Ergonomically Designed E-crate to Optimize Distribution Channel

Abstract

The ergonomically designed E-crates helps in reducing the handling difficulty and tracing of the crates. The RFID system introduced into the crates help in eliminating the need for human intervention in manually checking the loads in the crates. The Dairy Record System and RFID tracking helps in scientific management of crates. Real time data collected through the crates help in fulfilling the demand exactly according to the indent. Real time tracking helps in replacing the old - worn out crates and ensure only new crates in circulation.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] This invention relates to logistics and supply chain sectors and in particular is geared towards improvements in packaging and material handling systems. In particular, this invention relates to the ergonomically designed electronic crates (e-crates), which are focused at improving the functionality of the distribution chains. Combining ergonomics and modern materials, the invention at the same time targets ease of use, applies low effort to the people involved, and rationalizes the distribution process within the framework of creating a more efficient distribution system.
BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART
[002] In the logistics and supply chain management, the effectiveness of the activities such as handling. Moving and storing of goods is of particular importance in achieving operating efficiency and cutting costs. E-Crates facilitates this process, It provides the direct means of transportation of the products along the distribution channels. And even though they are used quite frequently, standard crate structures still face some challenges which affect its ergonomic effectiveness and ultimately its distribution efficiency.
[003] Most of the existing crates have been conventionally made rugged without consideration of weight carrying mechanisms by users. This oversight leads to efforts causing physical strain and discomfort to workers and causes nagging injuries caused by repetitive lifting, carrying as well as moving stock that are bulky or simply odd-shaped. Other than the normal attachments which are the ridged edges, this design has some other practical disadvantages for example, handles are improperly placed or overemphasized or large weight is concentrated on the center of gravity of the crates. These made things much worse.
[004] It is common to encounter crates of this kind where the shape remains fixed even when transported goods are of varying shapes and sizes. This will cause wastage on space available inside the transport vehicle and storage areas, hence causing high operational cost and inefficiency in the processes of loading and unloading and tracking.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[005] The ergonomically designed E-crates help in reducing the handling difficulty of the crates. The RFID system introduced into the crates help in eliminating the need for human intervention in manually checking the loads in the crates. The record system and RFID tracking helps in scientific management of crates. Real time data collected through the crates help in fulfilling the demand exactly according to the indent. Real time tracking helps in replacing the old - worn out crates and ensure only new crates in circulation. This tracking and database management helps the dairy industry in eliminating channel inefficiency and improve their customer satisfaction.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF DRAWINGS:
[006] Firstly E-crates with ergonomic design changes are made and a wireless RFID crate reader mechanism is developed. The linear mechanism prototype (Figure 2) is a clear depiction of the system that can be fixed or implemented in the dairy trucks in real time consideration. The prototype is fabricated using a wooden plank, two 8mm steel rods, supporting wooden block, clamps to fix the rods and linear bearings. A copper PCB plate consisting of the Node MCU, RFID Reader module (Figure 1) and its power source is attached to the linear bearings. 60rpm motor is clamped to the wooden plank with the first pulley attached to it (Figure 1). Second pulley is attached to the copper plate and third to the supporting wooden block. A pulley belt runs around the three pulleys. The 60rpm motor and 12V, 1.3AH recyclable battery is circuited with a DPDT switch to move the motor in both clockwise and anti-clockwise direction. This controls the movement of the copper PCB plate and initiates the RFID reader to scan and read the RFID tags attached to the sample crates.
[007] The base crate has 4 castor wheels attached to increase its ease of handling and eliminate the wear and tear of the crates while handling. The RFID reader is connected to Node MCU that has an in-built Wi-Fi module that transfers the data to the Dairy Record System server. The scanned data shows up against the retailers who is receiving the crates and this data gets stored in the database. Apart from this section the Dairy Record System consists of the HOME page, Distributors section, and Employees, Deliveries, Payments, Reports and settings section.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[008] The e-crate is constructed from high-strength, lightweight materials that offer durability and resistance to impact, ensuring longevity and reliable performance under the demands of frequent handling. Integrated smart technology options, such as RFID tags and readers, enable real-time tracking and inventory management, further optimizing the distribution process. By combining ergonomic design with advanced materials and technological enhancements, the e-crate delivers a comprehensive solution for improving distribution channel efficiency and worker safety. , C , Claims:[009] 1. An ergonomically designed e-crate comprising: A set of contoured handles positioned at strategic angles, constructed from soft-touch, anti-slip materials, designed to reduce hand fatigue and enhance grip security; An adjustable handle mechanism allowing for multiple handle height settings to accommodate different user heights and preferences; crate includes customizable interior configurations with adjustable dividers, partitions and padding to accommodate various types of goods.
[010] 2. The interior configurations are designed to provide protection and efficient space utilization for different shapes and sizes of products.
[021] 3. Smart technology integration comprising embedded sensors and tracking systems to provide real-time data on crate location, temperature, and handling conditions.
[022] 4. RFID tags or barcode labels for seamless tracking and identification of the crate and its contents.
[023] 5. The crate is constructed from recyclable and eco-friendly materials, supporting sustainability efforts and reducing environmental impact. The design is intended for long-lasting use, reducing the frequency of replacements and minimizing waste.

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