensuring secure delivery without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous vehicle system provides self-service security by automatically detecting when delivery is complete and controlling access to packages. The system independently manages the delivery process and security protocols without requiring a human driver, maintaining both operational efficiency and package security
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure generally pertain to vehicle inventory management systems. In one exemplary embodiment, a bed of rollers includes a first section located in an enclosed cargo area of a delivery vehicle and a second section located in an alcove that is accessible from outside the delivery vehicle. Various items for delivery are placed upon the bed of rollers in the enclosed cargo area. The rollers, which are coupled to servomotors, can be rotated in various directions under control of a computer. The computer activates the rollers for moving items around inside the delivery vehicle. Upon reaching a delivery destination, an item can be moved into the alcove for pickup by a person outside the delivery vehicle. The alcove is configured to allow access to the item by the person outside the delivery vehicle, but prevents access to other items located in the enclosed cargo area.