Delivery Vehicle Roller Bed for In-Motion Package Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current delivery services face inefficiencies in package handling and retrieval due to reliance on driver memory and disorganization, leading to increased time spent identifying and delivering packages, particularly in less organized or inexperienced drivers.
Innovation Solution
An automated package handling system within delivery vehicles, utilizing a bed of rollers operated by servomotors under computer control, moves packages based on pre-defined configurations and locations, optimizing storage and retrieval processes, even while the vehicle is in motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If driver memory and manual organization are used for package retrieval, then device complexity is reduced, but time spent on package identification and retrieval increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic package retrieval without driver intervention. Sensors detect package locations, the computer determines optimal retrieval sequences, and motors automatically move packages to access positions, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring driver memory and manual handling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of driver memory and hand-based package handling with an automated electromechanical system featuring sensors, computers, and motors that automatically detect, determine, and retrieve packages
2Loss of time
If automated package handling system is implemented, then package retrieval time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computer serves multiple functions: it determines delivery routes, calculates optimal package retrieval sequences, controls motor operations, and manages overall vehicle coordination. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The computer acts as an intermediary between the sensors that detect package locations and the motors that retrieve packages. It processes sensor data, determines optimal retrieval sequences based on delivery routes, and translates this into motor control signals, coordinating the entire automated system
3Ease of operation
If packages are manually organized by driver preference, then ease of operation is improved for experienced drivers, but productivity decreases for less experienced drivers
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors continuously monitor package locations and provide feedback to the computer. The system uses this real-time information to automatically determine and adjust package retrieval sequences, ensuring optimal performance regardless of driver experience level
Solution Approach 2:
The system eliminates the need for drivers to manually organize packages according to personal preferences. Instead, the automated system independently manages package positioning and retrieval based on delivery requirements, providing consistent performance across all drivers
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 system significantly reduces the time spent on package delivery and retrieval by automating the handling and placement of packages, improving efficiency and organization, especially for less experienced drivers, and minimizing vehicle downtime at delivery locations.
Implementation Method 1
a bed of rollers that are operated by servomotors under control of the computer to move packages along a movement path in the cargo area
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure generally pertain to systems and methods to handle packages transported in a delivery vehicle. In an example embodiment, a computer that is provided in a vehicle receives a command related to delivery of a package. The command may be associated, for example, with rerouting of the vehicle due to various reasons such as, for example, due to a change in a delivery schedule and/or a delivery priority. The computer may respond to the command by operating an unmanned package moving apparatus to move the package from one location in a cargo area of the vehicle to another location in the cargo area while the vehicle is in motion and prior to the vehicle reaching a delivery destination for the package. In an example implementation, the unmanned package moving apparatus includes a bed of rollers that are operated by servomotors under control of the computer.