Methods and apparatus for unattended pickups and deliveries

Abstract

A secure pickup and delivery container includes a lockable door, a control unit, an access element, and an anchoring element, according to an embodiment. The control unit includes a processing element and a memory that can be programmed either on-site or remotely with access privilege information such as identity (e.g. of container, delivery person, etc.), location, date, time, frequency of access, and / or package-specific information. In an embodiment, access privilege information is programmed when an intended recipient of a delivery consummates a point of sale transaction, for example over the Internet or telephone. The access element can be a keypad, a biometric scanner, a card reader, a bar-code reader, and / or a wireless control element to read a programmable token such as a smart card. Delivery personnel can enter access request information into the access element, and if it favorably compares with the access privilege information, the control unit unlocks the door. Notification can be concurrently made via wireline or wireless communications to the intended recipient, who may be situated remote from the secure container. The recipient can optionally return a delivery acknowledgment to the delivery personnel. Details of the delivery transaction can also be recorded electronically on the delivery personnel's token, within the container, or at a remote location.

Description

DIVISIONAL APPLICATION [0001] The present application is a divisional of application U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 561,835, filed on Apr. 28, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The subject matter relates generally to package transport. More particularly, the subject matter relates to methods and apparatus that enable packages to be picked up or delivered at unattended locations by delivery personnel in a manner that safeguards such packages from theft and adverse environmental conditions. BACKGROUND INFORMATION [0003] In the field of package transport and delivery, it is well known to use mailboxes located at a postal station or in the vicinity of residences or other buildings occupied by the intended recipients of packages. Generally, mailboxes are suitable for letter-sized packages, but they are not suitable for large packages. Lockable mailboxes that can accommodate large packages and that are accessible by postal delivery personnel are also known, but such...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method and apparatus for securely delivering and picking up packages in a way that safeguards them from theft and adverse environmental conditions. The invention aims to address the problem of unattended delivery and pickup of packages, which can result in inefficient delivery and increased time and fuel waste for delivery personnel. The secure pickup and delivery container can be located near the door of a residential building or other buildings where the intended recipients of the packages are present, and it can be accessed by delivery personnel with a unique code or key. The container is designed to prevent theft and damage to the packages, and it provides a secure way to handle large and valuable items. The technical effects of the invention include improved efficiency, safety, and protection of packages from theft and environmental conditions.

Problems solved by technology

Generally, mailboxes are suitable for letter-sized packages, but they are not suitable for large packages.

However, with increasing numbers of people being away from their residence during the day, it is increasingly difficult for delivery personnel to make contact with intended recipients of packages to complete delivery.

The current process is very inefficient and wastes a significant amount of time and non-renewable vehicular fuel resources.

In addition, when packages are not secured at the point of delivery, they are subject to theft, pilferage, spoilage, as well as damage and / or destruction resulting from adverse environmental conditions.

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