Device for visually indicating the presence of mail items in a mailbox

Abstract

Device for visually indicating the presence of mail items in a mailbox, comprising a control unit arranged inside the mailbox, comprising at least one sensor for detecting a change of state caused by the opening of a mail slot of the mailbox, wherein the sensor is connected to the control unit, and comprising a visual display element arranged outside the mailbox, wherein the control unit is configured to control the visual display element depending on the detected change of state in such a way that it is recognizable from the outside whether there are mail items in the mailbox.

Description

1. Technical field The present utility model application relates to a device for the visual indication of the presence of mail items in a mailbox. 2. State of the art Common mailbox monitoring solutions often rely on electronic communication systems, particularly wireless networks or smart home applications. Such systems typically require an external power supply, an internet connection, or complex installation, and are therefore not suitable for all locations. Furthermore, simple mechanical or optical indicators are known, but these do not provide clear and reliable information about the actual presence of mail items. 3. Object of the invention The object of the present invention is to provide a simply constructed, autonomous device that enables a reliable visual indication of the presence of mail items in a mailbox without the need to open the mailbox. 4. Brief description of the invention The problem is solved by a device comprising a control unit arranged inside the mailbox, at least one sensor for detecting a change of state, and a visual display element arranged outside the mailbox. The sensor is designed to detect a change in state caused by the opening of the letterbox slot. Depending on the detected change in state, the control unit activates the visual indicator so that it is visible from the outside whether there is mail in the letterbox. 5. Examples of Implementation In a preferred embodiment, the sensor is designed as a magnetic switch, in particular as a reed contact, which interacts with a magnet arranged on a movable insertion opening. Alternatively, the sensor can be designed as a motion sensor, optical sensor, light barrier or mechanical switch. The device may also have a manually operable reset button, the actuation of which returns the device to a standby state. In another embodiment, the device is equipped with an autonomous energy source and has a display element arranged inside the letterbox to signal a low energy state. 6. Advantages of the invention The device according to the invention enables a clear visual indication of the presence of mail items from the outside of the mailbox, without having to open it. The device makes everyday life easier, especially for elderly people and people with limited mobility, as the condition of the mailbox can be visually checked from a distance or from inside a building. Furthermore, a significant time saving is achieved, as repeated unnecessary opening or checking of the mailbox is avoided. The device has a simple design, can be operated autonomously and is independent of wireless data transmission, internet connection or external power supply, and is suitable for different mailbox designs. Reference symbol list 1 Magnet 2 Reed contact 3 Cable 4 Control unit (circuit board) 5 Internal indicator (LED) 6 Button (reset button) 7 Power source (battery) 8 Device housing 9 External indicator (LED) 10 Sensor (e.g., optical sensor or ultrasonic sensor) Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of the device with a magnetic sensor, in particular with a magnet and a reed switch, as well as the associated functional elements. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the device with an alternative sensor, in particular an optical, infrared-based, or ultrasonic-based sensor for detecting a piece of mail falling through the slot. Fig. 3 shows a schematic external view of a mailbox with the arrangement of the device according to Fig. 1. Fig. 4 shows a schematic internal view of a mailbox with the installed device according to Fig. 1. Fig. 5 shows an external view of a mailbox without a movable slot flap with an alternative sensor design according to Fig. 2, indicating the approximate position of the device inside the mailbox. Fig. 6 shows a schematic internal view of a mailbox with the installed device according to Fig. 2.

Claims

Device for visually indicating the presence of mail items in a mailbox, comprising a control unit arranged inside the mailbox, comprising at least one sensor for detecting a change of state caused by the opening of a mail slot of the mailbox, wherein the sensor is connected to the control unit, and comprising a visual display element arranged outside the mailbox, wherein the control unit is configured to control the visual display element depending on the detected change of state in such a way that it is recognizable from the outside whether there are mail items in the mailbox. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor is arranged as a magnetic switch, in particular as a reed contact, on a stationary part of the letterbox and interacts with a magnet arranged on a movable part of the insertion opening, wherein when the insertion opening is opened the magnet is removed from the reed contact. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor is designed as a motion sensor, optical sensor, light barrier or mechanical switch. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the visual display element is arranged outside the letterbox and is visible from the outside. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the visual display element has at least two different display states, which are realized by a color change, a flashing signal, a continuous light or a combination of these features. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device has a manually operable reset button, the actuation of which returns the device to a standby state in which a renewed opening of the insertion opening causes a further triggering of the display. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that a time delay is provided after pressing the reset button in order to prevent the display from being unintentionally triggered again. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device is equipped with an autonomous energy source and has a display element arranged inside the letterbox for signaling a low energy state.

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