Description: TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to the fields of Internet of Things (IoT), automation, electronics, and mechanical engineering. More specifically, it pertains to an automated, smart carrier lift system for retrieval and delivery of essentials. The invention integrates IoT-based wireless communication, a motorised pulley mechanism, and a solar-powered energy system to facilitate a contactless, efficient, and secure method for retrieving essentials from difficult accessible areas.
BACKGROUND
The recent growth of e-commerce and online shopping platforms has led to an exponential increase in delivery services. While this has significantly improved convenience for consumers, it has also introduced new logistical challenges, particularly in multi-storey residential buildings that lack conventional elevator systems This is an issue especially for elderly individuals or people with mobility issues or those with physical disabilities, who may find it cumbersome or impossible to retrieve their deliveries/essentials.
Furthermore, many residential buildings have policies that restrict delivery personnel from using elevators designated for residents, requiring them to leave packages at the entrance or ground level. This creates additional security risks, as unattended parcels may be susceptible to theft, damage, or misplacement.
Additionally, in cases where a recipient is unavailable, delivery agents are forced to make multiple delivery attempts, leading to inefficiencies, increased costs, safety issues due to delivery personnel accessing residential premises and logistical burdens for courier companies. Thus, contactless delivery preferences have gained traction, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Several solutions have been reported and disclosed in prior art documents for easy delivery mechanisms. The prior art document EP4001200A1 titled “PORTABLE EMBEDDED DIRECT-CURRENT ELECTRIC HOIST” which utlises a permanent magnet brushless direct current motor for its basic functioning. The mechanism involved in the functioning of the invention as disclosed is electromagnetism.
Another prior art document US20220332505 titled “DELIVERY APPARATUS, SYSTEM, METHOD, ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND COMPUTER READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM” discloses a pre-set delivery mechanism where an accept or reject command is to be sent to the mechanism where upon receiving a successful accept message from the movable chassis, a delivery command is sent to the movable chassis to enable the movable chassis to drive the target cabin to move to a target position based on the delivery task information.
Though both the prior arts are directed towards the delivery systems, however none of them disclose a personalized delivery system as it is IoT enabled and is based on minimal infrastructure leading to cost efficiency and easy to be installed anywhere based on the requirement of the user.
Though the invention claims to be of small volume, however, the invention is not directed towards a personalized lift system with less infrastructural costs and does not utilize the internet -based technology i.e., IoT.
Considering these challenges, there is a pressing need for an automated, efficient, easy to install, easy to operate, all weather friendly and cost-effective solution that enables the user to retrieve parcels or supply of essentials from any level of the residence without requiring physical exertion or direct interaction with delivery personnel.
OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
The primary object of the present invention is to provide a system ( for an IoT-enabled carrier lift for automated retrieval and delivery of essentials or parcels.)
Another objective of the present invention is to allow users to operate the system via voice commands through the home automation device or remotely through the mobile application.
Another objective of the present invention is to provide a personalized lift system for delivery and retrieval of the essentials or parcels.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to regulate voltage and ensure uninterrupted power supply while the working of the system.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to supply power to the system from natural resources like solar power.
SUMMARY
The present invention discloses a system for IoT-enabled carrier lift for automated parcel retrieval and delivery and a method for performing the same. Particularly the present invention has a structural frame and a base plate with a horizontal arm and a vertical arm along with a master pulley to achieve a complete rotation to enhance the accessibility to the parcel. Thus, the present invention ensures portability, easy accessibility and personalized installation for delivery and retrieval of the essentials. Further, the system is eco-friendly as it uses natural sources of energy to supply power to the system..
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure are better understood when the following detailed description is read concerning the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 2 illustrates a flow chart representing the operational sequence of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system. in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 3 illustrates a high-level architecture diagram of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system, depicting interactions between key functional layers. in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4 illustrates a 2-dimensional (2-D) view of the mechanical structure of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 5 illustrates a 3- dimensional (3-D) view of the overall assembly of the lift system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 6 illustrates a circuit diagram of the lift system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale.
Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure..
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
To promote an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises...a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other subsystems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skills in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
Embodiments of the present disclosure and other features and advantages becomes apparent through the detailed description below:
The term “user” corresponds to the person installing the system in order to facilitate the delivery or retrieval or both of the essentials/parcel.
The term “essentials” may be interchangeably used with the term parcel, item and any product to be delivered to the user or retrieved from the user without limiting the scope of the disclosure.
“System” corresponds to an IoT enabled carrier lift system (100).
In an embodiment, Figure 1 refers to an IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100) in accordance with the present disclosure. The system (100) comprises multiple interrelated units that function collectively to provide a secure, automated, and remote-controlled parcel handling mechanism not limiting to the scope of the disclosure. The term parcel can be interchangeably used with essentials, delivery items, pick -up items and the like without limiting the scope of the disclosure.
In an embodiment, a structural frame (102) serves as the primary support framework for the system (100). The Structural frame (102) includes a horizontal arm (102A) permanently connected to a vertical arm (102B), ensuring a stable structure. A rotational joint between the vertical arm (102B) and a base plate (102C) allows the entire structural frame (102) to rotate, enhancing the accessibility of the parcel-carrying unit and making it convenient for the user to retrieve deliveries.
In another embodiment, the base plate (102C) forms the foundation of the system (100) and houses all electrical components, including, but not limited to, Li-ion batteries (112A), 3S 12V 25A battery protection board (112B), 12V decoy module (112D), IN4002 diode (112E), a buck converter (112F), and a motor driver (106B). The base plate (102C) ensures compactness and provides a stable support structure for the system (100).
In an embodiment, a master pulley housing (102D) is positioned on top of the base plate (102C) and encloses a high-torque DC motor (106A) and a master pulley (110A). The master pulley housing (102D) ensures mechanical protection while maintaining functional efficiency.
In another embodiment, a command unit (104) facilitates wireless control and automation of the system (100). The Command unit (104) includes a plurality of home automation devices (104A), available in the public domain, enabling users to operate the system (100) through voice commands.
The command unit (104) further integrates with a mobile application (104B), allowing users to control parcel retrieval operations remotely via the internet.
In another embodiment, a motor and control unit (106) assists in operation of the system (100). The unit (106) comprises a high-torque DC motor (106A) to provide a bidirectional movement to the parcel-carrying unit by rotating the master pulley (110A). Motor driver (106B) facilitates speed control and directional changes using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals. The motor driver (106B) is connected to the enable pin, which controls motor activation and deactivation.
In an embodiment, a central processing unit [CPU] (108) manages operations and connectivity within the system (100). The CPU (108) consists of a microcontroller (108A), not limiting to ESP8266 and the like to process the commands received from the mobile application (104B) or the home automation devices (104A) to ensure execution of parcel retrieval and delivery operations.
In another embodiment, a motion unit (110) is configured to lift and lower the parcels within the system (100). The motion unit (110) comprises a plurality of strategically placed pulleys (110A), enabled to guide a variable-length rope (110B) to accommodate buildings/destinations of different heights. A carabiner hook (110C) is attached to a loop formed by the rope (110B), ensuring a secure mechanism for holding parcels of varying shapes and sizes.
In an embodiment, a battery charging and protection unit (112) provides uninterrupted power to the system (100). The battery charging and protection unit (112) houses one or more Li-ion batteries (112A), a lithium battery protection board (112B), not limiting to 3S 12V 25A prevents overcharging and deep discharge, and a solar panel (112C) is positioned in order to harness renewable energy(solar energy)
In another embodiment, the power regulation system within the battery charging and protection unit (112) includes a 12V decoy module (112D), an IN4002 diode (112E), and a buck converter (112F), ensuring stable voltage levels for the motor and control unit (106) and central processing unit (108). These components contribute to the efficiency and prolonged operation of the system (100).
In an embodiment, to optimise energy consumption, the ESP8266 microcontroller (108A) within the central processing unit (108) is configured to enter light sleep mode after preset time of inactivity. The sleep mode is a power-saving feature integrated into the system (100), wherein the central processing unit (108), including the ESP8266 microcontroller (108A), enters a low-power state after a predefined period of inactivity. During this mode, non-essential operations are suspended, while the system (100) remains responsive to wake-up signals received via Wi-Fi. Additionally, the motor and control unit (106), including the high-torque DC motor (106A) and motor driver (106B), is deactivated using the enable (EN) pin to further minimise power consumption. This ensures efficient energy management while maintaining system responsiveness.
In another embodiment, the rope (110B) of the motion unit (110) is wrapped around the master pulley (110A), which is directly connected to the shaft of the high-torque DC motor (106A) within the motor and control unit (106). This pulley, which is directly driven by the motor, is referenced as the master pulley (110A) in the text. The master pulley (110A) is responsible for transmitting rotational energy from the motor (106A) to the rope (110B), enabling controlled lifting and lowering of the parcel. The other pulleys (not shown in the figure) within the motion unit (110) serve as guide pulleys, ensuring proper alignment and smooth movement of the rope (110B). These guide pulleys do not have a direct connection to the motor (106A) but instead assist in maintaining tension and directing the motion of the rope (110B) as it moves between different points of the system. Unlike the master pulley (110A), which actively drives the lifting mechanism, the guide pulleys function as support components that help stabilize the rope path and reduce mechanical strain.
In an embodiment, the solar panel (112C) is mounted on top of the master pulley housing (102D) in order to maximise sunlight exposure, enhancing energy efficiency and extending battery life.
In another embodiment, the system (100) is designed for modularity and adaptability, making it suitable for various building types and parcel-handling requirements. The lengths of the vertical arm (102B) and said horizontal arm (102A) can be customised, ensuring compatibility with different balcony heights and protrusions.
In an embodiment, the carabiner hook (110C) further enhances the stability of parcels during transit by prioritising safety and reliability, utilising high-strength ropes, made of, not limiting to steel for durability and secure handling of parcels/essentials.
In another embodiment, an emergency stop mechanism is integrated into the system (100), allowing users to halt operations manually via the mobile application (104B) or voice command through the home automation devices (104A). The ESP8266 microcontroller (108A) is configured to immediately disable the motor driver (106B) when an emergency stop command is issued, ensuring safety in case of malfunctions or unexpected interruptions.
In an embodiment, the system (100) includes a real-time parcel tracking and status feedback system. The microcontroller (108A) sends periodic updates to the mobile application (104B), providing real-time status data of the parcel during retrieval and delivery. This ensures transparency and enhances user experience.
In another embodiment, the system (100) is equipped with an automated return-to-home feature, which enables the motion unit (110) to return to its original position after a successful parcel delivery. This function optimises energy efficiency and prepares the system (100) for the next delivery without requiring manual intervention.
In a further embodiment, the motor and control unit (106) operate with a predefined time-based execution on receiving “Parcel” command from the application (104B) or home automation device (104A). The motor (106A) runs in one direction for a preset time, waits for approximately 8 seconds, (user defined but not limited to 8 seconds) and then reverses direction, ensuring controlled parcel movement without requiring additional sensors.
Referring to Figure 2, is the method depicting the operational flow of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100). The system (100) initiates operation upon powering ON, activating the necessary electronic components and initiating a Wi-Fi connection establishment process.
Upon startup, the battery level of the system (100) is checked to ensure sufficient voltage for operation. If the battery level is adequate, the system (100) proceeds with connectivity operations. If the voltage is insufficient, the system (100) initiates a charging process using a power cable or a solar panel (112C) and if the Wi-Fi connection is successfully established, the system (100) communicates with the mobile application (104B) and home automation devices (104A), such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, notifying the user of its operational status. If the system (100) fails to establish a connection, it triggers a warning light indicator, prompting a retry mechanism until connectivity is restored.
Once connectivity of the system (100) is established, the system (100) remains active and waits for commands from the mobile application (104B) or the home automation devices (104A). If no command is received within a user-specified period, the system (100) automatically enters light sleep mode by cutting power from the motor (106A) and other microcontroller peripherals (108A) to conserve battery power. The system (100) remains in this state until a command is received, upon which it exits light sleep mode and resumes normal operation.
Further, upon receiving a parcel retrieval command ("UP," "DOWN," or "PARCEL") over Wi-Fi, the system (100) reactivates, exiting light sleep mode, initiating motor operations. The motion unit (110) engages, moving the carabiner hook (110C) and rope (110B) as per the received command. In manual mode, the motion continues until the user releases the command button on the application interface. In automated mode(PARCEL command), the motion unit (110) operates until either a preset time period elapses or the user manually stops the movement via an input command.
If the system (100) remains inactive for a specified short duration/period , the inactivity timer triggers the light sleep mode, cutting power to non-essential components until a new command is received over Wi-Fi.
If a connectivity failure occurs during any stage of operation, the system (100) automatically retries the Wi-Fi connection process to ensure seamless communication with the mobile application (104B) and home automation devices (104A).
In another embodiment, if an input command is received to stop the motor, the system (100) immediately halts movement and resets the inactivity timer, ensuring operational efficiency and user control. This structured flow ensures automated, energy-efficient, and secure parcel retrieval and delivery, enhancing convenience while minimising power consumption.
Figure 3 illustrates a high-level architecture (HLA) diagram of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system mainly depicts the interconnection and functional layering of its core components and is structured into distinct modules, each responsible for ensuring seamless parcel retrieval, remote operation, power management, and mechanical execution.
In an embodiment, the command unit (104) facilitates user interaction with the system (100) through a mobile application (104B) and a home automation device (104A) such as, but not limiting to, Amazon Alexa or Google Home. The command unit (104) allows users to transmit operational commands to the central processing unit (108) via Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring remote operation from any location and fetch the activity status of the system (100).The central processing unit (108), comprising, but not limited to, the ESP8266 microcontroller (108A), is responsible for processing user commands received from the command unit (104) and generating corresponding control signals. The central processing unit (108) regulates the operation of the motor and control unit (106), battery charging and protection unit (112), and motion unit (110), ensuring synchronised execution of system functions.
The motion unit (110) comprises a rope (110B) pulley (110A) system and a carabiner (110C), which are mechanically linked to the motor and control unit (106) for controlled lifting and lowering of parcels. The motion unit (110) operates through a high-torque DC motor (106A), which is managed by the motor driver (106B), enabling precise control over the movement of the parcel retrieval mechanism. The battery charging and protection unit (112) supplies uninterrupted power to the system (100) and comprises one or more Li-ion batteries (112A), a lithium battery protection board (112B), such as, but not limiting to 3S 12V 25A battery protection board, a solar panel (112C), a 12V decoy module (112D), IN4002 diodes (112E), and a buck converter (112F). The solar panel (112C) ensures sustainable energy generation, while the battery protection board (112B) safeguards against overcharging and deep discharge. The buck converter (112F) regulates voltage levels to optimise power distribution.
The structural frame (102) provides mechanical support to the system (100) and comprises a base plate (102C), a master pulley housing (102D), a vertical arm (102B), and a horizontal arm (102A). The structural frame (102) is configured to impart proper alignment and stability of the motion unit (110) and motor and control unit (106),facilitating smooth operation of the lift system.
Figure 4 illustrates a two-dimensional (2D) view of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100), depicting the mechanical structure and spatial arrangement of its components, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) comprises a structural frame (102), a base plate (102C), a horizontal arm (102A), a vertical arm (102B), and a master pulley housing (102D), all of which are configured to provide a stable and adaptable framework for parcel retrieval and delivery. The structural frame (102) supports the motion unit (110) and other functional elements. The horizontal arm (102A) and vertical arm (102B) are permanently connected, ensuring stability. A rotational joint between the vertical arm (102B) and the base plate (102C) allows the frame to pivot, enhancing accessibility for retrieving parcels. The frame’s dimensions are adjustable to accommodate different balcony heights and structural variations.
The base plate (102C) serves as the foundation of the system, ensuring mechanical stability while housing the electronic components required for operation. Positioned on top of the base plate (102C), the master pulley housing (102D) encloses the high-torque DC motor (106A) and master pulley (110A), ensuring secure containment and functional efficiency. To enhance power autonomy, a solar panel (112C) is mounted on top of the master pulley housing (102D) to maximize sunlight exposure and improve the system’s charging capacity.
To provide a comprehensive representation of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100), Figure 4 includes multiple views highlighting various components and their spatial arrangements. Figure 4(a) illustrates the right-side view, displaying the motor (106A), the carabiner hook (110C), the horizontal arm (102A), The vertical arm (102B), and the master pulley housing (102D), offering insight into how the motor (106A) is positioned within the housing and how the frame (102) supports the lifting mechanism. Figure 4(b) presents the left-side view, similar to the right side but with a slight difference—this perspective highlights the master pulley (110A) instead of the motor (106A), providing a clear view of the cable routing and pulley mechanism. Figure 4(c) shows the top view, emphasizing the spatial relationship between the motor (106A), horizontal arm (102A), and base plate (102C), demonstrating the alignment of key structural elements and the overall system footprint. Lastly, Figure 4(d) illustrates the front view, where the base plate (102C), hook mechanism, motor (106A), and solar panel (112C) mounted on the master pulley housing (102D) are visible, showcasing the rear structural components and the integration of the solar charging system.
Figure 5 illustrates a three-dimensional (3D) view of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100), in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The structural frame (102) supports the motion unit (110), motor and control unit (106), and central processing unit (108). The horizontal arm (102A) and vertical arm (102B) are permanently connected, ensuring a rigid and stable structure. A rotational joint is positioned between the vertical arm (102B) and the base plate (102C), allowing controlled movement of the entire frame for better parcel accessibility. The base plate (102C) houses essential system components, ensuring a compact and organized layout. The master pulley housing (102D) is positioned on top of the base plate (102C) and encloses the high-torque DC motor (106A) and master pulley (110A). The motion unit (110) consists of a plurality of pulleys (110A), not limiting to the scope, a variable-length rope (110B), and a carabiner hook (110C), facilitating secure transportation of parcels. The rope (110B) is wound around the master pulley (110A), which is directly connected to the motor shaft, ensuring controlled and precise movement.
To provide a detailed visualization of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100), Figure 5 includes multiple views showcasing different perspectives. Figure 5(a) presents an isometric view where the motor (106A), horizontal arm (102A), vertical arm (102B), base plate (102C), are visible, providing a complete structural representation of the system. Figure 5(b) illustrates the left-side view, highlighting the rope (110B), the pulleys (110A) and the carabiner (110C). Figure 5(c) presents the back view, where the master pulley housing (102D) and solar panel (112C) (placed on top of master pulley housing (102D)) are visible, offering an alternate perspective of the overall structure.
Figure 6 illustrates a circuit diagram of the IoT-enabled carrier lift system (100), showcasing the interconnections between the microcontroller unit, motor driver, power management components, and motion control elements.
In an embodiment, the central processing unit (108), comprising, but not limited to, ESP8266 microcontroller (108A) handling all command processing and execution. The ESO8266 microcontroller board is used due to its integrated Wi-Fi module, low power consumption, and multiple GPIO (General-Purpose Input/Output) pins, which allow communication with the motor driver (106B), power supply components, and external command devices. The ESP8266 (108A) is connected to the motor driver (106B) through designated control pins, transmitting Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals to regulate the speed and direction of the high-torque DC motor (106A). Additionally, the microcontroller facilitates remote operation via Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling users to control the system (100) through a mobile application (104B) or a home automation device (104A).
In another embodiment, the motor and control unit (106) is depicted, featuring the motor driver (106B), which is responsible for regulating power delivery to the high-torque DC motor (106A). The motor driver (106B) contains two H-Bridge circuits, allowing independent bidirectional control of the motor. The input (IN1, IN2, IN3, IN4) and enable (EN1, EN2) pins receive control signals from the ESP8266 microcontroller (108A), determining the motor’s operation. The output terminals (OUT1, OUT2, OUT3, OUT4) are linked to the motor’s terminals, ensuring controlled voltage and current distribution. The enable pins (EN1, EN2) allow PWM-based speed control, ensuring smooth and efficient motor operation. The motor driver (106B) is powered by a 12V supply, delivering sufficient energy to facilitate lifting and lowering operations.
The power management system (112) is configured to supply regulated power to the microcontroller (108A), motor driver (106B), and motor (106A). The 3S 12V lithium battery protection board (112B) is integrated to safeguard the battery (112A) from overcharging, deep discharge, and short circuits. The 12V decoy module (112D) provides a stable and isolated 12V power source to the motor driver (106B), ensuring uninterrupted operation. Additionally, the IN4002 diode (112E) prevents reverse current flow, protecting the circuit from potential voltage fluctuations. The buck converter (112F) is incorporated to step down 12V DC to 5V DC, ensuring a stable power supply to the ESP8266 microcontroller (108A). The solar panel (112C) is connected to the system (100) to enable renewable energy harvesting, ensuring prolonged battery life and reducing dependency on external power sources.
Further, the high-torque DC motor (106A) is configured to drive the motion unit (110), enabling controlled lifting and lowering of parcels. The motor (106A) is directly coupled with the master pulley (110A), transmitting rotational energy to the steel rope (110B), which in turn moves the carabiner hook (110C). The microcontroller (108A) and motor driver (106B) work in synchronisation to regulate the motion, ensuring precise control over the system’s operations. The integration of PWM-based motor control ensures smooth acceleration, deceleration, and speed regulation, preventing abrupt movements and ensuring secure handling of parcels.
The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed.
Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims. Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above about specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.
Advantages of the invention:
Beneficial for elderly individuals and people with mobility challenges;
Easily accessible deliveries irrespective of the location of the person obtaining the delivery;
Flexible, easy to use, and is accessible from anywhere in the world.
, Claims:I Claim
A system (100) for IoT-enabled carrier lift for automated parcel retrieval and delivery, the system (100) comprising of:
a structural frame (102) including a horizontal arm (102A) and a vertical arm (102B) and the base plate (102C), allowing the entire frame to rotate for enhanced parcel accessibility.
a base plate (102C) that houses electrical components and provides a stable support structure for the system (100);
a master pulley housing (102D) positioned on top of the base plate (102C), enclosing a high-torque DC motor (106A) and a master pulley (110A), wherein the master pulley (110A) is connected to a high torque DC motor (106A),
a motion unit (110) comprising three or more pulleys (110A), a variable-length rope (110B), and a carabiner hook (110C), wherein the carabiner hook (110C) securely attaches parcels of varying sizes for transport. The said motion unit (110) is configured to facilitate controlled movement of parcels;
a motor and control unit (106) including the high-torque DC motor (106A) and a motor driver (106B) that regulates motor operation using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals;
a command unit (104) including a home automation device (104A) and a mobile application (104B) enabling remote control via Wi-Fi;
a central processing unit (108) comprising a microcontroller (108A) configured to process commands received from the command unit (104) and execute corresponding operations;
A battery charging and protection unit (112) comprising one or more Li-ion batteries (112A), a lithium battery protection board (112B), a solar panel (112C), a 12V decoy module (112D), an IN4002 diode (112E), and a buck converter (112F) to regulate voltage and ensure uninterrupted power supply.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the command unit (104) facilitates wireless control of the system (100), allowing users to operate the motion unit (110) via voice commands through the home automation device (104A) or remotely through the mobile application (104B).
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery charging and protection unit (112) comprises a solar panel (112C) mounted on the master pulley housing (102D) to generate electricity for system operation and continuous battery charging.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central processing unit (108) is configured to enter light sleep mode after a preset period of inactivity, wherein the system (100) automatically wakes upon receiving a command to optimise energy consumption.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motion unit (110) operates by running the motor (106A) for a predefined duration, pausing for a preset time, and then reversing its direction upon receiving the “PARCEL” command to complete a parcel retrieval and delivery cycle. The system performs lowering operations until the “DOWN” button is pressed, retracting operations until the “UP” button is pressed, and stops all operations when the “STOP” button is pressed on the mobile application.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) includes real-time tracking capabilities, wherein the microcontroller (108A) continuously sends updates to the mobile application (104B) regarding the live state of the motion unit (110) and parcel retrieval status.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) enables connectivity from anywhere in the world via the mobile application (104B), allowing users to operate the system remotely regardless of geographical location.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lengths of the horizontal arm (102A) and vertical arm (102B) are adjustable, allowing customisation of the structural frame (102) to accommodate different balcony heights and architectural variations.
The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an emergency stop mechanism is integrated into the system (100), enabling users to manually halt the operation of the motor and motion unit (110) via the mobile application (104B) or the home automation device (104A), wherein the microcontroller (108A) is configured to immediately disable the motor driver (106B) upon receiving an emergency stop command.
A method for operating an IoT-enabled carrier lift, the method comprising:
Initiating a self-check procedure by powering on the system (100);
Establishing a Wi-Fi connection between the microcontroller (108A) and an external control device, wherein the external control device includes a mobile application or a home automation device;
Checking the battery level and determining if sufficient voltage is available for operation;
Notifying the user through the mobile application or home automation device (104A) upon successful connection;
Entering light sleep mode if no command is received within a default time period, wherein the power to the motor and microcontroller peripherals is cut off;
Receiving a parcel retrieval command ("UP," "DOWN," or "PARCEL") from the external control device via Wi-Fi;
Activating the motor and a control unit (106) to move the carabiner hook (110C) and rope in the direction specified by the received command;
Executing manual or automated movement, wherein in manual mode, the motion unit operates until the user releases the control button, and in automated mode, the motion unit moves for a preset time period;
Halting the motion unit (110) once the predefined movement criteria are met;
Rechecking system activity and resetting the inactivity timer to prevent light sleep mode if further commands are received; and
Returning the system to an idle or sleep state if no additional input is detected beyond the predefined threshold.