Parcel and mail drop box

Abstract

The invention is a parcel and mail drop box comprising a mailbox inlet (3), a frame (1) and a front plate (14) attached to two drop box side walls. The parcel and mail drop box is expandible and collapsible. The front plate (14) comprises a deposit door (10) for one-way insertion of items into the drop box, and a retrieve door (13) allowing owners or other authorized individuals to open the drop box and remove the contents safely. The frame (1) comprises a frame backwall, a top base (30), a bottom base (37) and two frame sidewalls. The parcel and maildrop box further comprises a top cover (2) hingedly connected to the top base (30) and a bottom cover (7) hingedly connected to the bottom base (37). The drop box side walls form a flexible sheet made of plurality of connected vertical interlocking sliders (15) ended with guiding pins (27). Along the top base (30) and the bottom base (37) and on the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) there are guiding grooves (28) for guiding the drop box side walls, engaging with drop box side walls guiding pins. In the collapsed condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are hidden in the guiding grooves (28) along the top base (30) and along the bottom base (37), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are hidden under the top and bottom covers. The mailbox flap remains visible to receive post or small parcels. In the expanded condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are expanded in the guiding grooves (28) in the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and of the bottom cover (7), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are exposed at the front of the parcel and mail drop box.

Description

[0001] The subject of the invention is a parcel and mail drop box that is expandible and collapsible.

[0002] The surge in online shopping has created significant demand for efficient delivery solutions. With more companies vying for business, there's intense pressure to reduce delivery costs. This pressure trickles down to courier companies, compelling them to handle higher delivery volumes within shorter timeframes. This places immense pressure on individual delivery personnel, leaving them with limited time to complete their rounds. Any delays significantly impacts their schedules, leading to instances where parcels are left unattended, posing security risks. KR20220015645A, US2018296016AA and similar prior art solutions concerning collapsible parcel drop boxes disclose boxes that collapse by means of folding, meaning their side walls consist of two parts which fold inward on hinges. These sides are attached by additional hinges connecting to the front and back walls.

[0003] There are known collapsible containers with mentions of possibly being permanently mounted, such as US10786103B2 or US2022257041A1, or temporary solutions, such as US9596952B2 or US11399649B2.

[0004] KR20190044924A presents a personal parcel box apparatus comprising a courier box frame disposed at a place where a delivery of a courier article is desired; an article storage unit arranged in a folded form on a front portion of the courier box frame and forming a receiving space for the courier article by being unfolded forward when the courier article is received; a door frame connected to a bag inlet formed at an upper portion of the article storage unit and rotatably or movably connected to an upper portion of the courier box frame; and an opening and closing door rotatably or movably connected to the door frame and opening and closing a first doorway formed at a central portion of the door frame to communicate with the bag inlet. The article storage unit may be folded or unfolded according to a change in position of the door frame. KR102 123 980 B1 discloses a parcel and mail drop box comprising a frame and a front plate attached to two drop box side walls, wherein the front plate comprises a mailbox inlet, a deposit door and a retrieve door, wherein the frame comprises a frame back wall, a top base, a bottom base and two frame side walls, wherein the parcel and mail drop box further comprises a top cover hingedly connected to the top base and a bottom cover hingedly connected to the bottom base, wherein in the collapsed condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are hidden and the deposit door and the retrieve door are hidden under the top and bottom covers, and in the expanded condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are expanded, and the deposit door and the retrieve door are exposed at the front of the parcel and mail drop box.

[0005] Those in the art have attempted to address the security issue by identifying the need for a secure drop box capable of receiving multiple parcels. However, the solutions available are large, permanently installed drop box containers taking up a significant amount of space and become obstructions for homeowners, especially when these drop box containers are not often in use. Smallerversions of afore mentioned containers present challenges in not having sufficient space for segregating access to the storage area, leaving the parcel vulnerable each time the lid is opened.

[0006] Those in the art have also attempted to address the space issue with a collapsible parcel box, however all their design comprises of folding side walls, which fold inward along with the side walls, while the bottom wall is lifted / lowered separately, with a large front cover which conceals all the container's components while in the collapsed condition. These designs face several drawbacks, such as the complexity of folding / unfolding, potential for misalignment, timeconsuming setup, lack of scalability, single usability or unrecognizability. The complexity of folding / unfolding makes it difficult for users to correctly execute the process. The process to unfold is not intuitive, takes excessive effort, thus deter users from properly utilizing the container. During the expansion or contraction of the container, since all the components move freely and individually without guides, the folding or unfolding process is too complex. There is a risk of panels becoming misaligned and not fitting together properly. This results in difficulty in securely closing the container or in setting it up for use, leading to frustration for users. Expanding or contracting the container requires significant time and effort, making it impractical for situations where quick deployment of items is necessary. Courier personnel may find the process cumbersome and opt to avoid using the container instead. Moreover, the containers are small, mainly cater for single parcels, increasing their size to accommodate more or larger parcels is not possible as the front cover which encloses the container in the collapsed condition would need to be significantly larger to accommodate the larger sides, making it heavier thus not practical. Additionally, a larger size configuration would exacerbate the issues with complexity of folding and unfolding. Given the small size of the container, the lids lock upon initial delivery. Therefore, should additional parcels arrive after being locked, these parcels would be left unsecured until the owner returns. Another important aspect is that the font cover serves to conceal the container while in collapsed condition and then serves as the top lid while expanded. So, any identification markings which are visible while the cover is down would not be visible while the cover is in the horizontal position.

[0007] There are also temporary collapsible container solutions which attach to the homeowner's front door through a bracket sliding under the door, or a cord strapped around the door. These containers are single receiving units, very small in size, and flimsy to assemble. These temporary containers require installation in advance of any parcel delivery, inhibiting the ability to securely receive parcels if the container had not been installed prior to homeowners' departure. The homeowners need to always remember to attach the portable container whenever a parcel is expected. The portable container needs removal for the home front door to open fully or avoiding having to step over the container to enter the house. The temporary containers placed on doors or in doorways could cause an obstruction in the event of emergency home evacuation.

[0008] The proposed parcel and mail drop box addresses these problems and overcomes the presented drawbacks.

[0009] The invention is a parcel and mail drop box comprising a mailbox inlet (3), a frame (1) and a front plate (14) attached to two drop box side walls. The parcel and mail drop box is expandible and collapsible. The front plate (14) comprises a deposit door (10) for one-way insertion of items into the drop box, and a retrieve door (13) allowing owners or other authorized individuals to open the drop box and remove the contents safely. The frame (1) comprises a frame back wall, a top base (30), a bottom base (37) and two frame side walls. The parcel and mail drop box further comprises a top cover (2) hingedly connected to the top base (30) and a bottom cover (7) hingedly connected to the bottom base (37). The drop box side walls form a flexible sheet made of plurality of connected vertical interlocking sliders (15) ended with guiding pins (27). Along the top base (30) and the bottom base (37) and on the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) there are guiding grooves (28) for guiding the drop box side walls, engaging with the drop box side walls guiding pins (27). In the collapsed condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are hidden in the guiding grooves (28) along the top base (30) and along the bottom base (37), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are hidden under the top and bottom covers. The mailbox flap remains visible to receive post or small parcels. In the expanded condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are expanded in the guiding grooves (28) in the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and of the bottom cover (7), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are exposed at the front of the parcel and mail drop box.

[0010] Preferably, each interlocking slider (15) is made of a slider O-connector (25) and a slider C-connector (26). The slider O-connector (25) is a profile with a cross-section resembling the letter "O" and it is connected with the slider C-connector (26) being a profile with a cross-section resembling the letter "C". The slider O-connector (25) fits inside the slider C-connector (26) of a neighboring interlocking slider (15) forming a movable connection.

[0011] Preferably, each interlocking slider (15) comprises a slider tab (24) and a slider notch (23) for allowing adjacent interlocking sliders (15) to interlock their mutual position in the vertical direction. The slider tabs (24) and notches (23) allow to avoid tilting causing jamming and interrupted movement when sliding the interlocking sliders (15) their tracks.

[0012] Preferably, the guiding pins and the guiding grooves (28) are in the shape that resemble the letter "Y".

[0013] Preferably, there is a top cover holding arm mechanism (31) with a top sliding mechanism for retaining the top cover (2) in horizontal position during expansion. Preferably, the top cover holding arm mechanism (31) comprises a top cover hold spring (35) and a top cover holding arm (32).The top cover holding arm mechanism (31) may rest over a frame shaft (33) attached to each side of the top cover (2), the frame shaft (33) being an element connecting the top and bottom covers. The top cover holding arm mechanism (31) offers a compact and efficient alternative to bulky options like hydraulic gas struts. Utilizing the top cover holding arms (32) connected to the sliding mechanism comprising the top cover hold spring (35) allows for smooth top cover (2) operation and horizontal retention. The top cover hold springs (35) create an upward force. As the top cover (2) swings open the top cover hold spring (35) attached to the sliding mechanism pulls the mechanism upward, thus increasing the angle between the top cover holding arm (32) and the top cover (2) which wedges the top cover holding arm (32), thereby holding the cover (2) in the horizontal position. This solution maintains the top cover in the horizontal position during expansion facilitates movement, enhancing user convenience.

[0014] Preferably, there is also a bottom cover cable mechanism (34) with a bottom sliding mechanism for smoother movement. and providing structural strength of the bottom cover (7). Preferably, the bottom cover cable mechanism (34) comprises a bottom cover cable spring (36) and a bottom cover cable (21). The bottom cover cable mechanism (34) may rest over a frame shaft (33) attached to each side of the top cover (2), the frame shaft (33) being an element connecting the top and bottom covers. As the bottom cover (7) swings open, the bottom cover cable (21) attached to the bottom cover (7) pulls the mechanism downward, the force from the bottom cover cable spring (36) damper the bottom cover (7) movement preventing the bottom cover (7) from slamming down. Unlike the gas filled cylinders typically used to open doors / covers, this simplified design uniquely occupies significantly less space and force to operate.

[0015] Preferably, the deposit door (10) comprises a collapsible deposit door secure flap mechanism.

[0016] Preferably, a deposit door secure flap (49) is pivotally attached to the deposit door (10). The movement of the pivoting hinge is limited by the construction of the deposit door secure flap mechanism ensuring the deposit door secure flap remains in place to prevent unauthorized access to deposited parcels via the deposit area. An L-shaped arm (48) passes through a deposit arm loop (45) attached to the front plate (14). The bottom of the deposit arm loop (45) forms a counter lever which lifts the end of the L-shaped arm (48) as it is pulled through the deposit arm loop (45) while the deposit door (10) is opened. The deposit arm loop (45) also serves as a retainer to keep the deposit door (10) in the closed position. The L-shaped arm (48) has a shape that resembles the letter "L" with a shorter leg end pivotally attached to the deposit door (10) side, and the longer leg end pivotally attached to the first end of an upper linkage arm (46). The second end of the upper linkage arm (46) is joined with the ability to fully pivot with the first end of a lower linkage arm (47). The second end of the lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the deposit door secure flap (49) side. The deposit door secure flap mechanism prevents unauthorized access and enhances security throughout the deposit process. Unlike existing designs which have fixed angle between a deposit door and a deposit flap creating retrieval gaps before the deposit door is slightly opened or fully closed thus exposing parcels already deposited allowing them to be removed from the storage area without detection. The design enables the deposit door secure flap mechanism to fully collapse to allow for the drop box container to collapse. The design also inhibits the deposit door (10) from being opened while the drop box container is in the collapsed condition and prevents the deposit door (10) from opening once the drop box container reaches full capacity. Such a collapsible deposit door secure flap mechanism can also be used with other types of collapsible, expandible drop boxes than the claimed invention.

[0017] Preferably, the L-shaped arm (48) is attached to the deposit door (10) side near the free edge of the deposit door (10), "near" being defined as being nearer to the free edge of the deposit door (10) than one-third of its length. The 'free edge' of the deposit door (10) refers to the edge opposite the hinges, along which the deposit door (10) swings open.

[0018] Preferably, the second end of the lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the deposit door secure flap (49) side in a certain distance from the free edge of the deposit door secure flap (49), approximately in the middle of the length of the deposit door secure flap (49).

[0019] Preferably, there is a middle section (8) placed on the front plate (14) comprising the mailbox inlet (3), an expansion handle (6), and an owner's operating handle (5). The deposit door (10) is placed above the middle section (8) and the retrieve door (13) is placed below the middle section (8).

[0020] Preferably, the top cover (2) comprises top cover pin slots (17) placed at the free edge of the top cover (2), the bottom cover (7) comprises bottom cover pin slots (16) placed at the free edge of the bottom cover (7), and the middle section (8) comprises top cover holding pins (18) and bottom cover holding pins (19) engaging with the top cover pin slots (17) and bottom cover pin slots (16) when the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) are in closed position.

[0021] Preferably, the retrieve door (13) comprises a retrieve door locking knob (11) and a retrieve door keylock (12).

[0022] Preferably, the top cover (2) is connected to the top base (30) via a top cover spring-loaded hinge (40).

[0023] Preferably, the bottom base (37) comprises bottom gear array and the top base (30) comprises a top gear array intersecting with the guiding pins (27), the top gear array and the bottom gear array being connected via a timing shaft.

[0024] The presented parcel and mail drop box does not present the 'folding design' known in the art. There are sliding side walls instead, running in unique grove slots allowing seamless transitions between collapsed and expanded conditions. The presented design alleviates the burden on owners by remaining available but not intrusive when not in use, eliminating the need for constant preparation for deliveries. Invention's simplicity enables couriers to recognise and operate efficiently without delays. The design size accommodates multiple parcels, enhancing storage capacity. The drop box is courier agnostic, able to receive multiple parcels without compromising security of parcels held therein. Moreover, the dual functionality streamlines storage processes, eliminating the need for separate parcels and mailboxes, thus enhancing convenience.

[0025] The present invention is hereinafter further clarified in some of its preferred embodiments shown for purely exemplifying and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, in which: Fig. 1 presents a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box in the collapsed condition; Fig. 2 illustrates an intermediate stage involved in expanding the parcel and mail drop box from the collapsed condition to fully expanded; Fig. 3 provides a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box in the expanded condition; Fig. 4 presents a perspective view with the deposit door open and the deposit door secure flap lifted in place blocking access to the storage area; Fig. 5 presents a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box in the expanded condition with the retrieve door open; Fig. 6 provides a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box in the collapsed condition with the bottom cover open for the owner to access the retrieve door and the keylock; Fig. 7 presents a perspective view of a single interlocking slider illustrating the notch and the tab; Fig. 8 illustrates the interlocking of sliders to form the side walls of the parcel and mail drop box; Fig. 9 provides a closer view of the guiding pins connected to the interlocking sliders; Fig. 10 presents a segmented view from position (A) showing the guiding pins within the guiding grooves on the top and bottom tracks of the covers, (B) left top, (C) right top, (D) left bottom, (E) right bottom; Fig. 11 presents a perspective view of inside the bottom cover and bottom base of the parcel and mail drop box; Fig. 12 presents a perspective view of the top cover of the parcel and mail drop box connected to the top base; Fig. 13 presents a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box, with the frame side walls removed to reveal the cover hold mechanisms; Fig. 14 a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box without the frame side walls and with the top base plate removed to reveal the top gear array; Fig. 15A presents a perspective view of the gear array on the top and bottom; Fig. 15B provides an enlarged view of the timing tooth gear intersecting with guiding pins. Fig. 15C presents a perspective view of the top and bottom gear array with the timing shaft connected to the left side top and bottom timing gear; Fig. 15D presents a perspective view of how the side frame shafts and timing shaft are positioned to the top and bottom bases; Figs. 16 exhibits a perspective view of the back side of the parcel and mail drop box; Fig. 17 presents a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism in the collapsed condition; Fig. 18 provides an internal perspectives of the deposit door secure flap mechanism in the collapsed condition; Fig. 19 provides a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism with the deposit door slightly ajar / opened illustrating the L-shaped arm movement through the deposit arm loop causing it to lift; Fig. 20 provides a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism with the deposit door opened further, illustrating the extent to which the deposit door secure flap lifts despite minor movement of the deposit door; Fig. 21 presents a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism with the deposit door opened fully and the deposit door secure flap held in position ready for a parcel deposit; Fig. 22 is an inside perspective illustrating the movement of the collapsible deposit door secure flap mechanism from collapsed position to fully opened; Fig. 23 is an external perspective illustrating the movement of the deposit door from closed position to fully opened;

[0026] Fig. 1 presents the perspective view of an embodiment of the parcel and mail drop box in the collapsed condition, comprising a frame (1) and a middle section (8). The frame (1) comprises a top base (30) with a top cover (2) hingedly attached to it, and a bottom base (37) with a bottom cover (7) hingedly attached to it. In the collapsed condition, the free edges of the top cover (2) and bottom cover (7) are directed towards the middle section (8) and form a single surface with it. The middle section (8) comprises a mailbox inlet (3) with a mailbox flap, an address / name holder (4), an owner's operating handle (5) and an expansion handle (6). The drop box side walls are placed in guiding grooves (28) inside the frame (1) and are not visible. Afront plate (14), except its middle section (8), is covered under the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) and not visible.

[0027] In collapsed condition, mail couriers wishing to deposit letters or small parcels to the specific address, recognise the drop box as an ordinary mailbox by the mail emblem / symbol embossed and visible on the mailbox inlet (3). The mail courier would: 1) lift the mailbox flap exposing the mailbox inlet (3) and, 2) insert the respective items therein, once done, 3) close the mailbox inlet (3).

[0028] Figs 1, 2 and 3 illustrate the stages involved in expanding the embodiment of the parcel and mail drop box from the collapsed condition to fully expanded. In order to expand the parcel and mail drop box, first, the covers are released by turning the expansion handle (6) on the middle section (8), which contracts the holding pins (18, 19) away from the top cover (2) and bottom cover (7). The covers (2,7) automatically swing on their spring-loaded hinges (40, 54) to their respective open top and bottom positions, clearing the path to expand the front and sides. The parcel and mail drop box with the top cover (2) and bottom cover (7) in open position is visible in Fig. 2. To expand front and sides, the expansion handle (6) must be pulled forward until the front plate (14) reaches the end of its travel and engages a frame holding latch (22). The interlocking sliders (15) on the sides follow the front plate (14) forming the drop box side walls simultaneously, thus complete the expansion process.

[0029] The parcel courier needing to deliver larger parcel to the specific address, would expand the parcel and mail drop box from its collapsed condition as follows: 1) Release the top and bottom covers (2,7), by turning the expansion handle (6) on the middle section (8), which contracts the top cover holding pins (18) and the bottom cover holding pins (19) away from the top and bottom covers (2,7). The covers (2,7) will automatically swing on their spring-loaded hinges (40,54) to their respective open top and bottom positions, clearing the path to expand the front and sides. 2) Expand front and sides, by pulling the expansion handle (6) forward until the front plate (14) reaches the end of its travel and engages the frame holding latch (22). The interlocking sliders (15) on the sides follows the front plate (14) forming the sides of the drop box simultaneously, thus completes the expansion process. 3) Open the deposit door (10), by pulling a deposit door handle (9) (embossed with parcel symbol) placed at the deposit door (10), which causes the deposit door (10) to swing open on its hinges. Opening the deposit door (10) engages the deposit door secure flap mechanism simultaneously which raises the deposit door secure flap (49) and blocking any access to the secure holding area. 4) Place the parcel, the courier places the parcel on the deposit door secure flap (49) within the storage area. 5) Close the deposit door (10) by lifting the door causes the deposit door (10) to swing on its hinges until closed, once the deposit door (10) closes, the deposit door secure flap mechanism releases the deposit door secure flap (49) allowing the parcel to drop to the bottom of the storage area.

[0030] In instances where the drop box is already expanded on courier arrival, they need only follow point 3-5 to deposit parcels. For multiple parcels, the courier would continue to deposit parcels, points 3 to 5, until all items are deposited. The storage area reaches full capacity when enough parcels are stacked to reach and lie against the deposit door secure flap (49) which prevents the deposit door (10) from opening. The deposit door (10) opening size defines the parcel size limit, larger parcels can be received in this storage area given the large deposit door (10).

[0031] Fig. 3 provides a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box in the expanded condition, wherein the top cover (2) and bottom cover (7) are tilted perpendicularly to the middle section (8) and the middle section (8) is distanced from the frame (1). The drop box side walls with the interlocking sliders (15) are extended and the whole front plate (14) is exposed. On the front plate (14) above the middle section (8) there is the deposit door (10) comprising a deposit door handle (9). On the front plate (14) below the middle section (8) there is a retrieve door (13) comprising a retrieve door locking knob (11) and a retrieve door keylock (12). In Fig. 2 it is visible, that the top cover (2) comprises top cover pin slots (17) and the bottom cover (7) comprises bottom cover pin slots (16) which, when the parcel and mail drop box is in the collapsed condition, engage with the top cover holding pins (18) and bottom cover holding pins (19) placed on the middle section (8).

[0032] Fig. 4 presents a perspective view with the deposit door (10) open and the deposit door secure flap (49) lifted in place blocking access to a storage area (51). The presented deposit door secure flap (49) is collapsible and folds down only when the deposit door (10) is fully closed. The presented deposit door secure flap (49) lifts in place only when the deposit door (10) is opened, inhibiting access to the storage area, optimizing space and enhancing security without compromising functionality.

[0033] Fig. 5 presents a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box with the retrieve door (13) open and visible storage area (51). The retrieve door (13) comprises the retrieve door locking knob (11) and the retrieve door keylock (12).

[0034] The owner may also proactively choose to expand the drop box at any time in anticipation of a delivery or simply in the event of an unplanned delivery schedule change. The process to expand is the same as for the courier: 1) Release the two covers (2,7), by turning the expansion handle (6) on the middle section, which contracts the top cover holding pins (18) and the bottom cover holding pins (19) away from the top and bottom covers (2,7). The two covers (2,7) will simultaneously swing on their spring-loaded hinges (40, 54) to their respective top and bottom open positions, clearing the path to expand the front plate (14) and sides. 2) Expand front and sides, by pulling the expansion handle (6) forward until the front plate (14) reaches the end of its travel and engages the frame holding latch (22). The interlocking sliders (15) on the sides follows the front plate (14) forming the sides of the drop box simultaneously, thus completes the expansion process.

[0035] To retrieve any parcel / mail stored within the drop box while in expanded condition, the owner would: 1) Unlock the retrieve door (13), by inserting the owner's key into the retrieve door keylock (12) on the retrieve door (13) by turning the key to unlock position, then turning the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the unlock position, 2) Open the retrieve door (13), pull the retrieve door locking knob (11) causing the retrieve door (13) to swing open on its hinges exposing the inside of the storage area and contents therein. 3) Remove all deposited items, take out all content (parcels and mail), 4) Close the retrieve door (13), push the retrieve door locking knob (11) causing the retrieve door (13) to swing on its hinge until fully closed, 5) Lock the retrieve door (13), by turning the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the lock position causing the locking mechanism to move the bolts into the lock position, then by turning the key in the retrieve door keylock (12) to the lock position and locks the retrieve door (13) fully and enables the key to be removed from the retrieve door keylock (12).

[0036] Only the owner or person with access to the keys would be able to collapse the drop box, by performing following steps: 1) Unlock the retrieve door (13), by inserting the owner's key into the retrieve door keylock (12) on the retrieve door (13), turn the key to unlock position, then turn the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the unlock position. 2) Open the retrieve door (13), only once both retrieve door keylock (12) and retrieve door locking knob (11) are in the unlock position can the retrieve door (13) be free to open, exposing the inside of the storage area and contents therein. 3) Remove any deposited items, take out all content (parcels and mail), 4) Release the frame hold latch (22), while the retrieve door (13) is still in the open position, locate, press and hold the frame hold latch (22) located on the bottom cover (7). 5) Initiate front plate storage, with the frame hold latch (22) pressed, slowly push the front plate (14) backwards until it passes the frame hold latch (22), then release the frame hold latch (22), 6) Close the retrieve door (13), by pushing the retrieve door locking knob (11), causing the retrieve door (13) to swing on its hinge until fully closed, 7) Lock the retrieve door (13), by turning the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the lock position causing the locking mechanism to move the bolts into the lock position, then by turning the key in the retrieve door keylock (12) to the lock position and locks the door fully and enables the key to be removed from the retrieve door keylock (12). 8) Complete front plate (14) storage, by pushing the front plate (14) further backwards until it reaches the end of its travel and aligns with the frame (1), the side interlocking sliders (15) slide along their tracks to simultaneously neatly conceal within the drop box behind the front plate (14), 9) Store the top cover (2), by pulling down on the top cover (2) until it reaches the middle section (where the holding pins will clip into the slots of the cover and hold the top cover in position, 10) Store bottom cover, by lifting the bottom cover until it reaches the holding pins in the middle section (8) which will clip to hold the bottom cover (7) in position. Once both covers are folded, this completes the owner's collapsing process.

[0037] The storing of the covers may be done in any order or simultaneously.

[0038] To retrieve mail and smaller parcels stored within the drop box in collapsed condition, the owner would: 1) Release the bottom cover (7), by turning the small owner's operating handle (5) located on the middle section (8), which contracts the bottom cover holding pins (19) and only releases the bottom cover (7). The bottom cover (7) swings on its spring-loaded hinges (54) down to its open position clearing access to the receiving door (13). 2) Unlock the retrieve door (13), by inserting the owner's key into the retrieve door keylock (12) on the retrieve door (13) and by turning the key to unlock position, then turning the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the unlock position, 3) Open the retrieve door (13), pull the retrieve door locking knob (11) causing the retrieve door (13) to swing open on its hinges exposing the inside of the storage area and contents therein. 4) Remove all deposited items, take out all content (parcels and mail), 5) Close the retrieve door (13), push the retrieve door locking knob (11) causing the retrieve door (13) to swing on its hinge until fully closed, 6) Lock the retrieve door (13), by turning the retrieve door locking knob (11) to the lock position causing the locking mechanism to move the bolts into the lock position, then by turning the key in the retrieve door keylock (12) to the lock position and locks the retrieve door (13) fully and enables the key to be removed from the retrieve door keylock (12). 7) Store the bottom cover (7), the owner lifts the bottom cover, causing it to swing on its hinges, until it reaches the holding pins in the middle section which will clip to hold the bottom cover in closed position thus restores the drop box to its collapsed condition.

[0039] Fig. 6 provides a perspective view of the mail and parcel drop box in the collapsed condition, with the bottom cover open for the owner to access the retrieve door (13). With the bottom cover (7) in the open position, a bottom cover cable (21) and guiding grooves (28) of the bottom cover are visible. The guiding grooves (28) are placed on the inner left and right sides of the bottom cover (7).

[0040] Fig. 7 presents a perspective view of a single interlocking slider (15) of the drop box side wall. Each interlocking slider (15) is made of a slider O-connector (25) and a slider C-connector (26). The slider O-connector (25) is a profile with a cross-section resembling the letter "O" and it is connected with the slider C-connector (26) being a profile with a cross-section resembling the letter "C". The slider O-connector (25) fits inside the slider C-connector (26) of a neighboring interlocking slider (15) forming a movable connection. Each interlocking slider (15) acts as a slat forming together a flexible sheet with a flexible linking system that allows the slats to move smoothly along the track while maintaining their alignment and structural integrity. Each interlocking slider (15) comprises a slider notch (23) and slider tab (24) near the upper end of the slider. The slider notches (23) and slider tabs (24) on each individual interlocking slider (15) allow the interlocking sliders (15) to interlock with each other. The slider tab (24) on one interlocking slider (15) seats with the slider notch (23) of the adjoining interlocking slider (15) thereby interlocking them together. The slider tabs (24) have a shape resembling letter V. The slider tabs (24) and the slider notches (23) facilitate vertical alignment, preventing sliders from tilting vertically thus avoids jamming during movement.

[0041] Fig. 8 illustrates the interlocking of the interlocking sliders (15) to form the side walls of the parcel and mail drop box.

[0042] Fig. 9 provides a closer view of the guiding pins (27) connected to the interlocking sliders. The interlocking slider guiding pins (27) glide in the guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60) integrated within the top base (30), the bottom base (37), the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7), allowing smooth movement across fold lines. In the presented embodiment, the guiding pins (27) are crafted from stainless steel. The guiding pins (27) boast high resistance to corrosion, ensuring both longevity and functionality. The guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60) provide a secure path for the interlocking sliders (15), while the guiding pins (27) align with the guiding grooves' (28) profile, preventing dislodging and ensuring a uniform, smooth glide. In the presented embodiment, both guiding pins (27) and guiding grooves (28) have a shape that resembles the letter "Y".

[0043] Fig. 10 presents a segmented view from position (A) showing the guiding pins (27) within the guiding grooves (28) on the top and bottom tracks of the covers, (B) left top, (C) right top, (D) left bottom, (E) right bottom.

[0044] Fig. 11 presents a perspective view of inside the bottom cover (7) and the bottom base (37) of the parcel and mail drop box. The guiding grooves (28) in the bottom cover (7) create a left bottom cover guiding groove track (55) and a right bottom cover guiding groove track (56). The guiding grooves (28) in the bottom base (37) create a left bottom base guiding groove track (52) and a right bottom base guiding groove track (53). The left bottom cover guiding groove track (55) runs along the left edge of the bottom cover (7). The left bottom cover guiding groove track (55) transitions into the left bottom base guiding groove track (52) at the junction of the bottom cover (7) and the bottom base (37). The left bottom base guiding groove track (52) turns 90 degrees at the bottom base (37) heading from the left to the right side of the bottom base (37). The right bottom cover guiding groove track (56) runs along the right edge of the bottom cover (7). The right bottom cover guiding groove track (56) transitions into the right bottom base guiding groove track (53) at the junction of the bottom cover (7) and the bottom base (37). The right bottom base guiding groove track (53) turns 90 degrees at the bottom base (37) heading from the right to the left side of the bottom base (37), parallel to the guiding groove forming the left bottom base guiding groove track (52).

[0045] Fig. 12 presents a perspective view of the top cover (2) of the parcel and mail drop box connected to the top base (30). The guiding grooves (28) in the top cover (2) create a left top cover guiding groove track (59) and a right top cover guiding groove track (60). The guiding grooves (28) in the top base (30) create a left top base guiding groove track (57) and a right top base guiding grooves track (58). The left top cover guiding groove track (59) runs along the left edge of the top cover (2). The left top cover guiding groove track (59) transitions into the left top base guiding groove track (57) at the junction of the top cover (2) and the top base (30). The left top base guiding groove track (57) turns 90 degrees at the top base (30) heading from the left to the right side of the top base (30). The right top cover guiding groove track (60) runs along the right edge of the top cover (2). The right top cover guiding groove track (60) transitions into the right top base guiding groove track (58) at the junction of the top cover (2) and the top base (30). The right top base guiding groove track (58) turns 90 degrees at the top base (30) heading from the right to the left side of the top base (30), parallel to the guiding groove forming the left top base guiding groove track (57). The terminology "right" and "left" refers to the sides of the parcel and mail drop box in its assembled state, looking from its front. For better visibility, the cover in the Fig.12 has been turned upside down relative to its placement in open position in the parcel and mail drop box.

[0046] Fig. 13 presents a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box, with the frame side walls removed to reveal the cover hold mechanisms. The top base (30) comprises a top base plate (29) attached at the top as visible in Fig. 13. There is a top cover holding arm mechanism (31) with a top sliding mechanism that rests over a frame shaft (33) attached to each side of the top cover (2) for retaining the top cover in horizontal position during expansion. The top cover holding arm mechanism (31) comprises a top cover hold spring (35) and a top cover holding arm (32). The top cover holding arm mechanism (31) offers a compact and efficient alternative to bulky options like hydraulic gas struts. Utilizing top cover holding arms (32) connected to a sliding mechanism comprising a top cover hold spring (35) allows for smooth door operation and horizontal retention. This innovative solution maintains the top cover in the horizontal position during expansion facilitates movement, enhancing user convenience. The top base (30) and the top cover (2) are hingedly connected via a top cover spring-loaded hinge (40). The bottom base (37) and the bottom cover (7) may also be hingedly connected via a bottom cover spring-loaded hinge (54).

[0047] There is also a bottom cover cable mechanism (34) with a bottom sliding mechanism that rests over the frame shaft (33) attached to each side of the bottom cover (7) for smoother movement and providing structural strength of the bottom cover (7). The bottom cover cable mechanism (34) comprises the bottom cover cable spring (36) and the bottom cover cable (21). The bottom base (7) comprises a bottom base plate (41) attached at the bottom.

[0048] There are two sets of frame shafts (33), two at each side of the parcel and mail drop box, forming the rigid structure holding the top and the bottom bases in place within the frame. One frame shaft on the left and one on the right side has the two sliding mechanisms attached at the top and bottom for the respective covers.

[0049] Fig. 14 a perspective view of the parcel and mail drop box without the frame side walls and with the top base plate (29) removed to reveal the top gear array. The top gear array comprises top spur gears (39) and top timing gears (38) placed at left and right ends of the top gear array.

[0050] Fig. 15A presents a perspective view of the top gear array and bottom gear array with the enlarged view of the top timing gear (38) tooth intersecting with the guiding pins (27) presented in Fig. 15B. The bottom gear array is visible in Fig. 15A comprises bottom spur gears (42) and bottom timing gears (43) placed at left and right ends of the bottom gear array. There is one timing shaft (44) connecting the top timing gears (38) and bottom timing gears (43). Each gear has a square slot which is indexed so the square timing shaft once inserted ensures the top and bottom timing gears movement are synchronised. Fig. 15C presents a perspective view of the top and bottom gear array with the timing shaft (44) connected to the left top timing gear (38) and left bottom timing gear (43).

[0051] Fig. 15D presents a perspective view of how the side frame shafts (33) and timing shaft (44) are positioned to the top and bottom bases (2, 7).

[0052] Figs. 16 presents a perspective view of the backs of the parcel and mail drop box in the collapsed condition. Frame mounting holes (20) are visible. In the presented embodiment there are three mounting holes (20) located along both left and right side of the frame back wall.

[0053] Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 present the deposit door secure flap mechanism in the collapsed condition. The deposit door secure flap mechanism prevents unauthorized access and enhances security throughout the deposit process.

[0054] The collapsible deposit door secure flap mechanism ensures the deposit door secure flap (49) lifts into a horizontal position as soon as the deposit door (10) is slightly ajar as in Fig. 19. Fig. 20 provides a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism with the deposit door (10) opened further, illustrating the extent to which the deposit door secure flap (49) lifts despite minor movement of the deposit door (10). Fig. 21 presents a side perspective view of the deposit door secure flap mechanism with the deposit door (10) opened fully and the deposit door secure flap (49) held in position ready for a parcel deposit.

[0055] The proposed deposit door secure flap mechanism comprises the deposit door secure flap (49), an L-shaped arm (48), a deposit arm loop (45), an upper linkage arm (46) and a lower linkage arm (47).

[0056] The deposit door (10) pivoting on a hinge attached to the front plate (14) is attached to the L-shaped arm (48). The deposit door secure flap (49) is attached to the deposit door (10) by limited pivoting hinge.

[0057] The L-shaped arm (48) has a shape that resembles the letter "L" with a shorter leg pivotally attached to the deposit door (10) side near its free edge and the longer leg pivotally attached to the upper linkage arm (46), ensuring a necessary distance between the deposit door (10) and the longer leg of the L-shaped arm (48) in the collapsed condition of the deposit door secure flap mechanism visible in Figs. 17 and 18. Unlike fixed-angle flaps that create retrieval gaps when the deposit door moves, the L-shaped arm (48) design ensures immediate and continuous obstruction of access to stored items as soon as the deposit door is opened.

[0058] The deposit arm loop (45) is attached to the front plate (14) with the L-shaped arm (48) passing through. The bottom of the deposit arm loop (45) forms the counter lever which lifts the end of the L-shaped arm (48) as it is pulled through the deposit arm loop (45) while the deposit door (10) is opened. The deposit arm loop (45) also serves as a retainer to keep the deposit door (10) in the closed position.

[0059] The upper linkage arm (46) is attached at one end to the L-shaped arm (48) and on the other to the lower linkage arm (47). The two linkage arms (46, 47) are joined in series with the ability to fully pivot. The lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the upper linkage arm (46) on one end and to the deposit door secure flap (49) on the other end. The lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the deposit door secure flap (49) side in a certain distance from the free edge of the deposit door secure flap (49), approximately in the middle of the length of the deposit door secure flap (49). The exact location of the attaching point of the lower linkage arm (47) at the deposit door secure flap (49) side may vary depending on the dimensions components of the parcel and drop box.

[0060] For better illustration, the individual stages of the deposit door (10) and the deposit door secure flap mechanism movement collapsed condition to fully opened have been depicted in Figs. 22 and 23.

[0061] The frame (1) is manufactured from lightweight metal alloy, coated with durable UV and weather resistant powder coated material.

[0062] Top and bottom covers (2,7), and gear array components are manufactured using advanced techniques such as 3D printing or injection moulding. Material options include ASA, ABS, or HDPE, with the addition of UV protection additives for increased resilience.

[0063] In the presented embodiment, the interlocking sliders (15) are formed through injection moulding. The interlocking sliders (15) are constructed using materials like ASA, ABS, or HDPE. These materials are chosen for their durability and are enhanced with UV protection additives to ensure longevity. In the presented embodiment, the guiding pins (27) are crafted from stainless steel that boast high resistance to corrosion, ensuring both longevity and functionality. The front plate (14) is combining elements of injection moulding with lightweight metal alloy inlay, the front plate is crafted from ASA, ABS, or HDPE material. Alternatively, it can be 3D printed using the same materials, enhancing structural integrity. The middle section (8) including housing the mailbox inlet (3) and expansion handle (6) is crafted through methods like injection moulding or 3D printing. Materials include ASA, ABS, or HDPE, augmented with UV protection additives for durability. Springs are crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, the springs are designed to ensure both longevity and optimal functionality. The bottom cover cables (21) connected to the bottom cover (7) are made from either galvanized or stainless-steel, providing robust structural support. The retrieve door keylock (12) is made from precision cast upgrade chrome alloy, chrome surface, waterproof, durable and stainless. The timing shaft and frame shafts are crafted from a metalalloy, lightweight and durable choices such as aluminium. The top and bottom cover mechanisms are manufactured using techniques such as 3D printing or injection moulding. Material options include ASA, ABS, or HDPE, with the addition of UV protection additives for increased resilience.

[0064] The above outlines manual operation however, the invention can also facilitate installation of electronics, rechargeable battery, motor and actuators to automate the expanding and collapsing of the drop box. In another embodiment, the parcel and mail drop box may comprise an electronic switch attached to the expansion handle (6), power supply, motor and electric actuators attached to each top and bottom cover (2,7).

[0065] In automated expanding setting, both courier and owner wishing to expand the drop box would use the expansion handle (6): 1) Opening the top and bottom covers is performed by activating an electronic switch attached to the expansion handle (6) and sending battery power to electric actuators attached to each top and bottom cover (2,7). The actuators extend causing the covers (2,7) to gently move until reaching their respective open position and activate a limit switch, stopping the actuators from extending further and hold the covers (2,7) in position. 2) Expand the front and sides, wherein the cover limit switch activation sends power to the motor attached to the timing shaft (44), causing the timing shaft (44) to turn resulting in the tooth gears and gear array to turn and push the guiding pins (27) attached to the interlocking sliders (15) along the guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60). The interlocking sliders (15) push the front plate (14) along the guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60) until it reaches the end and trigger a limit switch. This turns the motor off and completes the expansion process.

[0066] Only the owner can trigger the automatic collapsing process. To collapse the parcel and mail drop box, the owner would: 1) Unlock and open the retrieve door (13) to remove deposited items. Only once both retrieve door keylock (12) and retrieve door locking knob (11) are in the unlock position can the retrieve door (13) be free to open, exposing the inside of the storage area and contents therein. 2) Take out all content (parcels and mail). 3) Activate collapse switch, while the retrieve door (13) is still in the open position, locate and switch on the collapse switch. 4) Close and lock retrieve door (13), by turning the retrieve door locking knob (11), then by turning the key in the retrieve door keylock (12) to the lock position and locks the door fully. 5) To initiate collapse, the owner now turns the expansion handle (6) which sends power to the motor attached to the timing shaft (44), causing the timing shaft (44) to turn resulting in the tooth gears and gear array to turn and pulls the guiding pins (27) attached to the interlocking sliders (15) along the guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60). The sliders pull the front plate (14) along the guiding groove tracks (52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60) until the slides reach the end of the track at the back of the storage area triggering a limit switch, this turns the motor off. 6) To store top and bottom covers (2,7), the sliders limit switch, sends power to the actuators attached to the top and bottom covers resulting in the retraction of the actuator causing the covers to swing simultaneously on their hinges until reaching their closed positions and hitting the limit switch which turn off the power to the actuatorswhich holds the covers in their store positions and concludes collapse process.

[0067] The present invention has been illustrated and described in a preferred embodiment thereof, but it is understood that executive variants can be applied to it in practice, Z i n< as long as they fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A parcel and mail drop box comprising a frame (1) and a front plate (14) attached to two drop box side walls, wherein the front plate (14) comprises a mailbox inlet (3), a deposit door (10) and a retrieve door (13), wherein the frame (1) comprises a frame back wall, a top base (30), a bottom base (37) and two frame side walls, wherein the parcel and mail drop box further comprises a top cover (2) hingedly connected to the top base (30) and a bottom cover (7) hingedly connected to the bottom base (37), wherein the drop box side walls form a flexible sheet made of plurality of connected vertical interlocking sliders (15) ended with guiding pins (27), wherein along the top base (30) and the bottom base (37) and on the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) there are guiding grooves (28) for guiding the drop box side walls, the guiding grooves (28) engaging with the guiding pins (27), wherein in the collapsed condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are hidden in the guiding grooves (28) along the top base (30) and along the bottom base (37), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are hidden under the top and bottom covers, and in the expanded condition of the parcel and mail drop box, the drop box side walls are expanded in the guiding grooves (28) in the left and right sides of the top cover (2) and of the bottom cover (7), and the deposit door (10) and the retrieve door (13) are exposed at the front of the parcel and mail drop box.

2. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 1, wherein each interlocking slider (15) is made of a slider O-connector (25) and a slider C-connector (26), wherein the slider O-connector (25) is a profile with a cross-section resembling the letter "O" and it is connected with the slider C-connector (26) being a profile with a cross-section resembling the litter "C" and the slider O-connector (25) fits inside the slider C-connector (26) of a neighboring interlocking slider (15) forming a movable connection.

3. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each interlocking slider (15) comprises a slider tab (24) and a slider notch (23) for allowing adjacent interlocking sliders (15) to interlock their mutual position in the vertical direction.

4. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the guiding pins (27) and the guiding grooves (28) are in the shape that resembles the letter "Y".

5. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-4, wherein there is a top cover holding arm mechanism (31) with a top sliding mechanism for retaining the top cover in horizontal position during expansion.

6. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-5, wherein there is a bottom cover cable mechanism (34) with a bottom sliding mechanism.

7. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-6, wherein the parcel and mail drop box comprises a collapsible deposit door secure flap mechanism.

8. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 7, wherein a collapsible deposit door secure flap (49) is pivotally attached to the deposit door (10) and an L-shaped arm (48) passes through a deposit arm loop (45) attached to the front plate (14), wherein the L-shaped arm (48) has a shape that resembles the letter "L" with a shorter leg end pivotally attached to the deposit door (10) side, and the longer leg end pivotally attached to a first end of an upper linkage arm (46), wherein the second end of the upper linkage arm (46) is joined with the ability to fully pivot with a first end of a lower linkage arm (47) and the second end of the lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the deposit door secure flap (49) side.

9. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 8, wherein the L-shaped arm (48) is attached to the deposit door (10) side near the free edge of the deposit door (10).

10. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the second end of the lower linkage arm (47) is attached to the deposit door secure flap (49) side in a certain distance from the free edge of the deposit door secure flap (49), approximately in the middle of the length of the deposit door secure flap (49).

11. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-10, wherein the front plate (14) comprises a middle section (8), the middle section (8) comprising the mailbox inlet (3), an expansion handle (6) and an owner's operating handle (5), wherein the deposit door (10) is placed above the middle section (8) and the retrieve door (13) is placed below the middle section (8).

12. The parcel and mail drop box according to claim 11, wherein the top cover (2) comprises top cover pin slots (17) placed at the free edge of the top cover (2), the bottom cover (7) comprises bottom cover pin slots (16) placed at the free edge of the bottom cover (7), and the middle section (8) comprises top cover holding pins (18) and bottom cover holding pins (19) engaging with the top cover pin slots (17) and bottom cover pin slots (16) when the top cover (2) and the bottom cover (7) are in closed position.

13. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-12, wherein the retrieve door (13) comprises a retrieve door locking knob (11) and a retrieve door keylock (12).

14. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-13, wherein the top cover (2) is connected to the top base (30) via a top cover spring-loaded hinge (40).

15. The parcel and mail drop box according to any of claims 1-14, wherein the bottom base (37) comprises bottom gear array and the top base (30) comprises a top gear array intersecting with the guiding pins (27), the top gear array and the bottom gear array being connected via a timing shaft.

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