Automated wrapping machine apparatus and system

Abstract

An apparatus may include a body including a plurality of parcel insertion slots. A device may include a device board for controlling operation of the device, the device board including a controller, the controller including: at least one processor; at least one memory operatively coupled to the at least one processor; a low power wide area module configured to communicate with a server over a first communication link; and a low power consumption personal area module configured to communicate with a second automated wrapping machine (APM) module over a second communication link.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated parcel machine, particularly a battery-powered machine for delivering online orders. Background Art

[0002] Automated parcel machines, also known as automated parcel lockers or smart lockers, are self-service kiosks or storage units that allow individuals to conveniently send, receive, and return parcels. These machines are typically placed in easily accessible locations such as shopping malls, residential complexes, office buildings, and transportation centers. Summary of the invention

[0003] An automated parcel machine (APM) module includes: a main body including a plurality of parcel insertion slots; and a device board for controlling the operation of the APM module. The device board includes a controller having a low power wide area module and a low power personal area module. The low power wide area module is configured to communicate with a server via a first communication link, and the low power personal area module is configured to communicate with a second APM module via a second communication link.

[0004] In some aspects, an automated package machine (APM) module includes: a body including a plurality of package insertion slots; and a device board for controlling the operation of the APM module. The device board includes a controller including: at least one processor; at least one memory operatively coupled to the at least one processor; a low power wide area module configured to communicate with a server via a first communication link; and a low power personal area module configured to communicate with a second APM module via a second communication link.

[0005] In some aspects, the first communication link comprises a cellular network.

[0006] In some aspects, the controller is configured to communicate with the server via the first communication link using a narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT) protocol or a long term evolution machine type communication (LTE-M) standard.

[0007] In some aspects, the second communication link is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) link.

[0008] In some aspects, the controller is configured to establish a connection to the server via the first communication link.

[0009] In some aspects, the controller is configured to transmit the state synchronization signal to the server via the first communication link.

[0010] In some aspects, the controller is configured to establish a connection to a second APM module or a mobile courier application via a second communication link.

[0011] In some aspects, the device board also includes at least one battery.

[0012] In some aspects, the device board also includes a plurality of batteries.

[0013] In some aspects, the APM module also includes an antenna operably coupled to the low power wide area module.

[0014] In some aspects, the APM module also includes a PIN pad.

[0015] In some aspects, the APM module also includes a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD display.

[0016] In some aspects, a system includes: a first APM module; and a second APM module. The first APM module includes: a first body, the first body including a first plurality of package insertion slots; and a first device board, the first device board is used to control the operation of the first APM module, the first device board includes a first controller, the first controller includes: at least one first processor; at least one first memory, the at least one first memory can be operably coupled to the at least one first processor; a low power wide area module, the low power wide area module is configured to communicate with a server via a first communication link; and a first low power personal area module, the first low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the second APM module via a second communication link. The second APM module includes: a second body, the second body including a second plurality of package insertion slots; and a second device board, the second device board is used to control the operation of the second APM module, the second device board includes a second controller, the second controller includes: at least one second processor; at least one second memory, the at least one second memory can be operably coupled to the at least one second processor; and a second low power personal area module, the second low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the first APM module via a second communication link.

[0017] In some aspects, the first communication link comprises a cellular network.

[0018] In some aspects, the second communication link is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) link.

[0019] In some aspects, the first APM module further includes an antenna operably coupled to the low power wide area module.

[0020] In some aspects, the system further includes a third APM module, the third APM module including: a third body, the third body including a third plurality of package insertion slots; and a third device board, the third device board for controlling the operation of the third APM module, the third device board including a third controller, the third controller including: at least one third processor; at least one third memory, the at least one third memory being operably coupled to the at least one third processor; and a third low-power personal area module, the third low-power personal area module being configured to communicate with the first APM module via a second communication link. It should be understood that the system is not limited to three APM modules, but may include additional APM modules having similar logic.

[0021] It should be appreciated that the above-described subject matter may also be implemented as a computer-controlled apparatus, a computer process, a computing system, or as an article of manufacture such as a computer-readable storage medium.

[0022] Other systems, methods, features and / or advantages will be or may become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and / or advantages be included within this description and protected by the accompanying claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding components throughout the several views.

[0024] Figure 1 A V1 automated parcel machine (APM) according to an implementation described herein is shown. The APM includes a V1 main module with a PIN pad door and additional modules.

[0025] Figure 2 An exemplary Human-V1 APM communication interface according to implementations described herein is shown.

[0026] Figure 3 A V2 APM according to a specific implementation described herein is shown. The APM includes a V2 main module with a PIN keypad + TFT LCD display door and additional modules.

[0027] Figure 4 An exemplary Human-V2 APM communication interface according to implementations described herein is shown.

[0028] Figure 5 Shown is the V1 main module of the APM and its device board according to the specific implementation described in this article.

[0029] Figure 6 Shown is the V2 master module of the APM and its device board according to the specific implementation described in this article.

[0030] Figure 7 Additional modules of the APM and its device boards are shown according to the specific implementation described in this article.

[0031] Figure 8 An exemplary package insertion operation according to implementations described herein is shown.

[0032] Fig. 9 An exemplary package retrieval operation using a cellular network according to implementations described herein is shown.

[0033] Fig.10 An exemplary package retrieval operation using a courier application according to implementations described herein is shown.

[0034] Fig.11 is an exemplary computing device.

[0035] Fig.12 An example of package insertion over a mobile network is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. Methods and materials similar or equivalent to the methods and materials described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "one", "an", "the" include multiple indicators unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "comprising" and its variations used herein are used synonymously with the term "comprising" and its variations, and are open, non-restrictive terms. The term "optional" or "optionally" used herein refers to the features, events or situations described subsequently that may or may not occur, and the description includes instances where the features, events or situations occur and instances where the features, events or situations do not occur. The range can be expressed herein as from "about" a specific value and / or to "about" another specific value. When expressing such a range, aspects include from a specific value and / or to another specific value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about", it should be understood that a specific value forms another aspect. It will also be understood that the endpoints of each of these ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint. As used herein, the term "about" or "approximately" when referring to a measurable value (such as an amount, a percentage, etc.) is intended to encompass variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, or ±1% of the measurable value.

[0037] In some aspects, an automated packaging machine (APM module) includes: a main body (e.g., Figure 1The locker body 102 in the embodiment includes a plurality of package insertion slots; and an equipment plate 500 (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 6 The device board 500 is used to control the operation of the APM module. The device board includes a controller (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 6 APM MC 502 in the controller includes: at least one processor and at least one memory (eg, Fig.11 802 in the basic computing configuration).

[0038] In addition, the controller (e.g., APM main controller (MC) 502) includes a low power wide area module configured to communicate with the server via a first communication link. Optionally, the first communication link includes a cellular network. Low power wide area (LPWAN) is a wireless communication network designed to provide remote connectivity for Internet of Things (IoT) devices while consuming minimal power. LPWAN is optimized specifically for devices that require low data rates, long battery life, and extended coverage areas. Exemplary technologies for LPWAN communications are narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) or long-term evolution machine type communications (LTE-M) standards. It should be understood that the NB-IoT protocol and the LTE-M standard are provided as examples only. The present disclosure contemplates the use of other standards or protocols for LPWAN communications.

[0039] In addition, the controller (eg, APM MC 502) includes a controller configured to communicate with a second APM module (eg, Figure 1 A low-power personal area module for communication with the additional module 101 in the wireless communication link. Optionally, the second communication link is a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) link. A wireless personal area network (WPAN) is a wireless network that enables communication between devices that are usually within a few meters (e.g., a maximum of 10 meters, preferably within 2 to 5 meters) that are in close proximity to each other. WPAN is designed to support low-power and short-range communications between devices, and is commonly used in applications such as wearable devices, health monitoring systems, home automation, and wireless peripheral device connections. An exemplary communication standard for WPAN is BLE. It should be understood that BLE is provided only as an example. The present disclosure contemplates the use of other standards or protocols for WPAN communications.

[0040] According to the present disclosure, an APM module such as the main module 100 ( Figure 1 PIN pad only master module shown) or master module 300 ( Figure 3The PIN pad plus display main module shown) can communicate with one or more additional APM modules such as the additional module 101 (e.g., using a second communication link) while communicating with a server (e.g., using a first communication link). For example, the second APM module (e.g., the additional module 101) can use a BLE link to transmit slot status information (e.g., filled, empty, disabled, opened, etc.) to the first APM module (e.g., the main module 100 or 300), and the first APM module (e.g., the main module 100 or 300) can synchronize the slot status information with the server using a cellular network. Specifically, the low power personal area module (e.g., a BLE link) is used to connect the APM MC 502 inside the main module 100 or 300 to the APM sub-controller (SC) 700 inside the additional module 101. In addition, the low power personal area module (e.g., a BLE link) is used to establish a connection between the APM MC 502 inside the main module 100 or 300 and the mobile courier application. An advantage of this configuration using multiple information / communication channels is the ability to update the package registration list almost instantly. The prior art does not have multiple information / communication channels, so the registration list can only be updated after a period of time has passed since the package was inserted into the machine or received from the machine. According to the prior art, the automated package machine can basically send information to the server immediately to update the registration list only when the user connects the mobile device to the APM (i.e., the user's app acts as a link between the server and the automated package machine). In contrast, the APM of the present disclosure (e.g., main module 100 or 300) includes both a low-power wide area module and a low-power personal local area module to address the deficiencies of the prior art.

[0041] In some aspects, the system includes: a first APM module (e.g., main module 100 or 300) and a second APM module (e.g., additional module 101). The first APM module (e.g., main module 100 or 300) includes: a first body, the first body including a first plurality of package insertion slots; and a first device board (e.g., device board 500), the first device board is used to control the operation of the first APM module, the first device board includes a first controller (e.g., APM MC 502), the first controller includes: at least one first processor; at least one first memory, the at least one first memory can be operably coupled to the at least one first processor; a low power wide area module, the low power wide area module is configured to communicate with a server via a first communication link; and a first low power personal area module, the first low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the second APM module (e.g., additional module 101) via a second communication link. In addition, as described herein, the first low power personal area module can be configured to establish a connection between the first APM module and the mobile courier application (e.g., via APM MC502). The second APM module (e.g., additional module 101) includes: a second body, the second body including a second plurality of package insertion slots; and a second device (e.g., APM SC 700) board, the second device board being used to control the operation of the second APM module, the second device board including a second controller, the second controller including: at least one second processor; at least one second memory, the at least one second memory being capable of being operably coupled to the at least one second processor; and a second low-power personal area module, the second low-power personal area module being configured to communicate with the first APM module (e.g., main module 100 or 300) via a second communication link.

[0042] Optionally, the system includes more than two automated packaging machines. For example, the system may include a third APM module. The third APM module includes: a third body, the third body including a third plurality of package insertion slots; and a third device board, the third device board is used to control the operation of the third APM module, the third device board includes a third controller, the third controller includes: at least one third processor; at least one third memory, the at least one third memory can be operably coupled to the at least one third processor; and a third low-power personal area module, the third low-power personal area module is configured to communicate with the first APM module via a second communication link.

[0043] Optionally, the system may include a fourth APM module. The present disclosure contemplates that the fourth APM module includes: a fourth body, the fourth body including a fourth plurality of package insertion slots; and a fourth device board, the fourth device board being used to control the operation of the fourth APM module, the fourth device board including a fourth controller, the fourth controller including: at least one fourth processor; at least one fourth memory, the at least one fourth memory being operably coupled to the at least one fourth processor; and a fourth low-power personal area module, the fourth low-power personal area module being configured to communicate with the first APM module via a second communication link. Likewise, it should be understood that the system is not limited to four APM modules, but may include additional APM modules having similar logic.

[0044] In some implementations, an automated packaging machine (APM) may include one main module 100 or 300 and a plurality of additional modules 101. Optionally, the APM may include one main module 100 or 300 and two additional modules 101. Optionally, the APM may include one main module 100 or 300 and three additional modules 101. Although APMs with two and three additional modules 101 are provided as examples, the present disclosure contemplates providing APMs with one additional module 101 or more than three additional modules 101 (e.g., four, five, etc. additional modules 101). It should also be understood that an APM may include only one main module 100 or 300 as described herein (i.e., without additional modules 101).

[0045] Reference now Figure 1 and Figure 3 , showing an automated parcel machine (APM). Figure 1 and Figure 3 The APM shown is a battery-powered APM for the handover of online orders. Optionally, the APM is designed for locations in outdoor environments. The APM according to the present invention is subdivided into two types of units:

[0046] • A master module 100 or 300 that acts as an APM control unit.

[0047] - Extra modules 101 as add-on units to the main module with the purpose of increasing the number of parcel slots.

[0048] The main module includes a housing, a device board and a user interface. The additional module includes a housing and a device board.

[0049] Detailed view of a component

[0050] shell

[0051] Still reference Figure 1 and Figure 3, the shell of the APM is preferably composed of a metal sheet with a thickness of 0.5mm to 2mm, preferably 0.8mm to 1.5mm and most preferably 0.8mm to 1.2mm. Materials other than metal sheets may also be used. This serves as a locker body 102 structure assembled on the top of a base frame 103, which is preferably a metal sheet with a thickness of between 2mm and 4mm, preferably 3mm, supported by leveling feet 106. For the stability of the APM, the base frame is filled with concrete blocks or other stable heavy materials. Parcel insertion slots covered with door 104 are located at the front of both the main module 100 and the additional module 101. Each door is preferably made of a double layer of 0.8mm metal sheet and is locked by using a motor lock. The door may also include other materials. The special case of a door for a user interface that only appears on the main module 100 or 300 has two configurations:

[0052] - PIN-only keypad door 105 located on main module 100

[0053] - PIN keypad plus display door 301 located on the main module 300

[0054] On the main module 100 or 300, the cellular network antenna 506 is mounted on the top 600. All housing surfaces may be covered as desired (eg, different color options, advertising areas, etc.).

[0055] APM User Interface

[0056] In some versions, PIN pad door 105 is part of main module 100, and the PIN pad door serves as the starting point for human-to-machine (APM) communications. Figure 2 An exemplary human-APM communication interface is shown. Figure 2 , the human-APM communication interface has an identification code plate 200. The identification code (e.g., QR code) carries a specific ID value of the APM, which is used to identify the main module 100 through a scanning operation of the mobile courier application. The app is used for package insertion. For the end-user package removal function, the PIN keypad door 105 is installed with a numeric PIN keypad 201. The corresponding package slot cover door 104 is opened by entering the correct numeric combination.

[0057] In some versions, PIN pad plus display door 301 is integrated into main module 300, and the integrated PIN pad plus display door serves as the starting point for human-to-machine (APM) communications. Figure 4 An exemplary human-APM communication interface is shown. Figure 4, the door has an identification code 200 with a unique ID, thereby facilitating mobile courier applications and package insertion. The addition of a TFT display 400 provides an alternative way of package insertion other than using a numeric PIN keypad 201. The TFT display 400 interacts with the user by showing feedback messages. The PIN keypad 201 can also be used for package removal by the end user.

[0058] Display Controller

[0059] There is a display controller 401 in the PIN pad plus display door 301. The display controller is responsible for managing the operation of the TFT display 400. The reflective technology used in the TFT display 400 takes advantage of the ambient irradiance, thereby ensuring visibility during the day while minimizing energy usage. At night, the TFT display 400 is equipped with a front light adjusted by an ambient light sensor 402. The display controller 401 communicates with the device board 500 via I2C.

[0060] Equipment board

[0061] Both the main module 100 or 300 and the additional module 101 have an equipment plate with a specific configuration based on the unit type and the number of parcel insertion slots covered by each module door 104. The equipment plate forms the top plate in the upper right parcel compartment for each module type.

[0062] Device board inside the main module

[0063] Now refer to the attached Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , showing an APM including a device board. Figure 5 The main module 100 with the PIN-only keypad door 105 and its device board 500 is shown. Figure 6 The main module 300 with the PIN keypad+display door 301 and its device board 500 is shown. Figure 7 An additional module 101 and its device board 500 are shown. In the main module 100 or 300, the device board 500 has a main controller (MC) 502 attached to a DIN rail 501. The MC is responsible for the control operation of the main module and communicates with the main module via I 2 C bus receives data from PIN keyboard 201. MC 502 includes the following two submodules:

[0064] Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) module that connects the APM to the server via LTE-M or NB-IoT network. The server-APM connection is established after a predefined time interval. Information such as APM slot status (filled / empty / disabled / opened) is exchanged. To improve the connection quality, the LPWA module (MC 502) has an external cellular network antenna 506 with a coaxial cable.

[0065] A Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module connects the main controller 502 inside the main module 100 or 300 to the sub-controller (SC) 700 inside the additional module 101. In a preferred embodiment, three sub-controllers 700 are enabled to connect to a single main controller 502, which means that each main module 100 or 300 can communicate with three additional modules 101. It should be understood that more than three sub-controllers can be enabled to connect to a single main controller. In addition, the BLE module establishes a connection between the MC 502 and the mobile courier application.

[0066] MC 502 controls expansion bus (bus) 505. Expansion bus 505 carries battery power, logic power, I 2 C signal and addressing signals for additional functional modules attached to the DIN rail 501. The power supply to the bus 505 can be enabled and disabled by the MC 502. The power supply to the bus 505 is protected by the MC 502 to prevent overcurrent. Functional modules attached to the bus are controlled by the MC 502 via I 2 C control. MC 502 places the initial address value on the bus.

[0067] Functional modules 503 attached to bus 505 determine their I / O addresses by a combination of their functions and the addresses received on bus 505. 2 C address. The functional module will power and I 2 C is passed to the next functional module without modification, thereby achieving a daisy chain connection. Addressing information received on bus 505 is passed with modification as follows: if multiple functional modules of one type can be connected to bus 505, each module increments the address on bus 505 before passing the address to the next functional module; if only one type of functional module can be connected to the bus, the functional module ignores the address on the bus and passes the initial address value to the next functional module. Function modules can be mounted on a DIN rail, or attached to an expansion bus via a cable (not shown) and mounted individually.

[0068] The I / O (Input / Output) module 503 is an electrical interface for opening the door lock and reading the door status from the door lock. The I / O module 503 is a functional module as described in the previous paragraph and is therefore controlled by the MC 502 via the expansion bus 505.

[0069] In the preferred embodiment, each I / O module 503 has eight lock output ports, which means that the number of I / O modules inside the APM unit is defined by the top function of the count of package insertion slot cover doors 104 divided by eight.

[0070] The main module 100 is powered by at least one, preferably three, non-rechargeable disposable batteries 504, the size of which is designed to maintain the life of the APM. For the main module 300, due to the greater energy consumption caused by the TFT display 400 and the display controller 401, the number of batteries is higher than the number of batteries in the main module 100, preferably 5. Each battery is individually connected to the MC 502.

[0071] Device board inside the additional module

[0072] In the additional module 101, the device board is attached with a sub-controller (SC) 700 on the DIN rail 501. The SC 700 performs control operations of the additional module. A BLE module is included inside the SC 700, thereby realizing a wireless BLE connection between the SC 700 inside the additional module 101 and the MC 502 inside the main module 100. The SC 700 controls an expansion bus 505 having the same function as the expansion bus controlled by the MC 502. The I / O module 503 attached to the SC 700 expansion bus 505 is the same as the I / O module attached to the MC 502.

[0073] The additional module 101 is powered by a single non-rechargeable disposable battery 504 connected to the SC 700. The battery 504 in the additional module 101 is sized to power the module for the life of the APM.

[0074] Package Insertion Process

[0075] refer to Figure 8 and Fig.12 , two exemplary package insertion flows can be distinguished:

[0076] · Package insertion process via mobile network. The transmission of order information between APM and server occurs via mobile network (LTE-M, NB-IoT). This process is for PIN pad plus display main module 300 (optionally paired with additional module 101) Figure 6 ) is possible.

[0077] · Package insertion process via the courier mobile app. The app acts as a link between the server and the APM MC 502. This process is for the PIN pad plus display main module 300 (optionally paired with the additional module 101) Figure 6 ) and only the PIN keypad main module 100 ( Figure 1 ) Both are possible.

[0078] Package insertion process via mobile network

[0079] Reference now Fig.12 , illustrating an exemplary package insertion operation.

[0080] 1. The end user enters the PIN code using the numeric PIN keypad 201 installed on the PIN keypad plus display door 301,

[0081] 2. APM MC 502 creates a Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) request containing an order query using the entered PIN code and transmits the CoAP request to the server via the LTE-M / NB-IoT network.

[0082] 3. The server receives the CoAP request and searches for the order corresponding to the received order query,

[0083] 4. The server responds to the APM with an Order Query Response that contains the destination slot volume or destination module and slot information and the recipient PIN,

[0084] 5. APM opens an unoccupied package insertion slot with the corresponding volume and queues the slot opening event into the APM event queue.

[0085] 6. The end user inserts the package into the slot and closes the slot,

[0086] 7. The APM MC 502 prompts the end user on the TFT display 400 to confirm that the package has been successfully inserted.

[0087] 8. If the end user does not confirm the successful insertion, the APM MC 502 opens the next unoccupied package insertion slot with the corresponding volume and prompts the end user for confirmation again.

[0088] 9. The end user confirms successful insertion,

[0089] 10. The APM MC 502 queues the slot closed event and the package inserted event into the APM event queue and registers receipt of the PIN code to open the confirmed slot,

[0090] Parcel insertion process via courier app

[0091] Reference now Figure 8 , shows an exemplary package insertion operation. The package insertion process is as follows:

[0092] 1. The operator launches the courier app on their mobile device,

[0093] 2. The operator presses the "ID" button in the courier app,

[0094] 3. The operator points the camera of the mobile device at the identification code 200 on the main module 100 or 300,

[0095] 4. The courier app finds and connects to the APM MC 502 via Bluetooth Low Energy.

[0096] 5. The courier app requests an APM session from the server,

[0097] 6. The server creates an APM session.

[0098] 7. The server responds to the courier app with the authentication token.

[0099] 8. The courier application sends the authentication token to the APM MC 502,

[0100] 9. APM MC 502 verifies the authentication token and marks the mobile device connection as trusted,

[0101] 10. The courier app requests APM synchronization from the server,

[0102] 11. The server responds to the courier application with the initial configuration data and the communication trigger packet,

[0103] 12. The courier application writes the initial configuration data and the communication trigger packet to the APM MC 502.

[0104] 13. The APM MC 502 updates its configuration according to the provided configuration data and creates a CoAP request containing the APM event and sends it to the courier application.

[0105] 14. The courier application forwards the CoAP request to the server.

[0106] 15. The server registers each APM event contained in the CoAP request and sends a communication trigger packet to the courier application until all events have been received.

[0107] 16. The server responds to the courier app to indicate that the synchronization has been completed,

[0108] 17. The operator presses the "Insert Package" button in the Courier App.

[0109] 18. The operator points the mobile device’s camera at the identification code on the package.

[0110] 19. The courier application requests the package insertion process (OPERIN) from the server for the scanned code,

[0111] 20. The server responds to the courier application using the slot open packet,

[0112] 21. The courier application sends the slot opening packet to the APM MC 502,

[0113] 22. If the package is contained in the additional module 101 slot, the APM MC 502 writes a slot open command to the SC 700 via Bluetooth.

[0114] 23. The APM controller 502 / 700 opens the corresponding package insertion slot cover door 104 via the I / O module 503,

[0115] 24. The I / O module 503 detects that the package insertion slot cover door 104 is open and notifies the APM controller 502 / 700,

[0116] 25.APM controller creates slot open event,

[0117] 26. If the package is contained in the slot of the additional module 101, the APM SC 700 writes a slot status change notification to the MC 502 via Bluetooth.

[0118] 27. APM MC 502 creates a CoAP packet containing a slot open event and sends it to the courier application,

[0119] 28. The courier application forwards the CoAP request to the server.

[0120] 29. The server registers the slot opening event, creates a PIN allocation group, and sends the slot opening notification and PIN allocation group to the courier application.

[0121] 30. The courier app instructs the operator to place the package into the opened slot and then close the slot.

[0122] 31. The operator inserts the package into the opened slot and closes the package insertion slot door 104,

[0123] 32. The I / O module 503 detects that the package insertion slot door 104 is closed and notifies the APM controller 502 / 700,

[0124] 33. APM controller 502 / 700 creates a slot close event,

[0125] 34. If the package is contained in the slot of submodule 101, APM SC 700 writes a slot status change notification to MC 502 via Bluetooth.

[0126] 35. APM MC 502 creates a CoAP packet containing the slot closing event and sends it to the courier application,

[0127] 36. The courier application forwards the CoAP request to the server.

[0128] 37. The server registers the slot opening as closed, marks the order as inserted into the APM, and sends a slot closing notification to the courier app.

[0129] 38. The courier application writes the PIN code allocation group into the APM MC 502,

[0130] 39. APM MC 502 stores the received PIN code in memory.

[0131] 40. The courier app notifies the operator that the package has been successfully entered.

[0132] 41. The operator presses the "Disconnect" button in the Courier App.

[0133] 42. The courier application requests to close the APM session.

[0134] 43. The server closes the APM session and publishes a notification of the inserted package to other services.

[0135] 44. The courier app disconnects from the APM MC 502 via Bluetooth.

[0136] Package retrieval process

[0137] Reference now Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , shows an exemplary package removal operation. For package removal, two processes can be distinguished:

[0138] · Package retrieval process via mobile network. Slot status synchronization between APM and server occurs via mobile network (LTE-M, NB-IoT).

[0139] · Package pick-up process through the courier mobile application. The application acts as a link between the server and the APM MC 502.

[0140] Package retrieval process via mobile network

[0141] Reference now Fig. 9 , shows an exemplary package retrieval operation performed via a mobile network. The package retrieval process is as follows:

[0142] 1. The end user enters the PIN code using the digital PIN keypad 201 installed on the main module 100,

[0143] 2. APM opens the corresponding package and inserts it into the slot door 104, and queues the slot opening event into the APM event queue.

[0144] 3. The end user removes the package contained in the slot and closes the slot,

[0145] 4. The APM MC 502 queues the slot closed event into the APM event queue.

[0146] 5. The end user stops interacting with the APM.

[0147] 6. APM MC 502 waits until the next communication interval expires,

[0148] 7. APM MC 502 creates a CoAP request containing a slot open event and a slot close event, and transmits the CoAP request to the server via the LTE-M / NB-IoT network.

[0149] 8. The server receives the CoAP request and registers the slot open event and slot close event.

[0150] 9. The server locates the order associated with the slot position contained in the slot open event and marks it as received,

[0151] 10. The server publishes a notification of received package to other services.

[0152] Parcel Pickup Process via Courier App

[0153] Reference now Fig.10 , showing an exemplary package retrieval operation performed by a courier application.

[0154] The package removal process is as follows:

[0155] 1. The end user enters the PIN code using the numeric PIN keypad 201 installed on the APM.

[0156] 2. APM opens the corresponding package and inserts it into the slot door 104, and queues the slot opening event into the APM event queue.

[0157] 3. The end user removes the package contained in the slot and closes the slot,

[0158] 4. APM MC 502 queues the slot closing event into the APM event queue,

[0159] 5. The end user stops interacting with APM.

[0160] 6. The operator arrives at the APM site,

[0161] 7. The operator launches the courier app on their mobile device,

[0162] 8. The operator presses the "ID" button in the courier app,

[0163] 9. The operator points the mobile device's camera at the identification code 200 on the APM.

[0164] 10. The courier app finds and connects to the APM MC 502 via Bluetooth Low Energy.

[0165] 11. The courier app requests an APM session from the server.

[0166] 12. The server creates an APM session.

[0167] 13. The server responds to the courier app with the authentication token.

[0168] 14. The courier application sends the authentication token to the APM MC 502,

[0169] 15. APM MC 502 verifies the authentication token and marks the mobile device connection as trusted,

[0170] 16. The courier app requests APM synchronization from the server.

[0171] 17. The server responds to the courier application with the initial configuration data and the communication trigger packet,

[0172] 18. The courier application writes the initial configuration data and the communication trigger packet to the APM MC 502.

[0173] 19. The APM MC 502 updates its configuration according to the provided configuration data and creates a CoAP request containing the APM event and sends it to the courier application.

[0174] 20. The courier application forwards the CoAP request to the server.

[0175] 21. The server registers each APM event contained in the CoAP request and sends a communication trigger packet to the courier application until all events have been received.

[0176] 22. The server registers a receive action for each slot open event received,

[0177] 23. The server publishes a notification of received packages to other services.

[0178] 24. The server responds to the courier application to indicate that the synchronization has been completed.

[0179] Special circumstances

[0180] Sub-controller 700 encryption key change process

[0181] 1. The server generates a unique key and a key change packet,

[0182] 2. The key change packet is sent to APM MC 502 via LTE-M / NB-IoT or courier app,

[0183] 3. APM MC 502 parses the key change packet,

[0184] 4. APM MC 502 generates an APM key change packet,

[0185] 5. APM MC 502 sends a new APM key change packet to APM SC 700 via BLE,

[0186] 6. APM SC 700 stores the key in the next available key slot.

[0187] 7. APM SC 700 generates a notification of successful APM key change.

[0188] 8. APM SC 700 sends a successful APM key change notification to MC.

[0189] 9. APM MC 502 stores the new key in the main controller flash memory.

[0190] 10. APM MC 502 queues the successful key change event into the APM event queue.

[0191] 11. The APM MC 502 communication interval expires, or the courier application performs the event synchronization process,

[0192] 12. APM MC 502 generates a CoAP request containing a successful key change event,

[0193] 13. The server receives and registers the successful key change event.

[0194] Exemplary Computing Devices

[0195] It should be understood that the logical operations described herein with respect to the various diagrams may be implemented as (1) a sequence of computer-implemented actions or on a computing device (e.g., Fig.11The logical operations discussed herein are not limited to any particular combination of hardware and software. The choice of implementation depends on the performance and other requirements of the computing device. Therefore, the logical operations described herein are variously referred to as operations, structural devices, actions, or modules. These operations, structural devices, actions, and modules may be implemented using software, firmware, dedicated digital logic, and any combination thereof. It should also be understood that more or fewer operations than those shown in the figures and described herein may be performed. These operations may also be performed in an order different from those described herein.

[0196] refer to Fig.11 , an exemplary computing device 800 on which the methods described herein may be implemented is shown. It should be understood that the exemplary computing device 800 is only an example of a suitable computing environment on which the methods described herein may be implemented. Optionally, the computing device 800 may be a well-known computing system, including but not limited to a personal computer, a server, a handheld or laptop device, a multiprocessor system, a microprocessor-based system, a network personal computer (PC), a minicomputer, a mainframe computer, an embedded system, and / or a distributed computing environment including a plurality of any of the above systems or devices. A distributed computing environment enables remote computing devices connected to a communication network or other data transmission medium to perform various tasks. In a distributed computing environment, program modules, applications, and other data may be stored on local and / or remote computer storage media.

[0197] In its most basic configuration, computing device 800 typically includes at least one processing unit 806 and system memory 804. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, system memory 804 may be volatile (such as random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.), or some combination of the two. Figure 8 800 is shown by block 802. Processing unit 806 may be a standard programmable processor that performs the arithmetic and logic operations necessary for the operation of computing device 800. Computing device 800 may also include a bus or other communication mechanism for transferring information between the various components of computing device 800.

[0198] The computing device 800 may have additional features / functionality. For example, the computing device 800 may include additional storage devices, such as removable storage devices 808 and non-removable storage devices 810, including but not limited to magnetic disks or optical disks or tapes. The computing device 800 may also include a network connection 816 that allows the device to communicate with other devices. The computing device 800 may also have input devices 814, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, etc. Output devices 812 may also be included, such as a display, a speaker, a printer, etc. Additional devices may be connected to the bus to facilitate data communication between components of the computing device 800. All of these devices are well known in the art and need not be discussed in detail here.

[0199] Processing unit 806 may be configured to execute program code encoded in a tangible computer-readable medium. A tangible computer-readable medium refers to any medium that can provide data that causes computing device 800 (i.e., machine) to operate in a particular manner. Various computer-readable media may be utilized to provide instructions to processing unit 806 for execution. Exemplary tangible computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, volatile media, non-volatile media, removable media, and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. System memory 804, removable storage device 808, and non-removable storage device 810 are all examples of tangible computer storage media. Exemplary tangible computer-readable recording media include, but are not limited to, integrated circuits (e.g., field programmable gate arrays or application specific ICs), hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, holographic storage media, solid-state devices, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable program read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROMs, digital versatile disks (DVDs) or other optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage devices, or other magnetic storage devices.

[0200] In an exemplary implementation, processing unit 806 may execute program code stored in system memory 804. For example, a bus may carry data to system memory 804, from which processing unit 806 receives instructions and executes them. Data received by system memory 804 may optionally be stored on removable storage device 808 or non-removable storage device 810 before or after execution by processing unit 806.

[0201] It should be understood that the various techniques described herein can be implemented in conjunction with hardware or software, or in conjunction with their combination in appropriate circumstances. Therefore, the method and apparatus of the subject matter currently disclosed or some aspects or parts thereof can take the form of program code (i.e., instruction) embodied in tangible media such as floppy disks, CD-ROMs, hard disk drives, or any other machine-readable storage medium, wherein when the program code is loaded into a machine such as a computing device and executed by it, the machine becomes a device for practicing the subject matter currently disclosed. In the case of executing program code on a programmable computer, the computing device generally includes a processor, a storage medium readable by the processor (including volatile and non-volatile memory and / or storage element), at least one input device, and at least one output device. One or more programs can be implemented or utilized in conjunction with the process described in the subject matter currently disclosed, for example, by using an application programming interface (API), reusable controls, etc. Such programs can be implemented with high-level procedures or object-oriented programming languages ​​to communicate with a computer system. However, if necessary, the program can be implemented with assembly or machine language. In any case, the language can be a compiled or interpreted language, and can be combined with a hardware specific implementation.

[0202] Components List

[0203] PIN pad master module 100 only

[0204] Additional Module 101

[0205] Locker body 102

[0206] Base frame 103

[0207] Package insertion slot cover door 104

[0208] PIN Keypad Door 105

[0209] Leveling feet 106

[0210] Identification code 200

[0211] Numeric PIN Keypad 201

[0212] PIN keyboard + display main module 300

[0213] PIN keyboard + display door 301

[0214] TFT Display 400

[0215] Display controller 401

[0216] Ambient Light Sensor 402

[0217] Equipment Board 500

[0218] DIN Rail 501

[0219] APM Master Controller (MC) 502

[0220] Input / output module 503

[0221] Non-rechargeable disposable batteries 504

[0222] Bus 505

[0223] Cellular network antenna 506

[0224] Partially opened top 600

[0225] APM Sub-Controller (SC) 700

[0226] Computing device 800

[0227] Basic computing configuration 802

[0228] System memory 804

[0229] Processing unit 806

[0230] Removable storage device 808

[0231] Non-removable storage device 810

[0232] Output device 812

[0233] Input Devices 814

[0234] Network connection 816

[0235] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. An automated packaging machine (APM) module (100, 300, 101), the APM module comprising: a main body, the main body including a plurality of package insertion slot covering doors (104); and A device board (500), the device board is used to control the operation of the APM module, the device board comprises a controller (502, 700), the controller comprises: at least one processor, at least one memory operatively coupled to the at least one processor, a low power wide area module, the low power wide area module being configured to communicate with the server via a first communication link, and The low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the second APM module via a second communication link.

2. The APM module of claim 1, wherein the first communication link comprises a cellular network.

3. The APM module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with the server through the first communication link using a narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) protocol or a long-term evolution machine type communication (LTE-M) standard.

4. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second communication link is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) link.

5. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the controller is configured to establish a connection to the server through the first communication link. 6 . The APM module of claim 5 , wherein the controller is configured to transmit a status synchronization signal to the server through the first communication link.

7. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the controller is configured to establish a connection to the second APM module or a mobile courier application through the second communication link.

8. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the equipment board further comprises at least one battery.

9. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the equipment board further comprises a plurality of batteries.

10. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an antenna operably coupled to the LPWA module.

11. The APM module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a PIN keyboard (201) or a PIN keyboard (201) coupled to a TFT display (400).

12. A system, comprising: a first automated packaging machine (APM) module (100, 300); and A second APM module (101), wherein the first APM module comprises: a first body including a first plurality of package insertion slot covering doors (104), and A first device board, the first device board is used to control the operation of the first APM module, the first device board includes a first controller, and the first controller includes: at least one first processor; at least one first memory operatively coupled to the at least one first processor; a low power wide area module, the low power wide area module being configured to communicate with the server via a first communication link; and A first low power personal area module, wherein the first low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the second APM module via a second communication link, wherein the second APM module comprises: a second body including a second plurality of package insertion slot covering doors (104), and A second device board, the second device board is used to control the operation of the second APM module, the second device board includes a second controller, and the second controller includes: at least one second processor; at least one second memory operatively coupled to the at least one second processor; and A second low power personal area module, wherein the second low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the first APM module through the second communication link.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first communication link comprises a cellular network.

14. The system of claim 12 or 13, wherein the second communication link is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) link.

15. The system of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the first controller is configured to establish a connection to the server via the first communication link.

16. The system of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the first controller is configured to establish a connection to the second APM module or mobile courier application through the second communication link.

17. The system of any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the first APM module further comprises an antenna (506) operably coupled to the LPWA module.

18. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 17, further comprising a third APM module, wherein the third APM module comprises: a third body including a third plurality of package insertion slot covering doors (104), and A third device board, the third device board is used to control the operation of the third APM module, the third device board includes a third controller, and the third controller includes: at least one third processor; at least one third memory operatively coupled to the at least one third processor; and A third low power personal area module is configured to communicate with the first APM module through the second communication link.

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