Article storage and retrieval apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The rise of online shopping and logistics has led to inefficiencies and safety risks due to unpredictable delivery times and the need for couriers to reattempt deliveries, resulting in wasted time and potential package loss when recipients are not home.
Innovation Solution
An article storage and retrieval apparatus with a foldable container system that can be securely locked and unlocked via identity verification, allowing for convenient storage and retrieval of packages, reducing occupied space when not in use, and improving delivery efficiency by enabling flexible scheduling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the courier changes the delivery time when no one is home, then delivery flexibility is improved, but time cost increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service delivery where the courier can independently complete the delivery process by using the identity recognition component to unlock the storage space, place the package in the container, and lock it securely without requiring interaction with the recipient. This eliminates the need for re-delivery attempts and reduces time cost while maintaining delivery flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the courier changes the collection way when no one is home, then delivery flexibility is improved, but safety risks increase due to package loss
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus introduces an intermediary secure storage space between the courier and the recipient. The container with locking mechanism acts as a secure intermediary that temporarily holds the package, eliminating direct handover while ensuring package safety. The identity recognition component controls access to this intermediary space, preventing unauthorized access and package loss.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed storage space is used for packages, then storage functionality is provided, but space occupation increases when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with a foldable structure that can dynamically change its volume. When in use, the container expands to provide adequate storage space for packages. When not in use, the container folds into a compact state, minimizing space occupation. This dynamic transformation allows the system to adapt its volume to operational needs.
4Ease of operation
If the container is kept unfolded for easy access, then retrieval convenience is improved, but space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable container structure allows it to be unfolded during the delivery and retrieval process to provide easy access and adequate storage space. After use, the container can be folded back into a compact state. This dynamic capability ensures that retrieval convenience is maintained during operation while space occupation is minimized when the system is idle.
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
Enhances delivery efficiency and safety by allowing secure, convenient storage and retrieval of packages, reducing waiting times and space occupation, while improving user experience by enabling flexible delivery and pickup options.
Implementation Method 1
The position retaining part is a nitrogen spring
Implementation Method 2
the magnet is arranged on the frame body or the cover body to prevent the cover body from swinging outwards after the cover body is closed
Implementation Method 3
the magnet is covered with a rubber layer for buffering when the cover body is closed
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an article storage and retrieval apparatus, including a frame body, configured to be fixed on a vertical mounting surface; a cover body, the cover body hinged with the frame body at upper end, left end or right end to realize rotary opening and closing; and a container, an open end of the container being arranged on an inner side of the cover body and the container being located in a space formed between the frame body and the cover body, wherein the container has a variable volume and is configured to be unfolded to form a space for accommodating articles after the cover body is opened relative to the frame body and allow the cover body to be closed relative to the frame body after being folded.